Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup vanilla whey protein powder

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or whole milk)

2 large eggs

1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

1/4 cup olive oil or melted coconut oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups mixed fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)

1 tablespoon flour (for tossing berries)

2 tablespoons sliced almonds

1 tablespoon coarse sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the surface to prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, vanilla whey protein powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat the Greek yogurt, eggs, honey or maple syrup, olive oil or melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully blended.

Step 4: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

Step 5: Toss the mixed berries with 1 tablespoon of flour in a separate bowl to coat them evenly. Then, gently fold the berries into the batter.

Step 6: Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Sprinkle sliced almonds and coarse sugar evenly on top for a crunchy finish, if desired.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 33 to 38 minutes, or until the cake turns golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, lift it onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh berries when in season for the best flavor, or opt for frozen berries if fresh are unavailable. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well.

Substitute the honey or maple syrup with agave nectar or your preferred liquid sweetener for a different twist.

For a nut-free option, skip the sliced almonds and coarse sugar topping or replace with toasted coconut flakes.

Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a fresh citrus note that complements the berries beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of protein powder?

Yes, you can substitute vanilla whey protein with plant-based protein powders like pea or rice protein. Just note that texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free yogurt alternative such as coconut or almond yogurt and a compatible protein powder. Also, choose a plant-based oil and ensure your protein powder is dairy-free.