High-Protein Banana Choc Chip Breakfast Squares with Cottage CheeseĀ
These breakfast squares are soft, naturally sweet, and packed with proteināmaking them a great option for busy mornings, post-workout snacks, or healthy meal prep. The combination of ripe bananas, cottage cheese, and eggs creates a moist, cake-like texture without needing refined flour or heavy fats. Chocolate chips add just enough indulgence to keep things satisfying.
Ingredients
Base Batter:
- 3 very ripe bananas, mashed until completely smooth
- 250g (1 cup) full-fat cottage cheese
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 60ml (¼ cup) pure maple syrup or honey
Dry Ingredients:
- 120g (1 cup) rolled oats (or oat flour)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Add-ins:
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips
- Optional: chopped walnuts, chia seeds, or protein powder (1 scoop)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. - Blend Wet Ingredients:
In a blender or food processor, combine bananas, cottage cheese, eggs, and maple syrup. Blend until smooth and creamy. - Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. - Combine Batter:
Pour the blended wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until fully combined. The batter should be thick but smooth. - Add Chocolate Chips:
Fold in chocolate chips evenly. - Bake:
Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25ā30 minutes, or until the center is set and edges are lightly golden. - Cool and Slice:
Let cool completely before slicing into squares.
Description
High-Protein Banana Choc Chip Breakfast Squares with Cottage Cheese are a nutritious twist on traditional baked treats. The cottage cheese blends seamlessly into the batter, adding creaminess and a major protein boost without affecting flavor. Bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, while oats give structure and fiber. Chocolate chips bring balance, making these squares feel like a treat while still being wholesome.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and softness.
- Blending cottage cheese ensures a smooth texture with no lumps.
- You can replace maple syrup with honey or skip it if bananas are very sweet.
Tips
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Boost Protein: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder for extra nutrition.
- Texture Control: For softer squares, slightly underbake; for firmer texture, bake a few extra minutes.
- Add Crunch: Mix in nuts or seeds for extra bite.
- Serve Warm: Microwave for 10ā15 seconds for a fresh-baked feel.
Servings
- Makes: 9ā12 squares
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 25ā30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approx. per square)
- Calories: 120ā180 kcal
- Protein: 8ā12g
- Carbohydrates: 15ā22g
- Fat: 4ā7g
- Fiber: 2ā4g
Health Benefits
- High Protein Content: Cottage cheese and eggs support muscle repair and satiety.
- Natural Energy: Bananas provide potassium and quick energy release.
- Good Source of Fiber: Oats help with digestion and fullness.
- Lower Refined Sugar: Sweetened naturally with fruit and minimal added sweeteners.
- Balanced Macronutrients: Combines protein, carbs, and fats for sustained energy.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use certified gluten-free oats.
Q: Can I replace cottage cheese?
Greek yogurt works as a substitute, though texture may be slightly different.
Q: Can I skip chocolate chips?
Yes, or replace them with dried fruit like raisins or cranberries.
Q: Are these good for weight loss?
Yes, they are high in protein and fiber, helping control hunger.
Q: Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.