Why You'll Love It
- High in protein to keep you satisfied
- Naturally sweetened with no refined sugar
- Perfect texture - soft inside with a slight crisp outside
- Great for meal prep and busy mornings
"My kids didn't even notice it was healthy! We've made this three times this month already."
Essential Ingredient Guide
- Greek yogurt: Provides moisture and protein; use full-fat for best texture
- Whole wheat flour: Adds fiber and nutty flavor; can substitute with all-purpose if needed
- Protein powder: Vanilla or unflavored works best; blends smoothly into the dough
- Dates: Natural sweetness and fiber; soak in warm water if they're dry
- Cinnamon: Warm spice that complements the natural sweetness perfectly
- Egg: Helps bind the dough and adds extra protein
Complete Cooking Process
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Ingredient Readiness:
All ingredients should be at room temperature to ensure even mixing and proper rising. The dates need to be pitted and chopped finely so they distribute evenly throughout the dough.
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Flavor Development:
The cinnamon and vanilla extract meld together during the rising process, creating a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. The dates caramelize slightly during baking, deepening their natural sweetness.
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Texture Control:
Kneading the dough properly develops gluten for that characteristic pull-apart texture. The Greek yogurt keeps the bread incredibly moist while the protein powder adds structure without making it dense.
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Finishing Touches:
A light brushing of melted butter or coconut oil right after baking gives the top a beautiful sheen and adds that final touch of richness.
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Serving Timing:
This bread is best served warm, when the layers pull apart easily and the aroma is at its peak. Let it rest just long enough to handle comfortably.
- Let dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot for best results
- Don't overmix – stop when ingredients are just combined
- Use kitchen shears to easily cut the dough into pieces
- Lightly grease your hands when shaping the balls to prevent sticking
Pro Tips
I've found that the texture turns out best when you handle the dough gently, almost like you're tucking a child into bed. There's a tenderness required that I've learned over years of baking. Honestly, the first time I made this, I was worried it wouldn't have that classic monkey bread pull-apart quality. But wow, when I saw those layers separating perfectly, I knew we had something special here. It's become our Saturday morning tradition now.
The essence of the dish:
A fun fact or historical angle:
Flavor or sensory focus:
You Must Know
- The dough will be slightly sticky – that's normal and creates the perfect texture
- Don't skip the resting time – it's crucial for flavor development
- Use a bundt pan for the classic monkey bread shape and even baking
- The bread freezes beautifully for up to three months
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I make this without protein powder?
Yes, you can substitute with additional whole wheat flour, though the protein content will be lower. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
→ How long does this keep fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for 2-3 days at room temperature. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
→ Can I use honey instead of dates?
You can, but you'll need to reduce the liquid elsewhere. Dates provide both sweetness and fiber, so the texture might change slightly with honey.
→ Is this suitable for diabetics?
While it has no refined sugar, always consult with a healthcare provider. The natural sugars from dates and whole grains affect blood sugar differently for everyone.
→ Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add wonderful texture. Just fold them in gently when you're shaping the dough balls.
→ Why is my dough not rising properly?
Check that your yeast is fresh and that your kitchen isn't too cold. Sometimes I'll let it rise in the oven with just the light on for gentle warmth.
Chef's Tips
The dough texture is meant to be soft and slightly sticky – don't add extra flour,If dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping,Let the bread cool slightly before serving – it firms up nicely
Nutrition Facts
per serving
185
Calories
12g
Protein
22g
Carbs
6g
Fat
Taste Profile
Warm and comforting with natural sweetness
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives
Maintains the protein content while accommodating dietary needs
Texture will be lighter with all-purpose, gluten-free may require binder
Recipe Variations
Try these delicious twists on the original
Chocolate Version
Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dough and use chocolate protein powder for a chocolate twist that pairs beautifully with the dates.
Fruit-filled
Add dried blueberries or chopped apples to the dough for bursts of fruity flavor that complement the cinnamon perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results
- Overworking the dough making it tough
- Adding too much flour resulting in dry bread
- Baking at wrong temperature causing uneven cooking
- Not greasing the pan sufficiently causing sticking
Meal Prep & Storage
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the dough balls and coat them the night before, then refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning for fresh bread with minimal effort.
Leftover Ideas
Reheat gently in the oven or toaster oven to restore the slightly crisp exterior. Microwaving will make it soft but still delicious.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this with...
Cooking Timeline
Measure and mix dry ingredients, prepare wet ingredients
Combine ingredients and knead dough gently
Let dough rest, prepare coating, preheat oven
Shape dough balls, coat, and arrange in pan
Bake until golden, then cool slightly before serving
High Protein No Sugar Monkey Bread Recipe
A wholesome take on the classic pull-apart pastry, this monkey bread is packed with protein and naturally sweetened, making it a guilt-free treat that feels indulgent.
Timing
Prep Time
25 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
55 Minutes
Recipe Details
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 01 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 02 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 03 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 04 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 05 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 06 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 07 1/4 cup milk of choice
- 08 1 large egg
- 09 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coating and Sweetener
- 01 1 cup pitted dates, finely chopped
- 02 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 03 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 04 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, protein powder, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky – that's perfect. If it feels too dry, add another tablespoon of milk.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 2-3 minutes until smooth. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rest for 15 minutes while you prepare the coating.
In a small bowl, mix the chopped dates with cinnamon. Lightly grease a bundt pan with coconut oil. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pinch off small pieces of dough (about tablespoon-sized) and roll into balls. Dip each ball in melted coconut oil, then roll in the date-cinnamon mixture.
Arrange the coated dough balls in your prepared bundt pan, layering them evenly. Sprinkle any remaining date mixture between layers. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Let the monkey bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate. It should release easily. Serve warm and enjoy the pull-apart goodness.
Notes & Tips
- 1 The dough texture is meant to be soft and slightly sticky – don't add extra flour
- 2 If dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping
- 3 Let the bread cool slightly before serving – it firms up nicely
Tools You'll Need
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Large mixing bowls
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Bundt pan
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Mixing spoon
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Pastry brush
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Cooling rack
Must-Know Tips
- Don't over-knead the dough – gentle handling keeps it tender
- Use a light hand when rolling the balls – compacted dough becomes dense
- Test for doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean
Professional Secrets
- Room temperature ingredients blend more smoothly
- Letting the dough rest develops better flavor and texture
- A well-greased pan ensures easy release
Recipe by
Grace Lawson“Butter, sugar, and a little love — that’s my baking philosophy! Let’s make your kitchen smell amazing.” 🍰❤️
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