Fuel Your Day: The Ultimate High Protein Banana Bread (Seriously Delicious!)

Let’s be real, sometimes you want something sweet but also want to stay on track with your fitness goals. That’s where this high protein banana bread recipe comes in.

Forget those dry, chalky protein bakes – we’re talking about a ridiculously moist and flavorful loaf that’ll satisfy your cravings while packing a serious protein punch.

This isn’t just a treat; it’s a game-changer for anyone looking for healthy snacks with ripe bananas or a high protein baked breakfast.

Why You’ll Be Obsessed With This Recipe

Here’s the lowdown:

• Protein Powerhouse: We’re loading this bread with protein to keep you full and energized. It’s perfect for those seeking high protein natural foods.
• Insanely Moist: Seriously, this bread is so tender, you won’t believe it’s packed with protein.
• Easy to Make: No complicated steps or weird ingredients. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for busy lifestyles.
• Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy a sweet treat without derailing your diet. We’re keeping things low calorie and customizable for low carb needs.

How to Make the Best Protein Banana Bread

Let’s get baking!

Yields: 1 loaf

Prep time: 15 minutes

Bake time: 45-55 minutes

Ingredients:

• 3 very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (or sugar substitute)
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted (or vegetable oil)
• 2 large eggs (or egg substitute)
• 1/2 cup greek yogurt or cottage cheese (adds moisture and protein)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 scoops (about 1/2 cup) vanilla or chocolate protein powder
• 1 3/4 cups oat flour (or whole wheat flour)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (optional, for protein peanut butter banana bread)

Instructions:

1. Prep Your Oven and Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mash the bananas. Add the applesauce, maple syrup, coconut oil, eggs, greek yogurt (or cottage cheese), and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Add Protein Powder: Stir in the protein powder until smooth.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the oat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
6. Fold in Mix-Ins: If using, gently fold in the chopped nuts and/or peanut butter.
7. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Protein Banana Bread: Use chocolate protein powder and add chocolate chips.
• Peanut Butter Protein Banana Bread: Swirl peanut butter into the batter before baking.
• Bariatric Banana Bread: Adjust the recipe to meet your specific dietary needs, focusing on high protein and low sugar.
• Berries Protein Banana Bread: Fold in a cup of blueberries or raspberries.

What to Serve with Protein Banana Bread (High-Protein Pairings!)

This protein banana bread is already a fantastic source of protein, but let’s amp it up with some complementary high-protein sides and drinks:

• Greek Yogurt Power Bowl: Top a generous serving of plain Greek yogurt with a slice of your protein banana bread, some berries, and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds. This combination delivers a serious protein punch, plus healthy fats and antioxidants.
• Protein-Packed Smoothie: Blend a scoop of your favorite protein powder (whey, casein, or plant-based), unsweetened almond milk, a handful of spinach, and a few ice cubes. Serve alongside your banana bread for a quick and easy protein boost.
• Cottage Cheese & Nut Butter: Spread a layer of creamy cottage cheese on a slice of the bread, then drizzle with a tablespoon of natural peanut butter. This combination provides a substantial dose of protein and healthy fats, keeping you full and satisfied.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs & Avocado: Enjoy a couple of hard-boiled eggs alongside your banana bread for a classic protein-rich pairing. Add slices of avocado for healthy fats and extra creaminess.
• Protein Coffee: Combine your morning coffee with a scoop of protein powder for a caffeinated and protein-fueled beverage. This will give you the energy and protein to start your day strong.

Recipe FAQ’s

Q: Can I use a different protein powder?

A: Yes, but results may vary. Whey, casein, and plant-based protein powders all work.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?

A: Yes, use a gluten-free oat flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Q: Can I use a sugar substitute?

A: Yes, you can use a granulated sugar substitute.

Q: Can I make this oil-free?

A: Yes, replace the coconut oil with more applesauce.

Q: How Should I Store Protein Banana Bread?

A: Store cooled banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also slice and freeze it for longer storage.

Enjoy your protein-packed baking!