Description
This Protein Banana Bread recipe is a delicious and nutritious twist on classic banana bread, enriched with protein powder and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast, it combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the added benefits of Greek yogurt and protein powder, making it both satisfying and energizing.
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 Ingredients
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, Greek yogurt (or applesauce), honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth, well-combined mixture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift or mix thoroughly the whole wheat or oat flour, protein powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips carefully.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the surface with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Once baked, allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then remove it and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt with applesauce to make the bread dairy-free.
- For extra crunch and flavor, add walnuts or chocolate chips, but these are optional.
- Ensure bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a light and tender crumb.
- Storage: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
