1. Home
  2. Recipes
  3. Protein Banana Bread

Healthy Protein Banana Bread

Featured in Start Your Day with Joy.

This protein-packed banana bread recipe takes a healthy twist on the classic favorite by incorporating natural ingredients like ripe bananas, Greek yogurt, almond or peanut butter, and wholesome whole wheat flour. With the addition of unsweetened cocoa powder, a scoop of vanilla protein powder, and optional chocolate chips, it's both nutritious and delicious. Bake for just under an hour, and you’ll have a moist, chocolatey treat. Perfect for quick breakfasts, snacks, or a post-workout energy boost, it's an easy make-at-home snack ready in no time!
Pin it Share it Send it Print it Jump To Recipe
Rose
Updated on Sat, 15 Mar 2025 15:43:19 GMT
Banana Bread with Protein Powder Pin it
Banana Bread with Protein Powder | lovelylifewithrose.com

This protein-enriched banana bread transforms the beloved classic into a nutritious powerhouse. The marriage of rich cocoa and vanilla protein powder creates an indulgent treat that's perfect for health-conscious bakers who refuse to compromise on taste.

I've tested countless protein banana bread recipes, but this version stands out for its incredibly moist texture. My fitness-focused daughter particularly loves having a slice after her morning workout.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

  • Ripe Bananas: Choose spotty, brown bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture
  • Greek Yogurt: Opt for full-fat variety for best texture
  • Protein Powder: Select a high-quality vanilla powder that blends well
  • Whole Wheat Flour: Fresh, stone-ground adds nutty flavor
  • Almond Butter: Creates richness while adding healthy fats
  • Cocoa Powder: Dutch-processed for deeper chocolate flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:
Prepare the oven (350°F) and pan: Line with parchment for easy removal
Step 2:
Mash bananas until smooth: Ensure no large chunks remain
Step 3:
Combine wet ingredients: Mix until fully incorporated but don't overmix
Step 4:
Whisk dry ingredients separately: This ensures even distribution of leavening agents
Step 5:
Fold mixtures together: Use gentle strokes to maintain tenderness
Step 6:
Bake 45-50 minutes: Look for slight cracking on top
Step 7:
Cool completely: Essential for proper texture

The almond butter in this recipe has become my secret weapon. My husband, initially skeptical of "healthy" baked goods, now requests this version specifically.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

  • Slice when completely cool for clean cuts
  • Perfect for breakfast meal prep
  • Pairs wonderfully with coffee or protein shake
  • Excellent pre-workout fuel

After years of recipe development, this protein banana bread has earned its place as my go-to healthy baking recipe. It proves that nutritious alternatives can be just as satisfying as traditional versions.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long does this banana bread last?
It can stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 1 week in the fridge.
→ Can I freeze banana bread?
Yes, you can freeze banana bread slices wrapped in plastic for up to 2 months.
→ Can I use a different flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour as substitutes.
→ Do I have to add chocolate chips?
No, chocolate chips are optional and can be skipped if you prefer a simpler loaf.
→ Can I use flavored protein powder?
Yes, but keep in mind that flavored protein powder will change the taste of the bread.

Protein Banana Bread

Moist banana bread with protein, cocoa, and chocolate chips.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
45 Minutes
Total Time
55 Minutes
By: Rose

Category: Breakfast & Brunch

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 10 Servings

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 3 ripe bananas, mashed
02 2 eggs
03 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
04 1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter
05 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
06 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
07 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
08 1/2 tsp salt
09 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
10 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
11 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
12 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper for a mess-free release.

Step 02

In a sizable bowl, mash the ripe bananas until they become smooth and lump-free.

Step 03

Add eggs, Greek yogurt, almond or peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Mix everything until seamless and combined.

Step 04

In a separate bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, protein powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 05

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently, stopping as soon as it’s just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Step 06

If desired, fold in the chocolate chips for extra sweetness and texture.

Step 07

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan.

Step 08

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.

Step 09

Let the bread cool in the pan for roughly 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Step 10

Slice your delicious banana bread and enjoy its chocolatey, protein-packed goodness!

Notes

  1. To maximize freshness, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  2. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week, or freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic for up to 2 months. Thaw slices at room temperature when needed.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Loaf pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Wire rack

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains peanuts or tree nuts if using almond or peanut butter.
  • Contains eggs and wheat (gluten).
  • Contains dairy from Greek yogurt (if not using a non-dairy alternative).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 92
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~