A Hat Trick (Michael Del Zotto’s Protein No Sugar Carrot Cake!)

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Welcome back to my kitchen!

Sometimes your skates pass for a reason. Last week, I interviewed NHL Stanley Cup champion, and current Anaheim Duck, Michael Del Zotto. The interview was a part of my children’s chapter book series, “Drop the Puck,” which teaches inclusion and sportsmanship. Michael threw me a slap shot during the interview. It as a pass I wasn’t expecting but ending up being a game winning goal.

Michael was drafted in the first round, 20th overall, by the New York Rangers at the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. He has played for the Rangers, Predators, Flyers, Canucks, and Blues. Through the book series, I’ve met (and become) friends with many NHL players (mostly the dads of the league). I knew Michael was different from the start. My first “Google” of him, showed a veteran player, single, with a natural wide grin. During the interview, I found Michael to be a true renaissance man. From his love of music to helping others in need, Michael is overflowing with personality—on and off the ice! He is a homebody, who likes to cook, jam out to classic tunes and sightsee.

Casually, in the interview, Michael proudly revealed his love of baking and the kitchen. He fits into our jersey–no sugar, healthy, high protein baking. Michael mentioned his recent kitchen experiment—a protein carrot cake. After the interview, Michael instantly agreed to share it for all of you.

Michael’s Take:

Healthy eating is vital to good well-being. Your body, wellness and nutrition are core to longevity and beating chronic disease. Sugars, processed food and high carbohydrates lead to increased chances of heart disease, diabetes and stroke. I don’t take my health for granted. Nor should you. I spend a lot of time in children’s hospital. Every time, my heart tugs for these kids, their parents, and their families. The strength and courage of these kids inspires me every day.

Kids born with cerebral palsy spend countless hours in the children’s hospital—trying to increase muscle control, strength and endurance. The benefits of special hockey are remarkable for young players with special needs, specifically cerebral palsy. The stride of skating and other adaptive sports can help children and adults living with these disabilities participate and stay physically active.

Through this partnership—I have met three neat nine-year olds (Lila, Makenna and Caitlin)—we are coming together to help other kids in need. “Just Be You.” Those three words—seem simple—but are impactful. Kids born with special needs fight every day to fit in, be included and be healthy. We’re raising money for special hockey—here’s the video link how you or your family can enter our “Just Be You” design contest. You give us the design idea and we will work out the details. Keep it simple—make it fun! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvyYUe2YZEY&t=10s

We have the chance to live, skate and do all possible things we set our minds too. Not everyone is born with that opportunity. Be healthy. Eat healthy. Stay active. Give to others. Your health and life depends on happiness.

Just Be You—
Michael

After I made Michael’s playmaker treat, my taste testers and I rated it a dominate champion. You will too—it is a game changer! Stay out of the penalty box. Remember, like Michael, Lila, Makenna and Caitlin, you’ve been given a chance to play. Don’t overshoot your chances—love your health, body, wellness and help those in need.

All this made with LOVE!
Jayne (aka The No Sugar Baker!)

Michael Del Zotto’s Protein No Sugar Carrot Cake

Ingredients for Cake:

2 ½ C. Almond Flour
3 t. Baking Powder
3 t. Cinnamon
1 t. Nutmeg
1 t. Salt
1 C. Swerve Granular
1 C. Butter OR ½ C. Butter & ½ C. Unsweetened Applesauce
4 Eggs
¼ C. Heavy Whipping Cream
1 T. Vanilla
2 C. Shredded Organic Carrots (Pureed)
2 C. Chopped Pecans

Easy Directions:

In a small bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Set aside. In a mixing bowl, combine Swerve and butter (applesauce) until smooth. Add in eggs, two at a time. Continue to mix, add in cream and vanilla. Mix again. Pour in flour mixture. Combine. Add in shredded carrots. Mix. Add in pecans. Mix. Pour into prepared sprayed pans (you can use two 9 inch round cake pans, a springform pan or a 10 inch square pan). Bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes. Let cool. Store in refrigerator.

Ingredients for No Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz of Whipped Cream Cheese
¼ C. Heavy Whipping Cream
1 T. Vanilla
½ C. Swerve Confections

Easy Directions:

Combine all ingredients in mixer. Mix on high until peaks form. Spread onto layers of carrot cake or spread onto top of singular layered cake.

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