Description
This protein banana bread is a nutritious twist on the classic favorite, combining ripe bananas, protein powder, and whole wheat flour for a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack. Sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup and optionally studded with walnuts or chocolate chips, this bread offers a balanced boost of energy and protein in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt or applesauce
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour or oat flour
- ½ cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, Greek yogurt (or applesauce), honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the whole wheat flour (or oat flour), protein powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips evenly through the batter.
- Transfer to pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps set the crumb and enhances slicing.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt with applesauce for a dairy-free option.
- Use honey or maple syrup based on your preferred natural sweetener.
- Adjust the flour type to whole wheat or oat flour depending on dietary preference or availability.
- Adding walnuts provides extra texture and healthy fats, while chocolate chips add sweetness and indulgence.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and moist.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Slice and toast for a delicious breakfast option.
