Who doesn’t love a good muffin? Our family sure does. My kids especially. And I’m always on a mission to sneak in more protein and healthy stuff wherever I can and muffins are the perfect place to do that. I’ve been making my kids muffins for years and I finally perfected my recipe. I could make them with my eyes closed at this point. They’re a staple in our house and I hope they become one in yours too because these Banana Protein Muffins are so dang good.
First a shout out to Kate from Cookie & Kate because I originally found her recipe on Pinterest but I’ve changed things up a bit.
The secret ingredient here is coconut oil. You can totally use olive oil or butter or any other oil you prefer but something about the coconut oil gives them this extra flavor that is incredible. It’s also a great fat for our bodies.
THE PROTEIN
I’m always trying to get more protein into my kids bodies which can be hard but I add two different versions of it in this recipe. The first is through protein powder. I’ve tried quite a few over the years but my favorite is Flav City Vanilla Bean. You can really use any flavor but I stick to vanilla to keep it neutral. Each scoop has 25g of protein and I’ll add two. Plus it has collagen and adaptogens, all grass-fed and no added sugars.
The second form of protein I add is greek yogurt. 3/4 of my kids love greek yogurt on it’s own usually with honey and fruit but one hates it. But loves muffins. So I sneak it in here. 1/2 cup has around 10-13g of protein and it gives the muffins a nice moist texture.
THE SUGAR
If you’re like me you feel like everywhere you turn there’s sugar being thrown in your kid’s faces. At school, at sports games, at dance, at church. It’s everywhere. And it’s totally fine to have here and there in moderation but when I’m baking at home I try to limit it as much as I can and use a substitute like maple syrup or honey. And that’s why I love this recipe so much! NO SUGAR. Just maple syrup. And they’re still delicious.
THE ADD INS
This is where you can take some creative freedom and add whatever you want. I usually will add chia seeds and chocolate chips but have also been known to sneak in some flax or cacao nibs. Have fun with it! Chia seeds are such a powerhouse source of fiber and I love putting them in all the things. My kids love them in their smoothies too!
You could also omit the chocolate chips and add any type of fruit like blueberries, strawberries or raspberries.
BAKING TIME
When we renovated our kitchen, we got the Ilve range and I love it but it does tend to cook things more quickly. I find that 18 minutes is the sweet spot for me, but your baking time may vary!
RECIPE FOR THE BEST BANANA PROTEIN MUFFINS
The Best Banana Protein Muffins
The most delicious banana muffins packed with protein to help fuel your body.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil (or oil of your choice)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup mashed bananas (2-3)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup greek yogurt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 3/4 cup flour (I use fresh milled but all purpose if fine)
- 2 scoops protein powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325 degrees and grease your muffin pans if necessary.
- In a large bowl mix together the melted coconut oil & maple syrup with a whisk until combined.
- Add in the eggs and beat well.
- Mix in the bananas, milk & greek yogurt followed by the baking soda, vanilla, salt, cinnamon & chia.
- Add the flour and protein powder and combine with a large spoon.
- Mix in the chocolate chips or any other add ins you'd like.
- Divide the batter evenly between your muffin cups, filling them about 2/3 full.
- Bake muffins for approximately 18 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Notes
I keep them on our counter in an enclosed pastry display for around 4 days. They'll keep longer in the fridge and can easily be frozen!
I like to do one standard sized muffin tray and then a tray of mini muffins
SHOP MUFFIN ACCESSORIES
I recently started doing half regular sized muffins and half mini muffins. The silicone muffin pan linked below is my FAV for the minis!
