Step 1

We're going to make the cookie dough frosting first so it can set in the fridge. Start by combining the protein powder, oat flour, and salt in a large bowl to break up any clumps.

Step 2

Mix in all of the liquid ingredients except for the cool whip (vanilla, syrup, and milk). Mix that up with a silicone spatula until it resembles a batter.

Step 3

Add the cool whip and use an electric hand mixer to mix it all up. Note that cool whip is much easier to mix when it has sat out at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Once that's all set, add in the 10g of coconut flour and mix it in well. Coconut flour is optional, but it acts as a great thickening agent and I highly recommend it.

Step 4

Fold in the chocolate chips, then add to the fridge for one hour to fully set. Don't worry, it thickens up a bit in the fridge.

Step 5

After an hour, we can make the cupcakes. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 6

In a large bowl, mix up the cake mix and protein powder. Then add in the seltzer/diet soda and mix it up until you have a pourable batter. The type of cake mix and protein powder you use will determine how much liquid you need. For mine, 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp was the perfect amount. Start with 1/2 cup and add in more as needed until it's a pourable batter.

Step 7

Finally, fold in your chocolate chips.

Step 8

Grab a cupcake tin and add liners, then lightly spray with nonstick spray. Using a spoon, fill each liner about 2/3 with batter. You don't want to fill them all the way because they will rise.

Step 9

Add to the oven and bake for 17-18 minutes. I pulled mine as 17 minutes, but watch these to make sure they are done. 15-18 minutes is the range to aim for, but final time may vary if you make any substitutions.

Step 10

Remove from the oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes. Take your cookie dough frosting out of the fridge and frost your cupcakes! You can either use a small bag to pipe the frosting, or go the much easier route of just using a knife.

Step 11

These can be enjoyed right away, or can be added back to the fridge to allow the frosting to harden a bit.