Quick Description:
This delicious high-protein walnut cake is a soft, moist treat that combines the richness of walnuts with a light and fluffy texture. Perfect for a satisfying dessert or snack, this cake offers a boost of protein and healthy fats, making it an indulgent yet nutritious choice!
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40โ45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients List
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (for added protein and moisture)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan
Preheat the oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Line an 8ร8 baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. -
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, Greek yogurt, applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. -
Add Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the almond flour, protein powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed. -
Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a smooth batter forms. Be careful not to overmix. -
Fold in Walnuts
Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. -
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle a few extra walnuts on top for added crunch.
Bake for 40โ45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. -
Cool & Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Additional Notes
- Texture: The almond flour provides a moist, dense texture while the Greek yogurt helps keep it light and fluffy.
- Sweetness: Adjust the honey or maple syrup to your desired level of sweetness. You can also add a little stevia if you prefer a lower-calorie option.
- Toppings: Add more chopped walnuts or drizzle with a small amount of peanut butter for extra protein and flavor.
Dietary Info
- Keto-Friendly: Yes (low-carb)
- High Protein: Yes (thanks to protein powder and Greek yogurt)
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Sugar-Free Option: Yes (with stevia or monk fruit)
Flavor Tips & Variations
- Chocolate Chip Version: For a chocolatey twist, add a handful of dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs to the batter.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of flavor.
- Coconut Version: Add 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Almond Flour: If you donโt have almond flour, you can substitute it with coconut flour (use 1/4 cup less coconut flour).
- Greek Yogurt: If you donโt have Greek yogurt, you can use plain yogurt or cottage cheese.
- Protein Powder: Any unflavored or vanilla protein powder can be used. Adjust the sweetness according to the powder you use.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
- Make-Ahead: The cake can be made a day or two in advance, and it actually becomes even more flavorful when allowed to sit for a day.