This bowl features a thick, velvety porridge made from a base of almond flour and chia seeds simmered in unsweetened almond milk. The warm mixture is infused with vanilla and cinnamon, then finished with a glossy cinnamon-butter swirl drizzled over the surface. It offers a soft, spoonable texture and a rich aroma reminiscent of a warm cinnamon roll, providing a comforting and grain-free breakfast.

About This Recipe

The porridge is prepared by whisking almond milk with almond flour and chia seeds over medium heat. As the mixture warms, the chia seeds expand to create a dense, satisfying consistency while the protein powder integrates to thicken the base without the need for oats or starches. Butter is stirred in at the end of the cooking process to provide a silky mouthfeel and to carry the warmth of the ground cinnamon and vanilla throughout the bowl.

The flavor profile is defined by the nostalgic combination of sweet cinnamon and creamy vanilla balanced by a touch of keto-friendly sweetener. A separate swirl made from melted butter, cinnamon, and sweetener is drizzled on top, creating pockets of concentrated spice that marble into the mild porridge. The natural nuttiness of the almond flour provides an earthy depth that complements the aromatic spices, resulting in a well-rounded and savory-sweet finish.

Typically served hot in a deep bowl, this dish is a practical choice for a quick morning meal that takes only a few minutes on the stovetop. The thickness can be easily adjusted by simmering the mixture longer or adding a splash of extra almond milk before serving. The combination of the pale, creamy porridge and the dark, spiced butter swirl creates a simple and inviting appearance that is often finished with a light dusting of extra cinnamon or a drizzle of sugar-free syrup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Warm, cozy holiday flavor
High-protein, filling keto breakfast
Ready in under 5 minutes
Creamy porridge texture without oats
Easy to customize thickness
Naturally gluten-free and grain-free
Perfect for December mornings
Tastes like a cinnamon roll in a bowl

What You’ll Need for This Cinnamon Swirl Protein Porridge

Porridge Base

1 cup unsweetened almond milk
2 tbsp almond flour
1 tbsp chia seeds
1 scoop vanilla protein powder (keto-friendly)
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp granular sweetener
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Cinnamon Swirl

1 tbsp butter
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp granular sweetener

Optional Toppings

Extra cinnamon
Sugar-free maple syrup
A small pat of butter

Step-by-Step Preparation

In a small saucepan, heat almond milk over medium heat until warm.
Add almond flour, chia seeds, protein powder, butter, sweetener, cinnamon, and salt.
Whisk continuously for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
In a separate small bowl, mix together the swirl ingredients: melted butter, cinnamon, and sweetener.
Pour porridge into a bowl and drizzle the cinnamon swirl over the top.
Serve warm with any optional toppings.

FAQ

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes—use coconut oil instead of butter and a dairy-free protein powder.
Can I make it thicker?
Simmer longer or add an extra teaspoon chia seeds.
Can I make it thinner?
Add more almond milk until desired consistency is reached.
Can I use chocolate protein powder?
Yes, but the flavor becomes more dessert-like.
Can I prep this ahead?
Make the base and reheat with a splash of almond milk.

Variations & Substitutions

Add a pinch of nutmeg for more holiday flavor
Swap vanilla protein for cinnamon roll flavored
Add chopped pecans on top
Use brown-style sweetener for a deeper swirl
Mix in a tablespoon of pumpkin puree

Serving Suggestions

Top with keto maple syrup
Serve with a holiday coffee or latte
Add extra cinnamon for stronger flavor

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