Name: Homemade Protein Cereal That Tastes Like Your Favorite Snack
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 108 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with oat flour for a gluten-free option); 1 cup Almond Flour (Can replace with more all-purpose flour if allergic to nuts); 1 scoop Protein Powder (Whey protein recommended; substitute with flour if you prefer no protein powder); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Substitute (Regular sugar can be used but will increase calories); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Sprinkle generously); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Use standard table salt for best results); 5-6 tablespoons Milk (Almond or 2% milk recommended); 2 tablespoons Cinnamon Sugar Mixture (Mix sugar and cinnamon to taste)

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The distinct crackle of cereal as it splashes into milk might just be the most satisfying sound of morning, don’t you think? Today, I’m thrilled to share my homemade version of a breakfast staple, a high-protein cereal that imitates the nostalgic taste of Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Not only does this protein cereal boast a mere 155 calories and 10 grams of protein per serving, but it also caters to your dietary needs with its low-sugar formulation. What’s more, it’s incredibly easy to make, meaning you can skip the drive-through and indulge in a wholesome breakfast right at your kitchen table. So, are you ready to elevate your breakfast game with a healthier twist on a beloved classic?

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Why Try This Protein Cereal?

Irresistible Crunchiness: The satisfying texture of this cereal provides a delightful experience in every bite—perfectly mimicking your favorite snack.

Nutritious and Delicious: With only 155 calories and 10 grams of protein, this healthy breakfast checks all the boxes for a guilt-free indulgence.

Customizable Options: Easily modify this recipe to suit your dietary preferences. Substitute almond flour for oat flour or switch up the protein powder flavor.

Quick to Prepare: It takes minimal time to whip up, making it a fantastic option for busy mornings or meal prepping for the week.

Kid-Friendly Appeal: This cereal is sure to please both adults and kids alike, serving as a fun and nutritious breakfast option that keeps everyone happy!

Versatile Snack: Enjoy it on its own, doused in milk, or as a crunchy topping on yogurt. You’ll love how versatile this protein cereal can be!

Protein Cereal Ingredients

• For the Cereal Base

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; substitute with oat flour for a gluten-free option.
Almond Flour – Increases protein content; can replace with more all-purpose flour if allergic to nuts.
Protein Powder – Adds strength to your morning meal, using whey protein for the best results, or substitute with flour if you prefer no protein powder.
Granulated Sugar Substitute – Sweetens your protein cereal while keeping calories low; regular sugar can be used but will increase calorie count to 200 per serving.
Cinnamon – Infuses warm, comforting flavor; no substitutions needed, just sprinkle generously!
Salt – Enhances all the flavors; use standard table salt for best results.
Milk – Brings the dry ingredients together into a lovely dough; any type works, but almond or 2% milk is highly recommended.

• For the Topping

Cinnamon Sugar Mixture – A sprinkle on top provides that classic Cinnamon Toast Crunch flavor; mix sugar and cinnamon to taste!

With these ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating a delightful homemade protein cereal that’s not only delicious but also supports your health goals!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade High-Protein Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly crunchy finish for your protein cereal. While the oven warms up, gather your mixing bowls and baking sheets, so you’re ready to create this delicious cinnamon-infused breakfast.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, almond flour, protein powder, granulated sugar substitute, cinnamon, and salt. Use a whisk to blend these dry ingredients thoroughly for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring even distribution. This step is crucial as it sets up the flavor profile for your high-protein cinnamon toast crunch.

Step 3: Add Milk Gradually
Slowly add milk to the dry mixture, one tablespoon at a time, while mixing with a spatula or your hands. Continue this process until a workable dough forms, which should take about 5-6 tablespoons, depending on your protein powder. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable, perfect for shaping into a cereal.

Step 4: Chill the Dough
Once your dough is ready, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes. Chilling the dough makes it easier to roll out and helps prevent sticking. Use this time to clean up your workspace and prepare your parchment paper for the next steps.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
After the chilling period, take the dough out and place it between two sheets of parchment paper. Roll it out into a thin layer, about 1/8 inch thick, using a rolling pin. The thinner the dough, the crunchier your homemade protein cereal will be, so make sure to apply even pressure.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Lightly spray the rolled-out dough’s surface with cooking spray, then mix together some cinnamon and sugar substitute. Sprinkle this mixture evenly on top, pressing it down gently with your hands. This step enhances the sweetness and ensures your protein cereal captures that iconic Cinnamon Toast Crunch flavor.

Step 7: Cut into Pieces
Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the dough into cereal-sized squares or rectangles. The size you choose affects the crunchiness of your protein cereal, so feel free to experiment! Make sure the sections are roughly uniform for even baking, helping them achieve that perfect texture.

Step 8: Bake the Cereal
Transfer the cut pieces onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake in your preheated oven for 16-18 minutes, until they turn golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid over-baking, as the color will be your cue for doneness.

Step 9: Cool and Break Apart
Once baked, remove the protein cereal from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet for about 30 minutes. This cooling period is essential as it allows the pieces to crisp up further; then break apart along the cuts. Enjoy your homemade protein cereal right away or store it for later!

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Expert Tips for Protein Cereal

Consistent Dough Texture: Ensure your dough is slightly sticky but manageable. Adjust the milk quantity based on the protein powder type to create the perfect consistency.

Don’t Over-Bake: Keep an eye on your protein cereal towards the end of the baking time. Over-baking can lead to a hard texture rather than the desired crunchiness.

Use Parchment Paper: Place a layer of parchment paper on your baking sheet to help prevent any sticking, especially while rolling out the dough and during baking.

Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to switch up the protein powder flavor to match your preferences, such as chocolate or vanilla, adding a delightful twist to the classic protein cereal.

Uniform Cutting: Cut your dough into even-sized pieces to ensure that each piece bakes evenly. This way, you’ll enjoy a consistent crunch across your homemade protein cereal.

Cooling Time Matters: Let the cereal cool completely after baking for the best texture. This waiting period is crucial for achieving optimal crunchiness.

What to Serve with Homemade High-Protein Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal

Elevate your breakfast experience by pairing this delightful protein cereal with scrumptious sides that bring out its flavors.

Creamy Greek Yogurt: A dollop adds richness and creaminess, enhancing the cinnamon flavor and balancing texture perfectly.
Fresh Berries: Sweet, juicy berries like strawberries or blueberries bring a burst of freshness and color, making every bite a treat.
Banana Slices: The natural sweetness complements the cinnamon crunch while adding a creamy texture that harmonizes beautifully.
Nut Butter: A drizzle of almond or peanut butter provides a protein boost and a rich, nutty flavor contrast that rounds out your meal.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Just a touch of sweetness drizzled on top can elevate your protein cereal experience and enhance the flavor.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some on top for an extra crunch and different flavor notes that complement the cinnamon essence.
Cold Milk: Pair it with ice-cold milk for a classic treat; the refreshing chill pairs beautifully with the warm spices.
Smoothie: A fruity smoothie can be a perfect sidekick; try one with spinach, banana, and almond milk for vibrant nutrition.
Herbal Tea: Enjoy a warm cup of chamomile or peppermint tea alongside your breakfast for a soothing, comforting start to the day.
Coffee: For a morning pick-me-up, a cup of your favorite brew will beautifully complement the sweet, crunchy cereal.

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Protein Cereal morsels are perfect if you’re looking to cut down on morning prep time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following steps 1-4, storing it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. To maintain its quality, be sure to refrigerate the dough to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade protein cereal, simply roll out, cut, and bake as directed in steps 5-9. This way, you’ll have fresh, crunchy cereal ready to go for those busy mornings, providing a wholesome breakfast option with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Protein Cereal

Room Temperature: Store your homemade protein cereal in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness and crunchiness.

Fridge: If you prefer to keep it extra fresh, you can store the cereal in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks, though it may lose some crunch.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your protein cereal in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it thaw and crisp up in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy it!

Reheating: If your cereal loses its crunch, you can reheat it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes to regain that delightful texture. Enjoy your delicious protein cereal again!

Protein Cereal Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unlock your creativity and customize this recipe to suit your unique taste preferences!

Nut-Free Swap: Replace almond flour with more all-purpose flour if you have nut allergies. Everyone can enjoy this delightful treat without worry!
Gluten-Free Option: Use oat flour instead of all-purpose flour to make this cereal completely gluten-free. The texture will still amaze you!
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute cow’s milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. It adds a nutty flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Flavor Adventure: Experiment with different protein powder flavors, like chocolate or vanilla, to switch up your taste profile. Each variant will elevate your breakfast game!
Sweetness Tweaks: Play with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup if you prefer a more traditional taste. Keep in mind, this might enhance the calorie count.
Crunchy Add-Ins: Toss in some chia seeds or crushed nuts for added texture and nutrition. A little crunch never hurts, right?
Lower Sugar: For an even healthier option, consider using a monk fruit sweetener instead of granulated sugar substitutes. You can satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your sugar levels low!
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy some heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to your cinnamon mixture. It gives a surprising, tasty twist!

For more delightful variations, check out these Chocolate Protein Waffles and Chocolate Protein Brownie recipes that can complement your homemade protein cereal effortlessly!

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Homemade High-Protein Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my protein powder is fresh?
Absolutely! Check your protein powder for any signs of clumping or an off smell. Fresh protein powder should be powdery and free from dark spots or any unusual odor. If you’re unsure, it’s best to check the expiration date on the package.

What’s the best way to store leftover protein cereal?
Store your homemade protein cereal in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to keep it crunchy. For extra freshness, you can refrigerate it for up to 3 weeks, though some crunchiness may be lost. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent moisture.

Can I freeze this protein cereal?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place your cereal in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore some of that delightful crunch.

What if my cereal comes out too hard?
If your protein cereal turns out hard, double-check your baking time and temperature. It’s important to let it cool completely as the texture improves as it cools. If it still seems too hard after this, consider slightly reducing the baking time next time to achieve that perfect balance of crunchiness.

Can this protein cereal be made nut-free?
Very! Just substitute almond flour with an equal amount of all-purpose flour or oat flour to cater to nut allergies. You can still enjoy the benefits of a high-protein breakfast without worrying about nut sensitivities!

How can I customize the flavor of this protein cereal?
Feel free to play around! Substitute the protein powder with flavors like chocolate or vanilla to switch up the taste. You can also mix in some cocoa powder, or add a pinch of nutmeg for a unique spin on your cereal, making breakfast a fun and delicious experience!