Cottage Cheese Banana Muffins

Name: Cottage Cheese Banana Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Favorites

I absolutely adore these Cottage Cheese Banana Muffins! They’re a delightful twist on traditional banana muffins, incorporating creamy cottage cheese for added moisture and protein. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweetness from ripe bananas and a hint of savory from the cheese. I love whipping these up for breakfast or an afternoon snack, and they never fail to please my family. Plus, they’re quick to make and can be easily customized with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips!

Created by

Chloe Baker

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:14:34.926Z

When I first experimented with adding cottage cheese to my banana muffins, I was blown away by how much moisture and richness it brought to the recipe. The cottage cheese not only adds protein but also enhances the texture, making the muffins soft and fluffy. I recommend using well-ripened bananas, as they are sweeter and more flavorful, which perfectly complements the cottage cheese.

To give these muffins an extra flavor boost, I often sprinkle cinnamon and vanilla extract into the batter. This not only enhances the taste but fills my kitchen with a warm and inviting aroma while they bake. Bake them until they’re golden brown on top, and you have the perfect treat!

Why You'll Love These Muffins
Deliciously moist and fluffy texture from cottage cheese
Sweet, natural flavor of ripe bananas
Easy to make with minimal ingredients
Great source of protein for a healthy snack

Understanding the Ingredients

Cottage cheese plays a pivotal role in these muffins, providing both moisture and protein. Its creamy texture helps create a tender crumb, which is essential for achieving that delightful fluffiness. When choosing your cottage cheese, consider using either the small or large curd variety based on your preference for texture. For a creamier result, opt for full-fat cottage cheese; low-fat versions may yield a slightly denser muffin.

Ripe bananas are another star ingredient. Ensure your bananas are well-ripened with a few brown spots; they contribute natural sweetness and enhance moisture. If you're looking to add an extra layer of flavor, consider using mashed overripe bananas – they are sweeter and more fragrant. If you have a banana allergy or need a substitute, unsweetened applesauce can serve as a good replacement, providing similar moisture while keeping it fruity.

Baking Techniques for Success

It's crucial to avoid overmixing the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to denser muffins as the gluten develops too much. Mix gently just until no dry flour is visible; a few lumps are perfectly fine. You want that homey, rustic texture in your muffins, and treating the batter delicately is key to achieving it.

When filling your muffin tin, aim for about two-thirds full to allow room for rising without overflowing. If you prefer bakery-style muffins with a domed top, you might even fill them slightly more, but keep an eye on the baking time. To enhance the visual appeal, you can sprinkle some oats or chocolate chips on top before baking; this not only looks inviting but also adds a delightful crunch to each bite.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cottage Cheese Banana Muffins:

Ingredients

1 cup cottage cheese
2 ripe bananas, mashed
2 large eggs
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture in your muffins.

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your muffins:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, mashed bananas, eggs, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.

Fill Muffin Tin

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your muffins warm or store them in an airtight container for later!

Pro Tips

To keep these muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months—perfect for meal prep!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Cottage Cheese Banana Muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply let the muffins cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag with the air removed. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, just pop one in the microwave for about 30 seconds or let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours.

For a delightful brunch, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember that the bananas will darken slightly, but this won’t affect the flavor. Before baking, ensure you give the mixture a gentle stir; this way, the ingredients will be well-mixed and ready for the oven.

Customizations and Variations

One of the best parts about these muffins is their versatility. If you want to add some crunch, try folding in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans; they pair perfectly with the banana flavor. For a sweet twist, mini chocolate chips or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can be great additions. You could also add a tablespoon of your favorite nut butter for an extra nutty taste that complements the cottage cheese.

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can easily swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Just ensure you choose a blend that includes xanthan gum, or add a little for the best texture. Additionally, experiment with spices; adding nutmeg alongside or instead of cinnamon can offer a cozy, festive flavor that’s perfect for the colder months.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but the muffins may have a denser texture.

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese?

Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for a similar texture and taste.

→ How can I add flavor variations?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to the batter for added flavor and texture.

→ How do I know when the muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean, they are done baking.