The holiday season is all about indulging in delicious treats, but that doesn’t mean you have to throw your health goals out the window. These five healthy holiday desserts will let you enjoy the festive flavors you love without the added sugar and unhealthy fats. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, attending a holiday gathering, or simply looking for something sweet to enjoy, these desserts are full of flavor and nourishing ingredients. From fruity energy bites to spiced breads, here are five festive treats that are as healthy as they are delicious.
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1. Cranberry Almond Energy Bites
These no-bake cranberry almond energy bites are packed with protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants, making them the perfect snack or light dessert for the holidays. They’re quick to make, require no baking, and can be prepared ahead of time, so you can grab one whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, dried cranberries, slivered almonds, and salt.
- In a small saucepan, warm the almond butter and honey (or maple syrup) over low heat until smooth and melted. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined.
- Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the bites on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Enjoy these bites as a healthy dessert or on-the-go snack!
Why it’s healthy: These bites are packed with fiber and healthy fats from oats and almonds, while dried cranberries add a punch of antioxidants and vitamin C.
2. Healthy Cranberry Orange Bread
This festive cranberry orange bread is lightened up with whole wheat flour and naturally sweetened with maple syrup. Fresh cranberries and a touch of orange zest bring the holiday flavors to life. It’s a great choice for breakfast or as a sweet snack, and it’s full of fiber and vitamin C.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 cup olive oil or coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and stir in the maple syrup, melted oil, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
- Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and walnuts or pecans (if using).
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Why it’s healthy: Whole wheat flour adds fiber, while cranberries provide antioxidants. Maple syrup is a natural sweetener, and the orange juice and zest add a burst of vitamin C.
3. Spiced Banana Bread
This healthy banana bread is full of comforting spices and naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and a bit of maple syrup. Made with whole wheat flour, it’s a great option for a nourishing dessert or snack that won’t derail your healthy eating goals. The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg gives it the perfect holiday flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add the applesauce, eggs, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- If desired, fold in walnuts or chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Why it’s healthy: This banana bread uses whole wheat flour for added fiber and is naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and maple syrup. The spices add flavor without added sugar, and the walnuts offer a boost of healthy fats. This makes a delicious healthy holiday dessert to serve at home or share with friends as a special gift!
4. Cinnamon Apple Crisps
These crunchy cinnamon apple crisps are a sweet, light treat that captures the essence of fall and winter. They’re made with thinly sliced apples, cinnamon, and a dash of sweetness, then baked until crispy. These crisps are a great alternative to fried chips and can be enjoyed as a snack or a light dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Thinly slice the apples using a mandolin or sharp knife.
- Arrange the apple slices in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle with maple syrup or honey and sprinkle with cinnamon and a pinch of sea salt.
- Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping the apple slices halfway through, until they are crisp and golden.
- Let them cool completely before serving.
Why it’s healthy: Apples are naturally sweet and packed with fiber and antioxidants. Baking them instead of frying keeps this dessert light, and the cinnamon adds a festive holiday touch without added sugar.
5. Chia Pudding with Pomegranate and Almonds
Chia pudding is a simple, healthy holiday dessert that can be made ahead of time. This holiday version is topped with pomegranate seeds and almonds, adding a festive pop of color and crunch. It’s packed with omega-3s, fiber, and protein, making it a satisfying and nutritious dessert option.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup chia seeds
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Stir well.
- Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight, until the chia seeds have absorbed the liquid and the pudding has thickened.
- Before serving, top the pudding with pomegranate seeds and sliced almonds.
- Enjoy a creamy, nutrient-packed dessert!
Why it’s healthy: Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, omega-3s, and protein. The pomegranate seeds add antioxidants, while the almonds provide a dose of healthy fats.
Conclusion:
These five healthy holiday desserts prove that you can enjoy sweet treats without compromising your health goals. Whether you’re craving something fruity, spiced, or creamy, these recipes offer a variety of festive flavors that will satisfy your sweet tooth and keep you feeling good. From cranberry almond energy bites to chia pudding with pomegranate, these treats are as nourishing as they are delicious.
This holiday season, enjoy guilt-free desserts that are packed with wholesome ingredients and full of festive flavor. Happy holidays!
12 Holiday Tips for Staying Fit and Healthy is a great read to help keep you on track this holiday season!
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