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Protein-Packed Banana Bread for Weight Loss Goals – Moist, Satisfying, and Easy

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 3 medium very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/4 cups)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or melted coconut oil
  • 2–3 tablespoons pure maple syrup or 2 tablespoons granular zero-calorie sweetener (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup oat flour (store-bought or finely ground rolled oats)
  • ¾ cup blanched almond flour
  • ½ cup vanilla or unflavored whey protein powder (or a whey/casein blend)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Optional mix-ins: 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, 2 tablespoons mini dark chocolate chips, or 2 tablespoons chia seeds

Instructions

  • Prep the pan and oven: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment, leaving overhang for easy lifting. Lightly grease the sides.
  • Mash bananas: In a large bowl, mash bananas until mostly smooth with a few small lumps for texture.
  • Whisk wet ingredients: Add eggs, Greek yogurt, oil, maple syrup or sweetener, and vanilla. Whisk until well combined and creamy.
  • Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together oat flour, almond flour, protein powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
  • Combine gently: Add dry ingredients to wet. Stir with a spatula until just combined. The batter will be thick but scoopable. Do not overmix.
  • Add mix-ins: Fold in nuts, chocolate chips, or seeds if using. Keep total add-ins modest to maintain structure.
  • Fill the pan: Scrape batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. If desired, sprinkle a few oats or nuts on top for a pretty finish.
  • Bake: Bake 45–55 minutes, until the center is set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. If the top is browning too fast, tent loosely with foil at the 40-minute mark.
  • Cool fully: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out to a rack. Cool at least 1 hour before slicing so it sets and stays moist.
  • Slice and serve: Cut into 10–12 slices. Enjoy plain or with a thin spread of peanut butter for extra staying power.