Author Archives: Jennifer FIsher

Protein Hummingbird Cake with Cheesecake Frosting – A Pineapple Coconut Dream

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If you’ve never experienced the classic Southern charm of Hummingbird Cake, prepare to fall in love — especially with this better-for-you twist. This high-protein Hummingbird Cake delivers all the tropical flavor you crave in a better-for-you way.  Sweetened naturally with banana and pineapple, rich with shredded coconut, and finished with a luscious protein cream cheese frosting, this healthy dessert is as satisfying as it is stunning.

Each slice of this single-layer protein cake boasts just 256 calories and a solid 13 grams of protein, making it a smart choice whether you’re treating yourself after a workout, sharing with friends at a spring gathering, or enjoying it as a no-reason weekday snack. Honestly, I wouldn’t think twice about having a slice of this pineapple protein cake for breakfast — it’s that balanced and delicious.

You’ll love the moist texture from blended fruit and your favorite vanilla protein powder along with flour (choose all-purpose, whole wheat or a gluten-free baking blend). Chopped pecans and unsweetened shredded coconut add a nutty crunch that perfectly complements the tropical flavor combo. It’s a simple but impressive high-protein dessert recipe that comes together in one bowl and bakes in a standard 8-inch round cake pan.

Tips for the Best Protein Hummingbird Cake:

  1. Fresh pineapple brings the brightest flavor, but canned crushed pineapple works too—just pour off about half the juice so your batter doesn’t get too runny.
  2. Protein Powder: Use your preferred vanilla or cake batter protein powder (I used Nuzest Clean Lean Protein —you can use my code FITFORK for 15% off).
  3. Zero-Carb Sweetener (or not): Depending on your protein powder’s sweetness and your personal taste, you may want to add a bit of extra sweetness. Choose low-carb sweeteners like granulated monk fruit, stevia, or a no-sugar baking blend.
  4. Pan Size: A standard 8-inch round cake pan is perfect, but this recipe also works well in a 9×9-inch square pan or even a muffin pan(makes about 9 cupcakes, just reduce the baking time by 5 to 8 minutes).
  5. Frosting: The protein cheesecake frosting on this pineapple coconut protein cake is ridiculously easy and doubles as a topper for everything from protein pancakes to muffins. But if you’re short on time, you can skip it and go with a dollop of zero-carb whipped topping or even enjoy the cake plain.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy spring dessert, a lightened-up take on a nostalgic favorite, or just a creative new way to use ripe bananas, coconut, and fresh or canned pineapple, this guilt-free Hummingbird Cake is ready to impress.

This tropical-inspired Protein Hummingbird Cake is light, luscious, and loaded with 13g protein per slice. Featuring banana, pineapple, coconut, and a dreamy cheesecake frosting, it’s perfect for a guilt-free spring or summer dessert.

Note: This post contains affiliate links I earn a small commission from purchases made through links – this helps offset operating costs for The Fit Fork.

This tropical-inspired Protein Hummingbird Cake is light, luscious, and loaded with 13g protein per slice. Featuring banana, pineapple, coconut, and a dreamy cheesecake frosting, it’s perfect for a guilt-free spring or summer dessert.
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Protein Hummingbird Cake
This tropical-inspired Protein Hummingbird Cake is light, luscious, and loaded with 13g protein per slice. Featuring banana, pineapple, coconut, and a dreamy cheesecake frosting, it’s perfect for a guilt-free spring or summer dessert.
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
  • 2/3 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free all purpose baking blend
  • 2/3 cup vanilla whey protein powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ cup sugar alternative optional cup-for-cup equivalent
  • 1/2 cup mashed ripe bananas
  • 1 cup finely chopped fresh pineapple and any juice that comes from it
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 2 Tbsp oil of choice
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 3/4 Tbsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cups chopped roasted unsalted pecans see Cook’s Note
  • 1/3 cup shredded toasted coconut reserve 1 tbsp
  • Frosting:
  • 4- oz-ounce Neufachel cream cheese cubed and at room temperature
  • 1/3 cup plain fat-free Greek yogurt
  • 1/3 cup vanilla whey protein powder
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
  2. Add flour, protein powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg to bowl; toss to combine. Add sugar alternative, if desired – the protein powder will give some sweetness.
  3. In blender, banana, pineapple (plus any juice), yogurt, eggs, and oil; blend until mostly smooth.
  4. Pour fruit mixture into dry mixture and mix with spatula until combined. Stir in coconut (reserving 1 tbsp) and pecans.
  5. Pour into a non-stick 8” round cake pan. Bake for approx. 25 minutes, or until set and toothpick pulls clean.
  6. Let come to room temperature before icing. To make frosting, add cream cheese, yogurt and protein powder to bowl and stir until smooth. Sprinkle with reserved toasted coconut.
  7. Makes 8 servings, store leftovers covered in fridge for up to 5 days.
Recipe Notes

Fitness Gifts for Moms That Are Strong, Sporty, and Seriously Amazing

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Celebrate the strong, sporty mom in your life with the best Mother’s Day fitness gifts for moms! I’ve rounded up my favorite health, fitness, and wellness finds — from the oversized Sanctum XL sunglasses by Tifosi to the must-have Healing Red Light Pad from Novaalabs, plus stylish workout essentials like the Adjustable Bra by Handful and the Leaps & Rebound Fitness Rebounder. Bonus: score discounts on top brands like Greatness Wins, IUGA, Hyrox, and Previnex to make gifting even sweeter!

Sanctum XL Sunglasses by Tifosi:  A popular style of Tifosi sunglasses just got supersized—meet Sanctum XL. Designed for those who demand a larger fit, broader coverage in sports eyewear – I was so happy if fit with my big head. Even though they are larger, they still feel nice and lightweight. With 25% more lens area, it delivers expanded UVA/UVB protection and keeps me from squinting so much. Find them HERE.

Healing Red Light Pad from Novaalabs:  She’ll enjoy the benefits of temporary relief of minor pain and stiffness in the back, knees, and neck from this multi-placement red-light pad (an included Velcro strip helps keep the pad where needed).  The light wavelengths help non-invasively heal tissues up to 1” deep by reducing inflammation, encouraging blood vessel development, increasing collagen production and more.  I primarily use my pad to manage arthritis pain and minor DOMS. SO many benefits from Red Light, you should Google it! This company also has many other red-light devices worth checking out! Use my Novaalabs discount code JENNIFER10 to save 10%.

Adjustable Bra in Battle Cry Pink by Handful: If ever there was the most perfect bra, THIS IS IT! That’s why I currently have 12+ of this style! It’s the ultimate blend of comfort, versatility, and performance – soft, sweat-wicking, removable pads (the nicest I’ve seen), I love how this bra is super flattering on my no-so-curvy shape.  But, if you do have curves, they have sports bras for that enviable shape too! Plus, Handful donates 12.5% of revenue from every style bra in the Battle Cry Pink color to the Young Survivor Coalition in recognition of the 1 in 8 women diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Use Handful discount code TheFitForkFS to get FREE SHIPPING on any order

Fitness Rebounder (Mini Trampoline) by Leaps & Rebound: I love this low-impact way to get more movement in my day. The rebounder features bungee cords instead of springs – choose a 40” or 48” circumference.

Personally, I think the 48” is the most versatile! I use this mini-trampoline to improve balance, coordination and strength – all while enjoying a little extra movement that is low-impact – so helpful for my 55+ bod! Get it HERE with a 10% discount Code: JENNIFERL or on Amazon

Kissing Strap Dress by Greatness Wins: Cutest little performance sports dress that is perfect for golf, pickleball, festival-going or an active day of errands. The super soft + durable performance knit fabric adapts to your body so you can keep your head in the game – plus, its moisture wicking and features UPF 40 sun protection. The functional styling includes a strappy back detail and interior shelf bra removeable pads. Save 25% on your entire purchase at Greatness Wins with code: JENNIFERF25

SUPERPLUSH™ Women’s Flipflop from Roll Recovery” The SUPERPLUSH™ line was created to be a refuge for tired feet after a run or workout. Exceptionally comfortable, they’re engineered for foot health and recovery. I found them very comfortable and supportive and appreciated the premium foam technology that is sustainably sourced foam that uses Algae instead of harsh chemicals.

 PowerTight Scrunch Butt Shorts (leggings too) by IUGA: Super affordable and super flattering shorts to help you smash gym day. Designed to sculpt, shape, and support, these shorts are your ultimate companion for workouts and beyond. Compression fabric, supportive “sandwich” waistband, seamless in front (aka no camel toe), two side pockets.  Save 25% on all IUGA products with code FITFORK25 or you can also find good deals on the brand at AMAZON

HYPERWEAR Wrist/Ankle Weights: Consider these a weighted fashion statement! Each weighted wristband weighs 1 pound and ideal to place on wrists or ankles for extra challenge during yoga, Pilates and other home workouts. Adjustable and comfortable with soft silicone-coated steel construction and non-pinch elastic band. This wrist weights are easy to wash off when they get sweaty and a convenient little carrying pouch included. Multiple colors available – get a pair HERE.  

Insulated Water Bottle with Swivel Smart Phone-Holding Lid by Ringo: A game-changer, mom will absolutely LOVE it – I use mine every single day! A 24 or 32-ounce size available, and keeps cold drinks cold for 24 hours, hot drinks hot for 12 hours. This magnetic lid water bottle attaches to the back of phone – and swivels up, down and all around to get the perfect angle photo. Not just for photo- hold up phone for GPS, Zoom, movie watching, etc.   It’s super durable, heavy (so that it won’t fall over with phone, even if bottle empty, and dishwasher safe. Get it HERE.

HYROX SHOP & RACE REGSTRATION: The popularity of this functional fitness race is off the charts. Treat the sporty mom in your life with a chance to run one of these races (8 1ks, 8 fitness zones) in various venues across the U.S and world. Use my Hyrox discount code FITFORK-10 to save 10% of individual races in the U.S. Or, gear her up at the Hyrox shop in some the hottest Hyrox gear and collabs.

Equalizer Bars from Lebert Fitness – Strength workouts, agility training and calisthenics at home made easy with these functional fitness bars. Mom will love the endless bodyweight exercise options and how easy they are to store. Available in lots of fun colors (lol, or black).  Use my Lebert Fitness discount code: THEFITFORK to save 15% on most products

Lebert Fitness -- save 15% discount code THEFITFORK

Muscle Health Plus by Previnex : If wants to perform her best, recovering well and support overall general wellness, Mom will love Muscle Health PLUS supplement. This mix combines the highest quality muscle health ingredients (like Creatine, BCAAs, EAAs, ingredients to boost protein synthesis and more) into an “all-in-one” formula that’s as convenient as it is effective. Beneficial for an active lifestyle and also for healthy aging (I mean, the buzz right now is all about Creatine and Protein Intake/Absorption for women over 40 and post-menopausal women). Save 10% on your cart with my Previnex discount code: THEFITFORK

Save 15% at Previnex with code THEFITFORK

Note: This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission for purchases made through links. Proceeds help offset operating costs for The Fit Fork – thank you!

Find the best Mother’s Day fitness gifts for moms who love to move! From sunglasses to red light therapy pads, stylish activewear, workout gear, and recovery tools — plus discount codes to save big!

Strawberry Peanut Butter Rice Cake “Flower” – Healthy & Cute Snack

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Spring has sprung, and I’m all about those snacks that are equal parts pretty and practical. If you’re looking for a healthy rice cake snack that’s big on flavor and short on prep time, let me introduce you to my Strawberry Rice Cake Snack Flowers — an easy no bake snack that comes together in just minutes with a few simple ingredients!

How To Make Rice Cake Strawberry Flower:

  • Start with a rice cake – I used a plain one, but caramel or chocolate rice cakes would take this to next-level delicious.
  • Spread on about 1 tablespoon of peanut butter (or your favorite nut or seed butter — almond, cashew, or even Nutella – I personally like this peanut butter with added protein). This makes a dreamy rice cake with peanut butter base.
  • Slice 2 hulled strawberries vertically into ¼-inch thick slices. Arrange them in a circle on top of the nut butter to resemble flower petals — a totally Instagram-worthy spring snack idea.
  • Add a fun center — diced strawberries, a banana slice, mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or whatever little treat delights you.

Why I Love This Anytime Snack:

  • Visually adorable – The flower shape just feels happy and fresh!
  • Fast and flexible – Assembles just a couple minutes, and you can mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand. Perfect for a quick healthy snack for kids or grownups alike.
  • Balanced and satisfying – You get complex carbs from the rice cake, healthy fats and protein from the nut butter, and natural sweetness from the fruit.
  • Light and energizing – Keep your nut butter portion to 1 tablespoon, and you’ve got a low calorie snack under 200 calories!

Whether you stick with strawberries or switch things up with other fruits, these fruit topped rice cakes are a fun, colorful way to satisfy hunger while feeling great about what you’re eating. This nut butter rice cake snack is perfect for post-workout, a midday energy boost, or even part of a beautiful brunch spread.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission from products purchased through links. Proceeds help my to offset operating costs for The Fit Fork – thank you!

Giant Protein Snickerdoodle Cookie | Vegan + Toaster Oven Friendly!

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Sometimes a craving for something sweet, soft, and cinnamon-sugar coated just hits hard. That’s where this Giant Protein Snickerdoodle Cookie steps in—bringing all the cozy, nostalgic cookie vibes without a sugar crash or guilt. Best of all? It’s totally vegan and packs in 27 grams of plant-based protein!

I created this single-serve recipe for those days when you just need a cookie—stat—but also want to stay on track with your health goals. It’s made with Nourify PLUS from Previnex (use code thefitfork to save 15%), a complete vegan protein powder that blends beautifully into baked goods.

 Instead of egg, I used a gelled chia seed mixture to hold everything together naturally. Peanut flour adds even more protein and keeps it a gluten-free recipe. However, you can use an all-purpose flour, if desired.

The sheer size of this “bis as yo’ face” cookie finished in cinnamon feels indulgent… yet it’s made with good-for-you ingredients. You can even bake it in a toaster oven, so no need to heat up the whole kitchen!

Perfect for a protein-packed breakfast, post-workout treat, or late-night snack—this vegan protein cookie proves you really can have your comfort food and feel good about it too.

I’m all about a big snack with big benefits, Protein Snickerdoodle Cookie: Made with a plant-based protein powder it packs 27 grams of protein, is gluten-free, and dairy-free. Gelled chia seeds replace eggs to keep my vegan friends happy. Single-serve, full of cinnamon goodness, and yep—you can even bake it in a toaster oven!"
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Giant Protein Snickerdoodle
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
12 mins
Total Time
22 mins
 

I’m all about a big snack with big benefits, Protein Snickerdoodle Cookie: Made with a plant-based protein powder it packs 27 grams of protein, is gluten-free, and dairy-free. Gelled chia seeds replace eggs to keep my vegan friends happy. Single-serve, full of cinnamon goodness, and yep—you can even bake it in a toaster oven!"

Course: Dessert, Snack, workout
Keyword: cookie, protein powder, vegan
Servings: 1 serving
Calories: 364 kcal
Ingredients
  • 2 teaspoon chia seeds
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 scoops plant-based protein powder such as Previnex Nourify – 60 grams
  • 3 tablespoon peanut flour, chickpea flour or finely ground almond flour (or regular all-purpose flour, but recipe will have less protein)
  • 2 little packets stevia sweeter
  • ¼ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp cream of tartar
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons coconut oil
Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, add chia seeds to water and let sit for 10 minutes until gelling.
  2. In another bowl, mix together protein powder, flour, stevia, baking powder, cream of tartar and cinnamon until combined.
  3. To these dry ingredients, stir in oil and the gelled chia seed mixture and stir until incorporated. Use hands to form into one large dough ball.
  4. Spray center of baking sheet with cooking spray, or use silicone baking sheet. Set dough ball on top of this spot.
  5. Use hands or spray a flat-bottomed bowl with cooking spray and press down on dough ball until spread out approximately 5 inches in diameter. Use hands to shape sides, if needed.
  6. Sprinkle with a little extra cinnamon.
  7. Bake at 350 F degrees in the oven (or toaster oven) for approximately 10 to 12 minutes, or center set and edges and top turning light golden brown.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest on pan for 2 minutes. Eat.
Recipe Notes

Strawberry Protein Mug Cake – Quick, Delicious, and Packed with 30g Protein

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Strawberry season is the best—sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor! When I spotted the cutest new strawberry-themed mug, I had to whip up a strawberry protein mug cake to match. It’s a fast and fun way to celebrate the season and satisfy your sweet tooth without sacrificing your wellness goals.

This high-protein mug cake is powered by Nourify PLUS protein powder from Previenix—a plant-based protein that goes beyond just protein. It’s fortified with micronutrients, probiotics, and digestive enzymes to support your overall health – that’s why I think it’s the best vegan protein powder. Bonus: use my code thefitfork for 15% off!

To make this single-serve protein dessert, I also added cottage cheese and an egg, which team up with the protein powder to deliver a whopping 30g of protein per serving. It’s my go-to treat when I need a quick and easy protein boost, whether it’s post-workout recovery or a healthier late-night dessert.

All it takes is a quick mix and about 3 minutes in the microwave—no oven required! Enjoy this a 30g protein snack straight from the mug, or take it to the next level with your favorite toppings like Greek yogurt, whipped cream, or fresh strawberries.

Whether you’re looking for a quick protein dessert, a healthy strawberry recipe, or a satisfying way to curb cravings, this high-protein mug cake –a cooking for one dessert — is a berry sweet win!

Making a Strawberry Protein Mug Cake with Nourify protein powder from Previnex 30g protein thanks to cottage cheese, an egg and the protein powder. Just mix it all up right in the mug and microwave for 3 minutes, add the toppings you love —so easy! A great gym or post workout snack, healthy dessert or breakfast!
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Strawberry Protein Mug Cake
Prep Time
2 mins
Cook Time
3 mins
Total Time
5 mins
 
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Keyword: mug cake, protein powder, vegetarian
Servings: 1 servings
Ingredients
  • 2 tsp butter
  • ½ cup 2% cottage cheese undrained
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ cup about 25grams protein powder (I used Nourify PLUS from Prevenix)
  • 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour or gluten-free baking blend
  • 1/3 cup diced strawberries
  • 10-20 liquid stevia or monk fruit drops or 1-2Tb granular sweetener with cup-for-cup sugar equivalency
Instructions
  1. 10-20 liquid stevia or monk fruit drops (or 1-2Tb granular sweetener with cup-for-cup sugar equivalency)
  2. Melt butter in large mug, about 15-20 seconds. Stir in cottage cheese and microwave for another 15 seconds. Mash up cottage cheese into butter so that it’s less lumpy (but don’t worry that it’s not smooth).
  3. Let cup cool for 60 seconds, then whisk in egg with a fork.
  4. Mix in dry ingredients: baking soda, protein powder, and flour.
  5. Stir in most of the strawberries, reserving a bit for garnish.
  6. Add sweetener last, with the amount and type based on your preference. You actually may not even need sweetener, depending on the sweetness of protein powder used.
  7. Microwave on high for approximately 3.5 minutes. Let cool for 1 minute and then top with whipped cream, yogurt, extra strawberries or whatever you like to dress it up.
Recipe Notes