Craving a healthy snack that satisfies your sweet tooth? Look no further than this protein banana bread! Packed with nutrients and flavor, this recipe transforms ripe bananas into a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Easy to make and full of wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy the classic comfort of banana bread while boosting your protein intake.
Ingredients
– 3 ripe bananas
– 1 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup oats
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 10 slices of protein banana bread. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) provides approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Protein: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Fat: 5g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
3. Add the eggs and honey (or maple syrup) to the bananas, mixing until well combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the protein powder, almond flour, oats, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
6. If desired, fold in the chopped nuts for added texture.
7. Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
9. Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute almond flour with whole wheat flour for a different texture. If you’re vegan, replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use agave syrup instead of honey.
Serving and Pairings
This protein banana bread pairs wonderfully with Greek yogurt or a smear of nut butter. It’s also delightful alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using underripe bananas will affect sweetness and texture.
- Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense loaf.
- Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven baking.
- Not letting the bread cool completely before slicing can make it mushy.
- Skipping the nuts can reduce flavor and texture.
Helpful Tips
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum flavor and sweetness.
- Experiment with different protein powders to find your favorite.
- Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- For extra moisture, consider adding a tablespoon of yogurt.
FAQs
Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting almond flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensuring your protein powder is gluten-free, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make protein banana bread vegan, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal and use a plant-based sweetener like agave syrup instead of honey.
Can I add other fruits to the bread?
Absolutely! You can incorporate berries, chopped apples, or even dried fruits for added flavor and nutrition.
How can I tell when the banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is done.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger loaf pan or bake two loaves simultaneously. Just ensure to adjust baking time as needed.
Conclusion
Protein banana bread is not only a nutritious option for your snack or breakfast but also a delicious way to enjoy the natural sweetness of bananas. With its easy preparation and healthy ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand. Bake a loaf today and enjoy the perfect blend of taste and nutrition!
Protein Banana Bread
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1 cup protein powder
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup oats
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add the eggs and honey (or maple syrup) to the bananas and mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the protein powder, almond flour, oats, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
- Fold in the chopped nuts if desired.
- Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
