Description

Banana bread, but make it protein-packed. Yep, we’re swapping out some of the usual ingredients and adding cottage cheese to make it even more delicious and moist. Think of it as a healthier, creamier version of the classic banana bread you know and love. The cottage cheese adds an unexpected yet totally satisfying twist, giving you the softest crumb ever while also sneaking in some extra protein. It’s the perfect combo of comfort food and a little bit of healthy (well, healthier) indulgence. Plus, who doesn’t love a loaf of banana bread fresh out of the oven?

Ingredients

For the Wet Ingredients
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2–3 bananas)
1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat, your call)
2 eggs
1/3 cup melted butter (or coconut oil if you’re fancy)
1/2 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier twist)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Dry Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Optional Mix-ins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add cottage cheese, eggs, melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Make sure it’s evenly mixed.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Together
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix — we’re going for a gentle stir here.

Step 5: Add Your Mix-ins
If you’re adding nuts or chocolate chips, fold them into the batter now.

Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Let It Cool
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Add More Fruit: Toss in some dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness.
Go Gluten-Free: Swap out the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Spice It Up: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra warm, spiced flavor

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55–60 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: ~220
Protein: 5g