Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate how these bars seamlessly blend nutrition and taste. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of cottage cheese, while chocolate chips add a touch of indulgence. They’re easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for meal prepping or a quick breakfast on the go.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 ripe bananas, mashed
¾ cup cottage cheese
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons honey (optional)
1½ cups rolled oats
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large bowl, I mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
I add the cottage cheese, eggs, vanilla extract, and honey to the mashed bananas, mixing until well combined.
In a separate bowl, I combine the rolled oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
I gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
I fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
I pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
I bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
I allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, I cut them into bars and enjoy.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 9 bars
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

Nutty Delight: I sometimes add ¼ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Berry Twist: For a fruity variation, I fold in ½ cup of fresh or dried berries along with the chocolate chips.
Spiced Up: I enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the dry ingredients.
Gluten-Free Option: I use certified gluten-free oats to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, I warm individual bars in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, I can substitute Greek yogurt for cottage cheese in equal amounts. However, the texture may be slightly different, and the protein content might vary.

How do I make the bars sweeter?

If I prefer sweeter bars, I add an extra tablespoon of honey or incorporate a few tablespoons of brown sugar into the wet ingredients.

Can I make these bars vegan?

To make a vegan version, I replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based cottage cheese alternative.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Absolutely. These bars are kid-friendly and make a nutritious snack or breakfast option. I sometimes reduce the chocolate chips or use mini chips for smaller bites.

Can I add protein powder to the recipe?

Yes, I can add a scoop of my favorite protein powder to boost the protein content. I adjust the amount of oats slightly to maintain the desired consistency.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Chip Banana Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bars are a perfect blend of taste and nutrition. I love how easy they are to prepare and how they cater to various dietary preferences. Whether I’m looking for a quick breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a healthy treat, these bars never disappoint.