Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything required to make a batch of about 12 muffins:

  • 1 cup cottage cheese (use low-fat or full-fat depending on preference)
  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned oats work best)
  • 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored for best results)
  • 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional, for crunch and omega-3s)

Each ingredient plays an important role in the texture, flavor, and nutrition profile of the muffins. Let’s take a closer look at why these components work so well together.

The Role of Each Ingredient

Cottage Cheese: Adds protein and moisture while keeping the muffins tender and creamy. Its mild flavor blends seamlessly with bananas and honey.

Bananas: Provide natural sweetness, fiber, and potassium. Overripe bananas are best — the riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be.

Rolled Oats: Replace refined flour with whole grains for better nutrition and a heartier texture. They also add complex carbohydrates for long-lasting energy.

Protein Powder: Boosts the protein content, making these muffins more satisfying. Choose a clean, mild protein powder without artificial flavors for the best taste.

Honey: Acts as a natural sweetener, keeping the muffins moist and golden.

Cinnamon & Vanilla: Add warmth and depth of flavor without adding extra sugar.

Baking Powder: Gives the muffins their rise and lightness.

Walnuts: Add healthy fats, crunch, and extra nutrition.

Equipment You’ll Need

One of the best parts about this recipe is how simple it is. You’ll only need:

  • A mixing bowl or blender (for easy mixing)
  • A 12-cup muffin pan
  • Non-stick spray or muffin liners
  • A spatula or spoon for folding ingredients

No stand mixer or complicated equipment required — these muffins are designed for convenience.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners. This step ensures that the muffins release easily and maintain their shape once baked.

Step 2: Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, bananas, honey, vanilla extract, and eggs (if your protein powder requires them). Blend until completely smooth. The goal is a creamy, lump-free base — this creates that perfectly moist texture that makes these muffins irresistible.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, stir together the rolled oats, protein powder, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these first ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and spices.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the blended wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold until just combined — don’t overmix, as that can make the muffins dense. The batter should be thick but spoonable. If it feels too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or water to loosen it slightly.

Step 5: Add Walnuts (Optional)

Fold in the chopped walnuts for added crunch and nutrition. Walnuts bring a delightful texture contrast and are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making your muffins even healthier.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Cups

Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. If you like, sprinkle a few extra walnut pieces on top for a beautiful golden-brown finish.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be lightly browned, and your kitchen will smell absolutely divine — warm, nutty, and sweet.

Once baked, let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.