Get ready for a tasty treat with these Cinnamon Roll Protein Muffins! They’re fluffy, sweet, and packed with protein to keep you energized for the day.
These muffins are like a hug in a snack! I love having one as a quick breakfast, and they make your kitchen smell amazing. What’s not to love about that cinnamon goodness? 😊
Making these muffins is a breeze! Just mix the ingredients, bake, and enjoy a guilt-free breakfast or snack anytime. Perfect for busy mornings or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Oat Flour: Oat flour gives these muffins a lovely texture. If you don’t have it, whole wheat flour is a great alternative and adds a bit more fiber.
Protein Powder: Use vanilla or unflavored protein powder. For a dairy-free version, try plant-based protein powders like pea or hemp protein.
Coconut Sugar: Coconut sugar adds a caramel-like flavor. You can substitute brown sugar or even maple syrup, adjusting the liquid content in the recipe accordingly.
Greek Yogurt: This keeps the muffins moist and adds protein. You can swap it out for dairy-free yogurt or applesauce for a lower-calorie option.
Almond Milk: Unsweetened almond milk is light and adds flavor. Feel free to use any milk you have on hand, like soy or regular dairy milk.
What’s the Best Way to Make a Beautiful Cinnamon Swirl?
Creating that tasty cinnamon swirl is key! After filling muffin cups halfway, sprinkle the cinnamon mixture and gently swirl it in. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon with melted butter.
- Spoon about 1 tsp of this mixture into the center of each muffin cup, then cover with more muffin batter.
- Use a knife or toothpick to create a light swirl, careful not to overmix.
This technique ensures a beautiful pattern and a burst of cinnamon flavor in every bite!
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Glaze?
The glaze is the finishing touch to these muffins! It should be smooth enough to drizzle but not too runny. Here’s a quick guide:
- Soften the cream cheese to mix easily.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla first; mix well.
- Then, slowly add milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Drizzle the glaze over cooled muffins for the best effect. Enjoy the sweetness!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Protein Muffins
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Muffins:
- 1 1/2 cups oat flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp melted coconut oil or butter
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp melted butter or coconut oil
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar or sweetener of choice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk or cream to thin
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then 18-22 minutes of baking. Plan to spend around 40 minutes from start to finish, plus cooling time for the glaze. These muffins are quick and perfect for meal prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease the cups with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oat flour, protein powder, coconut sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until everything is well combined. This will make sure your muffins are evenly flavored.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, almond milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil. Stir until smooth, making sure there are no lumps of yogurt left.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are okay!
5. Make the Cinnamon Swirl:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter or coconut oil for the swirl. This will create that delicious cinnamon flavor.
6. Assemble the Muffins:
Fill each muffin cup about halfway with batter. Then, sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top. Add the remaining batter on top, and gently swirl with a knife or toothpick to create a beautiful pattern.
7. Bake the Muffins:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, they’re ready!
8. Prepare the Glaze:
While the muffins are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to create a drizzle-able consistency. Make sure there are no lumps!
9. Drizzle and Serve:
Once the muffins have cooled for a bit, drizzle the glaze over them. Let them set for a few minutes before enjoying your protein-packed Cinnamon Roll Muffins!
Enjoy your delicious creation, perfect for any time of the day!
Can I Substitute the Protein Powder?
Absolutely! If you don’t have protein powder, you can use additional oat flour or whole wheat flour. The muffins may be slightly less protein-rich, but they will still taste great!
Can I Use a Different Sweetener?
Yes, feel free to experiment with other sweeteners. You could use honey or maple syrup instead of coconut sugar or brown sugar, just remember to reduce the liquid slightly to balance the moisture.
How Do I Store These Muffins?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months—just thaw and reheat before enjoying!
Can I Make These Muffins Vegan?
Definitely! To make the muffins vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water, mixed and rested for 5 minutes) and use a plant-based yogurt and milk. They will still turn out delicious!
