Protein Donuts Recipe

If you’re craving donuts but want a healthier, protein-packed version, you’re in for a treat! These protein donuts are soft, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweet without all the excess sugar and deep-frying. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like protein powder, almond flour, Greek yogurt, and natural sweeteners, these donuts deliver the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition.

Whether you need a quick breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a guilt-free dessert, these donuts are here to satisfy your cravings. Plus, they’re incredibly customizable you can add chocolate chips, drizzle them with a sugar-free glaze, or even coat them in cinnamon for a protein-packed twist on a classic treat. Trust me, once you try them, you won’t go back to store-bought protein donuts!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

High-Protein & Nutritious – Unlike traditional Protein Donuts, these are made with protein donuts powder and wholesome ingredients to fuel your body.

Super Quick & Easy – No fancy equipment or deep-frying needed! Just mix, bake, and enjoy.

Completely Customizable – Whether you love chocolate, cinnamon, or peanut butter, these donuts can be tailored to your taste.

Gluten-Free & Can Be Made Dairy-Free – Perfect for those with dietary preferences or restrictions.

Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy them throughout the week!

Ingredients

The Base Ingredients for a Perfect Protein Donuts

A flat lay of protein donut ingredients, including protein powder, almond flour, eggs, Greek yogurt, and maple syrup, arranged on a wooden kitchen counter.
Wholesome ingredients like protein powder, almond flour, and Greek yogurt come together to create the perfect healthy donuts!
  • Protein Powder – The key ingredient for boosting protein content while keeping the texture light and fluffy.
  • Almond Flour (or Oat Flour) – Helps achieve a tender crumb while keeping things gluten-free.
  • Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients together and creating a soft, cakey texture.
  • Greek Yogurt (or Unsweetened Applesauce) – Keeps the Protein Donuts moist and tender without the need for excess oil.
  • Maple Syrup (or Honey) – A natural sweetener that adds the perfect amount of sweetness without refined sugar.
  • Milk (Dairy or Non-Dairy) – Helps achieve the perfect consistency for the batter.
  • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor and gives the donuts that classic bakery-style taste.
  • Baking Powder – Essential for a light and fluffy rise.
  • Cinnamon (Optional) – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.

Optional Toppings & Mix-Ins

  • Dark Chocolate Chips – For a rich, indulgent touch.
  • Chopped Nuts (Almonds, Walnuts, Pecans) – Adds crunch and texture.
  • Sugar-Free Glaze – A drizzle of sugar-free icing for an extra treat.
  • Coconut Flakes – Adds a tropical twist to your donuts.

Note: The full ingredient list with exact measurements is in the recipe card below!

How to Make Protein Donuts

A close-up of a mixing bowl with a whisk stirring a thick protein donut batter, surrounded by measured ingredients.
Mixing up the perfect protein donut batter smooth, thick, and ready to be piped into the molds!

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Your protein Donuts Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the protein powder, almond flour, baking powder, and cinnamon (if using). This ensures even distribution and prevents clumping.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients for Protein Donuts

In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until you have a smooth, thick batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the donuts dense.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Molds

Spoon or pipe the batter into the greased donut molds, filling each one about ¾ full.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool & Add Toppings

Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. Once cooled, you can glaze, frost, or top them with your favorite additions.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Protein Donuts

Use a High-Quality Protein Powder – Whey, casein, or plant-based protein powders work well, but avoid chalky or overly thick protein blends, which can make the donuts dry.

Pipe the Batter Instead of Spoon-Filling – Using a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner cut off helps achieve a smooth, even shape.

Adjust Sweetness to Your Liking – If you prefer a sweeter donut, add a little extra maple syrup or a sugar substitute like monk fruit.

Don’t Overbake! – Protein-based baked goods tend to dry out if overcooked, so check at the 12-minute mark to ensure they stay moist.

Customize Your Flavors – Try adding cocoa powder for chocolate protein donuts, peanut butter for a nutty version, or lemon zest for a citrusy twist!

How to Serve

With Coffee or Tea – A perfect pairing for your morning cup.

Drizzled with Nut Butter – Almond or peanut butter makes an amazing topping.

With Fresh Fruit – Top with sliced strawberries, bananas, or blueberries.

Dipped in Dark Chocolate – Melt some dark chocolate and dip half of each donut for a fancy treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

  • Keep leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing Instructions

  • Place cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
  • They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • To thaw, leave at room temperature or microwave for 15-20 seconds.

Reheating

  • Microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, fresh-from-the-oven feel.
  • If you want a crispier exterior, toast them in an air fryer or oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.

FAQsCan I make these donuts without protein powder?

Yes! If you don’t want to use protein powder, you can replace it with additional flour (almond, oat, or whole wheat). Keep in mind that this will reduce the protein content.

What’s the best protein powder for baking?

A smooth, fine-textured protein powder (like whey isolate or plant-based blends) works best. Avoid grainy, chalky, or overly thick protein powders, as they can make the donuts dry.

Can I make these donuts vegan?

Absolutely! To make them vegan:
Swap the eggs for flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
Use dairy-free yogurt and a plant-based protein powder.

Can I use a muffin tin instead of a donut pan?

Yes! If you don’t have a donut pan, simply bake the batter in a muffin tin. Increase the baking time by 2-3 minutes and check for doneness with a toothpick.Final Thoughts

These protein donuts are the perfect balance of healthy and indulgent soft, satisfying, and full of flavor. Whether you enjoy them plain, frosted, or with your favorite toppings, they’re a fantastic way to enjoy a Protein Donuts without the guilt.

Now, it’s time to grab your mixing bowl and get baking!

More Delicious Recipes to Try

If you loved these protein donuts, here are some more mouthwatering recipes you’ll want to check out:

Give these recipes a try and let me know which one becomes your new favorite!

Print
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A stack of freshly baked protein donuts topped with a light drizzle of sugar-free glaze and sprinkled with cinnamon.

Protein Donuts Recipe


  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 39 minute

Description

These protein donuts are soft, fluffy, and packed with protein, making them a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional donuts. Baked instead of fried, naturally sweetened, and super easy to make, they’re perfect for a quick breakfast, post-workout snack, or guilt-free dessert. Plus, they’re completely customizable add chocolate chips, drizzle with a sugar-free glaze, or coat them in cinnamon for a fun twist!


Ingredients

  • Protein Powder – The key ingredient for a protein boost while keeping the texture light and fluffy.
  • Almond Flour (or Oat Flour) – Creates a tender, cakey texture while keeping the recipe gluten-free.
  • Eggs – Helps bind the ingredients and adds fluffiness.
  • Greek Yogurt (or Unsweetened Applesauce) – Keeps the donuts moist and soft without excess oil.
  • Maple Syrup (or Honey) – A natural sweetener that enhances the flavor.
  • Milk (Dairy or Non-Dairy) – Adjusts the batter consistency.
  • Vanilla Extract – Adds a warm, bakery-style taste.
  • Baking Powder – Helps the donuts rise and stay light.
  • Cinnamon (Optional) – For extra warmth and flavor.

Optional Toppings & Mix-Ins

  • Dark Chocolate Chips – For a chocolatey upgrade.
  • Chopped Nuts (Almonds, Walnuts, Pecans) – Adds crunch and texture.
  • Sugar-Free Glaze – A light drizzle for extra sweetness.
  • Coconut Flakes – A tropical touch!

Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep the Pan
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan to prevent sticking.

  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together protein powder, almond flour, baking powder, and cinnamon (if using).

  3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
    In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

  4. Make the Batter
    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until the batter is smooth and thick. Avoid overmixing!

  5. Fill the Donut Molds
    Spoon or pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each mold about ¾ full.

  6. Bake the Donuts
    Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  7. Cool & Add Toppings
    Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. Once cooled, glaze, frost, or top as desired!

Notes

  • Choose a good-quality protein powder – Whey or plant-based powders with a fine texture work best. Avoid gritty or thick protein blends.
  • For extra sweetness, add a sugar substitute like monk fruit or stevia.
  • Don’t overbake – Protein-based baked goods dry out quickly, so check at the 12-minute mark for doneness.
  • No donut pan? Use a muffin tin instead and bake for 2-3 extra minutes to make protein muffins!
  • Make them vegan by swapping eggs for flax eggs and using dairy-free yogurt and plant-based protein powder.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-15 minutes

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