Protein Banana Bread
Protein banana bread is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy breakfast or snack option. This high protein banana bread recipe packs ten grams of protein per slice, making it both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for busy mornings or as a post-workout treat, this banana bread is not only easy to make but also versatile enough to adapt with various mix-ins. You’ll love how it combines the classic taste of banana bread with added protein for an extra boost.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High Protein Content: Each slice contains ten grams of protein, making it ideal for muscle recovery or a filling snack.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with chocolate chips, nuts, or coconut for added flavor and texture.
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious bread in the oven in no time.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for easy breakfasts throughout the week.
- Deliciously Moist: The use of overripe bananas and yogurt ensures each slice is moist and flavorful.
Tools and Preparation
To make this protein banana bread, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and ensure successful results.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×5 loaf pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×5 loaf pan: The perfect size for baking the bread evenly without overflow.
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl ensures that all ingredients are well combined without spilling.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor and texture in your protein banana bread.
Ingredients
As a healthy breakfast or snack, this high protein banana bread recipe gives you ten grams of protein per slice.
For the Bread:
- 1 1/2 cup white flour
- 1/2 cup protein powder (60g)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cup mashed overripe banana
- 1/2 cup yogurt (or additional banana)
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (honey or agave)
- 1/3 cup oil or water
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins:
- Chocolate chips
- Walnuts
- Coconut
How to Make Protein Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 F. This ensures that your protein banana bread bakes evenly from start to finish.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pan
Grease a 9×5 loaf pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to remove the bread after baking.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, stir together all ingredients until well combined. Make sure there are no dry spots left in the batter.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
Smooth the batter into your prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes.
Step 5: Check Doneness
After baking, turn off the oven but do not open the door. Leave the protein banana bread inside for an additional five minutes. If it still feels soft in the center, cover with tin foil and continue baking until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let cool before running a knife around the edges to invert onto a plate. If possible, wait until the next day to enjoy; it’s even better then!
How to Serve Protein Banana Bread
Protein banana bread is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it plain or enhanced with toppings, there are plenty of serving suggestions to satisfy your taste buds.
Toasted with Nut Butter
- Peanut Butter: Spread creamy or crunchy peanut butter for added protein and richness.
- Almond Butter: A great alternative for nut lovers, almond butter adds a subtle sweetness.
Topped with Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Bananas: Elevate the flavor by adding fresh banana slices on top.
- Berries: Fresh strawberries or blueberries can add a refreshing touch and extra nutrients.
With Yogurt
- Greek Yogurt: Serve a slice with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy texture and more protein.
- Coconut Yogurt: A dairy-free option that pairs well with the flavors of banana bread.
Drizzled with Honey or Maple Syrup
- Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey enhances the natural sweetness.
- Maple Syrup: Pouring pure maple syrup over warm banana bread creates a delightful combination.
As an On-the-Go Snack
- Breakfast Slice: Grab a slice for breakfast when you need something quick and healthy.
- Post-Workout Treat: Perfect for refueling after exercise due to its high protein content.
How to Perfect Protein Banana Bread
To achieve the perfect loaf of protein banana bread, consider these helpful tips. They will help enhance both the flavor and texture of your bread.
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep the bread moist and fluffy.
- Check Doneness with a Toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with few crumbs attached.
- Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before inverting to preserve its shape.
- Store Correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for best freshness.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture variations.
Best Side Dishes for Protein Banana Bread
Pairing side dishes with protein banana bread can create a balanced meal. Here are some ideas to complement your treat.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide additional protein and make for a hearty breakfast.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the banana bread.
- Oatmeal Bowl: Serving oatmeal alongside offers fiber and keeps you full longer.
- Smoothie: A green smoothie can be a refreshing drink that complements the sweet flavors of banana bread.
- Nut Mix: A handful of mixed nuts provides crunch and healthy fats, making it a satisfying snack choice.
- Cottage Cheese: Pairing it with cottage cheese adds creaminess and boosts protein intake even further.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making protein banana bread can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your efforts.
- Ignoring overripe bananas – Using underripe bananas will not yield the best flavor. Always use overripe bananas for sweetness and moisture.
- Skipping the protein powder measurement – Too much or too little protein powder can affect texture. Measure accurately to ensure a perfect loaf.
- Not greasing the pan properly – Skipping this step may lead to the bread sticking. Always grease your pan well and consider lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Opening the oven door too soon – This can cause the bread to collapse. Wait until the baking time is complete before checking on your protein banana bread.
- Neglecting optional add-ins – Not using chocolate chips or nuts can make your bread less exciting. Feel free to customize with ingredients you love!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place a piece of parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.
Freezing Protein Banana Bread
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Protein Banana Bread
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place slices on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat one slice at a time for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes per side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding protein banana bread.
Can I use any type of protein powder for Protein Banana Bread?
Yes, you can use whey, casein, or plant-based protein powders. Just note that different powders may slightly alter the texture.
How do I know when my Protein Banana Bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean. If it comes out wet, bake longer.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour for a delicious gluten-free protein banana bread.
What can I add to my Protein Banana Bread?
Feel free to include chocolate chips, walnuts, or even coconut flakes to enhance flavor and texture.
Is this Protein Banana Bread suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Store portions in the fridge or freeze them for later enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
This protein banana bread recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various add-ins to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy it as a healthy breakfast or snack option that satisfies both cravings and nutritional needs!
Protein Banana Bread
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Protein Banana Bread is a deliciously nutritious treat that combines the classic flavors of banana bread with a significant boost of protein. Each slice contains ten grams of protein, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings, post-workout recovery, or a satisfying snack anytime. This recipe is not only easy to make in just 10 minutes of prep time but also allows for various mix-ins like chocolate chips and nuts to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy the moist, flavorful texture created by using overripe bananas and yogurt, ensuring every bite is both healthy and delightful.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups white flour
- 1/2 cup protein powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups mashed overripe banana
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/3 cup oil or water
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×5 loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients until well mixed; avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 40 minutes.
- After baking, let it sit in the oven for an additional five minutes before checking doneness with a toothpick.
- Allow the bread to cool before removing from the pan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
