No Sugar, High Protein Monkey Bread

Indulge in a healthier version of the classic monkey bread with this high-protein, no-sugar recipe. Made with Greek yogurt and protein powder, this treat offers a nutritious twist without compromising on taste. Plus, there’s no need for yeast, making it a quick and easy bake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Delicious: Combines the indulgent flavors of traditional monkey bread with the health benefits of added protein and no added sugars.
• Quick and Yeast-Free: No need to wait for the dough to rise, making it a time-efficient option for busy schedules.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable to various dietary preferences with simple ingredient swaps.

Ingredients

• 1½ cups flour (180g)
• ½ cup vanilla protein powder (45g)
• ½ cup unflavored protein powder (45g)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups non-fat Greek yogurt (450g)
• 2 tablespoons almond milk (30ml)
• 3 tablespoons zero-calorie 1:1 sugar replacement (18g)
• 1½ teaspoons cinnamon
• Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped pecans (28g)

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. If using, sprinkle chopped pecans on the bottom of the pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, vanilla protein powder, unflavored protein powder, baking powder, and baking soda. Whisk until well blended.
3. Add Greek Yogurt: Add the Greek yogurt to the dry ingredients and mix until it begins to form a thick, sticky dough. Avoid over-mixing to prevent the bread balls from becoming tough.
4. Shape Dough Balls: With slightly wet hands to prevent sticking, divide the dough into approximately 25 pieces (about 2 tablespoons each) and roll each into a ball.
5. Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: In a small shallow bowl, combine the zero-calorie sugar replacement and cinnamon. In a separate small bowl, pour the almond milk.
6. Coat Dough Balls: Dip each dough ball into the almond milk to moisten, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated. Place each coated ball into the prepared loaf pan.
7. Assemble and Bake: Once all dough balls are coated and placed in the pan, bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, cover the pan loosely with foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, totaling 35 minutes. The monkey bread should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 8 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend to maintain texture and consistency.
• Dairy-Free/Vegan Option: Replace Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt and use a plant-based protein powder.
• Flavor Twist: Incorporate a cinnamon-flavored protein powder or add a touch of nutmeg for additional warmth.
• Nut-Free Version: Omit the optional pecans and ensure all other ingredients are free from nuts.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store the monkey bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. Warm it slightly before serving for the best texture.
• Freezing: Place the cooled monkey bread in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat pastry flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend as substitutes. Ensure you replace by weight, not volume, to maintain consistency.

2. What type of protein powder works best?

A whey-casein blend, like Quest Nutrition’s Vanilla Protein Powder, is recommended for baking due to its texture and flavor. Plant-based protein powders can also be used for a dairy-free option.

3. Is it necessary to use a zero-calorie sugar substitute?

No, you can substitute it with regular granulated sugar or other sweeteners, keeping in mind that this will alter the nutritional content.

4. How do I prevent the dough from sticking to my hands?

Keeping your hands slightly wet while rolling the dough balls will help prevent sticking. You may need to rewet your hands periodically during the process.

5. Can I add other spices to the coating?

Absolutely! Adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom can provide a unique flavor profile to the monkey bread.

6. What can I use instead of almond milk?

Any plant-based milk, such as oat or soy milk, can be used. Regular dairy milk is also an option if dairy consumption

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