If you are on the lookout for a delicious treat that feels indulgent but packs a healthy punch, you have to try this Chocolate Banana Protein Muffins Recipe. These muffins combine the rich, comforting flavors of chocolate and banana with a protein boost that makes them perfect for breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a guilt-free dessert. Moist, fluffy, and bursting with chocolaty goodness, they taste like they came straight from a bakery, yet they’re super simple to whip up in your own kitchen. Let me show you how to turn some everyday ingredients into this scrumptious, high-protein delight!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a vital role in making your Chocolate Banana Protein Muffins Recipe a stunning success. From ripe bananas that naturally sweeten and moisten the batter to protein powder that gives these muffins their muscle-building edge, every item is a must-have.
- 3 ripe bananas: Naturally sweet and perfect for moisture and flavor intensity.
- 1 egg: Adds structure and helps bind all the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup cane sugar or honey: Optional for a touch of extra sweetness; choose your preferred natural sweetener.
- 2/3 cup Greek yogurt: Contributes creaminess and tenderness while boosting protein.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate and banana flavors wonderfully.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The base of the muffins, providing the right texture.
- 3 scoops chocolate protein powder (~3/4 cup): The secret ingredient for a rich chocolate flavor plus muscle fuel.
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder: For that deep, chocolatey intensity.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Helps the muffins rise light and fluffy.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Works with the baking powder for perfect lift and texture.
- 1/4 cup oil (avocado oil recommended): Adds healthy fat and keeps muffins moist.
- 1/4 cup milk (whole milk suggested): Helps create a luscious batter consistency.
- 2/3 cup mini chocolate chips: Pockets of melty chocolate in every bite and a fun topping.
- Cooking spray: Essential to prevent sticking and to ensure muffins come out perfectly.
How to Make Chocolate Banana Protein Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven warms up, line your muffin tin with tall muffin liners and spray them generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking, especially important when working with protein powder.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, take your 3 ripe bananas and mash them until smooth. This is the base of your batter’s moisture and natural sweetness, so make sure those bananas are spot-on ripe for the best flavor profile.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Using an electric hand mixer, beat the egg, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and sugar (or honey if you’re using it) into the mashed bananas. Scrape down the sides as you mix to ensure everything is blended, creating a creamy and well-incorporated wet mixture.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Add the all-purpose flour, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda to your wet mixture. Mix again until the batter turns thick and uniform, signaling that all those dry powders have fully combined with the wet base.
Step 5: Add the Oil and Milk
Slowly beat in the oil and milk. This step is key to achieving that luscious, smooth consistency that will give your muffins their tender crumb. Once mixed, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, leaving a handful to sprinkle on top for that beautiful finished look.
Step 6: Fill and Bake
Use a cookie scooper to evenly portion the batter into the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full so they have room to rise without spilling over. Top each muffin with the reserved chocolate chips before sliding the tray into the oven. Bake for 22 to 28 minutes, rotating the muffin tin 180 degrees halfway through to get an even bake. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick comes out clean and the tops spring back to the touch.
How to Serve Chocolate Banana Protein Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar turns these muffins into an elegant treat, but for extra flair, a dollop of Greek yogurt or nut butter on the side pairs beautifully with their chocolate-banana flavor. If you’re feeling festive, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate makes these muffins even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
These muffins shine on their own but can also be served with a fresh fruit salad or a handful of nuts for a balanced breakfast or snack. A cup of coffee or your favorite chai latte complements the rich cocoa undertones perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the muffins horizontally and adding a layer of peanut butter and banana slices for a delicious muffin sandwich. Alternatively, serve alongside a smoothie bowl topped with granola and berries to round out a protein-packed meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Chocolate Banana Protein Muffins Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want them to last longer, pop them in the refrigerator where they’ll stay good for about one week. Always let muffins cool completely before sealing to prevent sogginess from trapped moisture.
Freezing
If you want to make these muffins in advance, they freeze beautifully. Place fully cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Individual portions make them easy to grab for a quick snack or breakfast anytime.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen or refrigerated Chocolate Banana Protein Muffins Recipe at their best, reheat them in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or warm them in an oven at 300°F for 5 to 8 minutes. This brings back their soft texture and melty chocolate goodness.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein powder?
Absolutely! While chocolate protein powder works best for maximum flavor, vanilla or unflavored protein powders can substitute nicely. Just be mindful that the cocoa powder may need adjusting to maintain the chocolatey taste.
Are these muffins gluten-free?
The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary in texture. Make sure your protein powder is gluten-free as well.
What can I use instead of avocado oil?
If you don’t have avocado oil, mild-tasting oils like canola or melted coconut oil can work well. Avoid extra virgin olive oil as it might affect the flavor.
Can I omit the sugar or honey?
Yes! The ripe bananas add natural sweetness so if you prefer a less sweet muffin or are watching your sugar intake, feel free to skip the added sweetener altogether.
How do I know when the muffins are perfectly baked?
Look for muffins that have risen nicely with a domed top and use a toothpick to test—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your muffins are ready. Overbaking will cause dryness, so keep a close eye in the last few minutes.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Chocolate Banana Protein Muffins Recipe enough if you want a treat that hits every mark: delicious, moist, and packed with protein to fuel your day. Whether you’re making them for your family, meal prepping, or just craving a sweet snack, these muffins stand out for being easy to make and crazy tasty. Give this recipe a go and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite muffin!
PrintChocolate Banana Protein Muffins Recipe
These moist and rich Chocolate Banana Protein Muffins are a delicious blend of banana sweetness and chocolate decadence, all packed with protein to start your day right or enjoy as a satisfying snack. Made in just one bowl and baked to fluffy perfection, these muffins taste bakery-fresh and offer a nutritious, homemade alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Bakery
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup cane sugar or honey (optional)
- 2/3 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup oil (avocado oil recommended)
- 1/4 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
Dry Ingredients
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 scoops chocolate protein powder (~3/4 cup)
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
Add-ins
- 2/3 cup mini chocolate chips
- Cooking spray for muffin liners
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready when the batter is mixed.
- Mash Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mash the ripe bananas until smooth and free of large lumps.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Use an electric hand mixer to beat in the egg, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and cane sugar or honey into the mashed bananas. Frequently scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to ensure an even mixture.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda to the bowl. Mix again using the hand mixer until the batter is thick and well combined.
- Incorporate Oil and Milk: Slowly beat in the avocado oil and whole milk, mixing until the batter is luscious and smooth.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in most of the mini chocolate chips, reserving some to sprinkle on top of the muffins before baking.
- Prepare Muffin Tin: Spray tall muffin liners generously with cooking spray and use a cookie scooper to evenly portion the batter into the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the reserved mini chocolate chips on top of each muffin for an extra chocolate burst.
- Bake: Bake for 22-28 minutes. To ensure even baking, rotate the muffin tin 180 degrees halfway through the cook time. Muffins are done when risen, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Store: Allow the muffins to cool completely before removing them from the tin or covering. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Notes
- The cane sugar or honey is optional since the ripe bananas provide natural sweetness.
- Rotate the muffin tin 180° halfway through baking to ensure even cooking as some ovens have hot spots.
- Avoid overbaking to prevent dry muffins; protein muffins require careful timing to keep moistness.
- Fill muffin cups no more than 3/4 full for proper rising and to avoid overflow.
- Always spray muffin liners generously when baking with protein powder to prevent sticking.
