Oh my goodness, I am absolutely thrilled to share this delightful recipe for Sugar Cookie Protein Baked Oats! You guys, let me tell you, this is one of my go-to breakfasts that always puts a smile on my face. It combines all the cozy, warm vibes of fresh-baked cookies and packs in a protein punch, making it perfect to fuel my mornings or even as a sweet snack. I mean, who doesn’t love waking up to the smell of cookies, right?
I first stumbled upon baked oats during a lazy Saturday morning when I found myself craving something a bit more exciting than my usual bowl of cereal. I knew I wanted something sweet, but I didn’t want to indulge too much (especially pre-brunch muffins can be a slippery slope!). These Sugar Cookie Protein Baked Oats became my go-to. They remind me of my childhood baking sessions with my mom, where sprinkles were a must-have for every sweet treat. Plus, you can feel good about enjoying this tasty breakfast without the guilt. Let’s dive into how to make this beauty!
What’s in Sugar Cookie Protein Baked Oats?
Here’s a little breakdown of the ingredients that go into these scrumptious oats.
Oats: The star of the dish! Rolled oats are perfect for creating that cozy baked texture. They’re filling, wholesome, and give you that fiber boost you need to start your day right.
Protein Powder: I love using vanilla-flavored protein powder, as it enhances the overall sweetness. My favorite brand is [insert your favorite brand here] – it mixes in beautifully and doesn’t overpower the taste.
Sweetener: Whether you prefer honey, maple syrup, or a low-calorie sweetener, this is just what you need to bring out those cookie flavors without making it too sugary.
Baking Powder: This is crucial for giving your oats that fluffy texture. You’ll appreciate that light, cake-like feeling when you dig in!
Vanilla Extract & Almond Extract: These two flavors give your baked oats that irresistible sugar cookie flavor that you just can’t beat. It’s like a warm hug in the morning.
Sprinkles: Because who doesn’t love a pop of color? These not only make your dish look festive but also add a delightful crunch!
Is Sugar Cookie Protein Baked Oats Good for You?
Absolutely! Let’s break it down:
Oats: These are a fantastic source of complex carbohydrates and fiber. They will keep you full for longer, preventing those pesky mid-morning snack cravings.
Protein Powder: Injecting protein into your breakfast helps with muscle recovery and can keep your energy levels stable throughout the day. Plus, it aids in making your oats more satisfying.
Sprinkles: While they may not necessarily add nutritional benefits, they sure do bring joy and a sense of celebration to your breakfast!
A little heads up – just be mindful of portion sizes with sweeteners to keep your baked oats on the healthy side. Moderation is key, as they can sneak in extra calories if you’re not careful.
Ingredients
Let’s gather our supplies! This recipe serves about 2 and here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 scoop protein powder (vanilla is my fave)
– 1 tbsp sweetener of your choice
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp almond extract
– 1 cup water (or milk for creamier oats)
– Colorful sprinkles for topping
How to Make Sugar Cookie Protein Baked Oats?
Now that we have everything, let’s bake these delicious oats!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the oats, protein powder, baking powder, and sweetener. Stir until well mixed.
3. Add in the vanilla and almond extracts, then gradually pour in the water (or milk) until a smooth mixture forms.
4. Lightly grease a baking dish or use parchment paper, then pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s fluffy and golden brown on top.
6. Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before adding a sprinkle of those colorful sprinkles on top!
7. Grab your spoon, dig in, and enjoy your fanciful breakfast of Sugar Cookie Protein Baked Oats!
Cookie-Like Magic for Your Breakfast
If you want to get adventurous, try adding in some mix-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts for a fun twist! You can also top it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of nut butter for extra yumminess.
I really encourage you to give this recipe a whirl! It’s such a fun way to switch up breakfast and indulge in the sweet flavors of cookies without all the guilt. Trust me, once you make these Sugar Cookie Protein Baked Oats, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this combo! I can’t wait for you to try it out; let me know your thoughts or any fun variations you come up with! Happy baking!
