Ditch the sugary cereals and start your day with a powerful protein punch! High-protein cereals are gaining traction as a delicious and nutritious way to fuel your mornings. But with so many options on the shelves, how do you choose the right one? This guide will navigate you through the key features of a good high-protein cereal, helping you find the perfect option to keep you feeling full, energized, and ready to conquer your day.
To aid you with your search, we created a list of the 10 best high-protein cereals available online from sites like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. Post's Premier Protein cereal was our top choice as it's both healthy and delicious, with 20 grams of protein! For more options, keep reading our list of favorites. Check out our buying guide with insights from fitness enthusiast Chris Heffner to help you find a cereal to up your protein intake.
Quick List - Top High-Protein Cereal
With over a decade of weightlifting experience, Christopher Heffner is an avid fitness enthusiast who enjoys starting his day with a good workout. He also has a background in engineering and business, bringing a unique blend of technical knowledge and practicality to his endeavors.
Table of Contents
Choosing a high-protein cereal doesn't need to be difficult. This buying guide breaks down all the important factors you should keep in mind when deciding on a product, including its protein content, flavor, and texture.
The first thing to consider is the protein content of a cereal. Usually, high-protein cereals have from 6 to 15 grams of protein per serving. Comparatively, the protein content in regular cereals is only about one to four grams per serving. 6 to 15 grams is a common range for protein cereals and offers a sufficient amount of protein for most people's needs.
If you're an athlete or have particularly high protein requirements, there are even cereals with 20 grams or more per serving. Higher protein intake can promote feelings of satiety, keeping you feeling fuller for longer, and may also contribute to muscle growth and repair. The recommended protein intake for an average adult is about 7 grams of protein per 20 pounds of body weight, but everyone's body is different. Consider consulting with a registered dietitian to determine the right amount of protein for you.
As someone who tends to get the best results from a high-protein diet, it can sometimes be a challenge to hit the numbers I want while still enjoying regular food. The stereotypical bodybuilder diet of plain chicken and steamed broccoli is great for nutrition, but the taste gets old really fast. At 20g of protein per serving, the Premier Protein cereals are one of my favorite ways to have a healthy meal of regular food. An extra bonus for me is that it doesn't have the same over-the-top sweetness as cereals with cartoon mascots tend to have.
Many breakfast cereals are loaded with added sugars, which can negate the health benefits of a high-protein option. While the total sugar content listed on the label includes naturally occurring sugars in ingredients like fruits and milk, it's the added sugars you want to minimize. Ideally, choose a cereal with less than 5 grams of total sugar per serving. This will help you avoid a sugary breakfast spike and focus on the protein content that keeps you feeling full.
Opting for a cereal with a 200-calorie serving size promotes portion control by allowing you to distribute your calories strategically throughout the day. Compared to traditional breakfast cereals that can range from 200-300 calories per serving, this falls within a lower range. It's important to remember that healthy doesn't necessarily equal low calories. A bowl of sugary cereal with 200 calories wouldn't be considered nutritious. The focus should be on nutrient density.
You can always personalize your breakfast by adding nuts, seeds, or fruit to a sub-200-calorie cereal for a boost in nutrients and satiety. The 200-calorie benchmark is a good starting point but not a rigid rule. Athletes or individuals with higher calorie needs might require a more substantial breakfast. A low-calorie, high-protein cereal would allow for increased protein intake without unnecessary calories.
When I'm trying to diet down a bit, consistency and convenience are the two most important things. If I can shave off a few calories from every meal, that makes it easier to stick to my diet plan day after day and see the results I'm looking for. Being able to eat regular food for all my meals is also a lot more satisfying than having to eat particularly small portions.
Consuming a cereal that has a lot of protein but lacks other nutrients can actually lead to some unwanted side effects. For example, excess protein can cause dehydration. If you eat too much protein but not enough fiber, you might end up with constipation as well! Consider cereals rich in a variety of nutrients, such as the ones below.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Protein | Sugars | Calories | Fiber | Serving Size | Servings per Container | Cost per Serving | Iron | Vitamin D | Calcium | Potassium | Gluten Free | Organic | Vegan | |||||
1 | Premier Protein Chocolate Almond Cereal | ![]() | Start Your Day with Protein-Packed Chocolatey Goodness | 20 g | 5 g | 180 Calories | 1 g | 42 g | 6 Servings | $0.94/Serving | 2.2 mg | 0 mcg | 30 mg | 120 mg | ||||
2 | Catalina Crunch Cinnamon Toast | ![]() | Plant-Based, Sweetened with Stevia and Monk Fruit | 11 g | 0 g | 110 Calories | 9 g | 36 g | 7Servings | $0.99/Serving | 1.6 mg | 0 mcg | 50 mg | 30 mg | ||||
3 | Premier Protein® Mixed Berry Almond Cereal | ![]() | The High-Protein Cornflake | 20 g | 5 g | 180 Calories | 1 g | 42 g | 20 Servings | $0.94/Serving | 2.1 mg | 0 mcg | 40 mg | 110 mg | unknown | |||
4 | :ratio Ratio Keto Friendly Coconut Almond Granola | ![]() | Satisfying Breakfast for Your Keto Goals | 8 g | 1 g | 150 Calories | 2 g | 27 g | 8 Servings | $0.82/Serving | 1.2 mg | 0 mcg | 60 mg | 140 mg | unknown | |||
5 | Great Grains® Great Grains|Cranberry Almond Crunch® Cereal | ![]() | Hearty and GMO-Free | 5 g | 12 g | 210 Calories | 4 g | 56 g | 7 Servings | $0.58/Serving | 4.5 mg | 2 mcg | 20 mg | 170 mg | unknown | |||
6 | Magic Spoon Variety Pack |4 pack | ![]() | Part of a Keto-Friendly Breakfast | 13-14 g | 0 g | 140-170 Calories | 1-2 g | 37-38 g | 5 Servings | $2.10/Serving | 2 mg | 0 mcg | 19-22 mg | 19-105 mg | unknown | |||
7 | :ratio Trio Vanilla Almond Crunch Cereal | ![]() | Protein-Packed for Sustained Energy | 10 g | 3 g | 140 Calories | 3 g | 39 g | 7 Servings | $0.94/Serving | 3.6 mg | 2 mcg | 80 mg | 100 mg | unknown | |||
8 | Catalina Crunch Dark Chocolate | ![]() | Indulge in Dark Chocolate Without the Guilt | 11 g | 0 g | 110 Calories | 9 g | 36 g | 7 Servings | $1.15/Serving | 2.3 mg | 0 mcg | 50 mg | 80 mg | ||||
9 | Wonderworks Keto Friendly Cereal | ![]() | Keto-Friendly Nostalgia | 17 g | 1 g | 150 Calories | 4 g | 40 g | 7 Servings | $1.40/Serving | 1.2 mg | 0 mcg | 220 mg | 120 mg | unknown | |||
10 | Post Great Grains Raisins Dates and Pecans | ![]() | Delicious and Nutritious for Daily Wellness | 4 g | 13 g | 200 Calories | 4 g | 54 g | 8 Servings | $0.51/Serving | 10.8 mg | 2 mcg | 20 mg | 210 mg |
Protein | 20 g |
---|---|
Sugars | 5 g |
Calories | 180 Calories |
Post Premier Protein Chocolate Almond breakfast cereal offers a delicious way to kickstart your morning. Packed with protein and made with real almonds and crispy chocolate-flavored flakes, this cereal delivers a satisfying, nutty, and chocolatey taste. Whether you enjoy it with milk or by the handful, it’s the perfect high-protein breakfast or snack to keep you fueled throughout the day.
This high-protein cereal isn’t just for breakfast; it’s a convenient snack option that fits into your routine whenever hunger strikes. Whether after a workout or as a mid-morning pick-me-up, Premier Protein cereal provides a wholesome, tasty option that the whole family can enjoy.
Fiber | 1 g |
---|---|
Serving Size | 42 g |
Servings per Container | 6 Servings |
Cost per Serving | $0.94/Serving |
Iron | 2.2 mg |
Vitamin D | 0 mcg |
Calcium | 30 mg |
Potassium | 120 mg |
Gluten Free | |
Organic | |
Vegan |
Protein | 11 g |
---|---|
Sugars | 0 g |
Calories | 110 Calories |
Catalina Crunch Cinnamon Toast Keto Cereal has both an appealing taste and nutritional profile. This cereal is made for those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, featuring only 5 grams of net carbs per serving and boasting 11 grams of protein and 9 grams of fiber.
The secret to its low-carb content is the proprietary "Catalina Flour," a blend of pea protein and various fibers. This cereal stands out for maintaining its crunch even when mixed with milk, a common issue with many keto-friendly cereals. It also leaves you with delicious cinnamon-flavored milk, enhancing the eating experience.
Fiber | 9 g |
---|---|
Serving Size | 36 g |
Servings per Container | 7Servings |
Cost per Serving | $0.99/Serving |
Iron | 1.6 mg |
Vitamin D | 0 mcg |
Calcium | 50 mg |
Potassium | 30 mg |
Gluten Free | |
Organic | |
Vegan |
Protein | 20 g |
---|---|
Sugars | 5 g |
Calories | 180 Calories |
Post Premier Protein Mixed Berry Almond is a cereal for consumers seeking a higher protein breakfast option. Featuring a blend of crispy flakes, real strawberries, raspberries, and almonds, it offers a combination of sweet and savory flavors. With 20 grams of protein per serving, it aims to provide sustained energy and satiety. The cereal is also low in sugar, containing only 5 grams per serving. While many consumers appreciate its protein content and taste, some find its texture less crispy than traditional cereals. Despite this, Premier Protein Mixed Berry Almond remains a popular choice for those looking to boost their protein intake at breakfast.
Fiber | 1 g |
---|---|
Serving Size | 42 g |
Servings per Container | 20 Servings |
Cost per Serving | $0.94/Serving |
Iron | 2.1 mg |
Vitamin D | 0 mcg |
Calcium | 40 mg |
Potassium | 110 mg |
Gluten Free | |
Organic | |
Vegan | unknown |
Protein | 8 g |
---|---|
Sugars | 1 g |
Calories | 150 Calories |
Whether you're enjoying it with milk at home, mixing it with yogurt for a quick snack, or packing it for an on-the-go treat, this granola fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle. The resealable bag makes it easy to take anywhere, ensuring you have a satisfying, keto-friendly option at your fingertips. With only 2g net carbs per serving, it's a versatile and delicious choice for anyone looking to manage their macros without sacrificing flavor.
Fiber | 2 g |
---|---|
Serving Size | 27 g |
Servings per Container | 8 Servings |
Cost per Serving | $0.82/Serving |
Iron | 1.2 mg |
Vitamin D | 0 mcg |
Calcium | 60 mg |
Potassium | 140 mg |
Gluten Free | |
Organic | |
Vegan | unknown |
Protein | 5 g |
---|---|
Sugars | 12 g |
Calories | 210 Calories |
Post Great Grains Cranberry Almond Crunch is a cereal known for its wholesome ingredients and appealing flavors. It combines crispy flakes, crunchy granola clusters, dried cranberries, and sliced almonds to create a satisfying breakfast. Marketed as a source of whole grains, it provides dietary fiber and essential nutrients.
The cranberries add a tart sweetness, complemented by the nutty flavor of almonds, giving you a flavorful and nutritious breakfast. Great Grains Cranberry Almond Crunch is a well-balanced choice for a tasty and healthy start to your day, accommodating various dietary preferences and lifestyles.
Fiber | 4 g |
---|---|
Serving Size | 56 g |
Servings per Container | 7 Servings |
Cost per Serving | $0.58/Serving |
Iron | 4.5 mg |
Vitamin D | 2 mcg |
Calcium | 20 mg |
Potassium | 170 mg |
Gluten Free | |
Organic | |
Vegan | unknown |
Protein | 13-14 g |
---|---|
Sugars | 0 g |
Calories | 140-170 Calories |
Magic Spoon Cereal shines as a transformative option for health-conscious individuals seeking a balanced breakfast. Each serving boasts 3-4 grams of net carbs and 11-12 grams of protein, making it ideal for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets. Crafted with natural sweeteners like allulose and monk fruit extract, it avoids artificial additives and flavors.
With enticing flavors such as cocoa, fruity, frosted, and peanut butter, Magic Spoon caters to diverse tastes while positioning itself as a healthier alternative to traditional cereals. Emphasizing high protein and low sugar content, Magic Spoon Cereal provides gratification for your low-carb, high-protein breakfast needs.
Fiber | 1-2 g |
---|---|
Serving Size | 37-38 g |
Servings per Container | 5 Servings |
Cost per Serving | $2.10/Serving |
Iron | 2 mg |
Vitamin D | 0 mcg |
Calcium | 19-22 mg |
Potassium | 19-105 mg |
Gluten Free | |
Organic | |
Vegan | unknown |
Protein | 10 g |
---|---|
Sugars | 3 g |
Calories | 140 Calories |
Start your day with a satisfying crunch from Keto Friendly Vanilla Almond Crunch Cereal. This delicious breakfast option features a blend of vanilla-flavored cereal squares, nutty clusters, and sliced almonds, offering a perfectly balanced taste and texture. Designed for those on a low-carb journey, this cereal provides a delicious way to enjoy your breakfast while staying on track with your nutritional goals.
With 10g of protein per serving, Vanilla Almond Crunch Cereal fuels your morning or serves as a convenient on-the-go snack. It strikes the right balance of protein, net carbs, and sugar, making it an excellent choice for those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle. Each serving delivers 9g net carbs, 3g sugar, and 140 calories, ensuring you get the energy and flavor you need without sacrificing your dietary preferences.
Fiber | 3 g |
---|---|
Serving Size | 39 g |
Servings per Container | 7 Servings |
Cost per Serving | $0.94/Serving |
Iron | 3.6 mg |
Vitamin D | 2 mcg |
Calcium | 80 mg |
Potassium | 100 mg |
Gluten Free | |
Organic | |
Vegan | unknown |
Protein | 11 g |
---|---|
Sugars | 0 g |
Calories | 110 Calories |
Catalina Crunch Dark Chocolate Keto Cereal is your perfect partner for a low-carb lifestyle. With ZERO sugar, 11g of plant protein, 9g of fiber, and only 5g of net carbs per serving, this delicious cereal delivers a rich, chocolatey flavor that satisfies cravings without derailing your diet. Whether you're jump-starting your morning or needing an afternoon pick-me-up, this cereal provides a guilt-free way to fuel your day.
Packed with plant-based proteins and fiber, Catalina Crunch Dark Chocolate Keto Cereal keeps you full longer while supporting digestive health. Made with premium, all-natural ingredients, this cereal is non-GMO, gluten-free, sugar-free, and 100% vegan. Free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors, it's sweetened naturally with stevia, ensuring a clean, wholesome treat you can enjoy without compromise.
Fiber | 9 g |
---|---|
Serving Size | 36 g |
Servings per Container | 7 Servings |
Cost per Serving | $1.15/Serving |
Iron | 2.3 mg |
Vitamin D | 0 mcg |
Calcium | 50 mg |
Potassium | 80 mg |
Gluten Free | |
Organic | |
Vegan |
Protein | 17 g |
---|---|
Sugars | 1 g |
Calories | 150 Calories |
Bring back the joy of childhood breakfasts with Wonderworks Chocolate Keto Friendly Cereal. This naturally flavored chocolate cereal delivers the nostalgic experience you loved as a kid, now perfectly tailored to fit your keto lifestyle. With just one gram of sugar and one net carb per serving, it's a guilt-free way to enjoy a satisfying, chocolatey start to your day.
Wonderworks isn't just a breakfast cereal; it's a versatile addition to your keto meal prep. Whether you enjoy it in a bowl with milk or a dairy-free alternative, incorporate it into keto recipes, or mix it into a snack, Wonderworks helps you stay on track all day long. Each serving provides high protein and low carbs, making it an excellent choice for those focused on mindful eating.
Fiber | 4 g |
---|---|
Serving Size | 40 g |
Servings per Container | 7 Servings |
Cost per Serving | $1.40/Serving |
Iron | 1.2 mg |
Vitamin D | 0 mcg |
Calcium | 220 mg |
Potassium | 120 mg |
Gluten Free | |
Organic | |
Vegan | unknown |
Protein | 4 g |
---|---|
Sugars | 13 g |
Calories | 200 Calories |
Great Grains Cereal offers an excellent source of fiber and whole grains, making it a nutritious way to begin your day. Each serving provides 32g of whole grains, supporting heart health and overall wellness. With 4g of total fat per serving, this cereal aligns with nutritionists' recommendations for whole grain intake, contributing to a balanced diet rich in plant foods.
Packed in a convenient 16-ounce box, Great Grains Cereal is a wholesome option that supports your daily health goals. Whether enjoyed with milk or as a dry snack, this cereal is a satisfying and heart-healthy choice for any time of the day.
Fiber | 4 g |
---|---|
Serving Size | 54 g |
Servings per Container | 8 Servings |
Cost per Serving | $0.51/Serving |
Iron | 10.8 mg |
Vitamin D | 2 mcg |
Calcium | 20 mg |
Potassium | 210 mg |
Gluten Free | |
Organic | |
Vegan |
Whether it's cereal, a smoothie, or a grab-and-go bar, we have many suggestions for you if you're looking for some other breakfast foods that contain a high amount of protein! Check out our product guides to learn more.
No. 1: Premier Protein|Chocolate Almond Cereal
No. 2: Catalina Crunch|Cinnamon Toast
No. 3: Premier Protein®|Mixed Berry Almond Cereal
No. 4: :ratio|Ratio Keto Friendly Coconut Almond Granola
No. 5: Great Grains® |Great Grains|Cranberry Almond Crunch® Cereal
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