Fluffy, cake-like pancake bowls that I bake right in the oven—these are my go-to for a high-protein, naturally sweetened breakfast that’s also free of bananas. Made with wholesome ingredients like oats, applesauce, and almond milk, these bowls are ideal for meal prep and incredibly versatile. I love topping them with blueberries, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of nut butter to switch things up throughout the week.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup rolled oats
1 scoop (about 30g) vanilla protein powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
1 large egg
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: blueberries, chocolate chips, chopped nuts for topping
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a muffin tin or small ramekins.
In a blender or food processor, I combine the oats, protein powder, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. I blend until the oats turn into a fine flour.
Then I add the applesauce, almond milk, egg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the blender and blend again until the batter is smooth and well mixed.
I pour the batter into the prepared muffin tin or ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full.
At this point, I like to sprinkle blueberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts on top, depending on my mood.
I bake them for 18–22 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
After baking, I let them cool slightly before removing from the tin. They’re delicious warm, but I often store them for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. I prep it in just 5 minutes, and bake for around 20 minutes, so the total time is only 25 minutes. Each serving has approximately 150 kcal, which fits great into my balanced meal plan.
Variations
I like switching up the flavor and texture of these pancake bowls by mixing in different add-ins. Sometimes I’ll go for frozen raspberries or a swirl of peanut butter before baking. If I want something extra hearty, I’ll use a chocolate-flavored protein powder or add chopped walnuts for crunch. For a fall twist, a pinch of nutmeg and a bit of pumpkin puree instead of applesauce also works really well.
Storage/Reheating
I store these pancake bowls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When I want to reheat them, I pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds. They also freeze well—I just wrap them individually and thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat straight from frozen for a minute or so in the microwave.
FAQs
What kind of protein powder works best?
I usually use a vanilla whey protein, but plant-based powders also work well. The texture might vary slightly, so I adjust the liquid a bit if needed.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes, I can swap the egg with a flax egg and use a plant-based protein powder. The texture might be a little softer, but still delicious.
Are these safe for kids?
Absolutely. Since they’re naturally sweetened and free of refined sugar, they make a great breakfast or snack for kids. I just leave out any added protein powder for very young children.
Can I make this recipe without a blender?
I can, but I prefer to blend the oats to make oat flour for the smoothest texture. If I use pre-ground oat flour, I just whisk everything in a bowl.
How do I prevent them from sticking to the pan?
I make sure to grease the muffin tin or use silicone muffin cups. Letting them cool slightly before removing also helps them come out cleanly.
Conclusion
These high-protein baked pancake bowls have become a breakfast favorite in my kitchen. They’re quick to make, packed with protein and fiber, and easy to customize to fit whatever I’m craving. Whether I’m rushing out the door or sitting down to a calm morning, they hit the spot every time.
Recipe:
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High-Protein Baked Pancake Bowls
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- Author: Sophia
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Fluffy, high-protein baked pancake bowls made with oats, applesauce, and almond milk. Naturally sweetened and banana-free, perfect for meal prep and easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
1 cup rolled oats
1 scoop (about 30g) vanilla protein powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
1 large egg
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: blueberries, chocolate chips, chopped nuts for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin or small ramekins.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the oats, protein powder, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Blend until the oats turn into a fine flour.
- Add the applesauce, almond milk, egg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the blender. Blend again until the batter is smooth and well mixed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared muffin tin or ramekins, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Sprinkle blueberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts on top if desired.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before removing from the tin. Enjoy warm or store for later use.
Notes
Use silicone muffin cups or grease well to prevent sticking.
Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds or until warm.
To make vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based protein powder.
Use pre-ground oat flour if not using a blender.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
