If there is an aroma that elicits happy family memories, it’s my Grandma’s Coffee Cake recipe. We have enjoyed it on every major holiday that I can remember. My kids now love it too. This is not the coffee cake recipe (but you can find it here). These High Protein Cinnamon Coffee Cake Waffles come pretty darn close to giving me those same comfort food vibes. However, they are not a dessert but are a healthy breakfast, brunch, or even dinner idea. You need to make them ASAP. Trust me.
High Protein Cinnamon Coffee Cake Waffles
So what makes these Cinnamon Coffee Cake Waffles high protein?
I started out with Kodiak Cakes protein pancakes mix. (This is not a sponsored post. I have been eating and enjoying them for years). To the mix, I add: skim milk, eggs, and vanilla protein powder. Yes, you can use almond milk but that may alter the protein amount. I use the whole egg because they bind better. My go to protein powder for cooking is Nuzest Vanilla. I like the way it seamlessly absorbs into recipes without leaving a chalky taste. Again, feel free to sub in your favorite protein powder. (This post contains affiliate links)
What gives them that coffee cake taste?
Cinnamon Coffee Cake is all about the cozy hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. So of course, those are in here. I went one step further and mixed in some instant espresso into the batter. Oh, yes I did! It’s subtle but adds a nice little flavor burst your breakfast.
Can these be made in advance?
Yes! I made a few batches and froze them into portion sizes. When you are ready to enjoy them, just toast them on a low setting until warmed through.
Can they be made into pancakes?
I used this inexpensive Belgian Waffle maker for this recipe but yes, the same batter will work for pancakes as well.
What toppings are good to pair with them?
Of course, the traditional maple syrup is always good. A smear of peanut butter with bananas would be extra delish as well. Any berries with a little Vanilla Greek Yogurt would also be yummy.
Hungry for more Healthyish Brunch ideas?
Strawberry Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
Easy, versatile, healthy, and high protein. These Cinnamon Coffee Cake Waffles are perfect for any day and special enough for Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day. Whichever day you decide to enjoy them, I suggest you make them ASAP. Let me know how it goes and how you topped them!
You Need These High Protein Cinnamon Coffee Cake Waffles ASAP
The best high protein, cinnamon coffee cake waffles. Easy, only 7 ingredients, family friendly, make ahead and enjoy any day
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Kodiak Cakes Protein Pancake mix
- 25 g Nuzest vanilla protein powder (or any brand)
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 C skim milk
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 1/2 tsp instant espresso coffee
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp all spice
Instructions
- Whisk all ingredients in medium mixing bowl
- heat waffle iron and spray with non stick cooking spray
- pour half of the batter into each batch
- cook for about 2 min or until golden brown
- serve with desired toppings
Notes
Recipe can be doubled to make more servings. Each serving size is 4 waffles in a 4 waffle Belgian waffle size. Can also be made into pancakes
Thanks for linking up with me and Sarah today!
Kim G says
I don’t know if I can wait until Valentine’s Day, I might need to make these this weekend!
Deborah Brooks says
I highly recommend them! I also froze a few and they are great when warmed up
Sarah says
You had me at coffee cake, well and waffles which we have at least twice a week lately. Can’t wait to try these!
Deborah Brooks says
I think you are going to like them
taffy says
wow they look soo good,i also love that they are healthy. will try out the recipe for my kids
Deborah Brooks says
Fantastic thanks
Debbie says
I really need to get a waffle iron. Yes, I know I can do pancakes but it’s just not the same thing. 🙂 These sound really good (and I know my husband would be crazy about them!).
Deborah Brooks says
I know same ingredients as pancakes but they taste different!
Amber says
Yum, I had never really thought to put some espresso in waffle mix but genius. These are so good.
Deborah Brooks says
So good! I hope you try them soon
Sarah Althouse says
My toddler is on a huge waffle kick and I’m a big fan of sneaking in protein when I can!
Deborah Brooks says
perfect! You may want to leave out the espresso 🙂
Michelle D. says
These look oh so good. I pinned this and will be making them this weekend! Thanks for sharing!
Deborah Brooks says
yay I know you are going to love them!
Julie says
What a great recipe for waffles! I love how you used the kodiak cakes AND added the protein boost with the powder. Such a yummy idea. Will be trying soon.
Deborah Brooks says
They are so good and easy hope you enjoy!
Kimberly Hatting says
I love pancakes & waffles, I think these may be happening this week 🙂
Deborah Brooks says
Fantastic enjoy!
Kate - Gluten Free Alchemist says
I love waffles. Seeing these reminds me that I need to make some. They look delicious x
Deborah Brooks says
Thanks I always forget how good they are!
Kimberly Hatting says
Oh these sound so delish! I’ve been making pancakes a lot this winter (such an awesome comfort food on a cold day), but I have not fired up the waffle iron in awhile. Hmmm….
Deborah Brooks says
they are a fun change of pace
Sharon says
I see Kodiak Cakes mix in stores but have always wondered what I could make with it. I can’t wait to try this recipe out!
Deborah Brooks says
OH it’s so good! You will love it
Erica Hopper says
This sounds like the perfect post run Saturday morning breakfast! Saving this for the weekend!
Deborah Brooks says
I agree! Hope you enjoy it
Amber S Battishill says
YUM! Love the major protein boost in these too! Making these for myself and the kids this week!
Deborah Brooks says
Great I hope you all enjoy them as much as we did
Jenny says
Hi Deborah! Although I mangled your recipe slightly, I made these waffles yesterday and they were delicious! i blogged about them and gave you a shout-out of course! Thanks for posting this recipe.
Deborah Brooks says
OH you are so sweet thanks!xoxo
Amy says
These are amazing!!!
Deborah Brooks says
Thanks so much Amy! 🙂
Mimi says
A breakfast this yummy could make become a morning person! So tasty
Deborah Brooks says
I hope you love them as much as I do
Trail Running Blog says
I Love a waffle, so moreish – especially with lashings of peanut butter…YUM
Deborah Brooks says
That would work with it as well
Nicole @ Foodie Loves Fitness says
Oooh yes I LOVE coffee cake! My grandma also used to make it all the time. And now I’m craving coffee cake, so these waffles would be a perfect substitute to try out! I also need to check out the Nuzest protein powder. I like when the protein powder just kind of blends in and doesn’t leave too much of a taste, so it sounds great.
Deborah Brooks says
the waffles are great and easy to make ahead and reheat as well