These decadent donuts are rich, chocolatey, and packed with protein—perfect for a satisfying snack or post-workout treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Loaded with chocolate flavor from both cocoa powder and chocolate-protein powder.
Baked (not fried), making them lighter and more homemade-friendly.
A fun way to sneak in extra protein without sacrificing indulgence.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup oat flour
½ cup chocolate protein powder
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
⅓ cup brown sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional glaze: ½ cup chocolate chips + 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease a donut pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the oat flour, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, brown sugar, baking powder and salt.
In another bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, milk and vanilla extract. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, until the donuts are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully.
If using the glaze: melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil until smooth. Dip the top of each donut into the glaze, then place back on the rack until the glaze sets.
Serve and enjoy.
Servings and timing
Makes 8 standard-sized donuts.
Prep time: about 10 minutes.
Bake time: about 12-15 minutes.
Total time: about 25 minutes including cooling.
Variations
Use almond flour instead of oat flour for a slightly nuttier texture.
Swap the brown sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar-free sweetener if you prefer.
Add chopped nuts, chocolate chips or sprinkles on top of the glaze for extra texture.
Use vanilla or caramel flavored protein powder instead of chocolate for a different twist.
Make mini donuts by portioning smaller amounts of batter; reduce bake time to ~8-10 minutes.
Storage/Reheating
Store cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in a pre-heated oven at 300 °F (150 °C) for 5 minutes. If glazed, allow glaze to reset before reheating.
FAQs
What type of protein powder works best?
Chocolate-flavored whey or plant-based protein powder works well. Choose one you like the taste of and that bakes well in desserts.
Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Yes—if your oat flour and other ingredients are certified gluten-free, they can be gluten-free. Or you can substitute with almond flour.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of oat flour?
Yes, you may substitute all-purpose flour, though the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
What if I don’t have a donut pan?
You can bake the batter in a muffin tin (make ~8 muffins) or in a small loaf pan—adjust the bake time accordingly.
Can I skip the glaze?
Absolutely. These donuts are delicious plain. The glaze is optional and adds extra decadence.
Are these donuts suitable for breakfast?
Yes—they have protein and are baked rather than fried, making them a reasonable treat for breakfast or snack time.
Can I freeze the donuts?
Yes—once cooled and (if glazed) the glaze has set, you can freeze them in a single layer in a sealed container or bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
How can I make them lower in sugar?
You can reduce or replace the brown sugar with a sugar-free alternative, and omit the glaze or use a low-sugar glaze. Choose a protein powder without added sugar.
What if the batter seems too thick or too thin?
If too thick: add a splash more milk (1-2 tablespoons) until you reach a thick yet pourable consistency. If too thin: add a little extra flour (1-2 tablespoons) to thicken it up.
Why didn’t my donuts rise much?
Possible reasons: old baking powder, over-mixing the batter, or filling the cavities too full (causing spread instead of rise). Ensure your baking powder is fresh and fill the pan about ¾ full.
Conclusion
These double chocolate protein donuts are a delicious way to merge indulgence and nourishment. Whether you’re treating yourself or fueling up post-workout, they hit sweet, chocolate-y, and satisfying notes—without requiring frying or complicated steps. Grab your donut pan and whip up a batch to enjoy!
