Welcome to a treat that blends the comforting warmth of cinnamon with the power of protein! This Cinnamon Swirl Protein Cake is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy dessert without derailing their health goals. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s an ideal treat for a post-workout snack or a satisfying breakfast.
Ingredients
To make this delightful cake, you’ll need:
- 2 cups of almond flour
- 1/2 cup of protein powder, vanilla-flavored
- 1 tablespoon of cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup of maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Equipments
Gather these kitchen tools before beginning:
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish (9-inch round or square)
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Protein Cake – Step By Step
Step 1: Prep Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your baking dish. This step ensures your cake will bake evenly and won’t stick to the dish. A baking paper can also help in easily lifting the cake after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, protein powder, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This thorough mixing ensures that all dry ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing clumps in your batter.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until you get a smooth mixture. The Greek yogurt adds moisture to the cake, while the applesauce acts as a natural sweetener and fat substitute.
Step 4: Create the Batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix as it might make the cake dense. This step ensures all the elements blend harmoniously.
Step 5: Swirl the Cinnamon
Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle additional cinnamon over the first layer if desired. Pour the remaining batter on top. Using a knife or toothpick, create gentle swirls by dragging through the layers. This creates a beautiful cinnamon swirl pattern in the baked cake.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake to prevent overbaking, which could dry it out. The cake should be golden and firm to touch.
How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Protein Cake
Slice the cake and serve it warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an added protein boost. It’s also fantastic topped with fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To enhance the cake’s flavor, try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter. For a sweeter taste, drizzle a glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled cake. Adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup or honey if preferred.
High Protein Version of Cinnamon Swirl Delight
Boost your cinnamon swirl experience by making a high-protein version of this cake. Swap some of the almond flour with additional protein powder to increase protein content without altering the delicious taste. Include nuts or seeds both in the batter and as toppings for extra protein and texture.
This high-protein version offers an excellent post-workout treat, providing necessary macronutrients while still satisfying your sweet tooth. It’s also a fantastic option for anyone wanting to maintain muscle mass while enjoying a scrumptious dessert.
Low Carb Temptation: Cinnamon Swirl Protein Cake
For those following a low-carb lifestyle, alter this recipe by replacing maple syrup with a sugar-free syrup alternative and minimizing the applesauce. Almond flour and protein powder already keep the carbs low, making this cake ideal without sacrificing flavor.
With these tweaks, you’ll indulge guilt-free, enjoying every bite of this cinnamon swirl wonder. Top it off with sugar-free whipped cream or Greek yogurt to enhance the taste while sticking to your low-carb goals.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, wrap pieces individually in cling film and freeze them for up to a month. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying again.
FAQs
Can I substitute the almond flour?
Yes, you can use oat flour or another nut flour as a substitute, but the texture may vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this cake egg-free?
Absolutely! Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) as a substitute.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Of course! Feel free to mix in some dark chocolate chips for an added flavor boost.
How do I make the cake more moist?
Try adding a bit more applesauce or a touch of oil to increase moisture content.
Can I use an alternative sweetener?
Yes, liquid stevia or monk fruit sweetener are great alternatives to maple syrup.
Delight in Every Bite: Closing Thoughts
This Cinnamon Swirl Protein Cake represents a delicious blend of health, nutrition, and indulgence. Whether you’re looking to add more protein to your diet or maintain a low-carb lifestyle, this cake fits perfectly. Share your own variations, leave a comment, and spread the joy of this delectable cake by sharing the recipe with your friends and family!
Cinnamon Swirl Protein Cake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- almond flour
- protein powder
- cinnamon
- baking powder
- baking soda
- salt
- Greek yogurt
- unsweetened applesauce
- maple syrup
- eggs
- vanilla extract
Instructions
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch baking dish.
- Whisk almond flour, protein powder, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Mix the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined.
- Pour half of the batter into the baking dish, sprinkle with cinnamon, and add remaining batter. Swirl using a knife.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.