Cinnamon Swirl Protein Cake — Low Carb, High Protein Treat Recipe
This Cinnamon Swirl Protein Cake is a deliciously low-calorie, low-carb, and high-protein treat perfect for a nutritious snack or dessert. It combines rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, and a fragrant cinnamon swirl baked into a moist, pancake-like cake. Easy to prepare in under 20 minutes, this cake is ideal for those seeking a healthy yet flavorful indulgence.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 1 small cake (approximately 4-4.5 inch diameter), serves 2 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Scale
Batter
- ½ cup rolled oats (~45 g)
- 2 egg whites (~60 g total)
- ⅔ cup water (≈160 ml)
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder (~2 oz / ~57 g)
- 1 teaspoon powdered Stevia (or your preferred sweetener)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (~4–5 g)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (~8 g) — for the swirl
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Heat the oven to 390°F (200°C). Lightly grease a small nonstick pan approximately 4–4.5 inches (10–11 cm) across to prevent sticking during baking.
- Make the Batter: Combine the rolled oats, egg whites, water, vanilla protein powder, Stevia, and baking powder in a blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture is smooth and thick, resembling hearty pancake batter.
- Layer and Swirl Cinnamon: Pour about half the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the tablespoon of ground cinnamon evenly over this layer. Then, spoon the remaining batter on top. Using a knife, drag through the batter gently a few times to create visible cinnamon ribbons without over-mixing.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12 minutes. The cake is done when the top springs back slightly and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a couple of minutes. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature as a satisfying high-protein treat.
Notes
- Pan Size Matters: This recipe is optimized for a small pan. Using a larger pan without adjusting baking time may result in an undercooked center.
- Protein Powder Choice: Use a vanilla-flavored protein powder that bakes well to avoid a gritty texture. If the first attempt is chalky, try another brand.
- Texture Tweaks: For a richer crumb, replace part of the water with milk (dairy or unsweetened plant milk).
- Sweetener Options: Powdered Stevia is ideal for low-carb versions, but erythritol, monk fruit, or regular sugar can also be used depending on dietary preferences.
Keywords: Cinnamon swirl protein cake, low calorie dessert, high protein cake, low carb cake, healthy cake recipe, quick protein treat, baked protein cake
