Chocolate Maple Donuts

Medically reviewed by Christiana George Updated Date: December 17, 2022

Trying to sell a house is very frustrating.  Especially if you really want to move.  We are still waiting for the people that want to buy our house to sell their place.  If they don’t sell, they can’t buy and if we don’t sell, we can’t buy.  So as much as we want to move, we are still not certain we will be able to.  We are playing the waiting game and I suck at it.  In the meantime, I am going to stuff my face with donuts.

Chocolate and maple syrup go great together.  I remember growing up, my dad would always pour maple syrup over his chocolate cake.  So why not bake it into some chocolate donuts, I say.

 My husband bought me these new pans last month for my birthday.  Now I can make larger donuts.  However, those are a lot more dangerous to have around the house.  At least the mini donuts don’t make you feel as guilty for eating them.



I used my favorite Hershey’s Special Dark Cocoa to make it a more decadent chocolate treat.  You can go ahead and lick the spoon at this point.  You know you want to.

I did make one mistake by filling these pans all the way to the top.  That resulted in my donuts coming out a little extra puffy.

But never fear, I am not going to waste perfectly good donuts.  I just flipped them over and cut out the holes with a small paring knife.

And for the love of donuts, don’t throw out those middles, just feed them to the kitchen trolls (kids or animals) that have been hovering around waiting for you to finish up and give them a donut already.

You can leave the donuts plain if you want.  They are rich in chocolate and maple flavor.  Yes, they are cake-like as the original recipe stated.  I wanted to add a little more cinnamon flavor so I added some in the glaze.  You can also make a thicker glaze if you like by adding one less tablespoon of milk.  

I am going to go finish stuffing my face now.  I think these are my favorite chocolate donuts so far.

Chocolate Maple Donuts



by The Sweet Chick

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12-15 minutes

Keywords: bake dessert snack breakfast dark chocolate chocolate chips maple syrup cinnamon donuts American

Ingredients (12 donuts)

For the donuts

  • 1 cup all purpose flour
  • 1 cup cake flour
  • 2/3 cup Hershey’s Special Dark Cocoa
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup Chobani plain yogurt
  • 1 cup mini chocolate chips

For the glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable shortening (Crisco)
  • 1 teaspoon maple essence (or maple extract)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions



For the donuts

Preheat oven to 350º F.

Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, mix together the flours, cocoa, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt and cinnamon until well combined.

Add the eggs, milk, maple syrup and yogurt. Mix on low until mixture is smooth and well blended.

Then add chocolate chips and mix until all incorporated.

Use a piping bag or a Ziplock bag with tip cut off, to fill each donut reservoir to about 3/4 of the way full.

Bake at 350ºF for 12-15 minutes until toothpick inserted in the donut comes out clean.

Place hot donuts on cooling rack with a wax paper underneath and prepare the glaze.

For the glaze



In a small bowl whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vegetable shortening, maple essence and cinnamon until smooth.

Dip the tops of each donut in the mixture ,then place back on the cooling rack until the glaze is dry.

Then grab a glass of milk or a cup of coffee and dunk you donut! Enjoy!



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Is Beetroot Acidic? Beetroot and Acid Reflux

Aneeza Pervez

Introduction to Beetroot and Digestive Health

Beetroot, commonly referred to as beets, is a nutrient-dense root vegetable widely known for its earthy flavor and vibrant color. Whether roasted, juiced, or added to salads, beetroot is a favorite among health enthusiasts. However, for individuals with acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), understanding the acidity of beetroot and its impact on digestion is essential.

This article explores whether beetroot is acidic, its effects on acid reflux, and tips for incorporating it into a reflux-friendly diet.

Nutritional Profile of Beetroot

Beetroot is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients that promote overall health. Here’s what you get in 1 cup (136 grams) of cooked beetroot:



  • Calories: 58
  • Carbohydrates: 13 grams
  • Fiber: 3.8 grams, promoting gut health and digestion.
  • Vitamin C: 8% of the daily recommended intake, boosting immunity.
  • Folate: Supports cell growth and DNA repair.
  • Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function.
  • Nitrates: Natural compounds that improve blood flow and cardiovascular health.

The combination of nutrients in beetroot makes it a valuable addition to most diets, but how does it fare for those with acid reflux?

Understanding the Acidity of Beetroot

Is Beetroot Acidic or Alkaline?

According to research, Beetroot has a slightly acidic pH, ranging from 5.3 to 6.6. While it falls on the acidic side of the pH scale, it is not as acidic as citrus fruits or tomatoes. Cooked beetroot is closer to neutral in pH, making it less likely to irritate the stomach lining.

How Does Beetroot Affect Digestion?

Despite its slight acidity, beetroot is often well-tolerated and even beneficial for digestion:

  1. High Fiber Content: Fiber promotes regular bowel movements and prevents constipation, which can exacerbate acid reflux.
  2. Alkalizing Effect: Beetroot has an alkalizing effect on the body after digestion, which may help balance stomach acid levels.

Beetroot and Acid Reflux

Does Beetroot Trigger Acid Reflux?

For most people, beetroot does not trigger acid reflux and can even be beneficial due to its nutrient profile and alkalizing properties. However, individual tolerance varies, and certain factors may increase the likelihood of symptoms:

  • Overeating: Consuming large amounts of beetroot can put pressure on the stomach and trigger reflux.
  • Raw Beetroot: Raw beetroot may be harder to digest for individuals with sensitive stomachs compared to cooked beetroot.
  • Added Ingredients: Beetroot dishes with acidic additives like vinegar or citrus may exacerbate reflux symptoms.

Benefits of Beetroot for Acid Reflux

  1. Supports Healthy Digestion: The fiber in beetroot helps regulate digestion and prevent bloating, a common trigger for reflux.
  2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Antioxidants in beetroot may reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach lining.
  3. Hydration: Beetroot has a high water content, which supports digestion and helps dilute stomach acid.

How to Safely Include Beetroot in a GERD-Friendly Diet?

To enjoy beetroot without triggering acid reflux, follow these tips:

Cooked vs. Raw Beetroot

Cooking beetroot softens its fibers and makes it easier to digest, reducing the likelihood of irritation or reflux.

Pair with Alkaline Foods

Combine beetroot with alkaline or neutral foods like leafy greens, quinoa, or sweet potatoes to balance the overall acidity of your meal.



Avoid Acidic Additives

Skip vinegar, lemon juice, or other acidic ingredients when preparing beetroot dishes. Opt for olive oil or herbs instead.

Moderate Portions

Stick to moderate servings—about 1/2 to 1 cup per meal—to avoid overloading your stomach.

Author Tip: 7 Kinds of Foods to Avoid with GERD

Health Benefits of Beetroot Beyond Acid Reflux

Research suggest that beetroot offers a variety of health benefits that make it a valuable addition to any diet:

  1. Improves Heart Health: Nitrates in beetroot lower blood pressure and improve circulation.
  2. Boosts Energy: Beetroot enhances oxygen flow in the blood, improving stamina and energy levels.
  3. Supports Brain Health: Compounds in beetroot improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia.
  4. Aids Detoxification: Beetroot supports liver function, helping the body eliminate toxins.
  5. Rich in Antioxidants: Protects cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Reflux-Friendly Beetroot Recipes

Roasted Beetroot and Sweet Potato

  • Ingredients: Cubed beetroot, sweet potatoes, olive oil, and rosemary.
  • Preparation: Toss the ingredients and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes. This pairing balances beetroot’s slight acidity with the alkaline nature of sweet potatoes.

Beetroot Smoothie

  • Ingredients: Cooked beetroot, banana, spinach, and almond milk.
  • Preparation: Blend until smooth for a nutrient-packed, reflux-friendly beverage.

Beetroot and Quinoa Salad

  • Ingredients: Cooked beetroot, quinoa, and chopped cucumber.
  • Preparation: Combine and drizzle with olive oil for a light, reflux-safe salad.

Beet Recipe: Potato Salad with Pickled Beets

Tips for Managing Acid Reflux

Including beetroot in your diet is just one step toward managing acid reflux. Here are additional tips:

  1. Eat Smaller Meals: Large meals can increase pressure on the stomach and worsen reflux symptoms.
  2. Stay Upright After Eating: Wait at least 2–3 hours before lying down to prevent acid backflow.
  3. Avoid Common Triggers: Limit spicy, fatty, and highly acidic foods like citrus and tomatoes.
  4. Elevate Your Bed: Use a wedge pillow or elevate the head of your bed to reduce nighttime reflux.
  5. Drink Water Throughout the Day: Proper hydration supports digestion and reduces acid concentration in the stomach.

Author Tip: 7-Day Meal Plan For Gastritis

Conclusion

Beetroot is a slightly acidic yet highly nutritious vegetable that can be safely included in most diets, even for those with acid reflux, when consumed mindfully. Its high fiber content, alkalizing effect, and anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable addition to a reflux-friendly diet. By choosing cooked beetroot, avoiding acidic additives, and sticking to moderate portions, you can enjoy its health benefits without triggering discomfort.



FAQs

Is beetroot acidic or alkaline?
Beetroot is slightly acidic, with a pH ranging from 5.3 to 6.6, but it has an alkalizing effect on the body after digestion.

Can beetroot trigger acid reflux?
Beetroot is generally well-tolerated, but large portions, raw beetroot, or acidic preparations may trigger reflux in sensitive individuals.

Is cooked beetroot better for acid reflux than raw beetroot?
Yes, cooked beetroot is easier to digest and less likely to cause reflux symptoms compared to raw beetroot.

How much beetroot can I eat with GERD?
Stick to moderate portions—about 1/2 to 1 cup per meal—to avoid overloading your stomach.

Can beetroot be included in a low-acid diet?
Yes, beetroot is a suitable choice for a low-acid diet when consumed in moderation and paired with alkaline foods.



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