This post is part of the Ultimate Guide to a Healthy Lifestyle
The holidays are right around the corner so it’s only normal to crave something sweet around this time. However, there are a number of ingredients you can substitute to make a dessert healthier and still satisfy your sweet tooth cravings.
How can I make a dessert healthier? Try using these nutritional tips next time you make a dessert for your family.
- Pies are an important part of a Thanksgiving feast. However, it may be time to take a healthier approach. Pies are loaded with fat and sugar, but let’s not take away your pie cravings completely. A healthy apple pie relies on naturally sweet apples, cinnamon and best of all, no butter. Try to use coconut oil or almond flour when baking a pie, they are both great substitutes. Additionally, instead of your usual sugar, give agave or maple syrup a try. Try this recipe for a healthier apple pie.
- Cookies are an easy and delicious festive dessert. This Thanksgiving, try baking a healthier option, like orange spice molasses cookies. Use whole-wheat flour instead of regular flour as a healthy substitute. This can also ensure you incorporate the whole grains you need for the day into your diet. Another great baking tip is to add applesauce to your cookies so they stay moist.
- Lastly, chocolate strawberries are a very popular dessert in America throughout the year, especially since there are very few steps involved. Strawberries are already healthy, but in order to make this dessert healthier, try using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. Dark chocolate is an antioxidant powerhouse and a superfood. It can boost heart and brain health, as well as fight diseases. Also, instead of adding another coat of chocolate drizzle for the toppings, try using peanut butter. Peanut butter contains healthy fats and can decrease your risk of heart disease, diabetes and other chronic health conditions.
The holidays are a time of indulgence. This year, try incorporating healthy substitutes to keep you from overindulging.
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