If you’re searching for a breakfast treat that’s equal parts wholesome and indulgent, look no further than Protein Banana Bread. It’s a moist, naturally sweetened loaf packed with real bananas, creamy Greek yogurt, and a generous boost of your favorite protein powder. Whether you crave a nourishing snack after your morning workout or just want to upgrade your classic banana bread, this recipe ticks every box for flavor, nutrition, and sheer comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients—they each shine bright in this delicious loaf! From bananas that bring moisture and natural sweetness to a scoop of protein powder for a power-packed boost, every component adds to the color, texture, and irresistible flavor of Protein Banana Bread.
- Ripe Bananas: Naturally sweet and extra soft, ripe bananas are key for both flavor and keeping the bread moist.
- Large Eggs: Eggs bind the batter together and add richness for a satisfying crumb.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: A drizzle of natural sweetener gives a gentle sweetness while keeping things on the healthier side.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: Yogurt ensures the loaf is ultra-moist with a subtle tang, plus adds a little extra protein.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a teaspoon lifts all the other flavors and brings that bakery-fresh aroma.
- Oat Flour: Oats make a tender, slightly hearty base that’s naturally gluten free if you use certified oats.
- Vanilla or Unflavored Protein Powder: This is the star for boosting the protein content—choose a variety that matches your taste and dietary preferences.
- Baking Soda: Helps this loaf rise deliciously high and keeps every slice fluffy.
- Baking Powder: Adds extra lift so the bread has a perfect soft crumb.
- Cinnamon: Brings cozy warmth and depth of flavor to each bite.
- Salt: A pinch balances all the sweetness and enhances every flavor in the mix.
- Chopped Walnuts or Chocolate Chips (Optional): For crunch or melty pockets of chocolate, toss in a handful for bonus texture and indulgence.
How to Make Protein Banana Bread
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven heats, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. This quick prep step ensures a flawless release and an even bake for your Protein Banana Bread.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash your ripe bananas until nice and smooth. Add eggs, honey (or maple syrup), Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together vigorously until the blend is light, creamy, and well combined. The mixture should smell like pure comfort already!
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the oat flour, protein powder, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This step prevents lumps and ensures your Protein Banana Bread bakes up even and tender every time.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Stir the dry ingredients into your wet mixture gently, just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—you want your bread soft, not tough. Then, if you’re feeling fancy, gently fold in the walnuts or chocolate chips for a nutty crunch or decadent chocolate hits.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Pour the thick, luscious batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Slide it into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Your kitchen will fill with the heavenly aroma of banana, cinnamon, and sweet vanilla. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once perfectly golden, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This rest ensures every slice of Protein Banana Bread holds together beautifully. Slice thick or thin, and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Protein Banana Bread
Garnishes
Dress up your slices with a swipe of almond or peanut butter, a drizzle of warm honey, or a sprinkle of extra walnuts. For dessert vibes, chocolate chips or a little dusting of cinnamon sugar make your Protein Banana Bread completely irresistible.
Side Dishes
This banana bread pairs perfectly with a bowl of fresh berries, a spoonful of freshly whipped cream, or a creamy Greek yogurt parfait. If you’re enjoying it as breakfast, add a hot cup of coffee or a frothy latte for the dreamiest start to your day.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch spread, slice the bread and fan it out on a rustic board with bowls of nut butters, jams, and crunchy granola. You can also toast thick slices and top them with sliced bananas and a sprinkle of chia seeds for a protein-packed snack. Protein Banana Bread even makes stellar on-the-go sandwiches spread with cream cheese or sunbutter!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), wrap slices up and pop them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for up to a week without losing that dreamy moist texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze individual slices by wrapping them well in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three months, so you can enjoy Protein Banana Bread whenever a craving hits.
Reheating
To bring that just-baked warmth back, microwave slices for 10 to 20 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven until heated through. If you love melty chocolate, reheat a slice with chocolate chips and let it get gooey all over again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Breakfast
Absolutely! Whey, plant-based, or even collagen protein all work. Just be aware that different powders may change the texture slightly. If your batter seems too thick or thin, tweak the oat flour by a tablespoon or two.
How ripe should my bananas be?
Your bananas should have lots of brown spots and feel soft to the touch. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your Protein Banana Bread will turn out.
Is oat flour gluten free?
Oat flour is naturally gluten free, but if you need to avoid gluten entirely, make sure to choose a brand that’s certified gluten free to avoid any cross-contamination.
Can I make Protein Banana Bread vegan?
Yes! Swap the eggs for flax eggs, use a plant-based yogurt, and select a vegan protein powder. Use maple syrup instead of honey for a fully plant-based loaf.
Can I add mix-ins besides walnuts or chocolate chips?
Of course—feel free to fold in dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or even a handful of shredded coconut for new textures and flavors. The base is incredibly versatile and welcomes creativity!
Final Thoughts
This Protein Banana Bread is so much more than just another loaf—it’s a nourishing, crowd-pleasing treat that’s as perfect for post-workout refueling as it is for sharing over brunch. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Protein Banana Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Protein Banana Bread is a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional banana bread, packed with protein for a satisfying treat any time of day.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups oat flour
- 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, eggs, honey, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract.
- Add dry ingredients: Mix in oat flour, protein powder, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until just combined.
- Optional: Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the loaf pan and bake for 40–45 minutes.
- Cool and serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Adjust flour based on protein powder type for desired texture.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Ideal for meal prep or as a post-workout snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
