Save This Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Protein Loaf is the ultimate upgrade to your standard banana bread. By combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a high-protein boost from Greek yogurt and whey powder, this loaf offers a nutritious way to satisfy your cravings. The standout feature is the decadent cinnamon cream cheese swirl that creates a beautiful marbled effect and a rich, creamy texture in every bite.
Save Whether you are preparing for a busy week ahead or looking for a wholesome treat for the family, this recipe is incredibly straightforward. It strikes the perfect balance between a nutritious snack and a comforting baked good, proving that healthy eating never has to be boring.
Ingredients
- For the Loaf
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (120 g) plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk of choice
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) light olive oil or melted coconut oil
- 1/3 cup (65 g) coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60 g) vanilla or unflavored whey protein powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- For the Cream Cheese Swirl
- 6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Step 2
- In a large bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, eggs, Greek yogurt, milk, oil, sugar, and vanilla until well combined.
- Step 3
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, protein powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Step 4
- Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined—do not overmix.
- Step 5
- In a small bowl, beat together cream cheese, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Step 6
- Pour half of the loaf batter into the prepared pan. Dollop half of the cream cheese mixture over the batter and gently swirl with a knife. Repeat with remaining loaf batter and swirl in the rest of the cream cheese mixture on top.
- Step 7
- Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a little cream cheese on the toothpick is fine).
- Step 8
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Ensure your cream cheese is properly softened at room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps in your swirl. When swirling the mixtures together, use a thin knife or skewer and move in a figure-eight motion to create the best visual pattern without over-incorporating the two batters.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For an extra crunch, you can fold in 1/3 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the loaf batter. If you need a gluten-friendly version, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour. For those following a dairy-free diet, simply use plant-based protein powder and dairy-free yogurt and cream cheese alternatives.
Serviervorschläge
This protein loaf is delicious served either warm or cold. It keeps perfectly in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it ideal for meal prep. Enjoy a slice alongside a cup of coffee or topped with a little extra Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a complete breakfast.
Save This Cream Cheese Cinnamon Swirl Protein Loaf is a nutritious twist on a classic favorite that will surely become a staple in your kitchen. High in protein and full of flavor, it's a guilt-free way to enjoy a decadent-tasting treat.
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I use different protein powder?
Yes, you can substitute vanilla or unflavored whey protein with plant-based protein powder. Just note that different powders may slightly alter the texture. Choose a brand that bakes well for best results.
- → How do I know when it's done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. It should come out mostly clean—a little cream cheese residue is normal and expected. The top should be golden brown and the loaf should feel set when gently pressed.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative, use plant-based cream cheese for the swirl, and choose a vegan protein powder. The texture will remain delicious while accommodating dietary needs.
- → Why does my loaf sink in the middle?
This usually happens from underbaking or opening the oven too early. Make sure your oven is fully preheated and avoid checking before the 40-minute mark. The cream cheese swirl also adds moisture, so complete cooling is essential.
- → Can I freeze this loaf?
Yes, this loaf freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or warm individual slices in the microwave.
- → What's the best way to swirl the cream cheese?
Use a knife or skewer to gently marble the cream cheese mixture through the batter. Don't over-swirl—you want distinct ribbons of creamy filling, not a fully blended mixture. A simple figure-eight motion works perfectly.