Chocolate Protein Banana Bread

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Grease a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
In a separate bowl, combine chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add almond milk, applesauce, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Mix until well combined.
Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Remember, do not over-mix!
If desired, gently mix in dark chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice the Chocolate Protein Banana Bread and enjoy. For an extra kick of protein, spread some peanut butter on top.

Best ways to enjoy it

This moist and chocolatey banana bread can be enjoyed in a variety of ways! Serve it warm from the oven for a comforting treat, or let it cool completely and slice it for breakfast on-the-go. Pair it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a generous spread of peanut butter for a protein-packed meal. You could also enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea for that perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

Keeping leftovers fresh

Storing your Chocolate Protein Banana Bread properly ensures you can enjoy it for several days. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the bread. Just slice it first, wrap the pieces individually, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw slices as needed!

Helpful cooking tips

To boost the flavor and nutritional value of your banana bread even further, try these tips:

Use very ripe bananas; they will be sweeter and easier to mash.
If you’re looking for variety, consider adding nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for crunch.
Feel free to adjust the sugar according to your sweetness preference. Adding a touch of cinnamon can also elevate the flavor profile.

Creative twists

Looking to switch things up? Here are some variations to get you started:

Experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or almond flour, to change the texture and flavor.
For a caramelized twist, replace the applesauce with pureed dates or introduce a layer of applesauce or nut butter into the middle of the batter.
Top your banana bread with a light drizzle of melted dark chocolate for an elegant presentation.

Your questions answered

Q: How long does this recipe take to prepare?
A: From start to finish, you can expect about 10-15 minutes of prep time and 50-60 minutes of baking. So, set aside roughly an hour and a half for this delightful loaf!

Q: Can I use a different type of protein powder?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute with vanilla, pea, or whey protein powder, but be mindful that this may slightly alter the taste.

Q: Is it safe to store banana bread at room temperature?
A: Yes, as long as your banana bread is wrapped properly, it will stay deliciously fresh at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, switching to refrigeration or freezing is recommended.