There’s something about the smell of baked apples and cinnamon drifting through the kitchen that pulls you in. I remember one afternoon when I almost forgot I had this cake in the oven. I was halfway through a book, completely caught up in the story, when the scent finally reminded me to check. The warm, layered cake was just starting to brown on top, the apples peeking through in places like little golden promises. It wasn’t perfect — I think I let the layers mix a bit unevenly — but every bite was a satisfying mix of soft apples and lightly spiced, protein-rich cake. Sometimes the best treats are the ones that don’t look flawless but still taste like a quiet celebration.
This cake has become my go-to when I need a comforting snack that doesn’t leave me feeling guilty. It’s got enough protein to keep me going, yet it’s still sweet and tender in all the right ways. I usually slice a thick piece, sometimes with a little Greek yogurt on the side, and sit down for a few minutes of calm before the afternoon chaos kicks back in.
Why You’ll Love It
- Layers of tender apples and subtle spice create a cozy texture that feels homemade, even if it’s your first try.
- It’s packed with protein, which means you get a sweet treat that actually helps fuel your day.
- Simple ingredients come together without fuss—no complicated steps or fancy equipment needed.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No overwhelming flavors, just calm, comforting bites.
If you’re unsure about the texture, keep in mind that this cake leans on moist and tender rather than dense. That softness is part of its charm, but if you prefer something firmer, you might want to experiment a bit with baking time.
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Layered Protein Apple Cake
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
A moist and flavorful layered apple cake packed with protein, perfect for a healthy dessert or snack. Layers of spiced apple and protein-enriched batter come together to create a delicious treat.
Ingredients
2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cup oat flour
1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
In a medium bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice and set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together oat flour, vanilla protein powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add Greek yogurt, honey, applesauce, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil. Mix until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Spread a thin layer of batter evenly on the bottom of the prepared cake pan.
Arrange a layer of apple slices over the batter.
Pour another layer of batter over the apples, spreading gently to cover them.
Add another layer of apple slices on top of the batter.
Pour the remaining batter over the apples and spread evenly.
Arrange the final layer of apple slices on top.
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Kitchen Notes: I usually bake this in a standard round pan, and it comes out just right without any special gear. Serving it with a spoonful of plain yogurt adds a nice tang contrast, especially if your apples are on the sweeter side. You could try swapping in different spices, like a pinch of cardamom or ginger, though I haven’t tested all those combos yet — so if you do, tell me how it goes. Another idea is to add chopped nuts between layers for a bit of crunch, but keep in mind it might change the texture slightly. Also, if you want something a bit less sweet, cutting back a little on the honey works fine, although the cake will be less golden on top.
FAQ
Can I use other types of protein powder? Yes, but the flavor and texture might shift a bit depending on what you choose. Vanilla tends to blend best.
How long does the cake keep? It’s best eaten within a couple of days at room temperature, but you can refrigerate or freeze it for longer storage.
Is it suitable for breakfast? Absolutely! It’s filling enough to start your day or as a mid-morning pick-me-up.
Ready to try a new kind of apple cake? This layered protein apple cake is waiting to become your cozy afternoon companion.