Name: Protein Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups 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 cups mashed overripe banana; 1/2 cup yogurt (or additional mashed banana); 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (or honey, or agave); 1/3 cup oil or water; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract; Chocolate chips; Walnuts; Coconut flakes

If you’ve been searching for a way to combine indulgence and nutrition in one delightful treat, look no further than this Protein Banana Bread Recipe. It takes the beloved comfort of classic banana bread and gives it a wholesome upgrade with protein powder and natural sweeteners. The result is a moist, flavorful loaf that satisfies your cravings while providing a nourishing boost, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a post-workout delight. Trust me, once you try this Protein Banana Bread Recipe, it will quickly become your go-to recipe for a treat that tastes like a cheat but feels like a win.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several baking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the top left, there is a white bowl filled with white flour. Next to it is a red bowl with a dark brown liquid inside. Below, a small clear glass bowl holds light beige powder, and beside it is another small clear glass bowl with white powder. In the center, a blue patterned bowl is full of small dark brown chocolate chips. At the bottom, there are three ripe yellow bananas with brown spots resting on the surface. A dark glass bottle with a red and white label sits in the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Protein Banana Bread Recipe is built on simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a special role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and nutrition. From the natural sweetness of ripe bananas to the smooth protein powder that adds muscle-loving goodness, every item is thoughtfully chosen to make this bread both delicious and satisfying.

White flour (1 1/2 cup): The base of the bread providing structure and a tender crumb.
Protein powder (1/2 cup, 60g): Boosts the protein content while keeping the texture soft and moist.
Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps the bread rise and creates a light texture.
Baking powder (3/4 tsp): Adds extra lift to ensure fluffiness.
Salt (3/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexities.
Cinnamon (1/2 tsp): Adds warm spice notes that complement the bananas beautifully.
Mashed overripe banana (1 1/2 cup): Natural sweetness and moistness that defines banana bread.
Yogurt (1/2 cup): Keeps the bread tender and adds a subtle tang; can be swapped for extra banana.
Pure maple syrup (1/2 cup): Sweetens naturally with rich, caramel undertones; honey or agave work well too.
Oil or water (1/3 cup): Ensures moistness without heaviness; oil yields richer texture, water lighter.
Pure vanilla extract (2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with a lovely deep aroma.
Optional mix-ins: Chocolate chips, walnuts, or shredded coconut to personalize your loaf.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Protein Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure your bread releases easily after baking. For extra insurance, line the bottom with parchment paper—it’s a little step that pays off big. Preheat the oven to 350°F so it’s ready to bake the perfect loaf.

Step 2: Mix All Ingredients Together

In a large bowl, stir together your flour, protein powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until well combined. Next, fold in your mashed bananas, yogurt, maple syrup, oil or water, and vanilla extract. Make sure to mix gently but thoroughly so everything is evenly incorporated without overworking the batter.

Step 3: Add Optional Goodies

If you’re a fan of texture or extra flavors, now is the time to add chocolate chips, walnuts, or shredded coconut. These little extras bring pops of delight in every bite.

Step 4: Bake and Finish

Pour your batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake for 40 minutes, then turn the oven off—but here’s the magic touch: do not open the oven door. Leave your Protein Banana Bread Recipe inside the closed oven for an additional five minutes. This step helps it finish baking gently and keeps it wonderfully moist.

Step 5: Check for Doneness and Cool

If the center isn’t quite set, cover the top loosely with tin foil and bake a little longer until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. Then allow the bread to cool before gently running a knife around the edges and turning it out onto a plate. Patience pays off here because the flavors deepen and the texture improves even more the next day.

How to Serve Protein Banana Bread Recipe

A glass loaf pan holds a golden-brown baked banana bread studded with numerous dark brown chocolate chips spread evenly on the top and throughout the visible sides, sitting on a silver oven rack inside the oven. The bread has a slightly cracked, rough texture on the top surface with a soft, moist look inside. The clear glass pan shows the thickness and the even baking of the bread, resting on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A fresh spread of nut butter or a drizzle of honey pairs beautifully with this protein-packed loaf. Toasted nuts on top add a satisfying crunch, while a light sprinkle of cinnamon dust can elevate aroma and flavor for a cozy presentation.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a complete breakfast or snack experience. If you’re indulging after a workout, fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt complements the protein and adds brightness to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the loaf thick and use it as a base for healthy banana bread French toast, or layer with cream cheese and berries for a simple dessert parfait. You can even cut it into small squares to serve as energy bites at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Protein Banana Bread Recipe fresh by storing wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps it retain moisture and keeps the flavors vibrant.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully—wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in foil followed by a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 20 to 30 seconds to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven warmth and softness. A light spread of butter or nut butter after warming makes every bite feel indulgent.

FAQs

Can I substitute the protein powder?

Absolutely! Whey, plant-based, or collagen proteins all work well. Just make sure you use the same quantity to maintain the right texture and protein boost.

What if I don’t have overripe bananas?

Bananas that are very ripe with dark spots are best as they’re naturally sweeter and mash easily, which adds moisture and flavor to the bread. If not ripe enough, it might taste less sweet and be denser.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the white flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend, but be mindful the texture might vary slightly. Sometimes adding a bit more moisture or an extra egg helps.

Is it okay to use honey instead of maple syrup?

Definitely. Honey or agave syrup are great natural sweetener substitutes that will still provide plenty of moistness and flavor.

How do I know when the banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out mostly clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is perfectly baked. Remember, the extra five minutes in the closed oven help set the center gently.

Final Thoughts

Making this Protein Banana Bread Recipe is like gifting yourself a slice of comfort and nourishment all at once. It’s approachable, versatile, and incredibly satisfying, whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or the next day when all the flavors have fully blossomed. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly special—you won’t regret it!

Protein Banana Bread

Ingredients You’ll Need