This High Protein Berry Bake is a warm, tasty treat loaded with fresh berries and good-for-you ingredients. It’s perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Plus, it’s super simple to make. Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a yummy dish ready to enjoy. Trust me, your taste buds will love it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These oats are great for texture and chewiness. If you prefer a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can also be used, but they might create a softer texture.
Protein Powder: I recommend vanilla protein powder for a sweeter flavor. However, if you want to keep it plain or without flavoring, unflavored protein works just as well. You can also opt for plant-based proteins like pea or brown rice protein.
Milk: Any milk works! I often go for almond milk for a slight nutty taste, but feel free to use cow’s milk, oat milk, or soy milk based on your preference.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both sweeteners add natural sweetness. If you’re looking to cut back on sugar, try using stevia or another sugar substitute instead. Adjust the amount according to your sweetness preference!
Berries: Fresh berries provide a burst of flavor. If they’re not in season, frozen ones work just fine, and they’re usually just as nutritious. You can also switch them up with chopped apples or bananas!
How Do I Bake the Perfect Berry Bake?
Getting your Berry Bake just right is all about combining ingredients properly and baking evenly. Here are the steps to ensure success:
- Mix the dry ingredients first. This helps the baking powder distribute evenly, giving you a better rise.
- Whisk the wet ingredients thoroughly. This ensures that the egg and liquids blend well, creating fluffiness.
- Gently fold in the berries. This avoids crushing them, ensuring you get nice bursts of berry flavor throughout the bake.
- Watch the baking time! Ovens can vary, so start checking a bit earlier. You’re looking for a golden top and a clean toothpick to confirm it’s cooked through.
Let the bake cool a bit before slicing; it makes cutting easier and prevents it from falling apart. Enjoy your High Protein Berry Bake warm or cold! It’s great for meal prep, too!
High Protein Berry Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
- 1 cup milk of your choice (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 1/2 cups mixed fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- Optional: Greek yogurt or cream for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This High Protein Berry Bake takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30-35 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes to enjoy this delicious and healthy treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the rolled oats, protein powder, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and flavors.
3. Whisk the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until everything is well blended. This step adds moisture and sweetness to your bake!
4. Mix It All Together:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t worry about over-mixing; just ensure everything is moist.
5. Add the Berries:
Gently fold in the mixed berries, being careful not to crush them too much, so you can enjoy the beautiful bursts of flavor in each bite.
6. Pour into the Baking Dish:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. This helps the bake cook uniformly!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place your dish in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. This makes it easier to slice into bars or squares.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish it out warm and top it with more fresh berries and a drizzle of Greek yogurt or cream if you like. Enjoy your nourishing High Protein Berry Bake as a fulfilling breakfast or snack!
This simple recipe is not only delicious but also packed with protein to keep you energized throughout the day!
Can I Use Different Types of Berries?
Absolutely! You can substitute any of your favorite berries or even use a mix of fruits like chopped apples or peaches. Just keep in mind that the sweetness levels may vary depending on the fruit used.
What Can I Substitute for Eggs?
If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or 1/2 mashed banana for each egg. This will help bind the ingredients together while keeping the bake moist.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual portions for up to a month! To reheat, simply microwave a portion or warm it in the oven until heated through.
