Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These muffins combine the cozy flavor of cinnamon rolls with the health benefits of protein-packed ingredients. They’re quick to prepare, suitable for a variety of diets (including vegan with simple swaps), and ideal for meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a guilt-free treat, these muffins deliver on both taste and nutrition.
Ingredients
1 cup rolled oats
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup milk of choice
Optional: chopped nuts or raisins
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, mix together rolled oats, protein powder, cinnamon, baking powder, and optional mix-ins like nuts or raisins.
- In a separate bowl, whisk honey or maple syrup, eggs, applesauce, vanilla extract, and milk until well blended.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the muffins tender.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and timing
- Serves: 12 muffins
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Make them vegan by substituting eggs with flax eggs and using maple syrup instead of honey.
- Add chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a fun flavor twist.
- Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Incorporate a swirl of cinnamon-sugar on top before baking for a true “cinnamon roll” vibe.
- Add grated carrot or zucchini for added moisture and nutrition.
Storage/Reheating
- Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- To freeze, wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats will work fine, though the texture may be slightly softer.
What type of protein powder works best?
A vanilla-flavored whey or plant-based protein works well for this recipe.
Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure your oats and protein powder are certified gluten-free.
What can I use instead of applesauce?
Mashed bananas or plain yogurt can be used as a substitute for applesauce.
How can I make these muffins egg-free?
Use flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer to make them vegan-friendly.
Can I omit the sweetener?
You can reduce or omit the sweetener, especially if your protein powder is sweetened.
Are these muffins freezer-friendly?
Yes, they freeze very well and can be stored for up to 3 months.
How much protein is in each muffin?
This depends on your protein powder, but typically each muffin contains around 7–10 grams of protein.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe for larger batches.
Why did my muffins come out dense?
Overmixing the batter or using too much protein powder can make them dense. Mix just until combined.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Protein Muffins offer a delicious, healthy twist on a classic treat. They’re easy to make, full of warm cinnamon flavor, and provide a protein boost to fuel your day. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or as a meal-prepped snack, these muffins are a tasty and nutritious addition to your routine.

Cinnamon Roll Protein Muffins
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Healthy and flavorful Cinnamon Roll Protein Muffins that make a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or snack. Packed with protein, warm cinnamon flavor, and easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins.
Ingredients
1 cup rolled oats
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
2 large eggs
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup milk of choice
Optional: chopped nuts or raisins
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, mix together rolled oats, protein powder, cinnamon, baking powder, and optional mix-ins like nuts or raisins.
- In a separate bowl, whisk honey or maple syrup, eggs, applesauce, vanilla extract, and milk until well blended.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Substitute flax eggs and maple syrup to make it vegan.
Add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit can change up the flavor.
Use dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk.
Try a cinnamon-sugar swirl on top before baking for a true cinnamon roll effect.
Grated carrots or zucchini can add extra moisture and nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg