If you have been dreaming of a delicious treat that satisfies cravings without the guilt, this High Protein No Sugar Monkey Bread Recipe is your new best friend. It’s soft, fluffy, and full of warm cinnamon flavor, yet thoughtfully crafted to boost your protein intake while keeping sugar completely out of the picture. Imagine pulling apart tender, cinnamon-coated dough balls with a subtle sweetness that comes from clever ingredients, making it a perfect snack, breakfast, or dessert for anyone who loves indulgence with a healthy twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that are easy to find but essential for crafting the ideal texture and flavor balance. From protein powders to Greek yogurt, each component works harmoniously to give you monkey bread that’s moist, fragrant, and tempting without any added sugar.
- Flour (1½ cup/180g): Provides the structure for the bread, choose your favorite or a protein-friendly option as noted in the blog post.
- Vanilla Protein Powder (½ cup/45g): Adds a pleasant vanilla flavor and a protein boost that enriches every bite.
- Unflavored Protein Powder (½ cup/45g): Supports the bread’s texture and protein content without overpowering other flavors.
- Baking Powder (2 tsp): Helps the dough rise, ensuring a fluffy, tender monkey bread.
- Baking Soda (¼ tsp): Works with yogurt to give a slight lift and softness.
- Non-fat Greek Yogurt (2 cups/450g): Moistens the dough while packing in protein and a slight tang.
- Almond Milk (2 Tbsp/30ml): Keeps the dough moist and helps the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly.
- Zero Calorie 1:1 Sugar Replacement (3 Tbsp/18g): Sweetens the bread naturally without any real sugar.
- Cinnamon (1½ tsp): The star spice that fills your kitchen with warmth and gives monkey bread its iconic taste.
- Optional Chopped Pecans (2 Tbsp/28g): Adds a satisfying crunch for those who want a nutty twist.
How to Make High Protein No Sugar Monkey Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Pecans
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly butter a loaf pan. If you want that added crunch and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans evenly on the bottom of the pan. This simple step adds a delicious surprise to every slice.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, vanilla protein powder, unflavored protein powder, baking powder, and baking soda until evenly blended. This combination lays down the dry foundation for the dough and helps it rise perfectly.
Step 3: Add Greek Yogurt and Mix
Next, add the non-fat Greek yogurt to the dry ingredients and gently mix until large, shaggy, sticky dough clumps form. Be careful not to over-mix here; protein powder can make the dough tough if handled too much, so just mix until combined.
Step 4: Portion the Dough Balls
Wet your palms slightly to prevent sticking, then divide the dough into about 25 pieces, roughly 2 tablespoons each. Roll each piece into a ball—wetting your hands as needed. Embrace the sticky dough boldly; it’s part of the fun!
Step 5: Coat and Assemble
Pour the almond milk into a small bowl. In another shallow bowl, mix the zero-calorie sugar replacement with cinnamon. Dip each dough ball first into the almond milk, then roll it thoroughly in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Place each coated ball carefully into your prepared loaf pan, building up the monkey bread layer by layer.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the loaf pan for 20 minutes uncovered, then cover it with foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the bread; it should come out clean when the monkey bread is ready. The total baking time is about 35 minutes, yielding that beautiful golden top and soft interior.
How to Serve High Protein No Sugar Monkey Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of sugar-free glaze elevates the monkey bread’s appearance and flavor. Fresh berries on the side can add a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced dough balls.
Side Dishes
This High Protein No Sugar Monkey Bread Recipe pairs excellently with a strong cup of coffee or herbal tea for breakfast. For a brunch spread, pair it alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to create a balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving monkey bread in mini muffin trays for individual portions that look adorable and are easy to eat. Alternatively, slice into thick slabs and toast them lightly for a unique twist on texture and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover monkey bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Keeping it sealed will help maintain the moisture and softness of the dough balls.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the monkey bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or placed in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months without sacrificing texture or taste.
Reheating
To enjoy your monkey bread warm again, thaw if frozen, then heat in the oven at 300°F for 10 to 15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to keep the outside from becoming chewy or rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use different types of protein powder?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap whey-casein protein powders with plant-based alternatives if that suits your dietary needs. Keep in mind that different powders might slightly change the texture but your monkey bread will still be delicious.
Is this recipe truly sugar-free?
Yes, the recipe uses a zero-calorie 1:1 sugar replacement instead of sugar, making it perfect for those avoiding sugar or managing blood sugar levels, while still offering the sweet touch expected in monkey bread.
Can I add other spices besides cinnamon?
For sure! Nutmeg, cardamom, or a pinch of ginger can be fun additions that complement the warm flavors. Just keep cinnamon as the base since it’s classic in monkey bread recipes.
What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt is key for moisture and protein. You could try a thick non-dairy yogurt substitute, but be aware it might affect the texture or protein content slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely. Thanks to its high protein and no sugar content, this monkey bread is a great make-ahead snack or breakfast option to keep on hand for busy days.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making and sharing this High Protein No Sugar Monkey Bread Recipe. It’s a comforting, nutritious option that defies the usual sugary treats, proving you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or indulgence to eat healthily. I encourage you to give it a go and see just how delightful guilt-free monkey bread can be!
Print
High Protein No Sugar Monkey Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast / Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat, Low Salt
Description
This High Protein, No Sugar Monkey Bread is a delicious and healthy twist on the classic treat. Made with a blend of vanilla and unflavored protein powders, non-fat Greek yogurt, and a zero-calorie sugar replacement, it delivers a high-protein punch without any added sugar. The loaf pan version is studded with cinnamon and can be optionally topped with chopped pecans for extra crunch. Perfect for a protein-rich breakfast or snack, this soft and sticky monkey bread is quick to prepare and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cup Flour (180g, see blog post above for options)
- ½ cup Vanilla Protein Powder (Whey-casein, 45g)
- ½ cup Unflavored Protein Powder (45g, see blog post above for options)
- 2 tsp Baking Powder
- ¼ tsp Baking Soda
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups Non-fat Greek Yogurt (450g)
- 2 Tbsp Almond Milk (30ml)
Coating
- 3 Tbsp Zero Calorie 1:1 Sugar Replacement (18g)
- 1½ tsp Cinnamon
Optional
- 2 Tbsp Chopped Pecans (28g)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly butter a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Add Pecans (Optional): If using, evenly sprinkle chopped pecans on the bottom of the prepared loaf pan for added texture and flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, vanilla protein powder, unflavored protein powder, baking powder, and baking soda. Stir thoroughly to distribute all leavening agents and powders evenly.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the non-fat Greek yogurt to the dry ingredients and gently mix until you form large, shaggy, sticky dough clumps. Be careful not to over-mix as protein powder can make the bread balls tough if overworked.
- Form Dough Balls: Slightly wet your palms with water to prevent sticking, then divide the dough into 25 pieces, approximately 2 tablespoons each. Roll each piece gently into a ball, wetting your hands as needed since the dough is sticky.
- Prepare Coating Bowls: Pour the almond milk in a small bowl. In another small shallow bowl, combine the zero-calorie sugar replacement and cinnamon together.
- Coat Dough Balls: Take each dough ball and roll it first in the almond milk to moisten, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring an even coating. Place the coated balls into the loaf pan tightly packed but not squished.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes at 350°F. Then cover the pan loosely with foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, totaling about 35 minutes baking time, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean indicating doneness.
Notes
- Do not over-mix the dough to avoid tough monkey bread; mix just until combined.
- Wet your hands with water when rolling the dough balls to reduce sticking and ease shaping.
- Using a zero-calorie sugar substitute keeps the recipe sugar-free without sacrificing the sweet cinnamon flavor.
- Chopped pecans add a nice crunch but are optional depending on dietary preferences.
- This recipe yields a soft, sticky bread best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated gently in the microwave or oven.
