Banana Protein Muffins (Vegan, Gluten-Free, High Protein)

The perfect snack, breakfast, or pre-workout boost!

Why You’ll Love These Muffins

Whether you’re looking for a nourishing snack, a satisfying breakfast on the go, or the perfect pre-workout energy boost, these banana protein muffins check all the boxes.

They're soft, naturally sweet, and full of wholesome ingredients that leave you feeling fueled—not sluggish.

This recipe is:
✅ Vegan
✅ Gluten-Free (if using certified oat flour)
✅ High in protein
✅ Refined sugar-free
✅ Meal prep–friendly

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 1/4 cups mashed banana (about 2 large or 3 small bananas)

  • 1 cup non-dairy milk (almond, oat, soy, etc.)

  • 1/3 cup canola oil (or melted coconut oil)

  • 1/4 cup maple syrup

  • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar (helps create a light texture)

  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

  • 1 cup oat flour (or blend oats into a flour at home)

  • 1 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder

  • 3/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon hemp seeds (optional – adds omega-3s + protein)

  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips (plus more for topping)

🔪 Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a standard muffin tin with liners and lightly spray with oil.

  2. Mash the bananas in a large mixing bowl. Measure out 1 1/4 cups to ensure accuracy.

  3. Add wet ingredients to the mashed bananas: non-dairy milk, oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla. Whisk together until smooth.

  4. Mix in dry ingredients: Add oat flour and protein powder, then sprinkle in baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and hemp seeds. Stir everything together gently until just combined—don’t overmix!

  5. Fold in chocolate chips (or chopped nuts, if you prefer).

  6. Scoop the batter into prepared muffin liners, filling each one nearly to the top. Sprinkle with a few extra chocolate chips if you like.

  7. Bake for 20–24 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  8. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Benefits of These Muffins

These muffins aren’t just tasty—they’re functional, too!

  • Bananas provide natural sweetness and potassium for muscle recovery.

  • Protein powder helps keep you full and supports energy levels pre- or post-workout.

  • Oat flour offers gut-loving fiber and slow-releasing carbs.

  • Maple syrup gives a hint of sweetness without the blood sugar spike.

  • Hemp seeds + cinnamon support hormone balance and blood sugar control.

How to Store

Keep these muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They also freeze well—just thaw overnight or pop in the microwave for 20 seconds.

Final Thoughts

These banana protein muffins are a go-to in my kitchen when I want something nourishing, easy, and delicious. They're great for meal prep, and even picky eaters love them (chocolate chips help 😉).

Give them a try and let me know how you like them in the comments below!

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