The first time I posted an image of these back when I was publicly on Instagram, some troll wrote “not healthy!”. I beg to differ; these  look like they’d be full of sugar and junk but they are NOT ! Read the ingredients, troll. They are sweetened with banana and have no oil or butter. plus with almond flour, it's a grain-free donut with extra protein. Woohoo! Also, pantry staple alert: these sprinkles  are plant-based, soy-free and colored with superfoods like turmeric and spirulina! My biggest mom hack is to put sprinkles on anything I want my kids to eat. For real, try it. I may or may not have fed my twins salmon with sprinkles. This new " Unicorn Tracks " sprinkle edition is our latest fave.   Check out my recipe below: you’ll be amazed! They are gluten-free and vegan with no refined sugar, and the “frosting” is pitaya with protein powder and water and the optional (ha) sprinkles are fruit-sweetened and colored. I dare you to try these: you’ll fall in love ! Bookmark this page and get baking!       Guilt-Free Donuts with Dragonfruit Glaze (Soy-Free, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, No Refined Sugar, Vegan)Yields 8 Ingredients: 1-1/2 cup gluten-free all purpose flour  (or ultra fine almond flour to be grain-free and with more protein) 3/4 tsp baking powder 1/4 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/8 tsp nutmeg 1/8 tsp sea salt 1/2 cup mashed banana 1 TBSP maple syrup or extra banana 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk   or barista oat milk (omg do this one ) Directions: 1. Mash banana and stir all ingredients together.2. Pour into coconut oil or avocado oil-greased donut pan. (hint: for easy removal, opt for a silicone donut pan; you can get 2 for less than $9 HERE!     3. Bake 16-20 min or until golden and set. Cool on a wire rack and drizzle with optional glaze.     To make the glaze: Whisk vegan vanilla protein powder with water and melt frozen pitaya (dragonfruit) or pitaya powder   and combine with the protein powder/water until a spreadable texture is reached. Add plant-based vegan sprinkles  if desired! (And of course, you really should)     My absolute fave vegan protein powder  is pictured below that makes the BEST frosting texture (and believe me, I've spend hundreds on protein powders testing them all for frosting texture, taste in baked goods and level of grittiness: this one is powdery smooth and blends right in with no lumps, aftertaste or grit.)

Not only do I love St. Patrick's Day  but I'm also a huge fan of nutritious green desserts (clearly), and since it's almost that glorious day, it seems like the perfect opportunity to share a dessert that's delicious  and green with you!   Even better, I'm not sharing just one, but six of the best ever St. Patrick's Day treats that just happen to be allergen-free.   Here's my collection of my fave green desserts including today's invention: Healthier Sugar Cookies : 1. Healthier Sugar Cookies: Ingredients: 2-1/4 cup gluten-free all purpose flour   1/2 tsp baking powder 1/8 tsp sea salt 3/4 cup soft vegan butter or slightly softened coconut oil 2/3 cup coconut palm sugar 1 egg or vegan "neat" egg   1-1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract 1/2 tsp pure almond extract   This set is under $10 and makes for a range of shamrock sizes, like I did above: Directions: 1. Beat the vegan butter, sugar, egg option, and extracts until creamy and smooth. 2. Sift dry ingredients and add them in. Wrap dough and chill in the fridge at least an hour. 3. Preheat the oven to 350F, line baking sheets with parchment or silicone baking sheets and roll out with a rolling pin, using flour to keep dough from sticking. Cut into desired shapes and bake for 8-9 minutes or until set and lightly golden on the bottom. 4. Cool completely before icing (if desired). For icing, whip organic powdered sugar with softened vegan butter and nondairy milk until the desired consistency is reached and color as desired!     Raw Vegan Key Lime Pie. This recipe yields six mini key lime pies or one large one (you need a deep pie dish). You'll need to plan a little for this recipe (it's not my fastest, but it is truly refreshing, creamy and GOOD ).     Ingredients:   Crust:   2 tablespoons organic coconut oil 8 medjool dates 1 cup raw organic sunflower seeds 1/3 cup unsweetened coconut flakes 1/8 teaspoon sea salt filtered water, as needed   Filling:   2 ripe organic avocados 3/4 cup fresh squeezed lime juice 1/3 cup pure maple syrup 1-1/2 tablespoons coconut flour 11 0z full fat coconut milk  or coconut cream , chilled     Directions:   1. Refrigerate the coconut milk overnight. 2. Food-process all of the crust ingredients together, adding just enough water until mixture combines. Press this into the bottom of a pie pan or 6 mini tart or pie pans. 3. Puree the avocados, lime juice, maple syrup, and coconut flour, and process until creamy and thick. 4. Take the coconut milk and pour into a dry, clean bowl. Whisk well with a whisk, or for an easier option, use a hand mixer, whipping until creamy and thick like whipped cream. 5. Whip the avocado mixture into the coconut cream. Divide mixture into dishes on top of crust. 6. Freeze for one hour, then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for 2-3 hours before serving. Store covered in the fridge. It will keep well for 4-5 days     Want more healthy allergen-free treats and eats? Get my bakery book   on Amazon! It's full of vegan, gluten-free, AIP and paleo options to nourish you and satisfy ANY sweet tooth   Have an active, healthy and safe St. Paddy's Day! Sláinte!

Surprisingly, this is a question I get a lot: do I (or can I) wear ballet shoes in barre class ? I understand the confusion: barre classes are a blend (supposedly) of ballet, Pilates and Yoga. However, the floor is either a thin carpet (ugh, Pure Barre, Dailey Method, why???), or more likely, a smooth hardwood floor that is great for a fitness class, but not so much for ballet shoes, which will slip.   You might be thinking "hey, my soft shoes will work" but nope, that isn't true. You will slip. Barre class takes place on the smooth floor for most of the class, and an exercise mat for part of it. Socks with grip are a must , OR you can get away with barre workout " shoes ". (Yes, there is a loophole: these shoes  can be used for Pilates, Yoga or barre, but never for ballet).     In ballet you do not want to be gripped to the floor; in barre class you do. You will never do turns or pirouettes in a barre class (unless it is a ballet barre class in a ballet studio, but really, that is unlikely). Confusing, I know! As for bare feet, some studios might allow this, but most don't (and really, you do not want to slip in someone's sweat. It's gross).   To keep things simple , here are two graphics for you:   1. What to wear to barre     2. What to wear to ballet (this is for general, beginning ballet. If you're in an advanced pointe class, etc, this graphic isn't for you!)      And that's it! If you still have questions, get at me!

A Guide to Cyclical Living for Women (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Soy-Free, Refined Sugar-Free) Ever feel like your energy, cravings, and mood are on a rollercoaster? Just a couple days ago I was trying to figure out why I felt insatiable; I wanted to eat all day and I was perplexed. That's when I looked at my cycle tracing app (I use Stardust, a free period/cycle-tracking app) and realized what phase I was in. Those ravenous need for snacking or days when you want to stay in bed all day? That’s your cycle talking—and when you learn to live in tune with it, everything from your digestion to your productivity can shift for the better. Cyclical living  is a holistic lifestyle approach that honors the four distinct phases of the menstrual cycle. By adjusting your nutrition and movement throughout the month, you can reduce PMS, improve energy, boost your mood, and support hormone health. Best of all, this method is especially powerful for women managing autoimmune conditions, hormone imbalances, or simply looking to feel more aligned and vibrant. If you'd like a great meal plan that is anti-inflammatory and great for all phases, check it out HERE . Here’s a basic phase-by-phase guide to eating and exercising in harmony with your body—without gluten, dairy, soy, or refined sugar. Menstrual Phase (Days 1–5) Hormones:  Estrogen and progesterone are at their lowest. Focus:  Rest, replenish, and restore. What to Eat: Warming soups and stews with veggie or bone broth Cooked root vegetables (carrots, beets, sweet potatoes) Leafy greens (spinach, kale) for iron Seaweed for iodine and minerals Legumes like lentils and black beans Spices like ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon How to Move: Gentle yoga Light stretching Nature walks Prioritize rest and sleep Follicular Phase (Days 6–14) Hormones:  Estrogen rises. Focus:  Renew, create, and energize. What to Eat: Fresh, lightly steamed veggies (asparagus, cucumber, bell pepper) Fermented foods (sauerkraut, kimchi, coconut yogurt) Lean proteins (chicken, turkey, hemp seeds, chickpeas) Healthy fats (avocado, flaxseed, chia seeds) Gluten-free grains (quinoa, millet, brown rice) How to Move: Cardio workouts Dance classes Strength training Try new activities or group classes Ovulation Phase (Days 13–16) Hormones:  Estrogen peaks, testosterone rises. Focus:  Shine, connect, and celebrate. What to Eat: Raw salads and leafy greens (spinach, kale, arugula) Cruciferous veggies (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts) Zinc-rich foods (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds) Antioxidant-rich fruits (berries, cherries, pomegranate) Hydrating foods (cucumber, watermelon, citrus) How to Move: HIIT or circuit training Long runs Group fitness classes High-energy workouts Luteal Phase (Days 15–28) Hormones:  Progesterone rises, then drops if no pregnancy occurs. Focus:  Ground, reflect, and soothe. What to Eat: Complex carbs (sweet potatoes, quinoa, buckwheat) Protein with every meal (eggs, turkey, lentils, chia pudding) Magnesium-rich foods (pumpkin seeds, bananas, leafy greens) Comforting warm meals (curries, roasted veggies, soups) Natural treats (dates with nut butter, gingerbread protein bites , paleo almond flour cookies , any of my desserts!) How to Move: Moderate strength training Pilates or barre Restorative yoga Gentle walks as your period approaches Extra Tips for Hormone Harmony: Meal-prep and have a plan for nutritious meals for your cyclical living. Sip herbal teas like raspberry leaf, nettle, dandelion root, and ginger throughout your cycle Support your liver (which helps process excess hormones) with cruciferous veggies and lots of water Get 7–9 hours of sleep per night Limit caffeine and alcohol, especially in the luteal phase! Living cyclically is about flow, not perfection. Start small: try aligning your meals or workouts to your current phase and observe how your body responds. Over time, this rhythm becomes second nature—and deeply empowering.

A Sweet Treat for Everyone! These no-bake protein cinnamon rolls yield about 8 to 9 rolls. They’re perfect for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt! Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to whip up this delightful treat. Ingredients Main Dough 3/4 cup gluten-free oat flour (I grind gluten-free oats in a grinder!) 1/2 cup super fine almond flour 1/4 cup defatted almond butter 1/4 cup KOS Caramel Protein Powder (or your preferred protein powder) 1 tsp cinnamon 1/2 cup runny almond butter 3 to 4 TBSP pure maple syrup 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract 1/4 tsp sea salt 4 to 6 TBSP almond milk as needed Filling 1 cup Medjool dates (soak in hot water for 15 minutes if they are firm) 1 TBSP cinnamon 1 TBSP MCT oil (or any oil will do, but this one is a great brain and energy boost if you have it in the morning!) 1 TBSP water 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 1/8 tsp sea salt Optional: 1 to 2 scoops collagen peptides Instructions Add all dough ingredients to a food processor bowl. Blend until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too crumbly, add more almond milk until it’s smooth and dough-like. Roll out the dough into a rectangle shape on a sheet of parchment paper, about 1/3 to 1/2" thick. Add the filling ingredients to the food processor bowl. Blend until smooth, scraping the sides if needed. If it’s too thick, add water a few teaspoons at a time. Spread the filling over the dough, leaving a 1/2–1" border to prevent overflow. Use the parchment paper to gently roll the dough into a log. Then, pop it in the freezer for 45–65 minutes. Once firm enough, slice and serve! Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge. Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Rolls! These rolls are not just delicious; they’re also packed with protein! You can enjoy them guilt-free, knowing you’re treating yourself to something wholesome. Plus, they’re super easy to make! Perfect for Any Occasion Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just want a sweet snack, these cinnamon rolls are perfect for any occasion! They’re great for sharing with friends or enjoying all by yourself. Who doesn’t love a little indulgence now and then? Tips for Success Storage: Keep your cinnamon rolls in a sealed container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and tasty! Customization: Feel free to get creative! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits to the filling for an extra twist. Serving Suggestions: Drizzle a little extra maple syrup on top before serving for a sweet finishing touch! A Healthy Twist on a Classic Now, let’s talk about why these cinnamon rolls stand out! They’re not just any dessert; they’re a healthy twist on a classic favorite! I mean, who would have thought you could enjoy such a delightful treat while still being health-conscious? It’s like a dream come true! The Joy of No-Bake Treats No-bake desserts are a game-changer! They save time and energy. Plus, you don’t have to worry about turning on the oven. Just mix, roll, and chill! It’s that simple! I love how easy it is to whip up these rolls, especially on busy days when I crave something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Enjoying Guilt-Free Indulgence With these no-bake protein cinnamon rolls, you can indulge without the guilt! They’re made with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body. You can enjoy a treat while feeling good about your choices! It’s all about balance, right? Conclusion So there you have it! A delightful, protein-packed treat that’s easy to make and oh-so-satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try these no-bake protein cinnamon rolls! They’re a fantastic way to enjoy dessert while still feeling good about what you’re eating. Note: If you shop through my links, you get the best discount AND I might earn a few cents, so thanks for that! ---wix---

With the more questions I get about my favorite products and how I get my skin glowing at just shy of 40, I figured I'd share what I use on my skin in addition to eating clean 80% of the time and finding movement every day. Add in these and you'll notice a huge difference! This one has a five star review rating for a REASON. I feel so much more relaxed and it's great on tired muscles. I sleep better when I use this after a bath and it's absolute heaven. Since sleep is the biggest factor in feeling (and thus looking good), it's definitely on the "must-have" list. Check out the Magnesium Body Butter of your dreams here: I'm almost out of this body oil and I'm embarrassed to say I didn't try body oil until my late 30s and I'm hooked. It keeps my legs silky smooth after shaving and especially in the winter when my skin is so dry. I love the feeling, light scent and overall clean ingredients and effectiveness. For a year-round golden glow and healthier skin, this Kopari oil with hyaluronic acid and real gold is for you: 3. I'm a huge fan of Medicube Korean skincare because it works the BEST out of everything I've tried. I've been recommending their PDRN (aka Salmon DNA) to everyone and lately I've been using this peel-off mask on my face and chest overnight (and let me tell you, peeling it off to reveal smooth skin is so satisfying) 4. Jojoba oil has been trendy for awhile now, and for good reason. It's said to help hair growth (us moms post-kids love this) and it's amazing for your body and skin. This Cliganic one is third-party tested, microbiome tested and EWG verified so I trust it and it seems to be doing wonders for my hair and fine lines. Last but least, my under eyes having been showing my age lately, and that's why I tested out these under eye gels (with great results!) They have a day and night combo set that really helps my under eyes look tighter and less puffy. Subscribe to the blog or follow me on Instagram for parts 2, 3 and 4!

This granola contains millet, which is yet another fabulous gluten-free grain. (And very crunchy). Often toted as the "new quinoa," millet is a prebiotic, an excellent source of fiber and vitamin B3, a nd contains calming serotonin.  Feel free to add even more millet to this recipe if desired! Yummy parfait idea:  layer granola, plain coconut milk yogurt, fresh berries of choice, then repeat.  That's a great breakfast or post-sweat session snack! Vanilla Sunflower Seed Granola Dry Ingredients: 2 cups gluten-free oats 1 cup sunflower seeds 1/2 cup millet 2 tablespoons ground chia seeds 2 tablespoons coconut palm sugar (optional) 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon dash sea salt Wet Ingredients: 2-1/2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce 3 tablespoons sunflower seed butter (I like this one because it has hemp, too) 1/4 cup pure maple syrup 1-1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Directions: 1.  Preheat oven to 325 degrees and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. 2.  Mix all the dry ingredients together and set aside. 3.  Heat applesauce, sunflower seed butter, and maple syrup together over the stove or in the microwave.  Stir in vanilla, mix well and mix into the dry ingredients. 4.  Bake on a cookie sheet (lined with parchment or spritzed with oil) for 22-24 minutes, stirring halfway, then let cool for 10 minutes on a wire rack.  Once fully cooled, store in an airtight container for up to 6 or 7 weeks.

Are you searching for a sweet treat that satisfies cravings while being nutrient-rich? You’ve found it! These chocolate-dipped dates filled with a crispy protein center are not only delicious but also brimming with components that support hormone balance and energize your metabolism. Plus, they are gluten-free, dairy-free, and contain no added sugar. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that you. will. be. obsessed. with!! Why Choose Dates for this Chocolate Crisp Treat? Dates, aka nature's candy, are so amazing and a personal fave of mine. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Specifically, they contain around 696 mg of potassium per 100 grams , which is crucial for heart health and muscle function. With a low glycemic index, dates are an excellent choice for those managing blood sugar levels. Not only do they provide natural sweetness, but they also serve as a great base for desserts. By adding chocolate and protein, these treats become a nourishing snack that helps stabilize your energy levels throughout the day. The Benefits of Chocolate Dark chocolate, especially varieties with at least 70% cocoa , is packed with antioxidants. Research shows that it can improve heart health and brain function, and it may even enhance mood. Studies suggest that the flavonoids in dark chocolate can help keep hormones in check, making this a perfect match for our date snack. Using sugar-free chocolate means you can enjoy these benefits while avoiding added sugars that might disrupt your metabolism and hormonal balance. For this recipe, I used Trader Joe's new chocolate chop option that is simply unsweetened chocolate, cocoa butter and allulose. *Too much allulose can have the same effects as other substitutes. I have an extremely sensitive stomach and can't do much monk fruit or stevia, but these chocolate chips work fine for me. Ingredients You'll Need To create these tasty chocolate-dipped dates with a crispy protein center, gather the following ingredients: Medjool dates : The key ingredient, offering natural sweetness and a chewy texture. I love Terrasoul for the taste and texture (I've never found a date that's gone bad with the gross black stuff inside) and the price. Other dates like deglect noor work but aren't nearly as good or as easy to "stuff" Sugar-free dark chocolate : Select chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for optimum health benefits. I used Trader Joe's. Crispy Quinoa : Opt for a crispy quinoa cereal with nothing else added. You can toast your own quinoa but I like the airy, puffier crunch of the Q Flakes Crisped Quinoa . Almond Butter: Extra protein, healthy fats and a delicious taste. Choose one without added oils and sugars. Functional Mushroom blend :(optional, I used Laird Performance Mushrooms ) Optional toppings : Add a light sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor boost. I used Maldon Sea Salt Flakes because they are gorgeous, almost snowflaky, and I LOVE the taste and texture. Delicious chocolate-dipped dates with a crispy protein center The Recipe: Ingredients yields 10 1/2 cup chocolate chips plus another 1/3 cup or so for drizzling or dipping 2/3 cup crispy quinoa 1-1/2 TBSP creamy almond butter 1 tsp functional mushroom blend 10 Medjool Dates Flaked Sea Salt Step-by-Step Instructions Step 1: Prepare the Dates Begin by pitting the Medjool dates. Carefully slice them open and remove the pit. This creates a pocket for your protein filling. Step 2: Make the Crispy Protein Center In a glass mixing bowl, melt the chocolate carefully. Stir in the remaining ingredients then place in the fridge so that it firms up but not freezes. Step 3: Fill the Dates Take a small portion of the mixture and press it into the pocket of each date. Fill them generously, but don’t overstuff them. Step 4: Melt the Chocolate In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the sugar-free dark chocolate in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. This helps prevent burning and ensures a smooth consistency. Drizzle on top or dip dates in fully if desired. Step 6: Add Sea Salt I like to chill the dates for a few minutes, then sprinkle on flaked sea salt. The Maldon Flaked Salt is so pretty (yes, really!) and a perfect compliment to the date. If you purchase any ingredient today, make it the sea salt. The box goes a loooong way and lasts a long time. You'll thank me later! Step 7: Chill and Enjoy Place the dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate sets. Once firm, they are ready to enjoy! Storing Your Treats Store these chocolate-dipped dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week . They make an excellent snack for on-the-go energy boosts. Why These Treats Are Good for Hormones and Metabolism The combination of dates, protein from quinoa and almond butter, and dark chocolate creates a well-rounded snack that helps regulate hormones. The 7.1 grams of fiber in a 100-gram serving of dates aids digestion and maintains stable blood sugar levels, while protein supports muscle repair and growth. The antioxidants in dark chocolate work to reduce inflammation, promoting overall health. This delightful treat not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also functions as a powerful ally for your body. Sweet Indulgence with Health Benefits These easy chocolate-dipped dates with a crispy protein center are a wonderful way to enjoy a sweet treat without compromising your health. They're straightforward to make, gluten-free, dairy-free, and devoid of added sugar, making them a perfect snack for those committed to a healthy lifestyle. The next time a craving strikes, whip up a batch of these delightful treats. Your taste buds and body will both be grateful! If you shop through my Amazon links, I may earn a few cents so thanks!

These have 3 different veggies packed in here, and the taste is incredible! I'm serious; you'll be shocked at how good these are, and the best part is that kids love them. They are fluffy, keep well and are perfect for busy morning breakfast or school snacks. There's no nuts, making them safe for school and for those with nut allergies. Healthy fluffy veggie donuts Yields 12-16 donuts Veggie Donuts Your Kids Will LOVE: Ingredients: 1-1/4 cup raw spinach 1 cup cooked green lentils 1/2 cup cooked carrots, pureed 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce 2 eggs 4 TBSP maple syrup 4 TBSP avocado oil or algae oil 4 TBSP any nondairy milk 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 1-1/3 cup gf flour 3 TBSP arrowroot  flour 2 TBSP cacao powder 3 TBSP chocolate protein powder * optional 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp baking soda 1 tsp cinnamon Sprinkle of sea salt optional: mini dairy-free chocolate chips for topping Directions: 1. First off, cook the lentils by boiling in water and simmering 20 min or according to the package instructions. Drain then let cool. 2. Preheat oven to 375F, and grease silicone donut pans (these are the best for super easy removal and clean-up!!) with avocado oil or oil of choice. Here's the ones I use, and they are under $10. 3. Place the wet ingredients in a blender, and blend until smooth. Next, pulse in the dry ingredients. 4. Pour into pan, topping with mini nondairy chocolate chips if desired (note: I use coconut-sweetened ones when I can and that’s how the recipe stays refined-sugar-free or omit) If desired. 5. Bake for 17-19 min or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean and enjopy your delicious veggie donuts! * This is the one  I used because it bakes the best out of the zillion protein powders I have tried, but you can omit and use extra cocoa or cacao powder instead if desired.

This recipe is super fast and easy, plus there's no gluten, dairy, refined sugar, or soy. Fluffy Pineapple Upside-Down Cake (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Refined-Sugar-Free) If you’ve ever wanted a dessert that’s light, tropical, and secretly healthy, this is it. This gluten-free pineapple upside-down cake  has all the nostalgic flavor of the classic—juicy fruit, caramel-like glaze, and a tender, moist crumb—but without gluten, dairy, or refined sugar. Made with wholesome ingredients like coconut sugar, coconut milk, and gluten-free flour, it’s a dessert that feels indulgent but still works for those with common food sensitivities. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, weekend brunch, or any time you want something sweet that still supports your healthy lifestyle. And here’s the best part: you’d never guess it’s a healthier recipe. Every bite is soft, fluffy, and bursting with tropical flavor. Healthy Pineapple Upside Down Cake Ingredients For the glaze and topping: fresh pineapple, sliced into 6-8 little pieces ⅓ cup coconut sugar 2 ½ tablespoons coconut oil Pinch of sea salt For the cake batter: ¼ cup coconut milk ½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar ¼ cup vegan butter ⅓ cup coconut sugar 1 large egg 1 tablespoon coconut yogurt 1 cup gluten-free flour (divided into ½ cup + ½ cup) 1 teaspoon baking powder Pinch of sea salt Instructions 1. Prepare the pineapple and glaze Line the bottom of a 6" cake pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides with oil. Arrange the pineapple slices in a single layer. In a small saucepan, combine the coconut sugar, coconut oil, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer until slightly thickened. Let it cool for a minute, then pour the glaze evenly over the pineapple slices. 2. Create the milk mixture In a small bowl, stir together the coconut milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to create a dairy-free “buttermilk.” 3. Make the batter In a mixing bowl, beat the vegan butter and coconut sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and coconut yogurt, mixing well. Stir in half of the coconut milk mixture. Fold in ½ cup of the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Add the remaining milk mixture, then fold in the last ½ cup of flour until just combined. 4. Assemble and bake Spread the batter gently over the glazed pineapple layer, making sure it’s even. Bake at 350°F for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. 5. Cool and serve Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a plate. Slice, serve, and enjoy that perfect combination of juicy fruit and tender cake. Why You’ll Love This Recipe Allergy-friendly:  Gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined-sugar-free. Naturally sweetened:  Coconut sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor. Tropical vibes:  Fresh pineapple makes every bite juicy and refreshing. Crowd-pleaser:  No one will believe it’s a “healthier” cake. Tips for the Best Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Use fresh pineapple  for the best flavor and texture. Don’t skip the cooling time  before flipping—the glaze needs to set slightly. If you want extra decadence, serve with a dollop of coconut whipped cream. This healthier pineapple upside-down cake proves you can have it all—beautiful presentation, rich flavor, and ingredients you can feel good about.  It’s the kind of dessert that gets everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe). Save this one for your next summer party, holiday dessert table, or just a sunny afternoon when you want a treat that’s light yet luxurious.

These are SO good. Not only do you get a filling, satisfying treat, you also get extra protein packed in, which helps prevent the sugar crash. There's no refined sugar too, and I am absolutely obsessed with the taste. No preamble in this post, just the recipe for these amazing protein caramel twix bars. Protein Caramel Twix Ingredients: Shortbread Layer: 1 cup superfine almond flour 2 TBSP creamed raw honey 1 tsp maca powder dash of sea salt 2 to 3 TBSP water, if needed Filling: 1/3 almond butter or cashew butter for a lighter color 2 to 3 TBSP creamed raw honey 1 scoop protein powder (I used Salted Caramel Kos Protein Powder for a more authentic caramel taste) Coating: 1/2 cup melted chocolate chips (I used dairy-free coconut sugar-sweetened chocolate) Healthier Protein Twix, No Grains, No Dairy Protein Caramel Twix Directions: Mix the shortbread layer ingredients together and bake for 12-14 minutes at 350F in a parchment-lined pan (I actually used two mini loaf pans, which were the perfect size!). Only bake until it is golden and set, then let pans cool on a wire rack. Mix the caramel layer together, and add a little water if needed, or more honey for a more "drizzly" middle. Chill in the fridge, and then slice. Lastly, melt the chocolate and cover each slice. Let chill until chocolate is set.

These protein strawberry donuts are a great choice if you'd like a little protein with your treats. These fill you up and don't give you a sharp rise in glucose which I love! For the glaze to keep it sugar-free, you can follow the recipe at the bottom which adds another boost of plant-based protein! Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Sugar-Free Healthier Donuts Here's the recipe: Yields 10 Sugar-Free Baked Donuts Ingredients: 1/2 cup coconut milk 1/3 cup maple syrup 3 TBSP strawberry jam (I like this brand for no added sugar and added chia!) 1/4 cup oil (avocado or algae are the ones I've used) 2 eggs 2 tsp pure vanilla extract 2 cups gluten-free flour 1 scoop protein powder (I used EarthChimp's Vanilla in this recipe) 1-1/2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/4 tsp nutmeg dash of sea salt Directions: Whisk the wet ingredients together, then fold in the dry. Heat oven to 350F and grease two donut pans with avocado oil. Pour batter in 2/3 full. Bake 14-16 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean. Eat plain or drizzled with topping of choice. For a protein topping option (pictured above): Whisk 1/3 cup protein powder, 1/4 cup arrowroot powder, 1/2 cup nondairy milk and natural food coloring if desired. If too runny, add in tapioca or arrowroot starch or powdered sugar for a more traditional sweet taste. Chill in the fridge to firm up 10 min. Enjoy!