Almond Butter Protein Breakfast Squares

 Good morning :) Wake up to a yummy and nutritional breakfast!

Breakfast is my absolute favorite meal of the day. It's the only time when I can down 3 cups of coffee and no one will judge. But seriously, I can't believe people skip this meal. This is THE most crucial time to get your metabolism going and your energy pumping to prepare you for the rest of your what-I'm-sure-is-usually-insane day. Unfortunately, not many of us get a chance to relax, sip our coffee, and whip up a batch of pancakes every morning. Often, I'm sure it's more like throwing lukewarm coffee in a to-go mug, stashing a granola bar in your purse, and doing your make-up in the car. The only way to make it to work or school on time AND get your healthy morning fix? Plan. Ahead. Of. Time. There are lots of frozen breakfast sandwich options, and those can be great, but sometimes you might just want something fresher. Plus, with a nutritional breakfast, the better prepared you will be to tackle your day. I stumbled upon this fabulous recipe not too long ago and tweaked it just a little to up the nutritional value. Whether you are an in-the-car-eater, walking-to-class-eater, or even curling-your-hear-eater, this is the breakfast for you. 

This was my breakfast the other day, minus the coffee :)

Credit: Gingerbreadbagels.com

Almond Butter Protein Breakfast Squares

1 1/2 cups quick cooking oats

1/4 cup packed light brown sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 

1 teaspoon vanilla extract 

1/2 cup nonfat milk 

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1/4 cup almond butter (I used Maranatha crunchy)

2 scoops unflavored whey protein powder (I used Optimum Nutrition)

1. Mix together the quick cooking oats, light brown sugar, baking powder, salt and ground cinnamon.

2. Add in the vanilla extract, milk and egg. Mix the ingredients together.

3. Slowly stir in the almond butter and protein powder. (You can be lenient with the protein powder--if you'd like to add less, that's fine; it won't change the consistency. If you'd like to add more, slowly add in more milk to keep the consistency.)

4. Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 8-by-8 inch metal baking pan. Bake at 350 F degrees for 20 minutes.

5. Cut into squares and enjoy! They will keep at room temp (covered) for about 3-4 days. You may also refrigerate or freeze if you'd like to keep it for longer. 

Servings: About 9 good-sized squares. 

Nutritional Info: (Keep in mind these are rough estimates, per serving) 150 calories, 8 g protein, 4 g sugar

Tips:

• Don't freak out when you see protein powder in the recipe! Everyone that tried these were shocked when they heard it was in the squares--they couldn't even taste it. 
• This recipe can be varied in many different ways. Add mashed banana or even nuts to give it a little extra kick ;)

In the morning, while you're stirring creamer in your coffee, nuke a good-sized square for about 15 seconds. Cut an opening in the middle, and spread leftover almond butter in the middle. Heat for another 15 seconds. Let the goodness melt in your mouth. I enjoyed my squares with a side of fruit, so if you're on the go, an apple or banana turns this yummy treat into a balanced car- (or sidewalk- or bathroom counter-) breakfast. Enjoy!