Creating Chocolate Protein Cake is straightforward. Follow these steps to bake your delicious cake:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. Blend Oats: In a blender or food processor, blend the rolled oats until they reach a fine flour consistency.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oat flour, cocoa powder, protein powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk well to combine.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the applesauce, honey or maple syrup, almond milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Add Chocolate Chips: If desired, fold in the dark chocolate chips for extra richness.
7. Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

These simple steps will guide you in creating this incredible Chocolate Protein Cake effortlessly!