One of the best things about the holiday season are the delectable treats that come with it! Even if you don’t have a sweet tooth, it’s likely that there are some irresistible holiday snacks that we all like to indulge in this time of year. It could be pumpkin pie, gingerbread cookies, peppermint sticks, candied nuts, or a host of others. Although, sometimes overindulging can be rough on the system. So let’s mix things up with some healthy alternatives! Check out these healthy holiday treats you can make at home:
Quick and easy
Let’s start with a simple one. These apple and peanut butter sandwiches are easy, healthy, and delicious. They don’t require any baking or a stove top, and they don’t cost much to make either. The only tools you’ll need are some small holiday-shaped cookie cutters and a sharp knife. And as long as you take care of the knife work, this is a great one to do with young kids. It’s a super quick snack, so these are great if you’re in a bit of a rush as well. Also, don’t forget to have fun with it and make it your own. Try a dash of cinnamon and/or nutmeg to really amp up the holiday flavor.
For those of us that love the classics
If you’re a big fan of some classic holiday treats, try this peppermint meringue and/or this fruitcake cookie, these are lighter options and a bit more versatile, as they go great with cocoa or coffee. They take a little time, but they’re inexpensive and also make great little gift bag additions for stockings or parties.
Change it up a bit
For those of us who like being a bit adventurous and changing things up, look no further than this no-bake s’more. We know you probably associate s’mores more with summer, but why not bring a touch of summer to the holidays? It’s got all the requisite warm, lush, and gooey soothingness of a spectacular holiday treat, and you don’t need an oven. It will make life a lot easier if you’ve got a food processor however, mostly to get that smooth consistency for the pudding. Speaking of pudding, using avocados helps keep the fat content to healthy forms, while still giving you that beautiful creamy texture.
Another great no-bake option, and gluten free to boot (can easily be made vegan as well), are these gingerbread rice krispie treats. They’re quick and easy, and don't require any butter, marshmallows, or corn syrup — even if they don’t taste that way. All the wonderful spices and ginger ring in the holidays, and the rice krispies hit that touch of nostalgia that always accompanies them as well.
Treat yourself
Feeling a bit luxurious? Want to treat yourself to a bit of that decadence that can accompany the holidays? Then try these heavenly, vegan chocolate truffles. Substituting coconut milk helps maintain that smooth richness you’re looking for in a chocolate truffle, while cutting out the high fat content of heavy cream. And one of the best parts of this treat is that you only need a refrigerator and a microwave. These truffles are great for parties or as little gifts. People won’t believe you made them yourself.
We know that “healthy holiday treat” sounds like a bit of a contradiction, but trust us, you won’t regret trying these delicious alternatives. Just remember that even though these are healthier options, it’s still important to practice portion control. Now, go crank up some holiday tunes, put on a pot of coffee or some tea, and make an afternoon of it with your family and friends.