Healthy Vegan (Protein) Donuts

We all know the feeling... when you start a new healthy eating routine and you cut out all of your favorite treats. You feel great week 1 but by week 2 the smell of baked goods makes you want to throw in a towel and indulge! Unfortunately, this is the reality for most people. We are so inundated with the all-or-nothing attitude that so many fitness and nutrition professionals seem to live by that we are afraid to step outside of that zone. Luckily for us, some health professionals are showing us another way. A way to eat a balanced diet that doesn't have us swearing off our favorite treats. Donuts have been a popular treat among Canadians for years. When you are trying to lose weight, this treat is usually the first thing to get cut out of your diet. The typical coffee house donut is ladened with sugar, processed oils, and refined flours, so it is no surprise that they wouldn't be a great addition to anyone's diet.

Fortunately, we found a donut recipe that is sure to appease your sweet-tooth while allowing yourself to indulge in a treat that will satisfy your taste buds while balancing your blood sugar. The secret ingredient in these (gluten-free and vegan) donuts is Garden of Life protein powder. With 7 grams of easily digestible protein (per donut), these donuts will keep you full for hours. You don't have to worry about feeling bloated with this protein as all the ingredients are prepared in such a way that your body can digest them quickly. There are also digestive enzymes and probiotics in the mix, to keep your belly happy!

This donut recipe was adapted from Your Holistic Nut, which is managed by one of our health educators: Janette Mason.

Recipe: 

Ingredients for donuts: 

Directions for donuts: 
  1. make chia egg by combining chia seeds and 2 tbsp water, let sit in a small bowl for 15 mins (until it becomes gelatinous)
  2. mash bananas in a mixing bowl
  3. slowly add coconut milk and MCT oil and stir well
  4. add in all the dry ingredients, stirring to ensure minimal clumps are formed
  5. give it an extra stir to bring all the ingredients together
  6. pour into a well-greased donut pan
  7. bake at 400 degrees for 12 minutes
  8. transfer to a cooling rack or plate before icing
Ingredients for icing: 
  • 1 cup cashews
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tsp lemon rind
Directions for icing: 
  1. soak cashews for minimum 30 minutes
  2. drain cashews and pour into a blender
  3. add in maple syrup, lemon juice, and salt
  4. blend well until very smooth consistency
  5. pour icing into a shallow bowl and stir in lemon rind
  6. dip donuts in halfway, giving a twist before returning them back to the cooling rack, icing side up
  7. let sit for 10 minutes
  8. enjoy!!

  Try them out and let us know what you think!  

Written by: Janette Mason, CNP

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