Get ready to fall in love with a treat that delivers big on both flavor and nutrition: High Protein Chocolate Banana Bread. This mouthwatering loaf is ultra-chocolaty, wonderfully moist, and packed with protein, making it the perfect snack to fuel your day. Whether you’re searching for a healthy breakfast, a satisfying workout snack, or a guilt-free dessert, this bread is about to become your new go-to recipe for all occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This High Protein Chocolate Banana Bread is all about working a little magic with pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a key role, contributing to the bread’s bold chocolate flavor, moist crumb, and beautiful rise while keeping the protein content high and the calories in check.
- Ripe Bananas: The riper, the better! They add natural sweetness and keep the bread moist.
- Large Eggs: These provide structure and add even more protein for a satisfying slice.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: Boosts the protein profile and gives the bread extra tenderness.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Naturally sweetens the loaf without refined sugar; both pair perfectly with chocolate.
- Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the banana and chocolate flavors with warm, mellow depth.
- Chocolate Protein Powder: The star element for a high protein punch and rich chocolatey character.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Intensifies chocolate flavor without unnecessary sugar or fat.
- Oat Flour or Whole Wheat Flour: Adds fiber and a wholesome texture; either choice works beautifully.
- Baking Soda: Lifts the bread to a perfect height and helps with browning.
- Baking Powder: Further supports the rise and keeps the crumb light.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the chocolatey notes.
- Mini Dark Chocolate Chips: Scattered throughout for melty pockets of chocolate in every bite.
How to Make High Protein Chocolate Banana Bread
Step 1: Prep Your Loaf Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure the High Protein Chocolate Banana Bread releases easily after baking. This quick prep makes all the difference in a perfectly baked, tender loaf that comes out clean and picture-perfect every time.
Step 2: Mash Bananas and Mix Wet Ingredients
Grab your ripest bananas and mash them thoroughly in a large mixing bowl. The softer and sweeter your bananas, the more flavorful your bread will be. Next, whisk in the eggs, Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is super smooth and creamy, which means your loaf will have the best possible texture.
Step 3: Add Protein and Cocoa Powders
Stir in the chocolate protein powder and unsweetened cocoa powder, blending well so you get a deeply chocolatey batter, smooth and uniform. This is where your High Protein Chocolate Banana Bread gets its signature richness and nutrition in one easy move!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add oat or whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Gently mix just until everything comes together. Don’t overmix—this keeps your final loaf light and fluffy instead of dense.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Time for chocolate chips! Gently fold in the mini dark chocolate chips, making sure they’re evenly distributed. If you’re feeling extra decadent, save a handful to sprinkle on top before baking for a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Add those extra chocolate chips if you like. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are great, gooey batter is not). Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve High Protein Chocolate Banana Bread
Garnishes
A slice of warm High Protein Chocolate Banana Bread practically begs for a flourish. Try a dusting of cocoa powder, a drizzle of honey, or even some extra banana slices on top. A few toasted nuts can add a lovely crunch, or you can go classic and just pile on a few more chocolate chips while it’s still warm for irresistibly melty puddles.
Side Dishes
Pair your banana bread with a tall glass of cold milk or a steaming mug of coffee for the ultimate snack. For breakfast, try serving it alongside a generous dollop of Greek yogurt and some fresh berries for a balanced, protein-packed start to your day.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice your High Protein Chocolate Banana Bread into cubes and layer it in a breakfast parfait with yogurt and fruit. Or, toast a thick slice and spread on a little nut butter for an indulgent, energy-boosting snack that’s still nourishing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Stored at room temperature, High Protein Chocolate Banana Bread stays fresh and moist for up to three days. If your kitchen runs warm, pop it in the fridge to extend its shelf life another day or two.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully! Simply wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in a double layer of plastic and foil. Freeze for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature or gently warm a slice in the microwave whenever a chocolatey protein craving strikes.
Reheating
To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive its soft, cake-like crumb and melt those chocolate chips all over again. You can also toast a slice for a slightly crispy edge, perfect for breakfast or a mid-afternoon boost.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Snack
Absolutely! Whey, plant-based, or even collagen protein powders can all work in this recipe. Just make sure your powder isn’t loaded with thickeners or extra sweeteners, since they can change the texture of your High Protein Chocolate Banana Bread.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap the oat or whole wheat flour for certified gluten-free oat flour, or an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend. Just double-check your protein powder is also gluten-free for a fully gluten-free treat.
What’s the best way to ripen bananas quickly?
If your bananas aren’t ripe yet, pop them (peels on) in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 15 minutes. Let them cool before peeling and mashing. The heat speeds up the ripening and gives you sweet, soft bananas ready for your High Protein Chocolate Banana Bread.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or seeds?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds add great crunch and extra healthy fats. Just fold them in with the chocolate chips, or sprinkle them on top before baking for a pretty finish and added texture.
How do I know when the banana bread is done?
Your bread is ready when the top is firm, slightly springy, and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it (not wet batter). This usually takes between 45 and 55 minutes, depending on your oven and pan.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as smitten as I am with this High Protein Chocolate Banana Bread! It’s the kind of recipe that hits the spot whether you’re fueling up for the day or enjoying a well-deserved treat. Go ahead—give it a try, and get ready for your kitchen to smell absolutely incredible!
Print
High Protein Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this moist and flavorful High Protein Chocolate Banana Bread that’s perfect for a guilt-free snack or breakfast option. Packed with protein and rich chocolatey goodness, this recipe will satisfy your cravings without the excess guilt.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup chocolate protein powder
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup oat flour or whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mini dark chocolate chips (plus extra for topping if desired)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or greasing.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, mash bananas, then add eggs, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth.
- Add dry ingredients: Stir in protein powder, cocoa powder, oat flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix until combined.
- Finish the batter: Fold in mini chocolate chips. Pour batter into the pan, top with extra chips, and bake for 45–55 minutes.
- Cool and serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- You can use whey or plant-based protein powder, but avoid blends with added thickeners.
- For added texture, stir in chopped nuts or seeds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
