Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your home. This protein-packed banana bread is not only delicious but also a wholesome treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. Made with ripe bananas, wholesome ingredients, and a hint of sweetness, it’s a guilt-free delight that will nourish your body and satisfy your cravings. Whether you enjoy it on its own or slathered with a bit of nut butter, this banana bread is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 cup oats (blended into flour)
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- Optional: nuts or chocolate chips
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until they reach a smooth consistency.
- Stir in the melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and maple syrup (or honey), mixing until all the wet ingredients are well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, cinnamon, almond flour, and the blended oats.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix!
- Fold in the protein powder and any optional ingredients, such as nuts or chocolate chips, to enhance your banana bread.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is beautifully golden brown.
- Once baked, let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, make sure your bananas are really ripe; their sweetness and flavor will shine through in the final product. You can customize the recipe with different add-ins, such as walnuts, pecans, or dark chocolate chips, depending on your preference. This banana bread can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or frozen for longer storage.
Cooking Techniques
Mashing bananas until smooth is key to a moist texture in your banana bread. Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately, especially the flour and protein powder, to ensure the ideal consistency. If you’re using oats, blending them into a fine flour will improve the texture and allow them to incorporate well into the batter.
FAQ
Can I substitute the coconut oil?
Yes! You can substitute melted butter or any neutral oil if you prefer.
Is it necessary to use protein powder?
No, it’s optional. If you prefer a slightly sweeter bread, you can omit the protein powder altogether or use more almond flour.
Can I make this banana bread vegan?
Absolutely! Just use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your protein powder is plant-based.
Conclusion
This protein banana bread is a cleverly crafted, wholesome treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its delightful flavors and nourishing ingredients, it bridges the gap between indulgence and health. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every slice with family and friends, knowing you’ve baked something truly special!