20 Cal Chocolate Protein Donut Holes

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I first came up with this quick donut hole idea after a busy workday left me craving chocolate but with no desire to burn a hole in my daily calorie goal. Traditional donut holes were always a nostalgic treat, but I needed something lighter something I could enjoy without second thoughts about my fitness routine. That spark led me to test a few ingredient combinations, and the result is this recipe for chocolatey, airy donut holes that clock in at just about 20 calories each. They’re surprisingly soft, hold up well for a few days in the fridge, and can even give you a bit of extra protein. Now, whenever that sweet tooth strikes, these little gems are fav!

Prep Time, Cooking Time, Calories, and Servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Approximate Calories: ~20 per donut hole
• Servings: 12 donut holes (could vary by size)

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preparing the Dry Mix

Start by sifting your chocolate protein powder into a small bowl. This helps avoid any clumps in the final batter. Next, stir in unsweetened cocoa powder and a low calorie sweetener of your choice. I like to use a granulated version because it mixes more evenly. A tiny dash of salt can help highlight the chocolate taste.

2. Adding Moisture

In a separate bowl, whisk an egg white until it’s slightly frothy. This step gives the donut holes a bit of lift once they bake. Then, pour in a small splash of almond milk (or another low calorie milk alternative) and a spoonful of unsweetened applesauce. The applesauce helps keep everything moist without adding many calories. If you prefer, you can use mashed banana instead, but keep in mind that banana will add a bit more natural sugar and a hint of banana flavor.

3. Combining Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring as you go. You’re aiming for a texture that’s thick enough to roll into balls without sticking everywhere. If it’s too dry, add tiny splashes of milk. If it’s too loose, stir in a little more cocoa powder or an extra spoonful of protein powder. I recommend giving the batter a quick taste to see if you need more sweetener. Remember, a little bit of sweet goes a long way.

4. Shaping the Donut Holes

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Now, take about a tablespoon of dough for each donut hole, rolling it gently between your palms. If the batter starts clinging to your fingers, dab them with a little water or a nonstick spray. Place your rolled donut holes on the parchment, spacing them just enough so they’re not touching.

5. Baking Time

Pop the tray into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes. You want them set, but not rock hard. A good test is to touch one lightly it should spring back instead of leaving a deep dent. Once they’re done, let them cool on the tray for a minute, then transfer to a cooling rack. Resisting the urge to taste one right out of the oven can be tough, but it’s worth waiting just a little so they firm up nicely.

Nutrition Facts (Per Donut Hole)

• Calories: ~20
• Protein: ~2g
• Carbs: ~2g
• Fat: ~1g
• Fiber: ~1g

These numbers can vary based on your protein powder and sweetener. If you choose a different flour substitute or a sweetener with different macros, the numbers might shift a bit. But in general, these donut holes stay in a very low calorie range.

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Tips for Maximum Freshness and Storage

1. Cooling Completely: Let your donut holes cool fully before storing. Placing them in a container while still warm can trap steam, affecting their texture.
2. Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They tend to get a bit denser over time, so you might consider warming them up slightly in the microwave before eating.
3. Freezing: If you’d like to make a bigger batch, freeze them in a single layer on a tray. Once they’re solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to snack, thaw them in the fridge or on the counter.

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A Personal Take on Flavor Additions

Sometimes I like to kick it up a notch with a light dusting of powdered peanut butter or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate (especially if I plan to eat them after a workout). For a cool spin, sprinkle a bit of coconut flakes on top for an added texture. If you’re really feeling adventurous, add a pinch of chili powder to the batter for a subtle heat that pairs nicely with chocolate.

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Pairing Suggestions with Other Recipes

These donut holes go well with a simple protein shake or a low-fat latte to create a balanced, quick breakfast. If you’re hosting a small gathering, you could serve them on a platter alongside a bowl of fresh fruit. Another idea is to place them with something fruity like a strawberry banana smoothie giving a hint of sweetness that complements the chocolate flavor. If you want to continue a protein-rich theme, check out our 2-Minute Protein Brownie for another rapid-fire treat.

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Pin This Recipe for Later

If you find yourself in need of a fast chocolate fix often, pin this 20 Cal Chocolate Protein Donut Holes recipe! Feel free to add a personal note on your pin about which protein powder you love, or what sweetener worked best for you. It’s always nice to see how others personalize these treats.