High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe
If you’re looking for a breakfast treat that feels indulgent yet is secretly packed with goodness, this High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal is your new best friend. Imagine the aroma of cinnamon rolls meeting the hearty simplicity of baked oats, all with a punch of protein to keep you satisfied and energized. It’s easy enough for busy weekday mornings, but delicious enough to impress weekend guests—or just yourself on a cozy day at home!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its approachable, wholesome ingredients, each chosen to layer in flavor, creaminess, and that classic cinnamon roll vibe. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why every item matters in crafting the most crave-worthy High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal.
- Rolled oats: The classic base for baked oatmeal, providing hearty texture and a wholesome bite.
- Unsweetened almond milk: A light, dairy-free liquid that keeps the oats moist without overpowering flavor.
- Plain Greek yogurt: Adds extra protein and creaminess, helping bind the oats while keeping the bake tender.
- Vanilla protein powder: The secret weapon for boosting protein content without sacrificing sweetness and flavor.
- Large eggs: Essential for structure, they help bind everything together and add a soft, almost cake-like texture.
- Maple syrup: Natural sweetness with a little depth; it gives gentle caramel notes that mimic cinnamon rolls perfectly.
- Melted coconut oil: Offers moisture and a subtle hint of richness that brings the whole bake together.
- Cinnamon: The star of the show, infusing every bite with that cozy, comforting spice.
- Vanilla extract: Elevates the sweetness and rounds out all the flavors, adding warmth and bakery-style aroma.
- Baking powder: Lends a little lift, ensuring your oatmeal bake isn’t too dense.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and draws out the flavors of every ingredient.
- Light brown sugar (for topping): Creates a classic cinnamon-sugar crust on top, reminiscent of a cinnamon roll swirl.
- Cinnamon (for topping): Adds that extra hit of warming spice right where you want it most.
- Cream cheese (optional drizzle): Makes an irresistibly tangy, creamy glaze that takes it over the top.
- Milk (for drizzle): Helps whisk the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.
How to Make High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven
Get started by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with a bit of coconut oil, spray, or butter. This simple prep step ensures your High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal slides out with ease and bakes evenly every time.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond milk, Greek yogurt, eggs, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The yogurt gives it body, the syrup infuses sweetness, and the eggs ensure everything binds perfectly. Take a moment here to enjoy the sweet vanilla aroma—it’s the beginning of something special!
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Add the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt to your wet mixture. Stir until all the oats are coated and incorporated. You’re looking for a thick, beautifully speckled batter, with the cinnamon and oats promising that iconic cinnamon roll flavor inside every bite.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish and Top
Pour your oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. In a small bowl, stir together the light brown sugar and remaining cinnamon, then sprinkle this cinnamon-sugar magic all over the top. This will create a golden, caramelized crust that’s simply irresistible—just like the sugary swirl in a classic cinnamon roll.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide your baking dish into the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the top has turned a gorgeous golden shade. Your kitchen will fill with the cozy scent of cinnamon, making it nearly impossible to wait until it’s ready!
Step 6: Make the Optional Cream Cheese Drizzle
While the oatmeal is cooling slightly, whisk together the softened cream cheese, maple syrup, and milk until smooth and pourable. This dreamy, tangy glaze is optional but highly recommended for that true cinnamon roll experience. Drizzle generously over the top before serving.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal cool for a few minutes, then slice into squares. Serve warm and dig in! It’s hearty, sweet, and bursting with cinnamon goodness in every forkful.
How to Serve High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal
Garnishes
Finish each serving with a swirl of the cream cheese glaze, a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, or even a dash of cinnamon on top. A few fresh berries on the side can add a cheerful pop of color and extra freshness.
Side Dishes
This baked oatmeal is a superstar on its own but pairs beautifully with a bowl of Greek yogurt, a simple fruit salad, or a piping hot cup of coffee or chai. For a brunch spread, try serving it alongside scrambled eggs or turkey bacon for even more staying power.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the oatmeal into bars for a portable snack, use cookie cutters to make fun breakfast shapes for kids, or layer chunks into a yogurt parfait with extra fruit for a parfait twist. However you present it, High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal is a crowd-pleaser!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply cover any leftover oatmeal tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days. The flavors actually continue to meld, making each serving just as delicious (if not better) the next day. It’s fantastic for meal prep and busy mornings on the go.
Freezing
This baked oatmeal also freezes beautifully. Slice it into portions, wrap individually, and tuck them into a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge for an instant, wholesome breakfast.
Reheating
To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for 30–60 seconds, or warm in a toaster oven until heated through. If you enjoy that soft, fresh-baked taste, add a splash of almond milk before reheating to keep it moist. Add extra cream cheese drizzle after heating, if you like!
FAQs
Can I use steel-cut oats or instant oats instead?
For best results, stick with rolled oats—they bake up with just the right texture. Steel-cut oats require a longer cooking time and extra liquid, which would throw off the recipe. Instant oats will bake up mushier, so they’re not ideal for this High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based Greek-style yogurt, swap the cream cheese for a vegan spread or skip the drizzle, and make sure your protein powder is plant-based. You’ll still get that fantastic flavor with all the protein power.
Can I prep High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal in advance?
Yes! You can whisk all the ingredients together and pour into your baking dish the night before. Keep it covered in the fridge, then sprinkle the topping and bake in the morning for a fresh, hot breakfast with zero rush.
What if I don’t have protein powder?
You can leave the protein powder out, but the recipe will be a bit less filling and may need a touch more sweetener or vanilla to balance the flavors. If you have collagen peptides, they can also work as a mild alternative, but keep in mind the final texture may shift slightly.
Are there any fun mix-ins I can try?
You bet! A handful of raisins, chopped apples, or dark chocolate chips work beautifully. Stir them into the batter before baking, or sprinkle on top for a bakery-style touch. Toasted nuts add crunch and another layer of cozy flavor.
Final Thoughts
This High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal is nourishing, deeply satisfying, and feels like a big breakfast hug—without the sugar crash. Give it a try, share it with family or friends, and let it become a morning favorite in your home too. Happy baking!
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High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a nutritious and delicious breakfast with this High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal. Packed with protein and fiber, this baked oatmeal is a perfect way to start your day with a flavorful twist of cinnamon and vanilla.
Ingredients
Main Oatmeal Mixture:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping:
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Optional Drizzle:
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Mix the oatmeal mixture: In a large bowl, combine oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, protein powder, eggs, maple syrup, coconut oil, cinnamon, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle over the oatmeal mixture.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes until set and golden.
- Make the drizzle: While baking, whisk cream cheese, maple syrup, and milk until smooth for optional drizzle.
- Serve: Let the oatmeal cool slightly before drizzling with the cream cheese glaze. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use dairy-free alternatives for yogurt and protein powder for a dairy-free version.
- Add chopped nuts for extra crunch.
- Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
