Healthier Texas Sheet Cake with Protein Powder

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 13x18-inch jelly roll pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, monk fruit sweetener, salt, cocoa powder, and protein powder.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the applesauce and water, and stir until well combined. Heat until the mixture just starts to simmer.
Pour the warm butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, baking soda, and vanilla. Stir this mixture into the batter until fully combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add cocoa powder, protein powder and milk, stirring until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer and then remove from heat.Stir in the vanilla extract, powdered sugar, whisking until smooth. Fold in chopped pecans if desired.
Pour the warm frosting over the hot cake, spreading evenly with a spatula. Add sprinkles for decoration.