Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts

If you’re like me, and your sweet tooth occasionally collides with your fitness goals, these Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts are a dream come true. I first made them on a Sunday afternoon when I was craving something indulgent, yet guilt-free—and let me tell you, these donuts hit the spot. They’ve since become a staple in my kitchen, ideal for breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a healthy dessert. Made with almond flour, hemp protein, and rich cocoa, they’re soft, moist, and satisfyingly chocolatey, all without the need for refined sugar or dairy.

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts

• High in protein from hemp powder and eggs
• Gluten-free, dairy-free, and paleo-friendly
• Quick & easy: 10 minutes prep, 18 minutes bake
• No refined sugar: naturally sweetened with maple syrup
• Perfect for any season: light enough for summer, comforting in winter

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

• 1 cup blanched almond flour (95g), spooned and leveled
• ½ cup hemp protein powder (35g), spooned and leveled
• ⅓ cup cocoa powder (32g), spooned and leveled
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• ¼ cup unsweetened coconut yogurt (or any dairy-free yogurt)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

• ⅓ cup dark chocolate chips
• 1 tsp coconut oil
• 2 Tbsp almond butter

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 6-slot donut pan and set aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine almond flour, hemp protein powder, cocoa powder, cinnamon (if using), baking soda, and salt. Whisk well to eliminate lumps.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add maple syrup, yogurt, and vanilla extract. Pour this wet mixture into your dry ingredients and whisk until smooth.

Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan

Pour the batter into a piping bag or plastic bag with the tip cut off. Fill each donut slot nearly to the top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil using a microwave or stovetop method. Once melted, stir in almond butter until smooth.

Step 7: Glaze the Donuts

Dip the top of each cooled donut into the chocolate glaze. Place on a parchment-lined tray or cooling rack. Refrigerate or freeze briefly to set the glaze.

Tips & Substitutions

• No donut pan? Use a muffin tin (they’ll be mini protein muffins).
• No hemp protein? Substitute with pea protein or extra almond flour for less protein.
• Sweeter? Add 1–2 tablespoons of coconut sugar to the batter.
• Nut allergy? Use sunflower seed butter and oat flour instead.

Health Benefits

• Protein-rich: With hemp protein and eggs, these donuts offer a great post-workout snack.
• High fiber: Almond flour and cocoa powder both contribute to satiety.
• Healthy fats: From almonds, coconut oil, and almond butter.
• Low sugar: Maple syrup is used in moderation for a touch of natural sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a cold brew or hot espresso for a balanced start to your day.
• Serve alongside fruit salad for brunch.
• Crumble into a smoothie bowl for an indulgent crunch.

Storage

Store these donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them without the glaze and defrost as needed.

FAQs

Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Replace eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based yogurt.

Do they taste like cake or bread?
They’re definitely on the cakey side—moist, fluffy, and soft.

Is hemp protein necessary?
It boosts protein content, but you can substitute with other protein powders or more almond flour.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing better than enjoying a treat that aligns with your healthy lifestyle. These Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts do exactly that—without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re training, managing your macros, or just need a clean dessert option, this recipe is your new go-to.