Eating Smart: 5 Better Alternatives to Donuts

Mmmmm, donuts. Is there anything better than the soft, sweet stickiness of a hot glazed delicacy? Or a good ole cakey old-fashioned? 

While the flavors may be tough to beat, the guilt that comes with eating a calorie-laden sugary pastry often makes you turn the treat down. However, you don’t have to say no to something yummy. You just need to swap the donut for any of these 5 better, healthier alternatives.

1. Muffins

Available in all sorts of flavors, muffins are an enjoyable way to get your sweet tooth fix without the massive calorie overload. Since many of them are made with fruits, you get your vitamins and minerals mixed in with the not-so-healthy ingredients. What’s your favorite go-to muffin? Bananas, blueberries, and chocolate chips are quite popular. For a healthier option, go with chocolate zucchini or pumpkin.

2. Fruit

On a hot day, there’s nothing more satisfying than biting into a fresh, juicy piece of fruit. When your brain is telling you that it craves sugar, you might be surprised at how easily fruit replaces a donut. The natural sugars in apples, watermelon, cantaloupe, and other favorite fruits cause your endorphins to sing. Eating fruit makes you happier and, according to some studies, increases overall life satisfaction. 

3. Beignets

First made famous in New Orleans at the Cafe du Monde restaurant, beignets gained popularity when they appeared in the Disney movie “Princess and the Frog.” Beignets are often called other names, such as fritters. No matter what you call them, the deep-fried pastries are similar to donuts without the added frosting and extra calories. If you want to bring your favorite movies to real life, why not start by cooking the famous dishes from the movies? If you like Disney’s Princess and the Frog movie, you will love Keesha’s Kitchen’s Princess Tiana’s Famous Beignets Recipe.

4. Baked Donuts

Looking for a donut without the artery-clogging bits? Opt for a baked version. Donuts really aren’t that bad for you when they’re not fried. It’s the trans-fat oils that make them so dangerous. The oils also add flavor, though, we’ll admit. So when you find your donut recipe, if you’re looking for flavor, add natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. Plant butter is much healthier than margarine, and sticking with whole-grain flours and natural fats is better for you, too.

5. Bagels

They look like donuts. They have holes in the middle as a donut does. And you can even get them at your favorite donut-selling establishments. But the resemblance between a bagel and a donut ends there. Bagels are the perfect swap for a breakfast treat when you’re craving a donut. Opt for a cinnamon raisin style to get some sweetness, or go with your favorite flavor. Toast the pastry and slather on the cream cheese or butter, and enjoy! You’ll be satisfied with your choice and happy that you opted for the healthier version.

All of these options are healthier than donuts and still satisfy your craving for something sweet. Try them all, and see which ones become your go-to instead of a donut!