(Gohealthier.com)
With the holidays approaching fast, sweet treats begin to pop up everywhere, from holiday parties to work break rooms to your own kitchen. But what if you’re trying to reign in the calories and sugar this season? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Here are a few healthy holiday treat recipes that are festive, nutritious, and easy to make:
1. Dark Chocolate-Dipped Clementines
Ingredients:
• 4 clementines, peeled and segmented
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher)
• Optional toppings: crushed pistachios, shredded coconut, or sea salt
Instructions:
1. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler.
2. Dip half of each clementine segment into the melted chocolate.
3. Place the dipped segments on a parchment-lined tray.
4. Sprinkle with toppings if desired.
5. Chill in the refrigerator until the chocolate hardens (about 30 minutes).
Why It’s Healthy: High in vitamin C, antioxidants, and lower in sugar than traditional holiday candies.
2. Oatmeal Cranberry Energy Bites
Ingredients:
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened, if possible)
• 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips
• 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
3. Place on a tray and refrigerate for 1 hour.
4. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Why It’s Healthy: Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and natural sweetness.
3. Greek Yogurt Holiday Bark
Ingredients:
• 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
• 2 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the yogurt and honey/maple syrup in a bowl.
3. Spread the yogurt mixture evenly on the parchment paper (about 1/4-inch thick).
4. Sprinkle pomegranate seeds, pistachios, and coconut evenly on top.
5. Freeze for 2-3 hours, then break into pieces.
6. Store in the freezer until ready to serve.
Why It’s Healthy: High in protein, antioxidants, and festive with natural colors.
4. Almond Flour Gingerbread Cookies
Ingredients:
• 2 cups almond flour
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 3 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix almond flour, coconut sugar, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking soda in a bowl.
3. Add coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and cut out shapes with cookie cutters.
5. Place cookies on the baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes.
6. Let cool before serving.
Why It’s Healthy: Grain-free, lower in sugar, and full of warm holiday spices.
5. Spiced Roasted Nuts
Ingredients:
• 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts)
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for a savory touch)
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix nuts, maple syrup, cinnamon, paprika, and sea salt in a bowl.
3. Spread nuts evenly on the baking sheet.
4. Roast for 10–12 minutes, stirring halfway through.
5. Let cool before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Why It’s Healthy: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and lightly sweetened.
If you aim to avoid a Santa belly but indulge a little to stay in the holiday spirit, these fun and healthy treats could be just the ticket.
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