Introduction
There’s nothing quite as comforting as the smell of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your home. This Protein Banana Bread takes the classic treat and gives it a healthy twist, perfect for fueling your day! With its moist texture and sweet hints of banana, it’s both delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or as a midday snack, this bread is sure to satisfy your cravings while providing a boost of protein.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1 cup protein powder (any flavor)
- 1/2 cup almond flour or oat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 cup almond milk or any milk of choice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth; the riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be!
- Add the protein powder, almond flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to the mashed bananas, stirring until everything is well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, almond milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and incorporated.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender loaf!
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling your loaf is perfectly tender.
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. The anticipation will be worth it!
Notes or Tips
- Use very ripe bananas; their natural sweetness enhances the flavor of the bread.
- This recipe can be customized with add-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for additional flavor and texture.
- To store your banana bread, wrap it in plastic wrap or foil and keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Cooking Techniques
Mashing the bananas is quite simple—just use a fork or potato masher until you achieve a smooth consistency. It’s essential to ensure that the mixture is blended well but avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a denser texture. Baking the bread at the right temperature is crucial; too hot might cause the outside to overbake before the inside is fully set.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of protein powder? Absolutely! Feel free to use any flavor you love or have on hand. Just keep in mind that it may change the flavor profile of your bread slightly.
Is this bread gluten-free? Yes, if you choose almond flour and ensure your protein powder is gluten-free, you can enjoy this bread without the gluten!
Can I substitute the sweetener? Yes, honey or agave syrup can work well. Just note that this may slightly alter the sweetness level.
Conclusion
This Protein Banana Bread is a delightful way to use up ripe bananas while packing in some extra nutrients. The sweetness from the bananas and maple syrup balances perfectly with the protein powder, making it a fantastic snack or breakfast choice. Enjoy every slice knowing you’re treating your body well while indulging in a sweetly satisfying experience!