13 Healthy Christmas Treats for the Holidays
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The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the temptation to indulge in sweet treats that can wreak havoc on our diets. But why must healthy and delicious be mutually exclusive? As we gather around the table with loved ones to celebrate the joy of the season, we don’t have to sacrifice our clean eating habits for the sake of festive fun.
In fact, with a little creativity, we can create healthy Christmas treats that are just as tasty as their traditional counterparts. From vegan gingerbread men to sugar-free peppermint bark, we’re sharing our favorite clean eating Christmas treat ideas that will satisfy your sweet tooth without sabotaging your health goals.
Dark Chocolate-Dipped Fruit
Dark chocolate-dipped fruit is a delightful and healthy treat perfect for the holiday season. This indulgent yet nutritious dessert combines the rich, bittersweet flavor of dark chocolate with the natural sweetness of fresh fruit. It’s a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth while adding a festive touch to your clean eating Christmas celebrations.
1. Start by selecting your favorite fresh fruits, such as strawberries, bananas, or apple slices. 2. Melt dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler until smooth. 3. Dip each piece of fruit into the melted chocolate, making sure to coat it evenly, then place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. 4. Allow the chocolate to set by refrigerating the dipped fruits for about 30 minutes. 5. Optionally, sprinkle some sea salt or chopped nuts on top before the chocolate hardens for extra flavor. 6. Serve chilled and enjoy your healthy festive treat!
Gingerbread Energy Balls
Gingerbread Energy Balls are a delightful and healthy treat perfect for the holiday season. Packed with the warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, these no-bake bites are both nutritious and satisfying. They provide a great energy boost with wholesome ingredients, making them an ideal snack for clean eaters during the festive period.
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of oats, 1/2 cup of almond butter, 1/4 cup of honey, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. 2. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. 3. If the mixture is too sticky, add a little more oats. 4. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. 5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. 6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Coconut Macaroons
Coconut macaroons are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of shredded coconut with a chewy texture. These bite-sized cookies make for a perfect healthy addition to your Christmas festivities, offering a gluten-free and refined sugar-free option. Enjoy them as a guilt-free dessert or a snack that satisfies your festive cravings while keeping your clean eating goals intact.
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of unsweetened shredded coconut, 1/3 cup of honey or maple syrup, and 2 large egg whites. 3. Mix until well combined and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to firm up. 4. Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into small mounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet. 5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. 6. Allow to cool completely before enjoying your healthy coconut macaroons.
Sugar-Free Spiced Nuts
Sugar-Free Spiced Nuts are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional holiday snacks. Packed with protein and flavor, these nuts are coated in a blend of warm spices that create the perfect balance of sweetness and heat without using any added sugar. Enjoy them as a guilt-free treat during the festive season or as a wholesome snack any time of the year.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of mixed raw nuts (such as almonds, cashews, and pecans) with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and salt to taste. 3. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the nuts are golden brown and fragrant. 5. Allow them to cool completely before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Almond Flour Cookies
Almond flour cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly fit into a healthy Christmas celebrations. Made with wholesome ingredients, these cookies are not only delicious but also gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions. With their soft texture and nutty flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite among your holiday snacks.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of almond flour, 1/4 cup of coconut sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. 3. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 large egg until well blended. 4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. 5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. 6. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork. 7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden. 8. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cranberry Chia Seed Pudding
Cranberry Chia Seed Pudding is a delightful and nutritious treat that perfectly combines the tartness of cranberries with the wholesome goodness of chia seeds. This festive pudding not only adds a splash of color to your holiday table but is also packed with antioxidants and fiber, making it a guilt-free indulgence. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert that everyone will love, especially during the Christmas season.
To make Cranberry Chia Seed Pudding, start by combining 1 cup of almond milk, 1/4 cup chia seeds, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in a bowl. Stir well to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until it thickens to your desired consistency. Before serving, gently fold in 1 cup of fresh or dried cranberries, and top with a sprinkle of coconut flakes or nuts for added texture.
Pumpkin Spice Protein Balls
Pumpkin Spice Protein Balls are a delightful and nutritious treat, perfect for the holiday season. Packed with protein and filled with the warm flavors of pumpkin spice, they make a great snack or dessert option for those following a clean eating lifestyle. These bite-sized treats are not only delicious but also easy to make, ensuring you can enjoy them without guilt during the festive season.
1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup of almond butter, 1/4 cup of honey, 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder, and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice. 2. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until they form a sticky dough. 3. Use your hands to roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. 4. Place the balls on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. 5. Enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Protein Balls as a wholesome snack!
Peppermint Cocoa Smoothie
The Peppermint Cocoa Smoothie is a deliciously festive treat that embodies the flavors of Christmas while keeping your health goals in mind. This smoothie is rich in antioxidants and provides a creamy texture, making it the perfect indulgence without the guilt. With hints of peppermint and chocolate, it’s a nourishing way to enjoy the holiday season.
1. Start by blending 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk with 1 frozen banana until smooth. 2. Add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract, 1 tablespoon of natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey, and a pinch of salt, then blend again until well combined. 3. Pour the mixture into a glass, and top with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies or cocoa nibs for an extra festive touch.
Chia Seed Jam on Whole Grain Toast
Chia Seed Jam on Whole Grain Toast is a delightful and nutritious addition to your holiday spread. This simple yet tasty treat packs a punch of flavor and health benefits, making it a perfect guilt-free indulgence. Spread a layer of homemade chia jam over crunchy whole grain toast for a festive breakfast or snack that everyone will love.
To make Chia Seed Jam, start by combining 2 cups of fresh or frozen berries with 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the berries start to break down, mash them slightly and bring to a simmer, then remove from heat. Stir in 3 tablespoons of chia seeds and let the mixture sit for at least 15 minutes until it thickens. For serving, toast slices of whole grain bread until golden brown, then spread a generous layer of the chia seed jam on top. Enjoy immediately!
Frozen Yogurt Bark with Berries
Frozen Yogurt Bark with Berries is a delightful and healthy treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. This colorful and refreshing dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a boost of nutrients from fresh berries. It’s an easy-to-make snack that can be enjoyed by everyone, making it an ideal addition to your clean eating Christmas menu.
1. Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. In a mixing bowl, combine your favorite Greek yogurt with a bit of honey or maple syrup for sweetness. 3. Spread the yogurt mixture evenly over the parchment paper to create a thin layer. 4. Scatter a mix of fresh berries, such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries, over the yogurt. 5. Optionally, sprinkle some granola or nuts on top for added crunch. 6. Place the baking sheet in the freezer and let it freeze for about 2-4 hours, or until the yogurt is firm. 7. Once frozen, break the bark into pieces and enjoy your healthy, festive treat!
