Protein-packed banana chocolate chip muffins

In an effort to get my kids started with a better breakfast each morning—more protein, less added sugar—I came up with this quick and nourishing recipe for chocolate chip banana bread muffins. They love them so much that I’ve been making a batch once or twice a week, and I feel great about the ingredients.

If you're looking for a sweet snack that isn’t loaded with sugar, or an easy grab-and-go breakfast, give these muffins a try. Pair them with a hard-boiled egg and some berries for a satisfying, protein-rich start to the day.

Ingredients (makes 12–15 muffins)

• 1 ½ cups Simple Mills Protein Pancake Mix

• ½ cup Orgain Simple Vanilla Protein Powder

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup milk of choice (dairy or plant-based)

• 1 egg

• Handful of dark chocolate chips (about ¼ cup)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Grease or line a muffin tin with paper liners.

3. In a large bowl, mix all ingredients except the chocolate chips until a smooth batter forms.

4. Gently fold in the chocolate chips.

5. Divide the batter evenly among 12 muffin cups.

6. Bake for 23 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Analysis (per muffin, based on 12 muffins)

Estimated per muffin:

• Calories: 170

• Protein: 9g

• Carbohydrates: 19g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugars: 6g

• Fat: 7g

  • Saturated Fat: 2g

Note: Values are estimates based on standard brands (Simple Mills mix, Orgain protein powder, unsweetened almond milk, one medium egg, and ~¼ cup dark chocolate chips).