Today is Wednesday, December 24, 2025.1 Here in Agadir, the Christmas Eve sun is dipping below the Atlantic horizon. While the holiday season is often associated with heavy, sugar-laden desserts, there is a specific joy in finding a treat that feels indulgent but leaves you energized for Christmas morning.
The Cinnamon Swirl Protein Cake is a “modern classic.” It bridges the gap between a traditional coffee cake and a high-performance snack. By using Greek yogurt for moisture and a blend of oat flour and protein powder for structure, you achieve a “soft-crumb” texture that defies the typical dryness of protein baking. It is warm, aromatic, and provides a restorative balance to the decadent feasts of the season.
Nutritional Profile (Estimate per Slice)
Since this is a “Power Treat,” here is a quick look at why it fits a balanced lifestyle:
Metric
Value
Protein
12g–15g
Fiber
3g
Sugar
Minimal (derived from maple/stevia)
Vibe
Cozy & Restorative
Ingredients
The Cake Base
1 cup Oat Flour: (You can make this by pulsing rolled oats in a blender).
2 scoops (approx. 60g) Vanilla Protein Powder: A Whey/Casein blend is ideal for baking as it stays moist.
1 tsp Baking Powder & 1/4 tsp Salt.
1/2 cup Plain Greek Yogurt: The secret to the “soft” texture.
2 Large Eggs.
1/4 cup Maple Syrup or Honey: (Or a liquid stevia blend).
1/4 cup Unsweetened Almond Milk: Or any milk of choice.
The Cinnamon Swirl
1 tbsp Ground Cinnamon.
2 tbsp Coconut Sugar or Brown Sugar.
1 tbsp Melted Coconut Oil or Butter.
Instructions: The Marble Technique
The goal is to create “veins” of cinnamon throughout the cake, ensuring every bite has that spiced-sugar hit.
1. The Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan or a 6-inch round cake pan with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and almond milk until smooth.
Fold in the oat flour, protein powder, baking powder, and salt.
Do not overmix! Stir just until the dry streaks disappear. Overmixing protein powder can lead to a “rubbery” texture.2
3. Create the Swirl
In a small ramekin, mix the cinnamon, sugar, and melted oil until it forms a thick, sandy paste.
4. The Layering
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan.
Dollop half of the cinnamon mixture over the batter.
Pour the remaining batter on top, then finish with the rest of the cinnamon mixture.
Use a knife or a toothpick to gently “swirl” the cinnamon into the batter using a figure-eight motion.
5. The Bake
Slide into the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes.
The Poke Test: Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s done. Protein cakes can go from “perfect” to “dry” very quickly, so start checking at the 22-minute mark.
Flavor & Texture Notes
The first thing you will notice is the soft, pillowy bite. Unlike dense protein bars, the Greek yogurt provides a tang that mimics sour cream, resulting in a rich, moist crumb.
The flavor is dominated by the warming cinnamon, which caramelizes slightly with the coconut sugar during the bake. The vanilla protein powder adds a “cake-batter” sweetness that makes the whole experience feel like a true dessert rather than a health food.
Tips for Protein Baking Success
The Protein Choice: If you use 100% Whey Isolate, the cake may be slightly drier. If this happens, add an extra tablespoon of Greek yogurt to the batter.
Let it Cool: This is the hardest part, but let the cake cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Protein-based baked goods need time to “set” their structure, or they may feel slightly gummy while hot.
Add-ins: A handful of chopped walnuts or pecans added to the swirl provides a lovely festive crunch.
FAQ
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Use a plant-based protein powder (pea/brown rice blend), swap the eggs for “flax eggs” (2 tbsp ground flax + 6 tbsp water), and use a dairy-free yogurt like coconut or almond yogurt.
How do I store it?
Because of the high moisture content from the yogurt, this cake is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It actually tastes even better the second day!
Can I make these into muffins?
Absolutely. Simply divide the batter into a lined muffin tin. Reduce the bake time to 15–18 minutes.
A Sweet End to Christmas Eve
As you settle in for the night in Agadir, let this Cinnamon Swirl Protein Cake be your quiet celebration. It’s a way to honor the season’s traditions of sweetness and warmth while still feeling your best.
Would you like me to find a recipe for a “2-Minute Greek Yogurt Glaze” to drizzle over the top for an extra hit of protein and sweetness?
