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–+ servings
High-Protein Apple Cinnamon Quinoa Bowl 1

High-Protein Apple Cinnamon Quinoa Bowl

This nourishing quinoa bowl transforms ordinary breakfast into an extraordinary experience, blending the nutty warmth of quinoa with sweet apple chunks and aromatic cinnamon. Perfect for meal prep enthusiasts and busy professionals alike, this recipe provides complete protein with all nine essential amino acids for sustained energy without the mid-morning crash.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American, Healthy
Servings 4 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Fine-Mesh Strainer

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa uncooked, rinsed thoroughly
  • 2 cups unsweetened almond milk substitute: oat milk or regular milk
  • 2 medium apples diced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work wonderfully)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup substitute: honey or date syrup
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 2 scoops vanilla plant protein powder approximately 50g
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Toppings

  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 2 tablespoons hemp seeds
  • fresh apple slices
  • additional cinnamon for sprinkling
  • a drizzle of almond butter

Instructions
 

  • Place quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse thoroughly under cold running water for approximately 30 seconds. Massage the grains gently with your fingertips until the water runs clear.
  • Optional but recommended: Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the rinsed quinoa. Toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant and slightly golden.
  • Add almond milk, diced apples (reserve a few pieces for garnish if desired), cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the saucepan with quinoa. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed.
  • Remove from heat and gently fold in the protein powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and chia seeds. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes.
  • If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of additional almond milk until your preferred consistency is reached. Divide into bowls and top with your choice of garnishes.

Notes

This quinoa bowl can be stored in airtight containers for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. The flavor actually improves after 24 hours as the spices continue to permeate the dish.
For meal prep, divide into mason jars with layers of fresh apple slices and toasted nuts for grab-and-go convenience throughout your week.
Avoid adding protein powder while the mixture is too hot to prevent curdling or clumping - wait until the temperature drops below 180°F (82°C).

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 18gFat: 8gFiber: 7gSugar: 12gCalcium: 12mgIron: 15mg
Keyword Quinoa Bowl, High Protein, Apple Cinnamon, Healthy Breakfast, Meal Prep
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