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.

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.

Print

Protein Hummingbird Cake

Prep Time

15 mins

Cook Time

25 mins

Total Time

40 mins

 

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.

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: high protein, low carb

Keyword: cake, pineapple, protein powder

Servings: 8 Servings

Calories: 256 kcal

Ingredients

• 2/3 cup vanilla whey protein powder about 2 cups
• 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