Olympic Chocolate Muffin Makeover – More Protein, Less Sugar

The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics were memorable for many reasons—stunning performances, world records, and of course, the food that fueled the athletes. Among the buzz in the Olympic Village was a particular treat that athletes couldn’t get enough of: the chocolate muffins. These fudgy, ooey-gooey delights quickly became a hot commodity, with athletes scooping them up for breakfast, snacks, and even post-workout recovery.

But these weren’t just any muffins; they were more like decadent, personal-sized cakes, rich in flavor but also rich in less desirable nutrients. The original recipe, while delicious, wasn’t exactly the healthiest option with its higher fat and sugar content. That’s why I took on the challenge to give these muffins a makeover—because champions deserve a treat that’s not only indulgent but also supports their health goals.

This revamped version of the viral chocolate muffins is gluten-free, has less fat, less sugar, and a significant boost of protein, making them an ideal snack for anyone leading an active lifestyle. These muffins are literally food for champions, whether you’re competing at an elite level or just trying to stay fit and healthy.

With my single-serve version of the viral Olympic muffin is made quickly in a mug, you won’t have to sacrifice flavor for nutrition. This chocolate mug protein muffin retains the glorious, rich goodness that made them a hit among the world’s top athletes, but with a cleaner ingredient list that aligns with your fitness goals. Enjoy this gluten-free chocolate mug muffin as a guilt-free as part of your balanced diet, knowing you’re fueling your body like a true champion.

VIRAL OLYMPIC CHOCOLATE MUFFIN MAKEOVER DETAILS & TIPS:

Macros: 234 cal, 14g net car (24g total carb), 10g fat, 20g protein – please not that nutrition details will change based on specific brands of ingredients used or substitutions made.

Mug: Please use a microwave-safe, 16-ounce mug or similar-sized bowl. Love this vintage-style, embossed glass mug that I used in the photo – it even has a bamboo lid and cute serving spoon.

Flour: I really love Peanut Flour Blend as an alternative flour for baking – it gives recipes a light texture when making gluten-free recipes. It also offers 10g protein per serving and has significantly less fat than almond flour. If you want to make a substitution, I’d suggest oat flour in a 1:1 swap.

Chocolaty Center: Look for a no-added-sugar chocolate hazelnut spread, there are several brands out there I love, like ChocZero and the Choco Hazel from Good Good . Depending on your tastes, you can use a dark, milk or white chocolate center. And, if you’d rather add some fruity goodness, substitute no-added-sugar fruit preserves.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission on purchase, proceeds help offset operating costs for The Fit Fork. Thank you!

Makeover Olympic Village Chocolate Protein Muffin
Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
2 mins
Total Time
7 mins
 
Makeover Olympic Village Chocolate Muffin, but better! 💪 These muffins went so viral, but – in reality they were more like a sugar-bomb cake. I worked the recipe over to have more protein, less fat, less sugar—made for champions. 🏅 Sized for one – you don’t even have to share!
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack, workout
Keyword: chocolate, cooking for one, high protein, muffin, mug cake, mug meal
Servings: 1 serving
Calories: 234 kcal
Ingredients
  • 3 tbsp peanut baking blend flour or can sub oat flour*
  • 2 tbsp chocolate whey protein powder
  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tbsp sugar-free sweeter with 1:1 measure ratio or can swap another granualted sweetener or sugar*
  • ¼ tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 2 Tbsp zero-fat Greek yogurt
  • 3 tbsp sugar free mini chocolate chips
  • 2 tsp sugar-free chocolate hazel nut spread
  • optional: sea salt flakes
Instructions
  1. In 16-oz microwave-safe mug, stir together peanut flour blend, whey protein, cocoa powder, stevia, and baking soda.
  2. Next, stir in almond milk and Greek yogurt, mixing just until a thick batter is formed. Stir in chocolate chips.
  3. Microwave on HIGH for 90 seconds (or until center mostly set). Microwave in 10-second increments if it doesn’t look set yet.
  4. Remove from microwave and mug muffin will sink down a bit, creating a small well in the center.
  5. Add the chocolate hazelnut spread to center indention. Sprinkle with a tiny bit of salt on top.
Recipe Notes

*ingredient swaps will change macros

 

A Bunch of Banana Tips and Snack Ideas to Sweeten Any Day

Bananas are not just a delicious and versatile fruit; they also have the power to fuel your runs and workouts plus brighten up your day in unexpected ways. Whether you’re a banana lover or just looking for some fun, practical tips, these ideas will bring a smile to your face. Let’s dive into five banana tips that will leave you grinning from ear to ear!

1) Write a Clever Note on the Peel to Make a Banana Lover’s Day

Sometimes, it’s the small gestures that make the biggest impact. Before sending someone off with a banana, why not add a little personalized note right on the peel? Use a pen to gently inscribe a sweet message, or even a funny doodle. Whether it’s a motivational quote, a simple “Have a great day!” or an inside joke, this tiny touch can turn an ordinary snack into a delightful surprise.

Here are some romantic banana-inspired message ideas:

  • I find you a-peeling!
  • Let’s monkey around!
  • I’m bananas for you!
  • Love you a bunch!
  • Let’s never split!

2) Slow Down Ripening with a Simple Trick

Ever bought a bunch of bananas only to watch them go from perfectly ripe to overly brown in what feels like minutes? A simple way to slow down the ripening process is to wrap the stems in plastic food wrap. This trick works by trapping the ethylene gas that bananas naturally release, which is responsible for ripening. If you’re feeling a bit extra, there are even adorable reusable Nana Hats that do the job just as well while adding a fun touch to your fruit display (see my watermelon one in the video).

3) Get Dicey: How to Cut the Perfect Banana Topping for Breakfast: Here’s a morning routine hack for you! Instead of slicing bananas the usual way, try dicing them into small cubes, while still in the skin. This cross-hatch dicing technique is perfect for topping your oatmeal, yogurt, or cereal – or to stir into pancake batter. The small pieces are easier to mix in and give you a delightful burst of banana in every bite.

4) Freeze Chocolate-Covered Banana Slices for a Healthy Treat: Craving something sweet but trying to stay on the healthier side? Try slicing up some bananas and dipping them in melted chocolate. Freeze the slices for a few hours, and you’ll have a delicious, guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth. These frozen delights are perfect for a quick snack, dessert, or even as a fun treat to share with friends and family. You can also get creative by adding a sprinkle of sea salt, popped amaranth or quinoa, or chopped nuts before freezing. Check out my Crispy Chocolate Banana Bites recipe.

Treat your sweet tooth to this healthy snack - a sugar-free crispy chocolate inspired by a Nestle Crunch bar, nut butter and banana slices! Prep a batch and store in the freezer. Gluten-free and only 84 cal per piece

5) Create a Peanut Butter Banana Sundae for the Ultimate Banana Snack: Bananas and peanut butter (or other nut and/or seed butters you prefer) are a match made in heaven, and this sundae takes it to the next level. Start by slicing a banana lengthwise and spreading a generous layer of peanut butter on top. Add your favorite toppings—think granola, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of honey—and you’ve got yourself a smart and satisfying snack. Whether you enjoy it as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or a post-workout treat, this peanut butter banana sundae is sure to hit the spot.

Enjoy these banana tips, and don’t forget to share the joy with others! Whether you’re adding a bit of fun to someone’s day or treating yourself to a healthy snack, bananas are here to make life a little sweeter.

Pucker Up for Lemon Protein Tiramisu

Lemon Protein Tiramisu made with cottage cheese, greek yogurt, protein powder, rice cakes and a lemon as the main ingredients.

Lemon lovers, this one’s for you! If you’re a fan of all things lemony and looking for a healthy dessert (or even a breakfast option), get ready to fall in love with our Lemon Protein Tiramisu. This refreshing treat is not only bursting with zesty lemon flavor but also packed with protein, making it a perfect guilt-free indulgence. Just 256 cal, 24g carb, 4g fat and a whopping 33g protein for the generous-sized serving.

The Healthy Twist

Our Lemon Protein Tiramisu is designed with health and fitness enthusiasts in mind. It’s made without any added sugar, loads of fat, or gluten, so you can enjoy it without worrying about derailing your goals. The surprise ingredients that make this tiramisu both nutritious and delicious are cottage cheese, protein powder, and rice cakes. Yes, you read that right!

If you're a fan of all things lemony and looking for a healthy dessert (or even a breakfast option), get ready to fall in love with our Lemon Protein Tiramisu. This refreshing treat is not only bursting with zesty lemon flavor but also packed with protein, making it a perfect guilt-free indulgence. Just 256 cal, 24g carb, 4g fat and a whopping 33g protein for the generous-sized serving.

Why Cottage Cheese, Protein Powder and Rice Cakes?

  • Cottage Cheese: This creamy dairy product is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and vitamins. It’s low in fat and calories, making it a perfect ingredient for a health-conscious dessert – it blends into a smooth and creamy consistency. Cottage cheese desserts will keep you filled up!
  • Protein Powder: You only need about ½ scoop of vanilla protein powder, but it adds another 10g +/- protein depending on the type you use. It also acts a bit as a binder in the filling, but you CAN omit if you’d prefer.
  • Rice Cakes: These light and crispy cakes are naturally gluten-free and provide a good base for the layers of our tiramisu.  Rice cakes add a satisfying texture that sops up flavor without the heaviness of traditional cake layers (Lady Fingers). 
  • Tip: Use fresh lemon juice, if at all possible, the flavor is just next level. About one medium lemon should give you enough juice when squeezed (try this squeezer).

Perfectly Portioned for One

One of the best things about this Lemon Protein Tiramisu is that it’s perfectly portioned for one and fits into a bowl or wide-mouth mug about 16-ounces (I used these vintage-style glass mugs with lids, so be convenient for keeping covered in the fridge). Whether you’re treating yourself to a solo dessert or need a quick and healthy breakfast option, this recipe is convenient and easy to prepare without baking.

How to Enjoy Lemon Rice Cake Tiramisu

This versatile dish can be enjoyed in various ways:

  • As a Dessert: End your meal on a high note with this refreshing and protein-packed treat. And, did you know that dairy products can help you sleep better, making it perfect at night.
  • For Breakfast: Kickstart your day with a healthy, balanced and energizing breakfast that feels like a treat.
  • Post-Workout Snack: Replenish your energy and protein levels with a serving of this delicious tiramisu. 33 grams of protein!

Also, if you like this cottage cheese dessert recipe, you’ll love this Caramel Protein Cottage Cheese Tiramisu

A guilt-free makeover on a classic dessert favorite – Caramel Protein Tiramisu! Swapping out traditional ingredients for healthier options like blended cottage cheese for mascarpone cheese and rice cakes for lady fingers creates a protein dessert that nourishes with 31g protein for only 281 calories.

.Note: This post contains affiliate links.

Lemon Protein Tiramisu
Prep Time
10 mins
chill to set
5 mins
Total Time
25 mins
 
Pucker Up! Lemon lovers will be obsessed with this healthy dessert (or breakfast) packed with protein and no added sugar or gluten. Cottage cheese and rice cakes are the surprise ingredients, trust me – it works! No- bake, no stress with amazing macros for a little meal or dessert ready in no time– 256 cal, 24g carb, 4g fat and 33g protein.
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, high protein, Italian, workout
Keyword: cottage cheese, dessert for one, high protein, lemon, protein powder, tiramisu
Servings: 1 serving
Ingredients
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice about 1 medium lemon
  • ¼ cup sugar-free vanilla syrup like the coffee shop kind
  • 2 plain rice cakes standard size, not minis
  • ½ cup 2% cottage cheese
  • ¼ cup 0% Greek yogurt
  • ½ scoop vanilla whey protein about 2 tbsp
  • Optional toppings: whipped cream lemon zest, mint sprigs
Instructions
  1. In small cup or jar, mix together lemon juice and vanilla syrup to make “lemon syrup”. Set aside.
  2. Find a 12-ounce minimum capacity mug or bowl with wide opening (large enough to mostly accommodate rice cake).
  3. Set 1st rice cake in or on top (if slightly too large) of mug bowl, and soften with approx. 1/3 of the lemon syrup. Push down into bottom of container.
  4. Next add another 1/3 of lemon syrup, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt and protein powder to small blender and process until smooth.
  5. Pour ½ of this mixture over the rice cake in cup. Next add 2nd rice cake and soften with remaining lemon syrup, pressing down gently to make another layer.
  6. Top with remaining cottage cheese filling mixture. Chill for 15 minutes to set.
  7. If desired, top with whipped cream, lemon zest and fresh chopped mint.

Creamy Cottage Cheese Cheesecakes in 5 Delicious Flavors for Breakfast or Dessert

Whether for breakfast, dessert or snack-time, these little, no-bake cheesecakes are pleasingly delicious, creamy and protein packed. They all starts with one of my favorite ingredients, blended cottage cheese. A cottage cheese cup is such a powerhouse food providing lots of protein and calcium for a relatively low-calorie expenditure. I love easy cottage cheese recipes.

Featuring blended smooth cottage cheese, these creamy, no-bake treats are packed with protein, calcium and other great nutrition, making them a smart choice for breakfast, snack time or a healthy dessert!

Cottage cheese makes the perfect base for these healthy cheesecakes that are portioned up in single-serve size. Even if you think you don’t like cottage cheese, you’ll change your mind – once the curds are blended up smooth, it becomes an amazing creaming filling for cheesecake creations (and also cottage cheese bowls, smoothies, savory pasta dishes, baked recipes and more). When I get home from the store, I usually blend mine up in a smaller blender (like this one) and keep on hand in the fridge for whatever use I have in mind!

Also, it’s a good idea to have smaller mason jars, mugs, ramekins or bowls – around 10-14 ounces to portion out the no-bake cheesecakes before setting in the fridge! ENJOY!

This no added sugar cheesecake dessert features cottage cheese and collagen blended until creamy -- sugar free chocolate chips and strawberries put this no-bake, no crust, lower carb, single-serve recipes over the top.

Sugar-free Chocolate Chip Cottage Cheese Cheesecake: Dig into this smart, no-added-sugar, single-serve solution that will sooth your sweet tooth and give you enough protein (30g) to stand in for a full meal – thanks to cottage cheese and collagen powder.

These No-Bake Beet Protein Cheesecakes are not only pretty in pink and very delicious, but also include the functional benefits of eating beets and lots of protein thanks to blended cottage cheese and protein powder! Plus, that sugar-free chocolate topping is amazing. A healthy dessert or post workout snack.

No-Bake Beet Protein Cheesecakes with Sugar-Free Chocolate: You’ll love the pretty-in-pink benefits of Beetroot Powder, plus 39g protein per cup!

Boston Cream Pie Cottage Cheese Protein Chesecake

Boston Cream Protein Cheesecake for Two: You’ll love how an American classic dessert is transformed into a luscious, lower-carb (and high protein) treat that is also gluten-free and has no added sugar.

Mango Protein Cheesecake Cup for One is a no-bake, easy high protein snack that will be your new tropical-inspired favorite for a healthy dessert, post-workout snack or even an easy breakfast that also boasts lots of calcium and fiber.

Mango Protein Cheesecake Cup for One: Mango pairs up so deliciously with chia seeds and dresses up the top of this creamy protein snack. You’ll feel oh-so tropical.

Maple Pecan Protein Cheesecakes -- are a protein-packed, low-carb option that is healthy enough for breakfast or a smart dessert!

Maple Pecan Protein Cheesecake Cups: These no-bake, mini cheesecakes are lower-carb, higher protein, and offers 75% of your recommended daily calcium needs. Plus, you’ll fall in love with that maple flavor.

Featuring blended smooth cottage cheese, these creamy, no-bake treats are packed with protein, calcium and other great nutrition, making them a smart choice for breakfast, snack time or a healthy dessert!

Crispy Chocolate Banana Bites: A Quick, Easy, and Healthy Snack

Craving something sweet yet healthy? Look no further than Crispy Chocolate Banana Bites.

Treat your sweet tooth to this healthy snack - a sugar-free crispy chocolate inspired by a Nestle Crunch bar, nut butter and banana slices! Prep a batch and store in the freezer!

This delightful snack satisfies your sweet tooth while keeping the carbs low, thanks to sugar-free chocolate. In part, inspired by the classic Nestles Crunch bar, these bite-sized snacks use popped amaranth to create that irresistible crunch. Popped amaranth is a light, low-calorie, gluten-free ancient grain that boasts plenty of protein, making it a nutritious alternative.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Chocolate Banana Bites

1. Low-Carb and Sugar-Free: By using sugar-free chocolate, you get sweetness with fewer carbs. It’s a great option for those looking to reduce their sugar intake without sacrificing flavor. I used Sugar-Free Milk Chocolate Chips from ChocZero – but you can use and type of chocolate – eg, dark, white, even a regular, full sugar chocolate.

2. Nutritious Crunch: The “crispy” element comes from popped amaranth, a nutritious grain that adds texture and protein. If you can’t find popped amaranth, don’t worry! Unsweetened puffed rice cereal or toasted quinoa are excellent substitutes that still deliver that delightful crunch.

3. Perfect for Ripe Bananas: Have a banana that’s getting too ripe? These bites are an excellent way to use it up, especially if you’re not in the mood for a smoothie or banana bread. The natural sweetness of the ripe banana pairs perfectly with the chocolate coating and nut butter.

4. Easy Meal Prep: Make a batch or two of these chocolate, banana and nut butter bites to store in the freezer. They are prepped in mini muffin pan – I used a metal pan in video, but later realized much easier to pop out of a .silicone mini muffin pan. They’re perfect for those moments when snack cravings hit. Just grab a few and enjoy a healthier alternative to a candy bar.

Post contains Amazon affiliate links. Visit my Amazon store for more products I love to use in my recipes.

Treat your sweet tooth to this healthy snack - a sugar-free crispy chocolate inspired by a Nestle Crunch bar, nut butter and banana slices! Prep a batch and store in the freezer! Only 86 cal, guten free
Crispy Chocolate Banana Bites
Prep Time
10 mins
freezer
20 mins
Total Time
30 mins
 

Treat your sweet tooth to this healthy snack – a sugar-free crispy chocolate inspired by a Nestle Crunch bar, nut butter and banana slices! Prep a batch and store in the freezer!

Course: Dessert, Snack
Keyword: amaranth, banana, chocolate, peanut butter
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 84 kcal
Ingredients
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
  • ½ cup sugar-free chocolate chips
  • 1 tsp coconut oil
  • ¼ cup popped amaranth can sub unsweetened puffed rice cereal
  • 1 medium banana sliced into 12 discs
  • 3 tbsp nut butter of choice
  • 1 medium banana sliced into 12 discs
Instructions
  1. In a 12-ct mini muffin tin sprinkle salt evenly in the bottoms of each opening.
  2. In a small, microwave-safe bowl, heat chocolate chips with coconut oil for a total of 90 seconds, stirring once after 60 seconds. If needed, continue heating in 10 second increments, stirring between, until chocolate is smooth and glossy.
  3. Stir in popped amaranth (or substitute). Divide this chocolate mixture evenly among the 12 openings.
  4. Next dollop in about 1 tsp. of nut butter over chocolate and then press in a banana slice.
  5. Freeze for 20-30 minutes to set. Let sit on the counter for 1-2 minutes to loosen, and then invert muffin tins and tap with spoon to release.
  6. Store leftovers in freezer for up to 2-3 days.
Recipe Notes

Makes 12 pieces, each with 84 calories, 10g carb, 6g fat, and 1g protein.