Starting your day with a high-protein breakfast is one of the best ways to feel energized, stay full, and kickstart your metabolism. For vegans, getting enough protein at breakfast can sometimes feel like a challenge, but it’s easier than you think! A high-protein vegan breakfast not only supports muscle repair and growth but also helps stabilize your blood sugar, curb hunger, and keep you energized throughout the morning.
If you’re looking to shake up your breakfast routine with plant-based options that pack a protein punch, you’re in the right place. From tofu scrambles to smoothie bowls, here are the six best high protein vegan breakfasts that are both delicious and nutritious.
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Why Protein at Breakfast Is Essential
Before diving into the recipes, let’s take a quick look at why protein is so important in the morning:
- Keeps You Full Longer: Protein helps keep you full for longer periods, preventing hunger pangs and unhealthy snacking later in the day.
- Regulates Blood Sugar: Eating a protein-rich breakfast helps balance blood sugar levels and prevent crashes that leave you feeling sluggish.
- Supports Muscle Repair: Protein is essential for muscle recovery and growth, making it a must for anyone engaging in exercise or strength training.
- Boosts Metabolism: Protein can increase your thermic effect of food (TEF), meaning your body burns more calories while digesting protein-rich foods compared to carbs or fats.
6 Best High Protein Vegan Breakfasts: Delicious and Energizing
With that in mind, let’s explore some of the best high protein vegan breakfast ideas!
1. Tofu Scramble with Veggies
Protein per serving: 15-20g (depending on portion size)
A tofu scramble is one of the most popular high-protein vegan breakfasts that can easily replace scrambled eggs. Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein and is versatile enough to pair with a variety of vegetables and spices to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 block firm tofu
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup bell peppers (or any veggies you like)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
- 1/2 tsp turmeric (for color and anti-inflammatory benefits)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
Instructions:
- Drain and crumble the tofu into small pieces using your hands or a fork.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened.
- Add the crumbled tofu to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with nutritional yeast, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Serve with a side of whole grain toast or avocado for a balanced breakfast.
2. Protein-Packed Smoothie Bowl
Protein per serving: 20-25g
Smoothie bowls are a great way to start the day with both protein and a dose of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. You can easily boost the protein content by adding plant-based protein powder and using high-protein ingredients like almond butter and chia seeds.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 frozen banana
- 1/2 cup frozen berries (blueberries, strawberries, etc.)
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
- 1 scoop vegan protein powder (pea protein or hemp protein work well)
- 1 tbsp almond butter or peanut butter
- 1 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds
- Toppings: granola, coconut flakes, sliced almonds, or fresh fruit
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the frozen banana, berries, almond milk, protein powder, almond butter, and chia seeds.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour into a bowl and top with granola, fruit, and any additional toppings of your choice.
- Enjoy this nutrient-dense and protein-packed breakfast!
3. Chickpea Flour Pancakes
Protein per serving: 12-15g
Chickpea flour (also known as besan) is an excellent source of plant-based protein and a perfect ingredient for savory or sweet vegan pancakes. These pancakes are easy to make and can be topped with a variety of toppings like fruits, nut butter, or maple syrup.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup chickpea flour
- 1/2 cup water (or more for desired consistency)
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter (for cooking)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the chickpea flour, water, baking powder, and salt until smooth. If you like a thinner batter, add more water.
- Heat a non-stick pan with a little oil or butter over medium heat.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter into the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve with toppings such as avocado, sautéed veggies, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet treat.
4. High-Protein Oatmeal with Nut Butter and Seeds
Protein per serving: 15-20g
Oats are a fantastic base for a high-protein breakfast when paired with protein-rich toppings like nut butter, seeds, and protein powder. This oatmeal is filling and can be customized with your favorite toppings for extra flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1 scoop vegan protein powder (optional, but boosts protein)
- 1 tbsp peanut butter, almond butter, or sunflower seed butter
- 1 tbsp chia seeds or hemp seeds
- Toppings: banana slices, berries, or coconut flakes
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, bring the almond milk to a simmer.
- Add the rolled oats and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the protein powder (if using) and cook for another minute.
- Transfer to a bowl and top with nut butter, chia seeds, and your favorite fruit.
- Enjoy a warm, hearty, and protein-packed breakfast.
5. Vegan Protein Muffins
Protein per serving: 8-12g (depending on the recipe)
For those who prefer a grab-and-go breakfast, vegan protein muffins are a great option. These muffins can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for an easy, protein-packed morning meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar or maple syrup
- 1 scoop vegan protein powder
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with liners.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, oats, protein powder, and baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, combine the applesauce, almond milk, vanilla extract, and coconut sugar.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
- Spoon the batter into the muffin tin and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the muffins cool before serving or storing.
6. Avocado Toast with Hemp Seeds
Protein per serving: 10-12g
Avocado toast is a classic, and when you add protein-rich toppings like hemp seeds or nutritional yeast, it becomes a great high-protein vegan breakfast option. Plus, the healthy fats from avocado provide sustained energy throughout the morning.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 slices whole grain or sourdough bread
- 1 tbsp hemp seeds
- 1 tsp nutritional yeast (optional)
- Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, to taste
- Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
- Toast the bread to your liking.
- Mash the avocado with a fork and season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
- Spread the mashed avocado evenly on the toasted bread.
- Sprinkle with hemp seeds and nutritional yeast for an added protein boost.
- Top with red pepper flakes for a little spice, if you like.
Conclusion
A high-protein vegan breakfast doesn’t have to be difficult to prepare or boring to eat. Whether you prefer something savory like tofu scramble or a sweet smoothie bowl, there are plenty of delicious and filling options that can help you start your day with sustained energy. Adding protein-rich foods like tofu, tempeh, chickpea flour, seeds, and vegan protein powder will keep you full and satisfied while providing the nutrients you need to stay healthy.
These high-protein vegan breakfast ideas are not only great for weight management but also perfect for muscle recovery and supporting an active lifestyle. The best part? They’re all versatile, so feel free to get creative and customize them based on your preferences and what you have on hand.
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