Category Archives: Protein Powder

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

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

Power Up Your Mornings with 5 Easy High-Protein Breakfast Recipes

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Kickstart your day with 20g or more protein in these delicious, easy-to-make breakfast recipes! Whether you’re fueling up for a busy morning, refueling after a workout, or just want a satisfying, balanced breakfast, these dishes deliver on taste, convenience, and nutrition. From make-ahead meals to quick skillet creations, each recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients to keep you full and focused. Try one (or all!) of these protein-packed breakfasts to supercharge your morning routine.

Fuel your day with 5 easy, high-protein breakfast recipes—each with 20g or more of protein! Perfect for busy mornings, post-workout refuel, or powering up anytime! Meal prep friendly; low-carb and gluten-free options; quick, tasty and satisfying! Head to TheFitFork.com for all the yummy, fit recipes.

Beef Breakfast Burrito Muffins: These Beef Breakfast Burrito Muffins are a protein-packed way to enjoy your favorite Tex-Mex flavors any time of the day! Low-carb tortillas form the base, filled with eggs, salsa, cheese, and leftover taco meat for a savory, satisfying breakfast. Bake once and enjoy all week long—each muffin delivers 216 calories, 3g net carbs, 14g fat, and 20g protein.

Beef Breakfast Burrito Muffins: a protein-backed breakfast idea that is so good, so easy, and perfect for any meal of the day! Low-carb tortillas form the base, filled with eggs, salsa, cheese, and leftover taco meat. Bake and enjoy! Each big ole muffin has 216 cal, 3g net carb, 14g fat, 20g protein.

Pumpkin Scrambled Oats: Warm up your morning with this cozy and nutritious Pumpkin Scrambled Oats recipe. This comforting breakfast comes together in just 10 minutes using simple, wholesome ingredients—perfect for chilly fall mornings or whenever you’re craving the taste of autumn. Don’t have pumpkin on hand? Swap in applesauce for a delicious twist. Each serving has 22g protein to keep you full and energized.

Pumpkin Scrambled Oats are a comforting and nutritious way to jumpstart fall mornings. A quick breakfast, only 10 minutes max to make in a skillet -- simple, wholesome ingredients and 22g protein so you don't get hungry later!

Blueberry Steel Cut Oat Bake:
Make breakfast easy and nutritious with this Blueberry Steel Cut Oat Bake. It’s perfect for meal prepping—just bake, slice, and store! Loaded with whole grains, berries, and your favorite protein powder (I used Great Lakes Wellness Collagen—use code THEFITFORK15OFF to save!), this recipe provides 290 calories, 21g protein, and the perfect balance of carbs and fiber to fuel your day.

Blueberry Steel Cut Oat Bake with protein is sweet, simple, make-ahead goodness. 290 cal per serving, 21 g protein, healthy whole grain carbs. Perfect fuel runs and workouts.

Cottage Cheese WafflesThese Cottage Cheese Waffles are a high-protein breakfast staple you can make ahead and freeze for busy mornings. Each batch can be customized by swapping protein powder flavors—try vanilla, strawberry, or chocolate! Made with Clean Lean Protein from Nuzest (use code FITFORK to save 15%), this gluten-free recipe serves up 23g protein and just 216 calories for three fluffy waffles.

Banana Bread Protein Muffins with Chocolate Chips:  Enjoy these smartly sweet Banana Bread Protein Muffins with Chocolate Chips for breakfast or a snack. Each muffin has only 163 calories and 12g of protein, but doubling up means 24g of protein to keep you satisfied. Cottage cheese, protein powder, and a gluten-free peanut flour baking blend make these muffins soft, flavorful, and rich in fiber—perfect for fueling your day.

As a healthy breakfast or snack, this high protein banana muffin recipe (also gluten-free) boasts a mere 163 calories and a substantial 12 grams of protein per big muffin thanks to smart baking swaps.

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

Chocolate Cottage Cheese Protein Banana Bread – A Better-for-You Treat!

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If you love banana bread but want to level up the nutrition while keeping all the indulgent flavor, this Chocolate Cottage Cheese Protein Banana Bread is a must-try! Packed with 21g of protein per slice, naturally sweetened with ripe bananas, and free of added sugar, it’s the perfect option for breakfast, a post-workout snack, or even a healthier dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Banana Bread

  • High-Protein Banana Bread – Thanks to cottage cheese, chocolate protein powder and eggs, each slice delivers a satisfying protein boost.
  • No Added Sugar – Using very ripe bananas provides natural sweetness, so there’s no need for extra sugar. Plus, most chocolate protein powders are also alternatively sweetened.
  • Versatile & Delicious – Enjoy it warm with a spread of nut butter, plain and cold as a grab-and-go snack, or even topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
  • Easy to Make & Store – Keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze individual slices for 3-6 months for a quick treat anytime!

Ingredient & Pan Tips

  • Bananas – The riper, the better! Overripe bananas bring out the best natural sweetness.
  • Protein Powder – Use your favorite whey-based chocolate protein powder for the best texture and flavor.
  • Flour Options – This recipe works best with all-purpose flour or a gluten-free baking blend. Avoid using almond or coconut flour, as they will significantly alter the texture and the recipe, as written, will not turn out well.
  • Cottage Cheese – Adds richness, moisture, and an extra protein punch without making the bread heavy. I used full-fat, but 2% will work also. Avoid zero-fat cottage cheese in this recipe.
  • Toppings – Customize with chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
  • Pan – use a standard 9.5″ x 5″ loaf pan coated with cooking spray for best results. I have not tested yet, but I *think* that would could also make into muffins (fill cups 2/3 high) and reduce baking time to about 25 minutes.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate: Wrap the chocolate protein loaf tightly and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze for Later: Slice, wrap individual pieces, and store in a zip-top freezer bag for 3-6 months. Just thaw overnight or pop in the microwave for a warm, healthy banana bread snack!

Baking up a loaf of this Chocolate Cottage Cheese Protein Banana Bread is the perfect way to enjoy a treat that’s both delicious and nutritious. Try it out and let me know how it goes!

Note: This post contains affiliate links . . . I may earn a small commission for purchase made through links. Proceeds help me offset operating costs for The Fit Fork. Thank you!

Chocolate Cottage Cheese Protein Banana Bread levels up the nutrition and flavor of everyone’s favorite quick bread! Not “just like grandma’s” but instead packed with 21g of protein per slice, naturally sweetened with ripe bananas, and free of added sugar, it’s the perfect option for breakfast, a post-workout snack, or even a healthier dessert.
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Chocolate Cottage Cheese Protein Banana Bread
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
45 mins
Total Time
55 mins
 

This Chocolate Cottage CheeseProtein Banana Bread is next level, I actually outdid myself! Key ingredientsinclude very ripe bananas, chocolate protein powder and cottage cheese. Sprinkledwith some yummy toppings and baked, makes a big ole loaf, that’s great forbreakfast dessert or snack. Smells sooo good, such a treat, No added sugar and21g protein per slice!

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Keyword: banana, chocolate, cottage cheese, protein powder
Servings: 8 slices
Calories: 285 kcal
Ingredients
  • 0.25 cup Low Fat Milk
  • 1.00 cup Cottage Cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 0.25 cup Olive Oil
  • 1 Mashed Banana (very ripe) about 2 medium (or 10 oz peeled)
  • 116 grams Whey Chocolate Brownie Protein Powder (about 4 scoops OR 1 1/3 cup)
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour or cup-for-cup equivalent gluten-free baking blend
  • 2 Tbsp Cocoa powder
  • 0.50 tsp salt Salt
  • 1 tsp Baking powder
  • Cooking spray
  • Toppings:
  • 2 Tbsp 14 g, Sugar Free Chocolate Chips
  • 2 Tbsp Sliced Almonds
Instructions

  1. Pre-heat oven to 350F degrees.

  2. In blender, pulse together milk, cottage cheese, eggs, olive oil, and mashed banana until smooth.
  3. In large bowl, toss whisk together dry ingredients including protein powder, flour, cocoa powder, salt and baking powder.
  4. Mix went ingredients into dry and use spatula to combine.
  5. Spray standard loaf pan with cooking spray.
  6. Pour in batter and top with mini chocolate chips and sliced almonds.

  7. Bake for about 40 – 50 minutes 9 (in pre-heated 350F oven) or until toothpick pulls mostly clean from center.

  8. Let cool in pan on cooling rack for 10-15 minutes before slicing into 8 pieces. Store leftovers in fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze.
Recipe Notes