The holidays are a time when plenty of food is always available. Although these treats may be to die for, people sometimes want healthier alternatives. There are plenty of ways to have these goodies and not give yourself a sugar headache!
desserts
Gingersnaps are a common dessert during the holidays. However, these soft and chewy vegan gingersnaps are a life changer for those looking to find something healthier. Rather than using regular flour and sugar– they incorporate oats, quinoa, and coconut sugar. These gingersnaps are still to die for with their vanilla bean filling. They only take 13 minutes to make and can serve up to 12 cookies a batch. These are super easy and are a great option for those with dietary restrictions!
Egg nog is typically a fan favorite. An almond cinnamon holiday nog is a perfect non-alcoholic and low-sugar alternative to regular egg nog. This beverage pairs perfectly with cookies and other holiday treats. This recipe only takes 5 minutes and is perfect for a single serving. Rather than using sugar as regular egg nog does, this recipe includes dates, almond butter, and protein powder. This recipe could not be easier; combining all the ingredients in a blender. What’s not to love about a quick and healthy recipe?
Flourless chickpea blondies are delicious and give you a ton of fiber. This recipe uses many healthy substitutes, like maple syrup and coconut sugar for that sweet flavor, chickpeas instead of white flour, and dark chocolate chips rather than milk chocolate chips. They take a total time of 35 minutes to make and are so healthy yet easy to prepare. the ingredients (besides chocolate chips) by putting them into a food processor and in the oven. All of these desserts are easy for beginners and great for those who want healthier options or have dietary restrictions!
snacks/appetizers
A healthy holiday snack mix is the perfect thing to snack on when watching a movie or gathering with loved ones. This includes a variety of ingredients, such as coconut flakes, cranberries, almonds, pistachios, cereal, and pumpkin seeds. Rather than snacking on peanuts, M&M’s, and peanut butter chips, this snack mix combines sweet yet salty. This recipe is also perfect for snacking with a group because it serves about 16 people.
While this red pepper dip is not common, it would be a great option to serve at a simple gathering or a holiday party. It is made from walnuts and red peppers, giving it a lightly spicy taste. This goes great with pita chips, on top of roast chicken, or just scooping! This easy recipe uses bell peppers, walnuts, and lemon juice to give it a tangy flavor. This is definitely worth trying since everything is combined with a food processor. It’s the perfect appetizer!
Another classic healthy appetizer would have to be a Christmas fruit tree. This could be done with just about any fruit or vegetable in your pantry and is perfect for everyone. You could use kiwis for the base of the tree since they are green, but really it is up to you. Not only this, but this could be a fun activity to do with younger children. They could assemble the tree and cut out a star from their desired fruit.Â
All of these recipes have something in common- they are so healthy and easy! While it is important to have regular sweet treats and cookies, these are some options you can have if you get tired of them. All of these can be served for a group of people and use ingredients you have lying around.Â