I’ll admit it, I have a serious soft spot for donuts. But when I started paying more attention to my protein intake, I thought donuts were off the table. That’s when I started experimenting with creating the perfect protein donut recipe. I wanted something that hit the sweet spot — literally — while offering the kind of nutrition I could feel good about.
This protein donut recipe is now a staple in my kitchen. It’s fluffy, baked (not fried), easy to whip up, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout treat, a wholesome breakfast on-the-go, or a healthier dessert, even during the National Donut Day, these donuts fit the bill without compromising flavor or texture.
Table of contents
Why This Protein Donut Recipe Works Wonders
There are hundreds of donut recipes out there, but few offer the same balance of flavor, nutrition, and ease that this one does. The base uses simple pantry ingredients, protein powder, and just enough sweetness to satisfy without being cloying. You bake them in a donut pan, which cuts down on both mess and calories. No oil-splattering or deep-frying involved.
What makes this protein donut recipe really stand out is its versatility. You can use whey or plant-based protein, dairy or dairy-free milk, and adjust the sweetness or toppings to fit your preferences. I’ve made versions with chocolate chips, cinnamon sugar, peanut butter glaze, and even matcha icing and they all work beautifully.
Plus, these donuts hold together well, so you don’t end up with a dry, crumbly disappointment (which is the sad fate of many protein-packed baked goods). The texture is moist, cake-like, and satisfying.
And here’s a fun bonus, each donut has around 8 to 12 grams of protein depending on your ingredients. That means you can enjoy one with your morning coffee and still hit your macro goals.
If you’re trying to transition to higher-protein snacks without giving up your favorite treats, this is the perfect recipe to start with.
Recipe Card
Protein Donut Recipe
6
servings5
minutes10
minutes120
kcalA high-protein, low-sugar baked donut that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or post-workout fuel. Moist, fluffy, and ready in 20 minutes.
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Ingredients
1 cup 1 oat flour (or all-purpose flour)
1 1 scoop (about 30g) protein powder (vanilla or neutral flavor)
1 tsp 1 baking powder
¼ tsp ¼ salt
¼ tsp ¼ cinnamon (optional)
1 1 egg
½ cup ½ unsweetened almond milk (or any milk)
¼ cup ¼ unsweetened applesauce
2 tbsp 2 maple syrup or honey
1 tsp 1 vanilla extract
Optional: 1 tbsp melted coconut oil or nut butter for richness
Directions
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F) and lightly grease a donut pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, protein powder, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients: egg, milk, applesauce, sweetener, vanilla, and optional oil.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures. Stir gently just until mixed.
- Spoon or pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each mold about ¾ full.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Add glaze or toppings once fully cooled.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- You can freeze them and reheat in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds.
- Adjust sweetness to taste based on your protein powder and preferences.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Protein Donut Every Time
Before you preheat that oven, let me share a few tips I’ve learned from testing this recipe (many, many times).
- Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing leads to dense, rubbery donuts. Just stir until combined — lumps are okay.
- Use a good quality protein powder. Not all protein powders bake the same. Whey isolates tend to give the fluffiest results, while plant-based powders can be a bit drier. Adjust the milk slightly if needed.
- Fill your donut pan carefully. A piping bag or zip-top bag with a corner snipped off works great for even, clean filling. It also helps the donuts bake evenly.
- Watch your baking time. These bake fast, around 10 minutes. Check at 9, and don’t let them go dry. They should spring back lightly to the touch.
- Let them cool before glazing. I know it’s hard, but if you glaze too early, it melts right off. Let them cool on a rack first for the best presentation.
With those tips in your apron pocket, you’re ready to bake protein donuts that taste just as good as they look.
Protein Donut Recipe Variations You’ll Want to Try
Chocolate Protein Donuts
Swap 2 tablespoons of flour for unsweetened cocoa powder and use chocolate protein powder. Top with a quick chocolate glaze made from melted dark chocolate and a splash of milk. These taste like a brownie in donut form and make an excellent post-workout treat.
Cinnamon Roll Protein Donut Recipe
Add a half teaspoon of cinnamon and a dash of nutmeg to the batter. Once baked, drizzle with a glaze made from powdered monk fruit sweetener and almond milk. For extra flair, sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans on top. These are great for cozy mornings.
Peanut Butter Banana Protein Donuts
Use mashed ripe banana in place of part of the milk and swirl in two tablespoons of peanut butter before baking. This combo is super moist and naturally sweet. I sometimes top them with a bit of peanut butter and sliced banana for an indulgent breakfast.
Matcha Green Tea Protein Donuts
Add a teaspoon of culinary-grade matcha to the batter and pair it with vanilla or coconut protein powder. Once cooled, dip the tops into a glaze of powdered sugar, matcha, and a bit of milk. These look and taste like they came from a fancy bakery.
FAQs and Troubleshooting for Protein Donut Recipe
Protein powder can absorb moisture quickly. If your donuts turn out dry, try reducing the baking time slightly or adding an extra tablespoon of applesauce or milk to the batter.
Whey protein isolate usually yields the fluffiest texture. Plant-based protein works too but might need a splash more liquid. Go for a neutral or vanilla flavor unless you’re customizing.
Make sure to grease your pan well, even if it’s nonstick. You can also use silicone donut pans, which release baked goods easily without added fat.
You can add Greek yogurt or cottage cheese to the wet ingredients, or choose a higher-protein flour like almond flour, adjusting the liquid to keep the texture right.
Final Thoughts
If you’re someone who loves donuts but also wants to stay on track with your health goals, this protein donut recipe is your new best friend. It’s a simple, satisfying way to enjoy a beloved treat while sneaking in a decent boost of protein and keeping refined sugar at bay. Whether you’re celebrating a small win, treating yourself after a morning workout, or just trying to eat more mindfully, this recipe has your back.
One of my favorite times to make these is around National Donut Day. Instead of rushing to the nearest donut shop and being tempted by high-sugar, fried options, I whip up a batch of these at home. They’re festive, easy, and so much better for your energy levels. Plus, you can get creative and make a donut bar for your family or friends, offering different toppings like dark chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or even a Greek yogurt drizzle.
So grab your mixing bowl, preheat that oven, and get baking. And if you’re into easy, high-protein breakfast options, you’ll probably love my recipes for Kodiak Pancake Recipe and Protein Packed Chocolate Pudding. Both are just as quick and meal-prep friendly.
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