Making the Cake Bites:
Get Ready: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a mini muffin pan by lining it with silicone or paper liners, or if using a silicone pan, lightly grease it. This recipe makes about 30 bites, so you might need to bake in batches if you only have one pan.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a spacious bowl, whisk together the almond flour, sweetener, protein powder (if using), baking powder, and salt. Make sure there are no clumps by gently pressing them with the back of a fork.
Create Cocoa Base: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter, water, and cocoa powder over medium heat, stirring until everything is smoothly combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately remove it from the heat.
Mix Wet and Dry: Pour the warm cocoa mixture into your dry ingredients. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, then stir everything together until just combined.
Achieve Perfect Consistency: Gradually add 3 to 4 tablespoons of additional water, one tablespoon at a time, until your batter is thick but still easy to pour.
Fill and Bake: Evenly spoon the batter into each mini muffin cup. Bake for 12 to 16 minutes, or until the cakes are nicely risen and feel firm when lightly touched. Let them cool completely in the pan before gently removing them to a wire rack.
Whipping Up the Luscious Frosting:
Simmer the Glaze: Using the same saucepan (no need to wash it!), combine the butter, cocoa powder, sweetener, heavy cream, and water. Bring this mixture to a simmer, stirring continuously to dissolve the sweetener.
Thicken to Perfection: Let the frosting simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a beautiful, syrupy glaze. Remove from heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes – it will continue to thicken slightly.
Frost and Garnish: Spoon the warm, thick glaze generously over your cooled cake bites. If you love pecans, sprinkle the tops with the chopped, toasted pecans.
Set and Enjoy: For the best results, place the frosted bites in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes to help the glaze set perfectly.