Are you ready for Christmas? With this weekend being the last big prep time before the holiday, you may be baking your favorite holiday recipes, and looking for some healthy dessert swaps. If you are trying to eat healthier this year, and don’t want to eat the same sugar ladened desserts you usually have at Christmas, these will make the perfect healthier treat! Plus, no one will even know these are healthier desserts as these are recipes the whole family will enjoy.

#1 Maple-Sweetened Peppermint Brownies: Peppermint brownies make the perfect holiday treat and something that even the kids can enjoy! To make the traditional brownie a bit healthier, try swapping out the regular sugar for pure maple syrup and add a ¼ tsp. of pure peppermint extract for that holiday flavor. This healthier swap will go completely undetected!

#2 No-Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies: Cookies always seem to be a favorite holiday treat. Instead of using wheat flour in your cookie recipe, try making a flourless chocolate chip cookie by using one cup of peanut or almond butter instead. Mix in ¾ cup coconut sugar, one egg, a teaspoon of baking soda, one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and ¼ cup of dark chocolate chips. Bake at 350 degrees F for about 10 minutes or until the edges begin to brown.

#3 Chocolate Covered Almonds: Chocolate covered almonds are a great addition to any holiday dessert tray, and are super easy to make. Instead of using sweetened sugar, use 70% or darker dark chocolate, pure maple syrup to sweeten, and a little bit of coconut oil. Serve these with a cup of hot cocoa or a warm cup of coffee for a decadent holiday treat.

#4 Vegan Pumpkin Pie: Pumpkin pie is one of those traditional holiday recipes that never gets old! You can make a healthier pumpkin pie by using a gluten free crust, and using full-fat unsweetened coconut milk in place of the heavy cream. This will make this recipe gluten and dairy free making it a delicious option everyone can enjoy. 

#5 Maple Baked Pears: Baked pears are another delicious holiday treat that don’t come with added guilt. Try baking pear halves with a drizzle of raw honey for 15-20 minutes at 350 degrees F. You can even add a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor.

Make this year healthier by making these simple dessert swaps! Not only are these recipes delicious, but you can feel good about enjoying them.

All of us at Dr. Vim’s wish you and your family a happy and healthy holiday!