Protein Banana Bread

Save this recipe on:

Moist, hearty, and naturally sweet—Protein Banana Bread is the perfect way to enjoy a nostalgic comfort food while getting a nutritional boost. Whether you’re fueling your post-workout snack or looking for a wholesome breakfast to jumpstart your day, this protein-packed banana bread hits all the right notes. It’s sweetened mostly with ripe bananas and uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

The texture is tender with just the right amount of density, and the flavors are warmly spiced and nutty. This isn’t your average banana bread. It’s enriched with protein powder, making it more filling without sacrificing taste. And yes, you can absolutely freeze it for later or drizzle it with peanut butter for an extra treat. One bite, and it might just become your new favorite bake.

---

What Kind of Protein Powder Should I Use?

Great question! The best kind of protein powder for banana bread is a neutral or vanilla-flavored whey or plant-based protein powder. Avoid overly sweet or chocolate flavors unless you want a dessert-style loaf. A clean protein powder that mixes well and doesn’t clump is ideal for even baking and smooth texture.

---

Ingredients for the Protein Banana Bread

Ripe Bananas – The star of the recipe. Overripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, plus that signature banana flavor.

Eggs – Help bind everything together and add richness.

Vanilla Protein Powder – Adds a protein punch and a hint of vanilla that pairs well with bananas.

Greek Yogurt – Adds creaminess and a little tang, while also boosting protein and keeping the loaf moist.

Maple Syrup or Honey – A natural sweetener that works with the bananas to balance the flavor.

Oat Flour or Whole Wheat Flour – For structure. Oat flour keeps it gluten-free if needed, while whole wheat adds extra fiber.

Baking Soda & Baking Powder – These help the loaf rise beautifully.

Cinnamon and Nutmeg – Warm spices that elevate the banana flavor.

Chopped Nuts or Chocolate Chips (optional) – Add texture and variety if you’re feeling extra indulgent.

---

How To Make the Protein Banana Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing or lining a loaf pan with parchment paper. Then, gather your ingredients and make sure your bananas are nice and overripe—the blacker the peel, the sweeter the flavor.

Step 2: Mash and Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add in the eggs, Greek yogurt, and maple syrup (or honey). Whisk until the mixture is fully combined and creamy.

Step 3: Add Protein Powder and Dry Ingredients

Next, stir in the vanilla protein powder. Once that’s blended in, sprinkle the oat flour (or whole wheat flour), baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg over the top. Gently fold the mixture together until no streaks of flour remain.

Step 4: Optional Add-Ins

If you’re using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage. You can also sprinkle some on top of the batter for extra flair and crunch.

Step 5: Bake It to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Slice and Enjoy

Once fully cooled, slice your Protein Banana Bread and enjoy it as is, or warm it slightly and top with almond butter, peanut butter, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a cozy treat.

---

How to Serve and Store This Protein Banana Bread

This banana bread is as versatile as it is delicious. Serve it warm right out of the oven with a swipe of nut butter or a smear of cream cheese for a protein-rich breakfast. It also makes a great midday snack paired with coffee or a smoothie. Want to elevate it even more? Lightly toast a slice and drizzle with a bit of honey and chopped walnuts.

To store, wrap the loaf tightly in foil or plastic wrap and keep it in an airtight container on the counter for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 3 months. Just pop a slice in the microwave or toaster when ready to enjoy again.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How ripe should my bananas be for banana bread?

The riper the better! You want bananas with lots of brown spots or even a fully black peel. These will be sweeter and mash easily, giving the bread its natural moisture and flavor.

Can I use a different type of protein powder?

Yes, you can use plant-based or whey protein, but stick with a vanilla or unflavored variety. Avoid ones with artificial sweeteners or bold flavors that could clash with the banana.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

Unsweetened applesauce, mashed avocado, or even coconut yogurt can work as alternatives. Keep in mind that these may slightly alter the texture or flavor.

Is this banana bread gluten-free?

It can be! Use oat flour or a certified gluten-free flour blend instead of wheat flour to make it gluten-free.

Can I add mix-ins?

Definitely. Walnuts, pecans, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or even a swirl of peanut butter can be folded into the batter for extra flavor and texture.

How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If there’s wet batter, bake it a bit longer and check again.

---

Want More Bread & Snack Ideas?

If you’re into this Protein Banana Bread, there are plenty more cozy bakes and nourishing snacks to explore. Check out these other popular recipes from Life With Jam:

• Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake for a protein-rich start to your morning.
• Cinnamon Sweet Alabama Pecanbread if you’re craving something a little more indulgent.
• Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread for sweet-meets-savory flavor.
• Easy Pumpkin Muffins when fall flavor is calling.
• Irresistible Super Moist Chocolate Chip Banana Bread for when you want a dessert twist on a classic.

---

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s always a click away: Life With Jam on Pinterest.

And when you make it, I want to hear all about it! Did you go for nuts or chocolate chips? Use a plant-based protein or Greek yogurt? Leave your tweaks and questions in the comments—I love seeing how you make these recipes your own.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: