Some recipes just invite you to slow down, pull up a chair, and savor a quiet moment. This layered protein apple cake does exactly that—it’s a comforting slice of warmth and subtle sweetness that feels just right on a lazy afternoon. The way the apple slices peek through the golden layers, dusted lightly with cinnamon and nutmeg, makes it almost too pretty to eat. Almost.
I remember the first time I baked this, the kitchen filled with the gentle aroma of spiced apples and vanilla. I was a little distracted by a phone call and almost missed the perfect moment to pull it out of the oven. But when I did, that tender crumb, moist with a hint of tang from Greek yogurt, made all the waiting worthwhile. It wasn’t perfectly neat—some apple slices shifted during baking—but that imperfection made it feel homemade and real. Sometimes, that’s what you want from a cake.
- Combines the wholesome goodness of protein powder without overwhelming the flavor
- Offers a tender, moist crumb thanks to Greek yogurt and a touch of milk
- Delivers cozy fall spices that aren’t overpowering, just enough to tease your taste buds
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point; no complicated steps, just good ingredients
- Because of the apple layering, you get little bursts of fruit with every bite, which might make you want to sneak an extra slice
If you’re wondering whether adding protein powder to a cake could affect texture or taste, this one strikes a nice balance. It stays soft and moist, not chalky or dry. And the apples help keep things fresh and lively, so you don’t feel like you’re eating just a dense protein bar disguised as cake.
PrintLayered Protein Apple Cake
A moist and flavorful layered apple cake enriched with protein powder, perfect for a healthy dessert or snack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 8
Ingredients
2 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, protein powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and Greek yogurt to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined.
Stir in the milk until the batter is smooth.
Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared cake pan.
Arrange half of the apple slices in a single layer over the batter.
Pour the remaining batter over the apple layer and spread evenly.
Top with the remaining apple slices, arranging them neatly on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
For baking, you don’t need anything fancy—a simple round cake pan does the trick perfectly. I usually serve it warm with a cup of black tea or coffee, but it also works chilled if you prefer. Sometimes, I’ve swapped out the vanilla protein powder for unflavored or even a mild cinnamon one, and it’s been interesting, though I can’t say I’ve tested all combinations thoroughly. If you want to mix it up, adding chopped nuts or a drizzle of honey before serving can add a nice touch without much effort.
FAQ:
Can I use different apples? Yes, firmer apples that hold their shape work best, but I’ve also tried softer varieties—just keep an eye on baking time.
Is it okay to substitute Greek yogurt? You can try sour cream or even a bit of buttermilk, but it may slightly change the texture.
How long does it keep? It’s best enjoyed within a couple of days at room temperature, but refrigeration extends freshness.
Give this layered protein apple cake a try when you want something both comforting and a bit nourishing. It’s the kind of treat that feels like a small reward, no matter the day.