Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Don't skip the parchment—this Greek Yogurt Peanut Butter Protein Cake with Chocolate Fudge Topping can stick without it, and you'll want perfect slices for presentation!
Step 2: Create the Wet Base In a large bowl, beat together Greek yogurt, peanut butter, honey, eggs, and vanilla extract until completely smooth and creamy. This takes about 3-4 minutes of vigorous mixing, but it's essential for achieving that perfect tender cake texture.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients Gradually mix in the oat flour, protein powder, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Don't overmix—we want a tender, moist cake, not a dense one! The batter should look thick and rich, like the most amazing pound cake batter you've ever seen.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake for 18-20 minutes until the edges are set but the center still feels slightly soft when gently pressed. Don't overbake—the secret to moist protein cake is pulling it out when it's just set.
Step 5: Make the Fudge Topping While the cake cools, whisk together all fudge topping ingredients until smooth and glossy. Start with 1 teaspoon of honey and add more if you want it sweeter. The consistency should be spreadable but not runny.
Step 6: Assemble and Chill Spread the chocolate fudge topping over the warm cake—the slight warmth helps it spread beautifully and creates that perfect glossy finish. Sprinkle with crushed nuts if using, then chill the entire Greek Yogurt Peanut Butter Protein Cake with Chocolate Fudge Topping for at least 30 minutes to set the topping before slicing.