Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts Recipe
Introduction
These Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts are a delicious way to enjoy a sweet treat without the guilt. Packed with whole wheat flour and protein powder, they offer a nutritious boost perfect for breakfast or a snack. Plus, they’re naturally sweetened and easy to make at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup chocolate protein powder
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk alternative)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: dark chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of natural peanut butter
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, sift together whole wheat flour, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk to combine.
- Step 3: In another bowl, mix applesauce, honey or maple syrup, Greek yogurt, almond milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Step 4: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix; the batter should be thick but pourable.
- Step 5: Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full. Smooth the tops.
- Step 6: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Avoid overbaking.
- Step 7: Allow donuts to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 8: Add optional toppings like dark chocolate chips, nuts, or a peanut butter drizzle.
Tips & Variations
- For extra moisture, substitute half of the applesauce with mashed banana.
- Use your favorite protein powder, but adjust the dry ingredients slightly if the texture seems too thick.
- Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.
- To make these vegan, replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use maple syrup instead of honey.
Storage
Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To enjoy warm donuts, reheat them briefly in the microwave or oven. These donuts also freeze well; wrap them individually and thaw before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour if you prefer a lighter texture, but whole wheat adds more nutrients and a heartier flavor.
What if I don’t have a donut pan?
You can use a muffin tin instead; simply fill each cup about 3/4 full and bake for the same amount of time. The shape will differ, but the taste will be just as good.
Print
Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 donuts 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts are a delicious and nutritious treat, made with whole wheat flour, chocolate protein powder, and natural sweeteners. Perfect for a guilt-free breakfast or snack, they combine rich chocolate flavor with a moist texture and are topped with optional dark chocolate chips, nuts, or a peanut butter drizzle.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup chocolate protein powder
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk alternative)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- Dark chocolate chips
- Crushed nuts
- Drizzle of natural peanut butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together whole wheat flour, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until they’re evenly combined, ensuring no clumps remain.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together unsweetened applesauce, honey or maple syrup, Greek yogurt, almond milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently, combining until just mixed. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender; the batter should be thick but still pourable.
- Fill Donut Pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan cavities, filling each about three-quarters full. Smooth the tops with the back of the spoon or a spatula for an even shape.
- Bake the Donuts: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean, indicating they are cooked through.
- Cool the Donuts: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the donuts to cool for 5 minutes in the pan. Then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Add Toppings: Once cooled, add optional toppings such as dark chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of natural peanut butter for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to ensure the donuts remain light and fluffy.
- Use a toothpick test to prevent overbaking, which can dry out the donuts.
- Substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option.
- Feel free to experiment with different protein powder flavors if you prefer.
- Ensure the donut pan is well-greased or use non-stick spray for easy removal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: healthy chocolate protein donuts, protein donuts, baked donuts, whole wheat donuts, healthy breakfast, low sugar donuts, dairy-free option
