Copycat Starbucks High Protein Banana Walnut Bread (gluten free)
If you love Starbucks' famous Banana Nut Bread but want a healthier, protein-packed version that’s naturally gluten-free, you’re in the right place. This Copycat Starbucks Banana Nut Bread is not only moist and delicious, but it’s also boosted with high-quality protein to help keep you full longer!
Plus, it’s made with wholesome ingredients, making it a smart choice for busy mornings, post-workout snacks, or an afternoon pick-me-up with a cup of tea.
Why Everyone is Obsessed with Boosting Protein
As women enter perimenopause and menopause, our bodies go through significant hormonal shifts that can lead to muscle loss, slower metabolism, and blood sugar imbalances. Getting enough protein is crucial to supporting muscle maintenance, improving satiety, and stabilizing energy levels throughout the day.
Adding protein to meals and snacks—like this banana bread—helps regulate hunger hormones, supports lean muscle mass, and prevents the blood sugar crashes that can lead to cravings and fatigue. Plus, protein plays a key role in skin, hair, and nail health, which are often also affected by hormonal changes.
This banana nut bread isn’t just a treat—it’s a functional swap of your favourite comfort food that fuels your body while satisfying your sweet tooth!
What Makes This Banana Bread Healthier?
Unlike the Starbucks version, which is loaded with sugar and refined flour, this homemade banana nut bread is:
✅ High-Protein: Made with protein-rich almond flour and added protein powder for a nutritional boost.
✅ Gluten-Free: No need for processed gluten-free flours—just straight up almond flour gives this loaf the nutty flavour to make it shine.
✅ Lower in Sugar: Sweetened with ripe bananas and a touch of maple syrup for balanced sweetness without the sugar crash.
✅ Healthy Fats: Packed with heart-healthy fats from nuts and almond flour, which help support hormone health and brain function.
Copycat Starbucks High Protein Banana Walnut Bread
Ingredients:
2 ripe bananas
3 eggs
1/2 cup cottage cheese
3 tbsp maple syrup
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups almond flour
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp cinnamon
1 cup chopped walnuts, divided
Directions:
In a bowl, mix together the 2 mashed banana, 1/2 cup 2cottage cheese 3 eggs, 3 tbsp maple syrup and 2 tsp vanilla extract.
Add in the 2 1/2 cups almond flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 2 tsp cinnamon and mix to combine.
Fold in 2/3 cup of the chopped walnuts.
Transfer to a baking dish lined with parchment paper (for easy removal). Top with the remaining 1/3 cup chopped walnuts.
Bake for 45 minutes. Check the top after 30 minutes and if it’s getting too brown, cover it loosely with foil. Do a toothpick test (insert a toothpick into the centre of the loaf and it should come out clean when it is baked).
Allow to cool, then slice and enjoy for breakfast or a snack!
📌 Pin this recipe for later. You’ll want to make it again!
How to Store & Meal Prep
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to a week.
Freeze individual slices for a quick grab-and-go breakfast or snack.
Final Thoughts
This gluten free Copycat Starbucks Banana Nut Bread proves that you don’t have to sacrifice flavour for nutrition. With a protein boost, natural ingredients, and a gluten-free twist, it’s the perfect way to fuel your day while keeping your blood sugar balanced and energy levels steady—especially for women navigating the changes of perimenopause.
Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think! If you love it, share it with a friend who needs a little protein-packed sweetness in their life. 💛
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