Low Calorie Chocolate Protein Donuts

How to make low calorie chocolate protein donuts with 11g protein using a secret moisture-boosting ingredient you’ll never taste.

sarah thompson for recipes by clare
By Sarah Thompson
Updated on Fri, 01 Aug 2025 20:30:39 GMT

These low calorie chocolate protein donuts changed everything for me when I was desperately trying to satisfy my sweet tooth without derailing my macros. I remember standing in my kitchen at 9 PM, craving something chocolatey but knowing I only had 100 calories left in my daily budget. That’s when I discovered the magic of combining protein powder with an unexpected secret ingredient that makes these donuts incredibly moist while keeping calories shockingly low.

Each donut delivers 11 grams of protein for just 89 calories, and the best part? My teenagers actually fight over them, not knowing they’re packed with nutrition. The double chocolate flavor is so rich and satisfying, you’ll never believe they’re macro-friendly.

Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Double Chocolate Protein Donut

I’ve made these countless times for my family, and they disappear faster than traditional donuts. The secret pumpkin ingredient adds incredible moisture without any pumpkin flavor – you literally can’t taste it, but it transforms the texture completely. These donuts bake up fluffy and tender, never dense or dry like many protein-based treats. They’re ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish, making them perfect for satisfying sudden sweet cravings. The frosting creates a bakery-style finish that makes them feel like a real indulgence, and at only 1 Weight Watchers Smart Point each, they fit seamlessly into any eating plan.

Storage & Serving Tips

I recommend storing these donuts covered at room temperature for 2-3 days, though they rarely last that long in my house. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to one week or freeze the unfrosted donuts for up to three months. Pro tip from my kitchen: let the cream cheese come to room temperature before making the frosting for the smoothest, most professional-looking results. These low calorie chocolate protein donuts are perfect warm from the oven with morning coffee, or pack them for a post-workout snack. For parties, add colorful sprinkles which only add 5-10 extra calories but make them look festive and fun.

What to Serve with Protein Donuts?

These versatile treats pair beautifully with both breakfast and dessert occasions, making them perfect for any time of day.

Fresh Berries: The natural sweetness and acidity of strawberries or raspberries creates a perfect balance against the rich chocolate flavor while adding extra fiber and vitamins.

Greek Yogurt: A small serving of vanilla Greek yogurt alongside adds even more protein and creates a satisfying breakfast or snack combination that keeps you full for hours.

Hot Coffee or Tea: The warm beverages enhance the chocolate notes while the caffeine pairs perfectly with these as a pre-workout energizer.

Protein Smoothie: In my kitchen, I often serve these with a simple vanilla protein smoothie for the ultimate high-protein breakfast that tastes like dessert.

Conclusion

These double chocolate protein donuts prove that healthy eating doesn’t require sacrifice. They’re incredibly easy to make and deliver bakery-quality results that’ll impress everyone. Give this recipe a try – your taste buds and your macros will thank you for discovering this perfect guilt-free indulgence!

Low calorie chocolate protein donuts with chocolate frosting on cooling rack

Double Chocolate Protein Donuts – Only 89 Calories

Low calorie chocolate protein donuts with a secret pumpkin ingredient that adds moisture while keeping calories super low. Each donut has 11 grams of protein and only 89 calories.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 donuts
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 89

Ingredients
  

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
  • 3/8 cup liquid egg whites 92g or 2 whole egg whites
  • 1/2 cup canned pumpkin 120g
  • 2 tbsp Swerve confectioners or zero-calorie sweetener
  • 1 tbsp applesauce 15g
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder 15g
  • 1 serving fat-free cream cheese 32g, room temperature
  • 1 tbsp sugar-free chocolate syrup 15g
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder for frosting

Equipment

  • Donut pan (silicone recommended)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Low-calorie cooking spray

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and spray donut pan with low-calorie cooking spray.
  2. Mix all donut ingredients in large mixing bowl until smooth.
  3. Fill donut pan evenly with batter – don’t worry about perfection, excess can be trimmed later.
  4. Bake for 15 minutes.
  5. While donuts bake, mix room temperature cream cheese, chocolate syrup, and protein powder until creamy for frosting.
  6. Allow donuts to cool briefly, then dip each donut face down into frosting mixture.
  7. Twist back and forth in circular motion to coat evenly, remove and let frosting set.

Notes

Pumpkin is the secret ingredient – you won’t taste it but it adds amazing moisture. Room temperature cream cheese works best for smooth frosting. Can substitute 1 whole egg for applesauce if you want more density and moisture (adds 12 calories per donut).
High Protein Chocolate Donuts 89 Calories 11g Protein Each Secret Ingredient

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