Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts

Name: Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based); 1/2 cup granulated sugar or coconut sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 2/3 cup unsweetened Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1/4 cup milk of choice; 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup fresh or frozen mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or chopped strawberries); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping, optional); 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping, optional); 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing, optional)

Author: Lora

Published: November 9, 2025

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Introduction to Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts

Welcome to a delightful treat that you can whip up in no time—Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts! As a busy mom, I understand how challenging it can be to find the perfect snack that satisfies both cravings and nutrition. These doughnuts are not only healthy but also bursting with the goodness of berries. Imagine treating your loved ones to a warm, fluffy doughnut, knowing it’s packed with protein. It’s a quick solution for those hectic mornings or an impressive dessert for unexpected guests. Let’s dive into this joyful baking adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts

These Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts are a game-changer. They come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings or after-school treats. With a delightful berry flavor and warm cinnamon touch, they balance taste with nutrition flawlessly. Plus, they’re guilt-free! Who wouldn’t love a delicious snack that’s high in protein? Trust me; these doughnuts will become a family favorite in no time!

Ingredients for Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts

Let’s gather what we need for our Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts. Each ingredient plays a vital role in balancing flavor and health, transforming a humble doughnut into a nutritious delight.

All-purpose flour: This is the base for our doughnuts, providing the desired texture and structure.
Vanilla protein powder: A great way to boost protein content, choose between whey or plant-based for your dietary preference.
Granulated sugar or coconut sugar: Sweetness is key! Coconut sugar adds a hint of caramel flavor, while granulated sugar is a classic choice.
Baking powder: This leavening agent gives our doughnuts that fluffy rise.
Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances flavor, it adds a delightful aroma and tastes just like home.
Baking soda: This also helps with rising, working in tandem with the baking powder for the perfect rise.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all flavors and balances sweetness.
Large eggs: Eggs bind everything together and add moisture, giving a rich texture to the doughnuts.
Unsweetened Greek yogurt: It adds creaminess and a protein boost, keeping the doughnuts moist.
Applesauce: A healthier substitute for oil that keeps our doughnuts light while adding natural sweetness.
Milk of choice: This adds liquid to the batter; feel free to use almond, oat, or cow’s milk based on preference.
Melted coconut oil or unsalted butter: Both options provide fat, enhancing moisture and keeping the doughnuts tender.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors, making the doughnuts taste incredible.
Mixed berries: Fresh or frozen, these are the stars of our show, bringing juicy bursts of flavor in every bite.
Granulated sugar and ground cinnamon (optional for topping): Mix these for a sweet, spicy finish if you desire a little extra indulgence!
Melted butter (optional for brushing): This adds a lovely sheen and extra flavor to the surface of the doughnuts.

You can find the exact quantities at the bottom of the article, perfect for your next baking adventure!

How to Make Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheating the oven to 350°F ensures that the Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts cook evenly. This step is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture we crave. If the oven isn’t hot enough, the doughnuts might not rise properly, leaving you with dense treats instead of light, airy goodness.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, protein powder, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. This first mixing step gains momentum for flavor and texture. It’s important to blend these dry ingredients well to avoid any clumps, ensuring every doughnut gets that delightful taste of cinnamon. A smooth mix helps the doughnuts rise perfectly, so take your time here!

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, beat the eggs and then add the Greek yogurt, applesauce, milk, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth, creating a creamy base. It should feel thick yet pourable. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach the right consistency. This will help in creating a lovely, moist doughnut texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to unite the dry and wet ingredients! Pour the wet mixture into the dry bowl. Use a spatula to gently fold the two together until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, or you’ll end up with tougher doughnuts. We want that fluffy quality, so stop mixing as soon as you see no dry flour.

Step 5: Fold in the Berries

Gently fold in your chosen mixed berries into the batter. This step is all about being delicate. If you stir too hard, you risk smashing the berries, turning your lovely batter into a pink mush. Aim for a gentle turn to evenly distribute those juicy bites throughout. Each doughnut should boast little bursts of berry goodness!

Step 6: Fill the Doughnut Pan

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cavity in the greased doughnut pan about three-quarters full. This amount is key to prevent overflow while baking. Filling them too much will create a mess, but fill them too little and you’ll end up with sad, flat doughnuts!

Step 7: Bake the Doughnuts

Place the doughnut pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Keep an eye on them, as every oven is a bit different. Golden tops are your cue for deliciousness.

Step 8: Cool and Finish

Allow your doughnuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set perfectly. If you fancy a little extra indulgence, brush them with melted butter and dunk in a cinnamon-sugar mixture. A warm doughnut paired with that sweet topping makes every bite heavenly!

Tips for Success

Always sift your dry ingredients; it helps prevent clumps.
Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing.
Don’t rush the folding process; a gentle touch keeps the doughnuts fluffy.
Experiment with different berries to find your favorite flavor combination.
Check for doneness a minute early to avoid overbaking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Equipment Needed for Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts

Doughnut pan: Essential for shaping, but a muffin tin works in a pinch!
Mixing bowls: Two sizes—a large for dry and a medium for wet ingredients.
Whisk or spatula: For combining, but a fork can do the job too.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient portions.
Cooling rack: Great for letting the doughnuts breathe after baking, but a plate works.

Variations of Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts

Berry Medley: Swap in different berries like blackberries or cherries for a twist.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch and healthy fats.
Chocolate Chip: Toss in mini dark chocolate chips for a delightful surprise.
Spice it Up: Experiment with pumpkin spice or nutmeg for a seasonal flavor.
Vegan Option: Use flax eggs and dairy-free yogurt/milk for a plant-based treat.

Serving Suggestions for Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts

Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and protein boost.
Serve alongside fresh fruit like sliced bananas or strawberries for a refreshing contrast.
Enjoy with a cozy cup of herbal tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Drizzle with a light glaze for an elegant finish at brunch.
Present on a colorful cake stand to impress guests at gatherings.

FAQs about Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts

Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts:

Can I use frozen berries? Absolutely! Frozen berries work just as great and can add a lovely texture.
How can I make these doughnuts gluten-free? Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I make these doughnuts ahead of time? Yes! They store well in an airtight container for a couple of days.
What’s the best way to reheat them? A quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave does wonders for softness!

Final Thoughts

Making Protein Cinnamon Berry Doughnuts has been an absolute joy for me, and I hope you feel the same way. These delightful treats not only satisfy sweet cravings but also align with a healthy lifestyle. Whether it’s a busy morning rush or a cozy weekend brunch, these doughnuts fit perfectly into any moment. The smiles on my family’s faces when they take a bite? Priceless. So, roll up your sleeves and let your kitchen transform into a happy place filled with warmth and berry goodness. You’ll be on your way to creating lasting memories with each delicious batch!