8 protein-packed winter breakfasts (for when you need more than just coffee)

That breakfast is important, we really don't need to explain to you anymore. It is the boost that gets your engine running in the morning; and in the winter it could use an extra push. You want something tasty, filling and energising. Because once the temperature drops, coffee alone is not always enough. Not to worry, we got you. These eight protein-packed breakfasts will help you start your day with energy and that warm, cosy feeling inside; the edible version of a warm Olaf hug, so to speak.

Baked oatmeal with protein: your perfect winter breakfast

Those who have been opting for a slightly more elaborate breakfast than a cheese sandwich for a while now have probably tried overnight oats. Oatmeal is no longer a newcomer to the breakfast menu, but sometimes it could use a little upgrade. After all, the ‘regular’ variety does not give you as much energy as you would hope; it is relatively low in protein. Unless you turn it into baked oatmeal with protein - then you'll fly to the office.

For these proats (yes, protein + oats), you need a few things: oatmeal flakes, vanilla protein powder, unsweetened almond milk, eggs, peanut butter, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla extract, a pinch of salt and blueberries. It seems like quite a list, but trust me: it's worth it. Preheat the oven to 190 degrees and grease a baking dish. Mix everything in a large bowl, adding the blueberries a little later and saving a few for garnish. Then it's just a 35-minute wait until your kitchen smells like a breakfast bakery.

Now I understand that you don't always have time for that in the morning; an extensive cooking session just doesn't fit into the get ready schedule. Fortunately, you can make this recipe in advance, so you only need to heat it up later. And believe me: that first bite is exactly what you need on a cold morning.

Fajita breakfast burrito: the spicy breakfast you don't want to miss

Maybe I was Mexican in a previous life, because you can wake me up for anything from that cuisine. OK, that might be going a bit far, but it sure is tasty. Your day starts off perfectly with a fajita breakfast burrito; you know, one of those typical American films. The best part? You can put it together exactly the way you like it. An essential ingredient is of course protein, but whether you choose sausages, bacon or a meat substitute, it's your party. Then you can top the burrito with vegetables, herbs and, of course, cheese that melts so wonderfully. Not such a burrito fan? You can also opt for a breakfast vinaigrette. If we may recommend one: the combination sweet potato, egg, green pepper and cheese is truly divine.

Pay attention if you make this breakfast in advance. Let your burrito or quesidilla cool down well before freezing it so that it does not become soggy. The next morning, reheat it, and vamos, you're good to go.

Protein waffles: the breakfast that makes your heart beat faster

Are your eyes already starting to twinkle at the idea of sweets, but still want a healthy energy boost? Then try protein waffles for breakfast. You can make them all by yourself, but for those who are not kitchen princesses, there are also ready-made mixes. Besides the waffles themselves being delicious, you can top them off with toppings. How about cottage cheese, peanut butter or seeds and nuts for an extra energy boost? And some fresh fruit is always a good choice.

Again, you can make the mix or even the waffles ahead of time and bake them later. A better start to your day hardly exists, right?

Fluffy cottage cheese pancakes: the healthy breakfast that gets your day off to a breezy start

While we are on the sweet tour, fluffy cottage cheese pancakes really are a must-try, especially if you prefer not to start the day with too heavy a meal. For this recipe, you only need seven ingredients, here it comes: flour, baking powder, cinnamon, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla extract, almond milk and, of course, the star of the show: cottage cheese.

First mix the dry ingredients in one bowl, and the wet ones in another. Only when both are well mixed, add them together. Is your batter still a bit too thick? Then add some almond milk little by little to make it a little thinner. Then it's time to bake. And you know what they say: the first one always fails. Maybe schedule five extra minutes into your morning routine after all.

Protein-rich breakfast sandwiches: savoury, sweet and perfect for the morning

Another breakfast that might require some mealprep, but then you do have a delicious, protein-rich breakfast sandwich in a few minutes in the morning. Not one of those standard sandwiches, but one with just that little bit of extra indulgence. This sandwich consists of four main components: the English muffin, egg, chicken and cheese. But there is a twist, because for the egg and chicken you need to pull out just a little more.

Add a pinch of salt and pepper to your beaten eggs, plus a spoonful of cottage cheese; it may sound crazy, but it makes everything extra fluffy and gives an extra protein boost. For the chicken, use minced chicken and mix in some maple syrup, almond flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, dried sage and garlic powder. From that mixture, make mini chicken burgers to complete your sandwich. Stack them, wrap them well and just heat them up the next day. With some variation in the cheese, the bread or a bit of vegetables added, you can reinvent this sandwich every time. A healthy breakfast doesn't have to be boring.

Protein bagels: the perfect breakfast for power

Of course, buying a ready-made bagel is nice and quick and easy, but making your own bagels is just that little bit more satisfying. And believe me, it doesn't have to be difficult. With just four basic ingredients, you can make your own protein bagels, which will also give you more energy to start the day.

What you need: full-fat Greek yoghurt, self-rising baking flour, egg white and bagel spices. Mix the yoghurt with the self-rising flour to form a crumbly dough. Sprinkle some flour on your countertop and knead the dough until it stops sticking; you may need to add some extra flour. Then you get to unleash your creative talents: shape your bagels (a perfect circle is not necessary, rest assured). Brush them with some egg white and hup, into the oven.

And then comes the best part: topping your bagel. How about a nice egg with avocado, peanut butter with banana or just simple cream cheese? It's your creation.

Protein-rich egg biscuits: the breakfast that gives you energy

Biscuits as breakfast; sounds like something you used to really like, but were never allowed. Now, of course, you decide what you eat in the morning, and you can make these biscuits very healthy. Plus, they are super easy to take with you. It will take some multitasking, but we can do that, right?

Start by frying breakfast sausages in a frying pan, along with a mix of your favourite vegetables and a tablespoon of avocado oil. Meanwhile, beat eggs with a pinch of salt, pepper and some cottage cheese in a bowl. In another bowl, mix flour and baking powder; then add this mixture to your egg mix. Once that is well mixed, combine everything and form small balls on a baking tray. Sprinkle some cheese on top and voila, the biscuits can go into the oven.

You can vary the ingredients, especially the vegetables, each time for a different taste. And should the kids also want a biscuit in the morning? Then at least you know these are healthy. Win-win, isn't it?

Pumpkin protein breakfast cake: the warm start your winter morning needs

Another thing that sounds like it shouldn't really be: cake for breakfast. But a pumpkin protein variety, so a healthy twist on the sweet snack. It feels a bit like living your day in reverse and starting with dessert; I can honestly think of a worse start. For this cake, you'll need the following ingredients: pumpkin puree, eggs, protein powder, oat flour, maple syrup, vanilla, baking powder and pumpkin pie spice. Start by mixing well the pumpkin puree, eggs, egg whites, vanilla and maple syrup. Then add the egg white powder, baking powder, oat flour and pumpkin spices. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake the cake for 25 minutes. Let it cool and finish with a little garnish.

Especially take some extra slices to the office; you'll be the favourite colleague in no time. And with a pumpkin spice latte on the side, your morning is complete.

So, 8 breakfasts that will get you through the cold mornings. Just that extra bit of energy, and mega delicious too. Make it a great morning!

Source: The Every Girl