Let me introduce you to one of my all-time favorite recipes: Banana Bread (16g Protein Per Slice!). This loaf is everything banana bread should be—moist, fluffy, perfectly spiced, and with a dreamy, protein-packed twist that makes every slice a powerhouse snack. Whether you go classic or mix in a carrot cake vibe, there’s nothing better than a golden slice fresh out of the oven, packed with sweet banana flavor, a touch of peanut butter richness, and a glorious protein boost. You’ll never believe it’s gluten-free and dairy-free too! You might find yourself looking for excuses to have this heavenly banana bread for breakfast, as an afternoon treat, or even dessert.

us Banana Bread (16g Protein Per Slice!) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Banana Bread (16g Protein Per Slice!) serves a delicious purpose, each built for flavor, texture, and an unbeatable tender crumb. Grab these straightforward staples—no hard-to-find items—so you can make magic happen in your kitchen any day of the week!

Gluten-free oat flour: Gives the bread a light, tender crumb and ensures it’s accessible for everyone.
Protein powder (peanut butter, vanilla, or chocolate): Adds the 16g of powerhouse protein per slice and subtly enhances the banana flavor.
Baking soda and baking powder: Help the loaf rise and achieve that beautiful fluffy interior.
Salt: Rounds out the sweetness and brings out all the nuanced flavors.
Ground cinnamon: Adds undeniable cozy warmth that complements the sweet bananas perfectly.
Overripe bananas (3 large): The heart of this bread—make sure they’re spotty for incredible sweet banana flavor and extra moisture.
Thick dairy-free yogurt (1/3 cup): Makes every slice incredibly moist; coconut or almond-based yogurt works best.
Coconut oil or avocado oil (1/4 cup): Keeps it soft and lush—I love the sweetness that coconut oil adds!
Maple syrup (1/4 cup): A dash of natural sweetness plus caramel notes that pair perfectly with bananas.
Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp): Lends an aromatic undertone that makes the whole loaf sing.
Eggs (3 large): Essential for lifting, binding, and giving that soft, cake-like crumb.

Optional frosting: Blend 1/2 cup dairy free cream cheese, 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter, 1 tbsp maple syrup, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract for a luscious, tangy topping.

Carrot cake version (see full details above): Toss in extra spices, a handful of shredded carrot, and toasted pecans for a decadent twist—you won’t believe how much it elevates the Banana Bread (16g Protein Per Slice!).

How to Make Banana Bread (16g Protein Per Slice!)

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Give your loaf pan a quick grease or line it neatly with parchment paper to make sure nothing sticks. This one quick step ensures your banana bread releases perfectly golden and intact, ready for slicing and sharing.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oat flour, your chosen protein powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This is where all those cozy, toasty base notes come together and set the stage for a flavor-packed loaf. The protein powder is where the magic happens for that 16g protein per slice!

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mash your bananas until smooth and mostly lump-free. Whisk in the dairy-free yogurt, melted coconut oil (or avocado oil), maple syrup, vanilla extract, and eggs. The result should be a creamy, fragrant mixture—it’ll smell almost good enough to drink (but please don’t).

Step 4: Make Your Batter

Gradually pour the wet ingredients into your bowl of dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. If it looks a bit thick, add a splash of dairy-free milk to loosen things up. For the carrot cake version of Banana Bread (16g Protein Per Slice!), now’s the time to fold in those shredded carrots and chopped pecans.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour your luscious batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for about 48 minutes, or until a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean—a few moist crumbs are just fine. For the carrot cake variation, give it a couple minutes more. That irresistible, sweet-banana aroma filling your kitchen is your cue that something wonderful is about to happen!

Step 6: Cool, Slice, and Frost

Once your Banana Bread (16g Protein Per Slice!) is done, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before adding any frosting or slicing—the wait is tough, but trust me, it’s worth it for the cleanest, most beautiful slices.

How to Serve Banana Bread (16g Protein Per Slice!)

Garnishes

A dreamy swirl of the optional dairy-free, peanut butter cream cheese frosting takes this loaf over the top! Try a sprinkle of cinnamon, extra chopped toasted pecans, or even a few banana chips for crunch. Each adds eye-catching appeal and extra bursts of flavor every time you serve Banana Bread (16g Protein Per Slice!).

Side Dishes

This protein-rich bread pairs beautifully with a hot mug of coffee or your favorite tea. For a sunny brunch spread, serve with tangy fruit salad, a dollop of thick plant-based yogurt, or a handful of fresh berries. It also loves a sidekick of nut butter or a drizzle of honey for those extra indulgent mornings.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Banana Bread (16g Protein Per Slice!) into mini loaves for gifting or bake as muffins for a handy, snackable treat. For a decadent dessert, layer slices with coconut whipped cream and caramelized bananas in mini trifle glasses. Or serve warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream and extra maple drizzle for a showstopping finale to any meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, wrap your Banana Bread (16g Protein Per Slice!) tightly in foil or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For even longer freshness, keep it in the refrigerator to maintain that dreamy, moist texture. Each slice stays soft and full of flavor day after day.

Freezing

This banana bread is a freezer superstar! Slice the cooled loaf, wrap each piece individually in cling wrap, and place them all in a freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months, ready to be pulled out for those quick, protein-filled breakfasts or snacks on the go.

Reheating

For that just-baked warmth, pop a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast lightly in your toaster oven. If you plan to frost your Banana Bread (16g Protein Per Slice!), add it after reheating for the creamiest results. There’s nothing quite like a warm, fragrant slice ready in seconds!

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of oat flour?

Absolutely! If you’re not gluten-free, you can swap the oat flour for all-purpose flour in the same amount. You’ll still get that tender crumb and lovely flavor, though the nutrition will change slightly.

What’s the best protein powder to use?

Any vanilla, peanut butter, or chocolate flavored protein powder works wonders in this recipe. I love using clean, simple brands like Truvani, but feel free to use your favorite plant-based or whey option—just avoid those with funky aftertastes.

Can I make these into muffins?

Definitely! Spoon the batter into lined muffin tins (about 3/4 full) and bake at 350°F for roughly 18-22 minutes. Muffins are perfect for meal prep and make the Banana Bread (16g Protein Per Slice!) wonderfully portable.

Is the carrot cake version as high in protein?

You bet! With the full cup of protein powder, both the classic and carrot cake versions of Banana Bread (16g Protein Per Slice!) offer about the same protein punch per serving—and tons of extra nutrients too.

Can I skip the eggs for a vegan version?

Yes! Substitute 3 flax eggs (3 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 9 tbsp water, allowed to gel) for the eggs. The loaf will stay moist and rise well with just a little denser texture—still utterly irresistible.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for banana bread that checks every box—tender, full of flavor, super satisfying, and packed with a hearty dose of protein—you have to try Banana Bread (16g Protein Per Slice!). Whether you stick to the classic or add the carrot cake twist, it’s a wholesome treat that brings joy in every bite. I can’t wait for you to make this one a staple in your kitchen!