Chocolate Protein Banana Bread

Chocolate Protein Banana Bread

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas (about 1 1/2 cups mashed)
• 3/4 cup chocolate protein powder
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or a sugar substitute for a low-calorie version)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional, for extra chocolatey goodness)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bread once baked.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

• In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth and creamy. This will form the base of the banana bread.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, combine the chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, flour (or oat flour), granulated sugar (or sugar substitute), baking powder, and salt. Whisk until the dry ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Add the wet ingredients to the mashed bananas. This includes the almond milk, applesauce, vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil), eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined.
• Gradually fold in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to over mix. This ensures a soft, moist bread.
• If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them in at this point for an extra chocolatey touch.

Step 5: Bake

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so it’s a good idea to check at the 50-minute mark.
• Once done, remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Serve

• Slice the Chocolate Protein Banana Bread into pieces and serve. You can enjoy it plain, or for an added protein boost, spread some peanut butter on top.

This Chocolate Protein Banana Bread is not only delicious but also nutritious. The combination of protein from the powder and the natural sweetness from ripe bananas makes it a perfect snack or breakfast option for those focused on their fitness goals. It’s moist, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free treat to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping you energized throughout the day.

Enjoy the delicious and healthy results of your baking!