20-Minute, 20g Protein, Cinnamon Roll Pancake Bowl

There’s something undeniably cozy about waking up to the aroma of cinnamon rolls wafting through your home, mingling with the sweet notes of vanilla and butter. But what if I told you these delightful flavors could be captured in an easy-to-make breakfast without the hours of prep work? Enter the Cinnamon Roll Pancake Bowls! Packed with protein and just about enough sweetness to brighten your morning, these bowls provide a warm hug in food form. Plus, they’re perfect for busy families—prepped ahead, stored in the fridge, and ready to go at a moment’s notice.

Print

Why This Cinnamon Roll Pancake Bowls Never Fail

These cinnamon roll pancake bowls are your breakfast dream come true! Not only are they convenient, but they boast that classic cinnamon roll essence with a twist. They’re perfect for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt, providing a wholesome start to the day. And trust me, once you’ve tried these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

Ingredient Highlight

What You’ll Need

• 2 cups Clean Simple Eats Buttermilk pancake and waffle mix (212g)
• 2 scoops Clean Simple Eats cinnamon roll or vanilla protein powder (66g)
• 1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt (113g)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups fat-free milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Gathering these ingredients is straightforward and ensures you maximize flavor while minimizing fuss. Just a few easy-to-find staples and you’re ready to whip up something extraordinary!

Cooking Method

Let’s Cook

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Arrange 5, 2-cup oven-safe bowls on a cookie sheet and lightly grease with cooking spray. Ensure the bowls are well-greased to prevent sticking—it makes cleanup a breeze!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix, protein powder, Greek yogurt, eggs, milk, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth, avoiding any lumps. The Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, making these pancakes breakfast champions!
3. Evenly distribute the mix into the 5 prepared containers (about 1/2 cup each). Fill to the brim for a hearty serving!
4. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon well. You can also put this in a small ziplock bag to swirl on top of pancakes for that perfect cinnamon roll effect. If you prefer, just drizzle it on for a rustic look.
5. Bake pancakes in the oven for 30 minutes, or until the center is cooked through. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean—definitely my favorite little test of doneness!
6. Let cool before covering with lids and storing in the fridge for up to 5 days. They’ll be tempting to dive into right away, but giving them a little cooling time is key for the perfect texture.
7. Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or enjoy them cold. I like to do a quick reheat for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel every time!

Nutrition Focus

Nutrition Breakdown

Each serving of these pancake bowls (approximately one bowl) contains a healthy dose of nutrition packed into deliciousness: about 280 calories, 20g protein, 45g carbs, 6g fat, and 2g fiber. They provide a solid energy boost that will keep you satisfied well into the morning—all without sacrificing flavor.

So, not only do they taste great, but they also deliver the nutrients your body craves!

Serving & Pairing Guide

Perfect Pairings

Serve these pancake bowls with a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess, a drizzle of maple syrup for that extra sweetness, or some fresh berries to brighten your plate. They’re perfect for lazy weekend breakfasts or even a quick weekday treat. Seasonal spices like nutmeg during the fall can elevate these bowls even further!

Storage & Reheat Section

How to Store It Right

Keep your pancake bowls in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you have more leftovers, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat packed bowls in the microwave—just cover them again to prevent drying out. A quick tip: sprinkling a few drops of water before reheating can help retain moisture!

Pro Tips Section

Expert Tips

1. For a fluffier texture, you can let the batter rest for 10 minutes before pouring it into the bowls. This will allow the mix to hydrate properly.
2. Swap the brown sugar for coconut sugar for a lower glycemic alternative that still tastes delightful.
3. Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to brighten the flavors—the citrus complements the cinnamon beautifully!
4. Want to add some crunch? Fold in some chopped nuts or granola right before pouring the batter into the bowls for some texture contrast.

Flavor Twists Section

Easy Variations

1. Pumpkin Spice Delight: Swap in pumpkin puree for part of the Greek yogurt and add pumpkin spice to the mix for a fall-inspired treat!
2. Gourmet Chocolate Drizzle: Stir in mini chocolate chips to the batter and top with melted dark chocolate for that gourmet touch.
3. Berry Burst: Add fresh or frozen berries to the pancake mixture before baking. The berries cook down beautifully and create gooey pockets of deliciousness.

Learning From Mistakes

Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the batter: Avoid lumps, but be gentle! Overmixing can result in tough pancakes. Mix just enough until combined.
2. Not greasing the bowls: Sticking can occur if you forget this step. Use a non-stick spray or butter to prevent frustration later!
3. Baking too long: Check for doneness at the 25-minute mark; over-baking leads to dryness. Every oven is different!
4. Ignoring the cooling time: Be patient! They are better when allowed to cool before storing, preventing condensation and sogginess.

Leftover Solutions

Creative Second-Day Ideas

1. Pancake Parfait: Layer slices of leftover pancake bowls with yogurt and fruit for a fun breakfast parfait!
2. Pancake Sandwich: Slap two halves together with cream cheese or flavored spread for a tasty on-the-go breakfast.
3. Waffle Iron Magic: Pop the leftovers into a waffle iron for a crispy, fun variation that’s reminiscent of a deep-fried dessert!

Quick Questions

• Can I use regular pancake mix instead of Clean Simple Eats? Absolutely! Just adjust the liquid content as desired.
• How do I store leftover pancake bowls? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freeze for up to two months.
• Can I use a different protein powder? Yes! Any protein powder works, but flavors may vary, so choose wisely!
• What’s the best way to reheat them? A quick zap in the microwave for 1-2 minutes works wonders; adding a touch of water helps retain moisture.

These Cinnamon Roll Pancake Bowls are not just a meal—they’re an invitation to savor the moment, making breakfast as enjoyable as it should be. With this guide, you’re ready to create, innovate, and bring joy to the breakfast table! Enjoy!