What protein powders work best for the frosting?

For the "cream cheese" protein frosting, a whey-casein blend is fantastic as it mixes up thick and creamy, almost like a pudding. A pure whey isolate can sometimes get a bit thin. If you're using a plant-based powder, look for one with a finer, less gritty texture. Vanilla or a "frosted cinnamon roll" flavor works perfectly here.

What other spices complement carrot cake baked oatmeal?

While cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are the classics, you can definitely get creative. A pinch of allspice or cloves can add even more depth and warmth. Cardamom is another fantastic, slightly floral spice that pairs beautifully with carrot. You could even add a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter to brighten up all the warm spice flavors.

What are some other healthy breakfast ideas?

There are so many great options! If you love this bake, you'd probably also enjoy a high-protein breakfast burrito, protein-packed overnight oats, or some savory egg white bites. A high-protein triple berry bake is another great, fruity option. The key is to combine a good protein source with complex carbs and healthy fats to keep you full and energized.

What are good protein powder substitutions for this carrot cake?

If you don't have protein powder, you won't get the "high protein" benefits, but you can still make a delicious baked oatmeal. You can replace the protein powder with an equal amount of oat flour or almond flour to maintain the structure. Alternatively, you could skip the powder and add an extra 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese into the batter to boost the protein content naturally.

What's the difference between using Greek yogurt and cottage cheese in the frosting?

Both are excellent, high-protein options. Greek yogurt will give you a tangier, thinner frosting, very similar to traditional cream cheese. Cottage cheese (especially when blended in a food processor or blender until smooth) creates a thicker, richer, and slightly less tangy frosting. It's also often higher in protein. Both are delicious, so it just comes down to your personal preference and what you have on hand.

Can I make this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, absolutely! As mentioned earlier, this recipe is very easy to adapt. For gluten-free, just use certified gluten-free rolled oats. For vegan, use a plant-based protein powder, swap the eggs for two "flax eggs" (2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 5-6 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes), and use your favorite non-dairy milk.

Best High Protein Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Description

The best High Protein Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal! This macro-friendly breakfast is packed with protein and warm spices. The perfect healthy meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups Rolled Oats (use certified gluten-free if needed)
2 scoops (approx 60g) Vanilla Protein Powder
1/3 cup Monk Fruit/Erythritol Sweetener (or 1/4 cup Maple Syrup)
2 tsp Cinnamon
1/2 tsp Nutmeg
1/4 tsp Ground Ginger
1 tsp Baking Powder
1/2 tsp Salt
2 large Eggs (or 2 flax eggs for vegan)
1.5 cups Unsweetened Almond Milk (or any milk)
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
1 cup Freshly Grated Carrots
1/2 cup Chopped Walnuts or Pecans
1/4 cup Raisins (optional)

For the Healthy Protein Frosting:

1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (or blended cottage cheese)
1 scoop (30g) Vanilla Protein Powder
1–2 tbsp Milk (to thin)
1 tbsp Sugar-Free Sweetener (to taste)

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Instructions

Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together rolled oats, protein powder, sweetener, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, baking powder, and salt.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk the eggs, almond milk, and vanilla extract.
Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in Mix-ins: Gently fold in the freshly grated carrots, chopped walnuts, and raisins.
Bake: Spread the batter evenly into your prepared dish. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool & Frost: Let the baked oatmeal cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. While it cools, mix all ingredients for the protein frosting. Spread over the oatmeal and enjoy!

Notes

Vegan: Use 2 flax eggs and plant-based protein powder/milk.
Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6th of bake)
Calories: 284 kcal
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 310 mg
Fat: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fiber: 5 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg