Description
This Cream Cheese Cinnamon Protein Loaf is a moist, flavorful bread packed with protein and a delightful cream cheese cinnamon swirl. Made with ripe bananas, Greek yogurt, and whey protein powder, it’s a nutritious option perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup milk of choice
- 1/4 cup light olive oil or melted coconut oil
- 1/3 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored whey protein powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cream Cheese Swirl
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare pan and preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, Greek yogurt, milk, oil, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift or mix together the all-purpose flour, whey protein powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon to ensure even distribution.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb.
- Prepare cream cheese swirl: In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy for the swirl topping.
- Layer batter and swirl: Pour half of the loaf batter into the prepared pan. Dollop half of the cream cheese mixture over the batter and gently swirl it through with a knife. Repeat with the remaining batter and cream cheese mixture, swirling it on top.
- Bake loaf: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs or minimal cream cheese residue.
- Cool and serve: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to preserve its texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for a sweeter and more flavorful loaf.
- To keep the loaf moist, do not overbake; oven times may vary.
- You can substitute the whey protein with a plant-based protein powder for a vegan version, adjusting eggs with flax eggs.
- Make sure cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
- Store leftover loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For added texture, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
