If your morning routine could use a cozy, energizing boost, let me introduce you to High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal. This wholesome breakfast captures all the irresistible warmth of a cinnamon roll while packing in a satisfying dose of protein to keep you fueled well into lunchtime. With creamy oats, swirls of cinnamon, a hint of vanilla, and a luscious cream cheese glaze, this baked treat is as nutritious as it is indulgent. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to make you look forward to breakfast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s honestly amazing how a handful of simple, everyday ingredients can come together to create a dish that tastes bakery-worthy. Each item here has a delicious role, from infusing every bite with cinnamon warmth to adding that luscious texture and extra protein power.
- Rolled oats: The heart of the recipe, giving that baked, hearty texture and fiber-boost.
- Unsweetened almond milk: Keeps the oats creamy and light without overpowering the other flavors.
- Plain Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess, contributes extra protein, and creates a moist, tender bite.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and up the protein for a more filling breakfast.
- Vanilla protein powder: Gives a notable protein bump and a gentle vanilla sweetness.
- Maple syrup: Sweetens naturally and enriches the cinnamon roll vibe.
- Melted coconut oil: Adds moisture and a subtle richness (plus that lovely, faint coconut note).
- Cinnamon: The essential spice for that classic cinnamon roll flavor.
- Baking powder: Helps the oatmeal bake up with a pleasantly light, fluffy structure.
- Vanilla extract: Amplifies all the other cozy dessert flavors.
- Salt: Just a pinch brings all the sweet and spice notes into balance.
- Cream cheese (softened): The key to a truly luxurious, tangy glaze.
- Powdered sugar: Blends into the glaze for sweetness and silky texture.
- Milk (for glaze): Loosens up the glaze until it’s just the right drizzling consistency.
How to Make High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with a bit of coconut oil or nonstick spray to ensure nothing sticks and every square comes out perfectly. This first, simple step sets you up for oatmeal-baking success!
Step 2: Mix Up the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add your rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Gently stir them together, making sure the powdery seasoning and leaveners are evenly dispersed so every bite is as flavorful as the last.
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
Grab a separate bowl and whisk together the unsweetened almond milk, plain Greek yogurt, eggs, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. This mixture creates the dreamy batter base and ensures every oat is infused with sweetness, creamy richness, and just a hint of indulgence.
Step 4: Combine and Spread
Pour your wet mixture into the dry ingredients, then stir until the oats are thoroughly coated and everything’s fairly uniform. Spread the batter evenly into your prepared dish. If you want that extra cinnamon swirl magic, this is the moment to sprinkle some cinnamon and brown sugar for even more cinnamon roll character.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set and the top has a beautiful golden hue — your kitchen will smell like an inviting bakery! Let it cool for a few minutes while you make the irresistible glaze.
Step 6: Whisk Up the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal is finishing up, grab a small bowl and whisk together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk. Blend until smooth and drizzle-worthy. The sweet, tangy finish truly makes this breakfast unforgettable.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
Once your baked oatmeal has cooled slightly, pour or drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top. Slice into squares and serve warm for a breakfast that feels both special and nourishing.
How to Serve High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal
Garnishes
For a gorgeous (and tasty) finishing touch, try dusting extra cinnamon on top or adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. A light drizzle of warmed maple syrup or honey never hurts either, especially if you’re after that extra-cozy effect!
Side Dishes
This oatmeal pairs beautifully with a simple side of fresh fruit, especially berries, sliced apples, or bananas. If you’re going all out, a dollop of extra Greek yogurt on the side adds tang and even more protein.
Creative Ways to Present
You don’t have to serve it in squares; try scooping the High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal into parfait glasses with layers of yogurt and fruit, or cut into fingers for a breakfast-on-the-go. For brunch guests, serve with a dusting of powdered sugar and an edible flower for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal keeps wonderfully! Once cooled, cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to four days. Individual squares make quick, easy breakfasts all week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, too. Simply slice into portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then stash them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or pop in the microwave for a speedy option.
Reheating
To reheat, just microwave a square for about 30–45 seconds or warm in a 325°F oven for 8–10 minutes. Add a little extra milk if you prefer a softer, creamier oatmeal consistency—don’t forget the glaze!
FAQs
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
For best results, stick with rolled oats. Steel-cut oats need much more liquid and time to cook, so they won’t provide the same soft, casserole-like texture as in this High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal recipe.
What’s the best protein powder for this recipe?
Vanilla-flavored whey or plant-based protein powders both work well. Choose one you genuinely enjoy, since it adds flavor as well as nutrition. If your powder is sweetened, you may want to reduce the maple syrup just a tad to keep things balanced.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Swap in a dairy-free yogurt (such as almond or coconut milk yogurt) and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the glaze. Your High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal will still turn out deliciously creamy.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your rolled oats and protein powder are certified gluten-free, you can enjoy this as a gluten-free breakfast. Always double-check labels if gluten is a concern.
How do I double the recipe for a crowd?
Simply double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch dish. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time, so check the center for doneness before pulling it from the oven.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a breakfast that’s as satisfying as it is scrumptious, High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal should be at the top of your list. It’s perfect for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or anytime you crave that classic cinnamon roll nostalgia with a nutritious twist. Give it a try and share the cozy, protein-packed goodness with someone you love.
Print
High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delicious twist on traditional oatmeal with this High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal. Packed with protein and flavor, this baked oatmeal is a perfect make-ahead breakfast option that will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the morning.
Ingredients
Main Oatmeal Mixture:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Glaze:
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, protein powder, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together almond milk, Greek yogurt, eggs, maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
- Combine and bake: Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients, mix, spread in baking dish, and bake for 30–35 minutes until set.
- Make glaze: Whisk together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth.
- Glaze and serve: Drizzle glaze over baked oatmeal before serving.
Notes
- For extra cinnamon roll flavor, add a cinnamon and brown sugar swirl to the batter.
- To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free yogurt and cream cheese alternatives.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
