There’s something undeniably comforting about fresh-baked treats, especially when they come bursting with flavor and packed with protein! Picture this: the warm, sweet scent of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen as you mix together ingredients that not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also give you a nutritious boost. This High Protein, No Sugar Monkey Bread is my go-to recipe for those moments when I crave a delectable snack without the guilt.
I stumbled upon this gem during a quest to create something that my whole family could enjoy while sticking to our health goals. With ingredients like Greek yogurt and protein powder, it’s hard to believe that each bite is a delightful blend of indulgence and nourishment. Trust me; this isn’t just a healthier alternative—it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that reimagines comfort food with a nutritious twist!
Why will you love High Protein, No Sugar Monkey Bread?
Irresistible flavor: The sweet cinnamon sugar coating will leave you wanting more, without any guilt!
Nutritious ingredients: Packed with Greek yogurt and protein powder, this treat powerfully nourishes your body.
Quick and easy: With just 35 minutes of cook time, you can whip up this delightful snack in no time.
Versatile fun: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, your options are endless.
Family-friendly: Everyone—from the kids to adults—will love digging into this satisfying, healthier delight!
If you’re also looking to maximize your snacks, consider adding a serving of your favorite fruits for extra nutrients.
High Protein, No Sugar Monkey Bread Ingredients
• Dive into this delicious and nourishing twist on a classic favorite!
For the Dough
- 1½ cup Flour – This forms the base, providing the essential structure for your monkey bread.
- ½ cup Vanilla Protein Powder – Adds a delicious vanilla flavor along with an extra protein boost.
- ½ cup Unflavored Protein Powder – Helps to increase protein content without altering the taste of your monkey bread.
- 2 teaspoon Baking Powder – Essential for creating that light, fluffy texture you crave in baked goods.
- ¼ teaspoon Baking Soda – Works with the baking powder to ensure the bread rises properly.
For the Mixture
- 2 cups Non-fat Greek Yogurt – This creamy ingredient not only moistens the dough but also provides a punch of protein and tanginess.
- 2 tablespoon Almond Milk – Helps bind the ingredients together; you can substitute with any milk of your choice.
- 3 tablespoon Zero Calorie 1:1 Sugar Replacement – Sweetens your monkey bread without the guilt, making it a high protein, no sugar treat.
- 1½ teaspoon Cinnamon – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor, making each bite feel like a cozy hug.
- 2 tablespoon Chopped Pecans (optional) – These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, elevating your monkey bread experience.
Spice up your cooking routine with this delightful recipe, and enjoy the ancient art of “monkeying” around with flavors!
How to Make High Protein, No Sugar Monkey Bread
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Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly butter a loaf pan. This step ensures your monkey bread will bake evenly and come out easily!
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Optional: Spread chopped pecans on the bottom of the loaf pan. This adds a delightful crunch and flavor that’s irresistible!
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Combine flour, vanilla protein powder, unflavored protein powder, baking powder, and baking soda in a large bowl. Whisk these dry ingredients until they’re well blended and free of lumps.
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Mix in the Greek yogurt until combined. You’ll want to create large, shaggy clumps of dough—avoid over-mixing to keep it light and fluffy!
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Divide the dough into 25 pieces, about the size of a tablespoon, and roll them into balls with slightly damp hands. This helps give them a nice shape.
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Pour the almond milk into a small bowl for dipping. This will help the dough balls stick perfectly to the cinnamon sugar!
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Create the cinnamon sugar mixture by combining the zero-calorie sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. This blend will give your monkey bread its signature sweet coating.
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Roll each dough ball first in the almond milk and then in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Place them neatly in the loaf pan.
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Repeat this process until all the dough balls are snugly arranged in the loaf pan. Layer them close for a delightful pull-apart snack!
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Cover with foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean—total baking time is approximately 35 minutes.
Optional: Try drizzling some melted dark chocolate on top for an extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze High Protein, No Sugar Monkey Bread
Room Temperature: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Fridge: You can keep the monkey bread in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure it’s wrapped properly to maintain moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the monkey bread in portions for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.
Reheating: To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, ensuring the bread stays delicious and fluffy.
High Protein, No Sugar Monkey Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary needs.
- Nut-Free: Omit the pecans and replace them with sunflower seeds for that crunchy texture without nuts.
- Chocolate Chip Delight: Add sugar-free chocolate chips to the dough for an indulgent touch everyone will love.
- Fruit-Filled: Mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a burst of sweetness in each bite, balancing the cinnamon flavor beautifully.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising heat that pairs oddly well with the sweetness!
- Vegan: Swap Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt and use a plant-based protein powder to make a vegan-friendly version.
- Banana Boost: Incorporate mashed ripe bananas into the dough for added moisture and a natural sweetness that complements cinnamon.
- Flavor Infusion: Experiment with different extracts like almond or orange for a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress!
Expert Tips for High Protein, No Sugar Monkey Bread
- Perfect Mixing: Avoid over-mixing the dough after adding Greek yogurt; this keeps your monkey bread light and fluffy.
- Dough Ball Size: Aim for uniform dough ball sizes (about 2 tablespoons) to ensure even cooking; larger balls may remain doughy inside.
- Cover When Baking: Using foil during the last baking phase prevents the tops from over-browning while allowing the inside to cook thoroughly.
- Pecan Option: If using pecans, chop them finely to ensure they distribute evenly and don’t overpower the flavors of your high protein, no sugar monkey bread.
- Check Doneness: Always use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean, ensuring your monkey bread is perfectly baked.
Make Ahead Options
These High Protein, No Sugar Monkey Bread balls are perfect for meal prep! You can mix the dry ingredients and refrigerate them for up to 3 days in advance, ensuring you save precious time on busy mornings. Additionally, you can roll the dough balls and place them in the loaf pan, covering them tightly in plastic wrap, allowing for up to 24 hours of refrigeration before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply preheat your oven and bake them as directed. This way, you’ll have delicious, guilt-free snacks ready to satisfy your cravings with minimal effort and just as much flavor!
What to Serve with High Protein, No Sugar Monkey Bread?
As the sweet aroma of cinnamon fills your kitchen, it’s time to think about what pairs beautifully with this delightful treat.
- Fresh Fruit: Juicy berries or banana slices add a refreshing contrast and a burst of color to your breakfast table.
- Nut Butter: A spread of almond or peanut butter on a warm piece enhances the protein while introducing rich, nutty flavors.
- Greek Yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt on the side can elevate the dish, making for a satisfying and protein-packed snack.
- Coffee or Tea: Enjoying a steaming cup of your favorite brew alongside this bread warms up the moment and balances the sweetness.
- Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey can create a delightful sweetness when served warm, turning your monkey bread into an indulgent treat.
- Chocolate Chips: For a richer twist, adding a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips brings decadent flavor while still keeping it guilt-free.
- Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes can sprinkle on top, adding both texture and a hint of tropical sweetness to every bite.
- Smoothie: A vibrant green smoothie packed with spinach and fruits complements the monkey bread while adding a nutritious boost.
Mix and match these pairings to create a delightful experience around your High Protein, No Sugar Monkey Bread!
High Protein, No Sugar Monkey Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right protein powder?
When selecting protein powder, look for brands that have minimal additives and sugars. Whey, casein, or plant-based proteins are all great options. I often prefer protein powders that align with my nutritional goals, and having both vanilla and unflavored options can elevate flavors seamlessly!
How should I store leftover monkey bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best texture and flavor retention. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week in a tightly wrapped container to retain moisture. I recommend individually wrapping the pieces in plastic wrap for easy grab-and-go snacks!
Can I freeze high protein, no sugar monkey bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the monkey bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. This will keep it fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the bread in the fridge overnight, then reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore its fluffiness.
What if my monkey bread dough is too sticky?
If you find the dough too sticky, don’t fret! Wet your hands with a little water or olive oil to help manage it while rolling into balls. I’ve found that lightly dusting my hands with flour also helps! Make sure not to overmix the dough after adding the yogurt, as this can make it more sticky.
Are there any common allergies I should be aware of?
If you have allergies, this recipe can be easily modified. Substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative. For nut allergies, skip the chopped pecans and consider adding seeds instead, like sunflower seeds, for added crunch. Always read ingredient labels to ensure safety!
Can I use a different sweetener instead of the zero-calorie sugar replacement?
If you prefer a different sweetener, you can use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. Just keep in mind that these alternatives can add calories and natural sugars. I recommend adjusting the amount based on your taste preferences, and it may slightly change the texture as well!
High Protein, No Sugar Monkey Bread for Guilt-Free Snacking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly butter a loaf pan.
- Optional: Spread chopped pecans on the bottom of the loaf pan.
- Combine flour, vanilla protein powder, unflavored protein powder, baking powder, and baking soda in a large bowl.
- Mix in the Greek yogurt until combined.
- Divide the dough into 25 pieces and roll them into balls.
- Pour almond milk into a small bowl for dipping.
- Create the cinnamon sugar mixture by combining the zero-calorie sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll each dough ball in the almond milk and then in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Repeat this process until all dough balls are arranged in the loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Cover with foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.