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High Protein Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes - Soft, Sweet, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 scoop (25–30 g) vanilla whey or plant-based protein powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for the batter)
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar or coconut sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120 g) plain 2% Greek yogurt
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) milk of choice (dairy or unsweetened almond)
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil or melted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1–2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing or tossing)

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) or preheat your air fryer to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or use a lightly greased mini muffin tin.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk flour, protein powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Break up any clumps, especially from the protein powder.
  3. Whisk wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk sugar, egg, Greek yogurt, milk, oil or butter, and vanilla until smooth.
  4. Combine: Add the dry mixture to the wet. Stir gently until just combined. The batter should be thick but scoopable. If it’s too dry, add 1–2 teaspoons of milk.
  5. Portion: Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form 1–1.5 inch mounds. Place them 2 inches apart on the sheet, or fill mini muffin cups about 3/4 full.
  6. Bake or air fry: Bake 9–12 minutes (air fry 7–9 minutes), until puffed and lightly golden. A toothpick should come out clean.
  7. Make the coating: Mix cinnamon and sugar in a shallow bowl. Melt the butter.
  8. Coat: While warm, lightly brush or toss donut holes with melted butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar until evenly coated.
  9. Cool slightly: Let them sit for 5 minutes so the coating sets. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.