Name: Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts (Gluten Free)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Yield: 8 donuts
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup gluten free oat flour; ½ cup chocolate protein powder; ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ cup unsweetened almond milk; 2 large eggs; ¼ cup maple syrup; ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Hey y'all! If you've ever wished you could enjoy chocolatey, decadent donuts that are actually good for you, your search ends here. This Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts (Gluten Free) recipe delivers soft, moist, protein-packed treats that taste like a bakery indulgence—without the sugar crash! Whether you need a satisfying post-workout snack, a nutritious breakfast, or a sweet treat that fits your healthy lifestyle, these donuts will hit the spot. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts (Gluten Free) Recipe

High-protein and gluten-free for a filling, balanced snack.
Comes together in under 30 minutes for busy mornings or quick cravings.
Rich chocolate flavor and fluffy texture satisfies any sweet tooth.
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings or protein powders.
No refined sugar—naturally sweetened for guilt-free enjoyment.

Ingredients for Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts (Gluten Free)

1 cup almond flour
¼ cup chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
⅓ cup coconut sugar or maple sugar
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
¼ cup unsweetened almond milk
2 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or avocado oil)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional: ¼ cup mini dark chocolate chips (dairy-free for fully gluten-free/DF)

Directions: How to Make Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts (Gluten Free)

1. Prep and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 6-cavity donut pan with non-stick spray or coconut oil.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, coconut sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk eggs, applesauce, almond milk, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Make the Batter

Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a thick, smooth batter forms.
If using, gently fold in mini dark chocolate chips.

5. Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon or pipe the batter evenly into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.

Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts (Gluten Free)

6. Bake

Bake for 14-16 minutes, until the donuts are set and spring back when lightly touched.
Let donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Optional: Add Toppings

Drizzle with melted dark chocolate or sprinkle with a little powdered sugar substitute, if desired.

Notes for the Best Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts (Gluten Free)

For extra moisture and richness, use a high-quality cocoa powder like this King Arthur Dutch-Process Cocoa.
If your batter is too thick, add an extra tablespoon of almond milk for the perfect consistency.
Use a piping bag or large zip-top bag with the tip cut off to neatly fill the donut pan cavities.

Variations: Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts (Gluten Free)

Peanut Butter Swirl: Add 2 tablespoons of natural peanut butter to the batter for a nutty twist.
Mocha: Mix in 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder for a coffee-chocolate flavor.
Berry Boost: Fold in ¼ cup freeze-dried raspberries for a tart and fruity pop.

Required Equipment for Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts (Gluten Free)

Donut pan (6- or 12-cavity)
Mixing bowls (1 large, 1 medium)
Whisk and spatula
Wire rack
Piping bag or zip-top bag (optional)

Storage Instructions for Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts (Gluten Free)

Store cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for 1 month. Thaw before serving.

Serving Recommendations & Pairings

Enjoy with unsweetened almond milk, hot coffee, or a fruit smoothie for a balanced breakfast.
Top with a dollop of whipped coconut cream or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

Pro Tips for Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts (Gluten Free)

Don’t overbake—watch for edges to pull away slightly and test with a toothpick for a tender crumb. For more baking tips, check out Sally’s Baking Addiction’s cake tips.
Sift cocoa powder and protein powder to prevent lumps for a smooth batter.
Let donuts cool completely before glazing or storing to prevent sogginess (learn more about ingredient swaps at Minimalist Baker’s gluten-free flour guide).

FAQ: Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts (Gluten Free)

Can I make these donuts dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use a dairy-free protein powder and dairy-free chocolate chips for a fully dairy-free version.
What kind of protein powder works best?
Either chocolate whey or a chocolate plant-based protein powder works—just make sure yours is gluten-free.
Can I bake these as muffins instead of donuts?
Yes, simply divide the batter into a greased mini muffin tin and bake for 13-15 minutes.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Healthy Chocolate Protein Donuts (Gluten Free)