High Protein Donut Holes

Craving fluffy, bite-sized donut holes but want something better for you? These high-protein donut holes taste just as good as the real thing. Made with Greek yogurt and protein powder, they stay soft and fluffy while packing in serious protein. Rolled in classic cinnamon sugar, they taste so indulgent you would never guess these high-protein donut holes are healthy. These are great for a post-workout snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High in protein: Made with protein powder and Greek yogurt f
• Soft and fluffy: These baked donut holes have a light, tender texture without needing yeast.
• Easy to make: You only need a handful of simple ingredients and about 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Healthier than traditional donut holes: Baking instead of frying keeps them lighter

Donut Holes Origin

The exact origin of donut holes is debated, but one popular story says they were created because the centers of traditional donuts often remained undercooked. To solve the problem, someone cut out the middle of the dough and fried it separately, creating the bite-sized treat we now know as donut holes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • The base of the donut holes
• 1 scoop protein powder
  • Boost in protein
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Helps the donuts become light and fluffy
• 2 tablespoons sugar or sugar substitute
  • Sweetens the dough
• ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt (start with ½ cup and add more as needed since different protein powders absorb moisture differently)
  • Boost of protein and helps the donut stay moist
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Adds a warm sweetness
• Melted butter
  • Adds a rich butter flavor
• Cinnamon sugar
  • Classic sweet donut coating

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, combine the flour, protein powder, baking powder, and sugar.

Add the Greek yogurt and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more Greek yogurt. If it becomes too sticky, add a small amount of flour until the dough is easy to handle.

Knead the dough until all ingredients are fully combined and the texture is smooth.

Divide the dough into small portions and roll each piece into a ball.

Place the donut holes on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 12-15 minutes.

Let cool slightly before serving. Dip in melted butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar.

High Protein Donut Holes Tips

Tips for the Best Protein Donut Holes

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until the ingredients come together. Overworking the dough can make the donut holes dense instead of light and fluffy.
• Adjust the dough as needed: Different protein powders absorb moisture differently. If the dough is too dry, add a little more Greek yogurt. If it is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour.
• Roll evenly sized balls: Keeping the donut holes the same size helps them bake evenly.
• Don’t overbake: Check them around 12 minutes. Overbaking can dry them out, especially when using protein powder.
• Brush with butter while warm: The melted butter helps the cinnamon sugar stick and gives the donut holes a rich, bakery-style flavor.
• Coat immediately: Roll the warm donut holes in the cinnamon sugar mixture right after brushing them with butter for the best coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my dough too dry?

Protein powder can vary greatly between brands. If your dough is crumbly or dry, add Greek yogurt small spoonful at a time until it comes together.

Why is my dough too sticky?

If the dough sticks to your hands, sprinkle in a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s easy to handle.

Can I air fry these instead of baking?

Yes. Air fry at 330°F for 8–10 minutes, checking for doneness around the 8-minute mark.

Storage Tips

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Freezer: Store in a freeze-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave before serving. Microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Ingredient Substitutions

Protein powder → Vanilla protein powder adds extra flavor, but unflavored or chocolate protein powder can also be used.

Sugar → Replace the granulated sugar with coconut sugar, monk fruit sweetener, or your preferred granulated sugar substitute.

Cinnamon sugar → Try pumpkin pie spice, apple pie spice, cocoa powder mixed with sugar, or a simple vanilla glaze for a fun variation.

What to Serve With Protein Donut Holes

Nut butter: Dip them in peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter for extra flavor and healthy fats.

Chocolate drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate.

Honey or maple syrup: Lightly drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.

Most Common Mistakes

Not adjusting the dough consistency: Different protein powders absorb moisture differently. If the dough feels too dry, add more Greek yogurt. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour.

Overmixing the dough: Kneading too much can make the donut holes tough.

Adding cinnamon sugar too late: Brush the donut holes with melted butter while they are still warm so the cinnamon sugar sticks properly.

If you enjoyed this high protein donut holes recipe, you might also like my strawberry chia pudding or healthy apple muffins recipe.

Healthy Apple Muffins

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