Description
This Easy Baked Cinnamon Swirl Protein Cake is a wholesome and delicious treat perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack. Made with rolled oats and protein powder, it combines the warmth of cinnamon with a sweet cinnamon swirl to satisfy your cravings without guilt. The recipe is simple, quick to prepare, and baked to a moist, fluffy perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted, for greasing)
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish with the melted coconut oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, protein powder, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together applesauce, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Create the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and the additional cinnamon to form the cinnamon swirl mixture.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish and evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over it. Pour the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon mixture. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup and ensure your protein powder is plant-based.
- Use any milk of your choice if almond milk is unavailable.
- The cinnamon swirl can be adjusted to your preferred sweetness and spice level.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This cake freezes well – wrap individual slices for easy thawing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: protein cake, cinnamon swirl, healthy breakfast, baked protein dessert, oats cake, easy baking recipe, vegetarian protein cake
