This moist and protein-packed banana bread combines ripe bananas with creamy cottage cheese, offering a healthier twist on the classic recipe. It's the perfect choice for breakfast or as a satisfying snack throughout the day. With a hint of sweetness from maple syrup and a delightful texture, this banana bread is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cottage Cheese Banana Bread is a unique take on the traditional banana bread, offering a rich, creamy texture and added protein thanks to the inclusion of cottage cheese. The almond flour keeps the bread gluten-free, while the combination of ripe bananas, cinnamon, and maple syrup gives it the perfect balance of natural sweetness and flavor. Whether you're looking for a healthy snack or a quick breakfast option, this banana bread provides both nourishment and indulgence.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 ripe bananas, mashed
3 large eggs
½ cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
3 tablespoons maple syrup (adjust to taste)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 ½ cups almond flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or blueberries

Directions

Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, eggs, cottage cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Add Dry Ingredients
Add the almond flour, baking soda, and cinnamon to the wet mixture. Stir until fully combined.
Fold in Mix-ins (Optional)
If desired, gently fold in chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or blueberries.
Pour Batter into Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake
Bake for approximately 50 minutes. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover with foil after 30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8-10 slices
Calories: Approximately 245 kcal per serving

Variations

Add-ins: Customize your banana bread with walnuts, chocolate chips, or blueberries for added texture and flavor.
Sweetener Options: If you prefer, you can swap maple syrup for honey or agave syrup, depending on your taste preferences.
Flour Alternatives: While almond flour is used in this recipe for a gluten-free option, you could experiment with oat flour or coconut flour, though the texture may vary.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Freezing: You can freeze individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or placing them in a freezer-safe bag. To thaw, leave at room temperature or microwave for a quick snack.
Reheating: To reheat, warm a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast it lightly for a crispy edge.

FAQs

Can I use non-dairy cottage cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute non-dairy cottage cheese (such as made from soy or almond milk) for a dairy-free version of the bread.

Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?

You can use regular flour, but this will no longer make the recipe gluten-free. You may also need to adjust the quantities slightly.

How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?

The riper the bananas, the better! Overripe bananas (with brown spots) will provide more sweetness and moisture to the bread.

Can I add other fruits to this bread?

Yes, feel free to experiment by adding chopped apples, dried fruits like cranberries, or even a mix of tropical fruits like pineapple for a new twist.

Is this banana bread suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this recipe is low-carb due to the use of almond flour, making it suitable for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes, you can use egg substitutes such as flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) for an egg-free version.

What can I substitute for maple syrup?

You can replace maple syrup with honey, agave syrup, or a low-carb sweetener like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.

Can I bake this bread in a different-sized pan?

Yes, you can use a smaller or larger pan, but the baking time may need to be adjusted. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness with a toothpick.

How can I make this banana bread fluffier?

To make the bread fluffier, consider adding an extra egg or using a baking powder combination with the baking soda for increased rise.

Is this banana bread suitable for a breakfast meal prep?

Yes! This banana bread is perfect for meal prep. Slice it into portions and store it in the fridge or freeze it for convenient, ready-to-eat breakfast options.

Conclusion

This Cottage Cheese Banana Bread is a delicious and healthier version of the classic banana bread, offering a moist texture, plenty of protein, and a delightful flavor. Whether you're craving a nourishing breakfast or a light snack, this recipe checks all the boxes. Easy to make, customizable, and perfect for meal prep, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Cottage Cheese Banana Bread

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Author: Emmily
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8-10 slices
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This moist Cottage Cheese Banana Bread combines ripe bananas, creamy cottage cheese, and almond flour for a healthier twist on the classic recipe. Packed with protein and natural sweetness from maple syrup, it’s a perfect breakfast or snack. With optional add-ins like walnuts, chocolate chips, or blueberries, this banana bread is both versatile and indulgent!

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, eggs, cottage cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Add Dry Ingredients: Add the almond flour, baking soda, and cinnamon to the wet mixture. Stir until fully combined.
Fold in Mix-ins (Optional): If desired, gently fold in walnuts, chocolate chips, or blueberries.
Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake: Bake for approximately 50 minutes. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover with foil after 30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

This recipe can be made with non-dairy cottage cheese for a dairy-free option.
You can swap maple syrup with honey or agave syrup depending on your preference.
Almond flour makes this recipe gluten-free; however, you can experiment with oat or coconut flour, although texture may differ.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American