High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal

If you’re craving the cozy flavor of a cinnamon roll but want a healthier, high-protein twist that satisfies your morning hunger or snack cravings, this High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal is exactly what you need. It’s creamy, sweet, packed with warming spices, and drizzled with a luscious vanilla glaze—just like the picture-perfect square you see above.

This baked oatmeal looks indulgent and comforting, yet it’s loaded with nourishing ingredients. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and it’s perfect for meal prep, too!

Let’s walk through every detail so you can recreate this cinnamon roll-inspired delight at home, step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a lot to adore about this recipe—here’s why it’s worth making today:

• Tastes Like Dessert, Fuels Like Breakfast: The flavors mirror a gooey cinnamon roll, but it’s made with wholesome oats and protein powder.

• Protein-Packed: Thanks to the addition of vanilla protein powder, this is a smart choice for an energy-boosting breakfast or snack.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Bake it once and enjoy it all week long!

• Versatile Ingredients: Easily adjustable for gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan lifestyles.

• Kid-Approved: The sweet cinnamon flavor and creamy glaze make it a favorite for little ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To recreate this deliciously glazed cinnamon roll baked oatmeal, gather the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups rolled oats – Use old-fashioned oats for a chewy, hearty texture.

• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder – Any kind works, but whey or plant-based are ideal.

• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed – Adds fiber, omega-3s, and structure.

• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the oatmeal puff up a bit while baking.

• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon – Provides the cozy, signature flavor.

• ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the sweet and warm notes.

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups milk (dairy or plant-based) – Almond, oat, or cow’s milk all work beautifully.

• 1 large egg – Helps bind everything together. Substitute with a flax egg if needed.

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey – Natural sweetness that doesn’t overpower.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a comforting depth of flavor.

Optional Mix-Ins:

• ¼ cup chopped nuts – Walnuts or pecans add crunch and richness.

• ¼ cup raisins – For extra bursts of sweetness and chewiness.

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar – The classic base of a cinnamon roll swirl.

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Brings a concentrated warmth to the swirl.

For the Sweet Glaze (Must-Have!)

No cinnamon roll experience is complete without the glaze! This rich topping mimics that gooey, dripping finish just like in the image.

Glaze Ingredients:

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 1–2 tablespoons milk – Add slowly until you reach the right consistency.

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds an extra dose of bakery-style flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s bake this to cinnamon roll perfection.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• 1 ½ cups rolled oats

• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder

• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon salt

Stir until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• 1 ½ cups milk

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure the egg is fully beaten and everything is smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Customize

• Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.

• Stir until fully incorporated.

• Fold in any optional mix-ins like chopped nuts or raisins.

Step 5: Swirl in Cinnamon Goodness

In a small bowl, mix:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Now spoon small dollops of this mixture into the batter once it’s poured into your baking dish. Swirl it gently with a knife or toothpick to mimic the beautiful cinnamon roll layers.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

• Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is firm and the edges are golden.

• Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes to help it set.

Step 7: Glaze Generously

While the oatmeal cools, prepare the glaze:

• Whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a small bowl.

• Drizzle it generously over the slightly warm oatmeal.

Pro Tip: If you want those thick, defined glaze stripes like in the image, use a piping bag or drizzle with a spoon in thick ribbons.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This baked oatmeal stores beautifully, making it ideal for busy mornings.

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.

• Reheat in the microwave for 30–45 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.

Want to keep it extra indulgent? Add an extra drizzle of glaze after reheating.

Variations and Swaps

Customize this recipe to fit your dietary needs or preferences:

Dairy-Free Option:

• Use plant-based milk like almond or oat.

• Swap the glaze milk with a dairy-free version.

Vegan Option:

• Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).

• Use maple syrup instead of honey.

• Ensure your protein powder is vegan.

Gluten-Free Option:

• Use certified gluten-free rolled oats.

Flavor Variations:

• Add chopped apples or pears for a fruity twist.

• Sprinkle in chocolate chips for a dessert-like bite.

• Use pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a fall version.

Serving Ideas

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

• Warm with extra glaze: Just like a cinnamon roll—soft, gooey, and sweet.

• Chilled straight from the fridge: Makes a refreshing grab-and-go snack.

• With Greek yogurt: Add extra protein and a tangy balance.

• Topped with nut butter: Drizzle almond or peanut butter for extra richness.

• With a scoop of vanilla protein ice cream: For a dessert-style high-protein treat.

Nutritional Benefits

Despite tasting like dessert, this baked oatmeal is nutrient-packed:

• High in fiber from rolled oats and flaxseed.

• Rich in protein thanks to the protein powder and egg.

• Low in added sugar compared to traditional cinnamon rolls.

• Good source of energy to fuel your day without crashing.

FAQs About High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! It’s ideal for meal prep. Make it on Sunday and enjoy breakfast or snacks all week long.

What protein powder works best?

Vanilla-flavored whey or plant-based powders are ideal. Choose one with a flavor you enjoy, as it will shine through.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a 9×13-inch baking dish and increase bake time by about 5–10 minutes.

Can I skip the glaze?

You can—but we don’t recommend it! The glaze is what transforms this into a cinnamon roll experience.

Final Thoughts

This High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal is a game-changer. It brings all the gooey, cinnamony comfort of a traditional cinnamon roll and packs it into a nourishing, protein-rich baked breakfast.

With the creamy drizzle cascading down the warm, spiced oats—just like the image you shared—you’re not only making a delicious dish but a moment of joy in every bite. Whether you’re serving it fresh out of the oven or pulling a square from the fridge on a busy morning, it never disappoints.

So what are you waiting for? Preheat that oven, grab your oats, and let the warm scent of cinnamon fill your kitchen.

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