Protein banana bread

Healthy chocolate protein banana bread is the perfect addition to breakfast on a busy morning. This banana bread is made grain free using almond flour and free of refined sugars. We are using only ripe bananas and maple syrup as our sweeteners. This paleo, dairy and gluten free protein packed banana bread taste just like a fudgy brownie but without all the guilt of traditional brownies. 

I guarantee you will love the protein packed banana bread so much you will be going back for seconds. For the perfect indulgence top your slice with some melted almond butter which provides even more protein to your day. 

Jump to:

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• How to store the Banana bread
• Equipment
• FAQ
• Pro tips
• 📖 Recipe
• 💬 Comments

Ingredients

• Coconut oil: we are using only 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in this recipe, which provides a source of healthy fats. No unwanted oil’s here.
• Bananas: the use of over-ripe bananas is providing not only a great source of potassium, but also naturally sweetens the banana bread. 
• Almond flour: because this loaf uses only almond flour, we are adhering to a grain-free, gluten free, and Paleo diet with this recipe. Almond flour also provides a great source of healthy fats to keep you feeling full throughout the day.
• Eggs: the eggs, keep this chocolate protein banana bread, super moist and fluffy. They are also providing a great source of protein.
• Vanilla extract: we are using a quality source of vanilla here. Just a little vanilla will go along way in baking. My favorite vanilla extract that is always going to be gluten-free and properly sourced is singing dog vanilla.
• Protein powder: Levels whey vanilla cinnamon protein powder adds a warm cinnamon flavor.

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 
• First, coat an 8x4 loaf pan with cooking spray.  
• Next, in a large bowl, whisk together your coconut oil, bananas, maple syrup, vanilla, and eggs until well combined. 
• Next add in your cocoa, baking soda, almond flour, and salt. Mix until well combined. 
• Then, fold in chocolate chips and stir. Be careful not to over mix or the bread will end up tough. 
• Fill loaf pan with batter and add extra chips on the top if you would like.
• Bake for40-50 minutes. Once toothpick comes out clean, loaves are done. Timing will vary depending on your oven. 

How to store the Banana bread

To store this chocolate protein banana bread I recommend covering it and plastic wrap and placing it in the refrigerator after the first 12 hours. You can store this in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Equipment

• Mixing bowl: You'll need a large mixing bowl to mix the ingredients.
• Spatula: You'll need a spatula to scrape the sides of the mixing bowl.
• Loaf pan: A loaf pan is the traditional baking dish for banana bread.
• Parchment paper: Lining the bottom of the loaf pan with parchment paper will prevent the bread from sticking and make it easier to remove from the pan.

FAQ

Can I freeze the banana bread?

Of course! To freeze this banana bread simply wrap it in plastic wrap, then wrap again, tightly in foil and place in a freezer safe bag for up to two months. I recommend wrapping in individual slices, so you may thaw out just one slice at a time for a quick on the go breakfast when you are in a rush. To thaw out this banana bread simply place in the refrigerator overnight or leave at room temperature for one hour.

Can I add fruits or spices to banana bread?

Yes, you can add dried fruits or seeds to enhance the flavor and texture of the bread. However, be mindful of the proportions and adjust the baking time and temperature accordingly.

What makes this banana bread healthier than its counterparts? 

Traditional banana breads tend to be filled with refined oils and refined sugars  making them much higher in calories not to mention unwanted ingredients. Don’t get me wrong as I live by the 80/20 rule, there is always time for an indulgent dessert, but we do want to make sure 80% of our days are filled with healthy and nutritious food.

Pro tips

Always follow the recipe: to ensure your banana bread comes out the way mine has here, always follow the recipe to the exact ingredients as written. I have not tried this banana loaf with any other ingredients, and I’m uncertain how it would turn out.

Use overripe bananas: this is one of those times where the darker the berry, the sweeter the juice comes into play! Always use bananas with lots of brown spots to keep this banana bread sweet the way it is intended.

Add nuts: feel free to add in an additional protein source in the form of nuts here. Adding ¼ a cup of chopped almonds, or chopped walnuts, makes for a perfect texture when biting into this banana bread.

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📖 Recipe