As the holiday season approaches, so do the homey, delicious secret family recipes we look forward to every year. Although these treats are packed with memories and tradition, they are also packed with sugar and carbs.
You may find yourself stuck—you look forward to your festively flavoured desserts all year but don’t want to stray away from healthier choices. Luckily, you can find plenty of ways to enjoy your favourite treats, all while maintaining your nutritious habits.
Healthy Pumpkin Pie Bars
Specifically for your fall festivities, these delicious, paleo, gluten-free, and dairy-free bars are guaranteed to fulfill your pumpkin cravings. One serving is only 253 calories, compared to the classic pumpkin pie’s 350 calories. Not only is the calorie deficit a plus, but all of its ingredients are also healthier alternatives to classic baking ingredients. For example, the recipe substitutes regular flour with almond flour, providing more protein than typical white flour.
Low-Fat Pumpkin Cheesecake
Everyone loves a good cheesecake, especially if it trails after a famously delicious, hearty turkey dinner. These gluten-free, low-calorie mini cheesecake bites are the perfect size for sharing, and they have significantly less fat and sugar than any classic cheesecake. A regular cheesecake contains 30-40 grams of fat and 30 grams of sugar. But this simple, fun-to-make recipe boasts 15 grams of fat and 14 grams of sugar. Each serving is approximately 168 calories. Something to note: You need to make the recipe at least 24 hours in advance of serving it. These bite-sized morsels are also perfect to deliver to your gift recipient of the season.
Gluten-Free, Crustless Apple Pie
Apple pies are an American staple, particularly as we begin the holiday season. Luckily, this version of that classic treat consists of significantly fewer carbs than usual. This dessert is gluten-free and compatible with several popular diets. The recipe yields six servings but you can easily multiply it if needed. With an overall 5-star rating from Delish, you’re sure to impress your family and friends with a fun, nutritious twist on an American celebration favourite. These are easily wrapped and have a fun, fall presentation that will please any hungry gift recipient.
Apple-Toffee Tartlets
If you’re a fan of the caramel apple flavour, try Better Homes and Garden’s Apple-Toffee Tartlet! This recipe yields 24 tartlets, making them perfect for gifts, appetizers or horderves, or an after-dinner indulgence. More than 50 bakers gave this recipe a 4.5-star rating. This guilt-free treat contains only 127 calories and has 7 grams of fat per tartlet. These are fitting for both fall and winter holiday gatherings and are versatile in their serving potential.
Flourless Fudge Cookies
If you’re crazy for cocoa-flavoured desserts but can’t spare the carbs, no need to worry! Not only are these cookies quick and easy to make, but they also remain gluten-free (and, as a consequence, have significantly fewer carbs than your classic cookie recipe). Whether you're in a rush to bring a dessert to a family gathering or you need a pseudo cheat treat after a long day, these cookies are the perfect 10-minute pick-me-up.
Healthy White Chocolate Cranberry Pound Cake
Pound cake is a winter holiday staple during hundreds of families’ annual celebrations. This recipe is perfect for keeping up your tradition but saving on refined flour and added sugars. This recipe is a mock of a popular festive treat featured at one of America’s most popular coffee chains. This tasty treat has only 172 calories and is enough to share with all of your friends and family during the holiday season. Instead of the universally dreaded fruit cake, try gifting a homemade, sweetly healthy cranberry pound cake.
Whether you’re looking for a bit healthier options to wow at your next get-together, sweet treats to gift your loved ones, or just want a little guilt-free holiday indulgence on hand, you’re sure to find it with one of these fun holiday-themed recipes!
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