Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Protein-Packed: The addition of cottage cheese increases the protein content, making each slice more nutritious.
Moist and Tender: Cottage cheese adds a rich moisture, resulting in a soft and tender crumb.
Naturally Sweetened: Ripe bananas and a touch of maple syrup provide natural sweetness, reducing the need for refined sugars.
Versatile: Enjoy plain or customize with mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or berries to suit your taste.

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, mashed
3 eggs
1/2 cup cottage cheese
3 tablespoons maple syrup (adjust to taste if you prefer sweeter)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups almond flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons cinnamon
Optional mix-ins: walnuts, chocolate chips, or blueberries

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

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it
Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, eggs, cottage cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the almond flour, baking soda, and cinnamon to the wet mixture. Stir until fully combined. If using mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in gently at this stage.
Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50 minutes. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil after 30 minutes.Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is done.
Cool: Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields 8-10 slices.
Prep Time: Approximately 5 minutes.
Cook Time: Around 50 minutes.
Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes

Variations

Flour Alternatives: If you don’t have almond flour, you can experiment with other flours like oat flour or whole wheat flour. However, note that the texture and moisture may vary.
Sweeteners: Substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar for a different flavor profile.
Add-Ins: Enhance the bread by folding in dried fruits, seeds, or spices like nutmeg or cardamom.

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store the cooled banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: For extended freshness, refrigerate the bread for up to 5 days.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, microwave slices for 10-20 seconds or toast them lightly.

FAQs

What does cottage cheese do in banana bread?

Cottage cheese adds moisture and increases the protein content, resulting in a tender and nutritious loaf.

Can I substitute cottage cheese with another ingredient?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese.

How ripe should the bananas be?

The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use a dairy-free yogurt in place of cottage cheese.

Is this banana bread gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe uses almond flour, making it gluten-free. Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities.

How can I make the bread sweeter?

Increase the amount of maple syrup or add sweet mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits.

Can I add a streusel topping?

Yes, a simple streusel made of oats, flour, butter, and sugar can be sprinkled on top before baking for added texture and sweetness.

What size loaf pan should I use?

A standard 8×4-inch loaf pan works well for this recipe.

How do I prevent the bread from becoming too brown on top?

If the top browns too quickly, tent it with foil halfway through baking.

Can I make muffins with this batter?

Yes, pour the batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Conclusion

Cottage Cheese Banana Bread offers a nutritious and delicious spin on traditional banana bread. Its moist texture, enhanced protein content, and customizable nature make it a must-try recipe for both novice and seasoned bak

Cottage Cheese Banana Bread

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Cottage Cheese Banana Bread is a protein-packed, moist, and naturally sweetened twist on classic banana bread. The addition of creamy cottage cheese enhances texture while boosting nutritional value, making this a perfect breakfast, snack, or dessert option. This gluten-free, naturally sweetened loaf is easy to make and customizable with mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or berries.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8-10 slices
Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Preheat the Oven – Set to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×4-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Mix Wet Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, eggs, cottage cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Add Dry Ingredients – Stir in almond flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. If using mix-ins, fold them in gently.
Transfer to Pan – Pour batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake – Bake for about 50 minutes. If browning too quickly, tent with foil after 30 minutes.
Check for Doneness – Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cool & Serve – Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

Flour Alternatives: Try oat or whole wheat flour for a variation (texture may change).
Sweeteners: Substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar.
Storage: Keep at room temp for 3 days, refrigerate for 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.