Spice up your mornings with our protein granola bowl recipe! We've enhanced the classic by combining buckwheat and oats, aromatic, cozy spices, and sweet, chewy dates for the ultimate crunchy granola. Sprinkle into yogurt or milk for an easy protein-packed easy breakfast or snack.
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Jump to:
- 👪Why You'll Love This Recipe
- 🧠Why Eat This? Nutrient Highlight
- 🥣Main Ingredients
- 🥬Substitutions
- 👩🏽🍳Step-By-Step Instructions
- 💡Recipe Tips
- 🥒Tips For Kids: Will My Kid Eat This?
- ⏲️ Save Time With These Tips
- 🍴Recipe Variations and Leftover Ideas
- 🥡How To Store This Recipe
- ❔Recipe FAQ
- 🥣More Easy Breakfast Recipes
- 📖 Recipe
- 📝Information Source
Today, I’m excited to share one of our family's favorite healthy breakfast recipe. Our granola bowl twists the classic by combining cooked buckwheat with rolled oats, aromatic spices like ginger and cloves, sweet, chewy dates, and earthy seeds. The result is a nutritious, crunchy protein granola recipe that we assemble into delicious granola bowls each morning to energize us for our busy days.
Making homemade granola bowls is a great option because you can control the flavors and amount of sugar, it's budget-friendly, and it's ideal for anyone with food allergies. While there are many ways to enjoy a granola bowl, it all starts with great granola! Plus, our protein granola recipe can be enjoyed in a bowl, on its own, or mixed into cereal.
Our Granola bowls make a great high-protein breakfast. They are easy to assemble, customizable, and versatile, from busy mornings to brunch ideas (much like our tofu quiche or high-protein peanut butter smoothie)! We love creating a granola bowl station with various toppings and base options, letting everyone assemble their own. It’s a great way to get kids interested in eating and accommodate different food preferences and dietary needs.
👪Why You'll Love This Recipe
- High-Protein Version: Our protein granola recipe makes nutritious low-sugar protein bowls, keeping you full and energized for busy mornings.
- Easy Breakfast or Healthy Snack: Easy to prepare, batch make, and assemble into delicious breakfast bowls or after-school snacks.
- Versatile and Flavorful: Our protein granola is made with no sugar and spiced with cinnamon, ginger, and cloves for a warming, cozy flavor and aroma. Our granola bowls can be easily customized with your favorite toppings and are adaptable to various dietary needs.
- Allergy Friendly: Made gluten-free, nut-free, and dairy-free, and it is safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Why add Buckwheat?
Despite its name, buckwheat is gluten-free, comes from a seed, and is packed with nutrients like protein! Its nutty, earthy flavor pairs perfectly with oats, making it a great addition to your homemade granola. If you have leftovers, add them to our zesty quinoa salad!
🧠Why Eat This? Nutrient Highlight
As a mom of three and a health scientist, I understand the importance of a nutrient-rich breakfast. This high-protein no-sugar granola bowl is packed with essential nutrients that support overall health, including brain health. Here's a quick overview:
- High in Protein: Crucial for muscle repair, immune function, and neurotransmitter production for brain health (1, 2, 3, 4). Found in buckwheat groats, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and yogurt.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Support brain function and provide lasting energy (5, 6). Sources include coconut oil, chia seeds, and seeds.
- Loaded with Fiber: Aids digestion, stabilizes blood sugar, and promotes fullness (7,8). Found in oats, buckwheat, chia seeds, and dates.
- Antioxidants: Thanks to the dates and berries (if added), this recipe contains beneficial antioxidants that help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation (9).
🥣Main Ingredients
Our gluten-free granola bowls are a delicious and nutritious way to start your day. Here is what you will need:
Homemade Granola
Despite the long ingredient list, this zesty, high-protein granola recipe is worth the effort! With minimal prep, the hardest part is gathering the ingredients :0). Here is what you will need for your low sugar granola recipe:
- Gluten-Free Rolled Oats: Oats are the base of our granola, providing a hearty and gluten-free option for all to enjoy.
- Buckwheat Groats (Cooked and Cooled): To enhance the protein content of our granola recipe while keeping it gluten-free, we added in cooked buckwheat, a nutritious seed that adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Pumpkin Seeds: Rich in protein and healthy fats, adding a satisfying crunch to our granola.
- Coconut Flakes: Coconut flakes are a great addition to our protein granola to add texture, crunch, and flavor.
- Chia Seeds: These little seeds pack a punch of healthy fats, perfect for keeping you full and energized.
- Dried Dates: To keep this recipe sugar-free, we added chopped dates for its natural sweetness and chewiness. They pair perfectly with the crunchy oats and buckwheat.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that binds our granola together while adding a rich flavor.
- Coconut Oil: Provides a subtle coconut flavor and helps to crisp up the granola.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: We added both lemon zest and fresh lemon juice to help balance and deepen the flavors of this granola!
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet undertone to our granola.
- Ground Cinnamon: A hint of spice that complements the sweetness of the dried fruits.
- Ground Ginger: Adds a touch of warmth and spice to the mix.
- Ground Cloves: I add just a touch for a deeper flavor.
- Sea Salt: Enhances all the flavors, bringing the perfect balance to the granola.
Suggested Bowl Base:
- Greek-style yogurt (dairy or dairy-free): To keep this recipe nutritious and protein-rich, I prefer to start my granola bowl base with Greek-style yogurt. If you want to keep it sugar-free, opt for plain unsweetened yogurt.
- Favorite Milk: When I want a more refreshing and lighter breakfast or snack, I like to start my granola base with whatever milk I have on hand, usually oat or soy!
Suggested Toppings:
- Banana: Naturally sweet and a great source of potassium.
- Fresh Pineapple Chunks: Adds a burst of freshness and sweetness.
- Fresh Berries: Blueberries and strawberries provide antioxidants and vibrant color to the bowl.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: For a refreshing hint.
- Pure Maple Syrup: Just a drizzle to help add a touch of sweetness to your protein granola bowl.
Full quantities can be found in the recipe card below.
🥬Substitutions
When certain ingredients aren't available, here are some alternative options for your breakfast bowls:
- Gluten-Free Rolled Oats: If you can't find gluten-free rolled oats, you can use quinoa flakes or puffed rice for a similar texture.
- Buckwheat Groats: For high-protein gluten-free substitution, use quinoa or amaranth.
- Chai or Pumpkin Seeds: Swap these for any other seeds you have on hand, like sunflower seeds, hemp hearts, or flaxseeds, which also provide healthy fats.
- Maple sy
👩🏽🍳Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Buckwheat
Rinse ½ cup of buckwheat groats under cold water. Then, bring 1 cup of water to a boil, add the buckwheat, reduce heat, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water and let the buckwheat cool completely.
Step 2: Preheat The Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 3: Make your Protein Granola Recipe
In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients for your homemade granola, including the cooked buckwheat. Ensure your coconut oil is at room temp and not solid. Then mix well until well combined.
Step 4: Spread on Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently press your spoon into the granola to help ensure an even bake.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Let the granola cool completely before breaking it into granola clusters.
Chef Tip: I prefer not to stir my granola because I like bigger chunks, but feel free to stir your granola if you want to bake it more evenly with smaller pieces.
Step 6: Assemble the Granola Bowl
In each serving bowl, add ½ cup of Greek yogurt (or milk) as the base. Sprinkle a generous amount of the granola into the bowl, then add your selected toppings. Garnish your Protein yogurt bowls with some fresh mint and a drizzle of maple syrup. Serve immediately for a refreshing, protein-packed breakfast or snack.
💡Recipe Tips
We make this protein granola recipe all the time and love assembling them into granola bowl; here are some tips that have helped us:
- Add Fruit After Baking: If you want dried fruit like raisins or apricots added to your granola, add them after baking to prevent them from becoming hard and leathery.
- Crunchy, Not Soggy: When making your granola, press the mixture firmly onto the baking sheet before baking and let it cool completely to achieve a crunchy texture.
- Choosing the Right Fat: I prefer coconut oil for its flavor and high smoke point. But feel free to experiment with your preferred fat.
- Balanced Flavor: When assembling your granola bowl, keep things simple. Our protein granola recipe is already flavorful, so we like to add 1-2 fresh fruits and yogurt or milk.
🥒Tips For Kids: Will My Kid Eat This?
As a mom of three boys with very different food preferences, I know how frustrating it can be to have a family member not on board with a new recipe! Here is what Has helped me navigate these parenting challenges:
- Make it Fun: My kids enjoy assembling granola bowls and choosing their favorite toppings to add in. This helps them feel more control over the flavors they want to try.
- Involve Them in Cooking: Granola is a great recipe to try with kids! It is simple, perfect for little ones. Kids are more likely to try foods they’ve helped make.
- Small Portions: Mix small amounts of new ingredients with familiar ones and ensure you give them small portions to start.
- Use Familiar Flavors: Incorporate familiar flavors like peanut butter or honey to make new textures more appealing.
⏲️ Save Time With These Tips
Prepare the protein granola recipe in large batches and store it in an airtight container for a ready-to-use, nutritious breakfast component. To save time in the morning, pre-portion yogurt and fruit toppings into jars or bowls the night before.
🍴Recipe Variations and Leftover Ideas
- Nut Butter Granola Bowl: Add a tablespoon of peanut butter or sunflower seed butter to your yogurt base for an extra protein boost and a creamy texture. Top with your favorite nuts and a drizzle of honey.
- Seasonal Fruit Twist: Use whatever seasonal fresh fruit you have available. In the summer, try fresh strawberries or blueberries; in the winter, use citrus fruits like oranges and mandarins.
- Chocolate Lover's Bowl: Mix in a handful of dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs after baking the granola for a delicious chocolate flavor that pairs well with fresh strawberries.
🥡How To Store This Recipe
Ensure your yogurt and fruit toppings are kept in the refrigerator, and add them to your granola bowl just before serving.
You can store your homemade protein granola recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the granola in a sealed bag or container for up to three months.
❔Recipe FAQ
Our granola bowl recipe is already nut-free. Just ensure that the yogurt or extra toppings you add are also nut-free!
To keep your protein granola recipe crunchy, ensure it is completely cool before storing it in an airtight container. Avoid adding fresh fruits or yogurt to the granola until just before serving to prevent it from getting soggy.
You can boost the protein content by adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the granola mixture before baking or by topping your granola bowl with high-protein ingredients like Greek yogurt, nuts, and seeds.
Yes, our protein granola recipe is designed to be gluten-free. We use certified gluten-free rolled oats and buckwheat groats, which are naturally gluten-free grains. Other ingredients like sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, coconut flakes, and dried fruits are also gluten-free. Always ensure that all ingredients, particularly the oats, are certified gluten-free to avoid the risk of cross-contact.
🌟 Loved our protein granola bowls? Let us know! I’d be thrilled if you could leave a star rating, share this recipe, or comment below. Or come chat with me on Facebook or Instagram! Your feedback helps support and improve AtMyTable and helps others discover new favorites.
🥣More Easy Breakfast Recipes
📖 Recipe
High-Protein Granola Bowl Recipe (No Sugar)
Ingredients
Homemade Granola
- 1 cup old fashioned rolled oats gluten-free
- ½ cup buckwheat groats 1 cup cooked and cooled
- ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
- ¼ cup coconut flakes
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- ¼ cup dried dates chopped
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon dried ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves optional
Granola Bowl
- 1 cup vegan greek yogurt (or dairy yorgurt)
- ¼ cup blueberries
Suggested toppings
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup optional
- mint leaves chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Buckwheat: Rinse the buckwheat groats under cold water. Then bring 1 cup of water to a boil, add the buckwheat, reduce heat, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water and let the buckwheat cool completely.
- Preheat The Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make Your Homemade Granola: In a large bowl, mix the granola ingredients along with the cooked buckwheat, then mix well until evenly combined.
- Spread on Baking Sheet: Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet. Gently press your spoon into the granola to help get an even bake.
- Bake and Cool: Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Let the granola cool completely before breaking it into clusters.
- Assemble the Granola Bowl: Into a serving bowl, add ½ cup of yogurt (or milk) as the base. Sprinkle a generous amount of the granola into the bowl, then add your selected toppings. Garnish with some fresh mint and a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Serve immediately for a refreshing, protein-packed breakfast or snack.
Notes
Nutrition
📝Information Source
- Gimenez-Bastida, J. A., & Zielinski, H. (2015). Buckwheat as a functional food and its effects on health. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 63(36), 7896-7913.
- Zou, L., Wu, D., Ren, G., Hu, Y., Peng, L., Zhao, J., ... & Xiao, J. (2023). Bioactive compounds, health benefits, and industrial applications of Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum). Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 63(5), 657-673.
- Krajcovicova-Kudlackova, M., Babinska, K., & Valachovicova, M. (2005). Health benefits and risks of plant proteins. Bratislavske lekarske listy, 106(6/7), 231.
- Hoffman, J. R., & Falvo, M. J. (2004). Protein–which is best?. Journal of sports science & medicine, 3(3), 118.
- Liu, A. G., Ford, N. A., Hu, F. B., Zelman, K. M., Mozaffarian, D., & Kris-Etherton, P. M. (2017). A healthy approach to dietary fats: understanding the science and taking action to reduce consumer confusion. Nutrition journal, 16, 1-15.
- Ratnayake, W. N., & Gilani, G. S. (2004). Nutritional and health effects of dietary fats. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition, 3(4), 205-212.
- Anderson, J. W. (1986). Fiber and health: an overview. Nutrition Today, 21(6), 22-26.
- Anderson, J. W., Baird, P., Davis Jr, R. H., Ferreri, S., Knudtson, M., Koraym, A., ... & Williams, C. L. (2009). Health benefits of dietary fiber. Nutrition reviews, 67(4), 188-205.
- Yoshihara, D., Fujiwara, N., & Suzuki, K. (2010). Antioxidants: benefits and risks for long-term health. Maturitas, 67(2), 103-107.
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