I have a raging sweet tooth, so when I can satisfy my cravings and pack in my daily protein, I consider it a win-win. This is why I love to make high-protein sweet treats like brownies, rice krispies, and these protein cupcakes. These cupcakes turn out light and fluffy, just like traditional cupcakes, but with added protein, thanks to the combination of protein powder and almond butter. When we’re in the baking mood and need a healthy but satisfying treat, nothing beats these cupcakes.
Why this recipe works
Just 5 ingredients. You’ll only need 5 ingredients to make these moist and fluffy cupcakes, and one of them is optional! Naturally vegan and gluten-free. There’s no flour, dairy, or eggs in this recipe, so long as you use a vegan protein powder. Packed with protein. Between the protein powder and almond butter, you’re looking at a whopping 20 grams of protein per cupcake. Customizable. Almost all the ingredients you’ll need can be customized to suit your preferences or save you a trip to the store. Plus, you can add whatever frosting you want, and I’ll be sure to leave a few suggestions later on.
What we love most about these cupcakes is how versatile they are. Since they’re made with only wholesome ingredients, I see no reason we shouldn’t have them as breakfast alongside some protein coffee.
Ingredients needed
You’ll only need five ingredients, including optional sugar, to make these healthy cupcakes. Here’s exactly what you’ll need:
Mashed banana. Instead of eggs, mashed bananas can help bind the batter and make it smooth and creamy. Not a fan of bananas in your baking? Swap it for canned pumpkin, mashed sweet potatoes, or applesauce for the same creamy texture and natural sweetness. Almond butter. To thicken the batter and add richness. Make your own or opt for the storebought kind. Cocoa powder. For the chocolate flavor. I prefer dark chocolate cocoa powder, but any kind will work. Protein powder. For protein and as a flour substitute. Use your favorite brand in either vanilla or chocolate. Coconut sugar. Optional for extra sweetness. This can be swapped for any sweetener of your choice or omitted.
How to make protein cupcakes
Step 1- Prep work: Preheat the oven to 350F/175C and line a 6-count muffin tin with muffin liners. Step 2- Combine ingredients: Using a high-speed blender or mixing bowl, combine all of your ingredients and blend until smooth. Pour the cupcake batter into each muffin tin, filling until almost full. Step 3- Bake and serve: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely in the muffin tin, then frost if desired and serve.
Recipe tips and variations
Choose the protein powder wisely. I prefer casein, brown rice, or pea protein for baking as they blend well and don’t dry out baked goods as much as whey protein powder does. Avoid overbaking the cupcakes. Remove them from the oven as soon as a toothpick inserted comes out clean since they’ll continue to cook as they’re cooling. Make mini cupcakes. Use a smaller muffin tin and make double the cupcakes. Just remember to cut the baking time in half, as smaller cupcakes will bake faster. Don’t forget the frosting. All good cupcakes require frosting, of course! Try this healthy frosting or this easy 2-ingredient dairy free frosting. Add some mix-ins. Toss in some chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or chopped nuts to level up the flavor. Swap the almond butter. Use peanut butter, cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, homemade Nutella, or any nut butter you prefer.
Storage instructions
To store: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep the cupcakes fresher for longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to one week. To freeze: Store cooled, unfrosted cupcakes in a freezer-safe bag and freeze them for up to 6 months. Allow the leftover cupcakes to thaw overnight in the fridge.
Frequently asked questions
More high-protein desserts to try
Cheesecake– Rich and creamy cheesecake with over 30 grams of protein per serving. Donuts– Fluffy, cakey, low-calorie donuts that taste just as decadent as regular donuts. Chocolate chip cookies– Chewy and chocolatey cookies made with only 4 ingredients. Pudding– Smooth and creamy pudding you can enjoy in a wide variety of flavors. Pumpkin balls– Satisfy your pumpkin spice craving while sneaking in your daily dose of protein and fiber.
