This recipe creates a moist and delicious malted chocolate loaf cake, enhanced with protein powder for a healthier twist. The malted milk powder adds a unique, nostalgic flavor, while the chocolate provides a rich, indulgent experience.
Ingredients:
- Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat pastry flour for a healthier option)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup malted milk powder
- 1/2 cup protein powder (whey, casein, or a plant-based blend – chocolate or vanilla works well)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce (or plain Greek yogurt for extra protein)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or your preferred sweetener, like stevia or erythritol)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil (or unsalted butter)
- 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan version)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)
- Optional Toppings:
- Chocolate chips
- Malted milk balls
- Chocolate glaze
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a standard loaf pan (9×5 inches) or line it with parchment paper.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, malted milk powder, protein powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce (or Greek yogurt), granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, melted coconut oil (or butter), eggs (or flax eggs), vanilla extract, and coffee (if using).
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Toppings (Optional):
- Fold in chocolate chips if desired.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Let the loaf cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Glaze (Optional):
- If desired, drizzle with a chocolate glaze or sprinkle with malted milk balls once cooled.
- Serve:
- Slice and enjoy your protein-packed malted chocolate loaf cake!
Notes:
- Adjust the amount of sweetener to your preference.
- For a richer chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder.
- Protein powder can sometimes dry out baked goods, so ensure you have enough moisture in your wet ingredients. The applesauce and oil help with this.
- Storing: store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For a vegan version, ensure all ingredients are vegan, and use a suitable egg replacer.
- If using a very sweet protein powder, you may want to reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.
Enjoy baking!