Ingredients (makes 1 loaf)
Wet Ingredients:
-
3 ripe bananas, mashed
-
½ cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
-
2 large eggs
-
¼ cup honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
-
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
-
1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
-
1 teaspoon baking soda
-
½ teaspoon baking powder
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
Optional Add-ins:
-
½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
-
½ cup dark chocolate chips
-
2 tablespoons flaxseed or chia seeds for extra protein
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven:
-
350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
-
-
Mix wet ingredients:
-
In a large bowl, mash bananas.
-
Add cottage cheese, eggs, honey, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
-
-
Combine dry ingredients:
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
-
-
Combine wet and dry:
-
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
-
Don’t overmix—this keeps the bread tender.
-
-
Add optional mix-ins:
-
Fold in nuts, chocolate chips, or seeds if using.
-
-
Bake:
-
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
-
Bake 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
-
-
Cool:
-
Let cool in the pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!
-
Winter Baking Tips
-
Add 1 teaspoon ginger or nutmeg for a cozy, warming flavor.
-
Serve slices warm with a dollop of yogurt or nut butter for extra protein.
-
You can freeze slices for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature or toast lightly.
If you want, I can also give a high-protein, low-sugar version of this banana bread that’s extra dense and perfect for a post-workout winter snack. Do you want me to do that?