This Flourless High-Protein Lemon Cake is proof that healthy desserts don’t have to taste “healthy.” It’s creamy, tangy, lightly sweet, and unbelievably satisfying — so much so that after the first bite, my man looked up and said, “This tastes like cheesecake.” And honestly? He wasn’t wrong.
Made without flour, low in carbs, and naturally gluten-free, this lemon cake relies on protein-rich ingredients to create a soft, custard-like texture that melts in your mouth. It’s perfect for anyone craving dessert without the sugar crash.
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Overview of Recipe Content
What Is Flourless Lemon Protein Cake?
This cake skips flour entirely and uses high-protein ingredients like Greek yogurt and eggs to create structure. The result is a cheesecake-like lemon cake that’s light, creamy, and gently set.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flourless & gluten-free
- High in protein
- Low-carb & refined-sugar friendly
- Bright lemon flavor
- Cheesecake-like texture
- Easy to make in one bowl
What Does It Taste Like?
Creamy and smooth with fresh lemon brightness — somewhere between a lemon cheesecake and a custard cake, with a light, tender crumb.
Health & Lifestyle Notes
- Gluten-free
- Low-carb
- High-protein
- Naturally satisfying
Ingredients
- 1½ cups plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar substitute or honey/maple syrup
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-Ins
- Protein powder (unflavored or vanilla, 1–2 tablespoons)
- Blueberries or raspberries
- Powdered sugar substitute for topping
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- 8-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper
How to Make Flourless High-Protein Lemon Cake
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch cake pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, eggs, sweetener, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 3: Add Leavening
Whisk in baking powder and salt until fully combined.
Step 4: Bake
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until center is just set.
Step 5: Cool & Chill
Cool completely, then refrigerate for 2 hours for best cheesecake-like texture.
What to Serve with Flourless Lemon Cake
- Fresh berries
- Greek yogurt whipped cream
- Hot tea or espresso
- Pair with:
- Protein Cookie Dough → https://poulef.com/protein-cookie-dough/
Pinterest inspiration: https://www.pinterest.com/poulefrecipe/
Tips for Making It Perfect
- Use room-temperature ingredients
- Don’t overbake — center should jiggle slightly
- Chill before slicing for clean cuts
- Zest lemons before juicing
Storage Instructions
- Store covered in fridge up to 5 days
- Freeze slices up to 1 month
- Thaw overnight in refrigerator
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this really taste like cheesecake?
Yes — creamy, tangy, and rich without heaviness.
Can I use dairy-free yogurt?
Yes, thick dairy-free Greek-style yogurt works best.
Is it keto?
Use a keto sweetener to keep it low-carb.
Can I add protein powder?
Yes — up to 2 tablespoons works well.
Conclusion
This Flourless High-Protein Lemon Cake is the kind of dessert that makes you smile because it feels indulgent but fits beautifully into a balanced lifestyle. Creamy, bright, and deeply satisfying, it’s perfect for lemon lovers and cheesecake fans alike.
If you loved this, try my Greek Yogurt Chocolate Mousse or Protein Cookie Dough next for more healthy-but-happy treats.
Interactive Elements
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Share your lemon cake on Pinterest or tag me — I love seeing these healthy desserts shine
Nutritional Information (Per Slice – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Carbs | 10g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 95mg |
Flourless High-Protein Lemon Cake: 7 Powerful Reasons This Healthy Dessert Tastes Like Cheesecake
Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
Yield: 8 slices 1x
Description
This flourless high-protein lemon cake is creamy, low-carb, gluten-free, and tastes just like cheesecake. A healthy dessert that truly satisfies.
Ingredients
Scale
1½ cups Greek yogurt
3 large eggs
½ cup sweetener of choice
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 2 lemons
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp baking powder
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line cake pan.
2. Whisk yogurt, eggs, sweetener, lemon juice, zest, and vanilla.
3. Stir in baking powder and salt.
4. Pour batter into pan.
5. Bake until just set.
6. Cool completely and chill before serving.
Notes
Chill for best cheesecake-like texture.
Do not overbake.
Sweetener can be adjusted to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Table of Contents
Gianna Poulef
I’m Gianna Poulef from Poulef Recipes. I love sharing perfected dishes from my kitchen. I’m sure they’ll earn a spot in your heart. Let’s savor this journey together!.
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