The festive season is synonymous with indulging in delicious treats. However, for those seeking healthier alternatives that don’t compromise on flavor, especially steering clear of ingredients like milk, butter, flour, and refined sugar, the task of finding such desserts can seem daunting.

Fear not! Today, I’m sharing an assortment of delicious recipes that can be added to the holiday dessert table without sacrificing health goals. So, whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or spreading cheer during the December holidays, these tasty yet health-conscious treats are bound to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings guilt-free during the upcoming festivities.

Almond Butter Date Truffles

Indulge in the simplicity of these almond butter date truffles, a healthier take on decadent truffles. With the natural sweetness of dates and the nutty richness of almond butter, these bite-sized delights are perfect for a guilt-free yet luxurious holiday treat.

Ingredients:

• 10 Medjool dates, pitted
• 1/2 cup oats (GF for gluten-free eaters)
• 1/2 cup creamy almond butter
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder

Instructions:

• In a food processor, blend all ingredients until a dough forms.
• Transfer dough to a bowl. Cover and store in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to harden.
• Roll into 1-inch balls and place onto parchment paper.  Place back in the fridge to let harden further. 
• Store in a parchment lined airtight container for up to 6 days.

Avocado Chocolate Mousse

Dive into a velvety indulgence with this surprising yet heavenly avocado chocolate mousse. Creamy avocados and cocoa powder come together to create a decadent treat that’s sure to please chocolate lovers.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Fresh berries for garnish

Instructions:

• Blend avocados, cocoa powder, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and salt in a food processor until smooth.
• Spoon the mousse into serving cups and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
• Garnish with fresh berries before serving.

Baked Cinnamon Apples

Experience the comforting aroma of baked cinnamon apples wafting through your kitchen. Simple yet full of flavor, this recipe turns crisp apples into a warm and fragrant dessert that’s both wholesome and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 apples, cored and sliced
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds) for topping

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Toss the apple slices with coconut oil, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly coated.
• Place the coated slices in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until tender.
• Serve warm, topped with chopped nuts.

Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Health meets taste in these chewy and naturally sweet banana oatmeal cookies. Loaded with fiber from oats and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, these cookies are a guilt-free delight.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts or seeds (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a bowl, combine mashed bananas, oats, nuts/seeds, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
• Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
• Allow the cookies to cool before enjoying.

Chia Seed Pudding

A simple yet elegant dessert, chia seed pudding is a versatile dish perfect for the holiday season. With a base of chia seeds and almond/coconut milk, it’s a canvas for creativity, topped with your favorite seasonal fruits.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Fresh fruit for topping

Instructions:

• In a bowl, mix chia seeds, almond milk (or coconut milk), maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract.
• Stir well and let it sit for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent clumps.
• Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until it thickens.
• Top with fresh fruit before serving.

Cranberry-Orange Chia Jam

Add a burst of tangy sweetness to your holiday meals with this vibrant cranberry-orange chia jam. Brimming with the seasonal flavors of cranberries and the citrusy zest of oranges, this naturally sweetened jam serves as a versatile topping, perfect for spreading on scones or as a complement to your festive desserts.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• Zest and juice of 1 orange
• 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds

Instructions:

• In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, and sweetener over medium heat.
• Simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
• Remove from heat and stir in chia seeds. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to thicken further.
• Store in a jar in the refrigerator. Use as a topping for desserts or spread on toast.

Gingerbread Energy Bites

Embrace the festive spirit with these gingerbread energy bites! Packed with the cozy flavors of ginger and cinnamon, these bites offer a healthy twist to the beloved holiday treat. Perfect for a quick snack or a guilt-free dessert, these energy bites are a delightful addition to your holiday spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pitted dates
• 1 cup raw almonds
• 1 tablespoon molasses
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Shredded coconut for rolling (optional)

Instructions:

• Blend dates and almonds in a food processor until a sticky dough forms.
• Add molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Pulse until well combined.
• Roll the mixture into small balls. Optionally, roll in shredded coconut.
• Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Bites

Savor the essence of autumn with these delightful no-bake pumpkin pie bites. Combining the warmth of pumpkin pie spice with the natural sweetness of dates and pecans, these bite-sized treats offer a taste of the season without the need for an oven.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
• 1 cup raw pecans
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Unsweetened shredded coconut (optional, for coating)

Instructions:

• In a food processor, blend dates and pecans until they form a sticky dough.
• Add pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Blend until well combined.
• Roll the mixture into small balls and coat with shredded coconut if desired.
• Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

Pistachio Chocolate Bark

Experience the magic of the season with this delightful pistachio chocolate bark. Rich, dark chocolate infused with crunchy pistachios, this bark embodies the essence of the holiday season. An easy-to-make treat that doubles as a delightful homemade gift, bringing joy to every chocolate lover’s heart.

Ingredients:

• 2 (12-ounce package) semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup pistachios, roughly chopped
• 1 1/2 teaspoon course sea salt

Instructions:

• Place a sheet of parchment paper on a baking sheet and spray with cooking spray. Set aside.
• Melt chocolate chips in a microwave or using a double boiler.
• Continue to stir chips with a spatula as they melt.
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the melted chocolate evenly to about 1/4″ thick.
• Sprinkle with course sea salt and pistachios.
• Refrigerate about one hour until set, then break into uneven pieces and serve.

Pomegranate Sorbet

Chill out the holiday heat with a refreshing and vibrant pomegranate sorbet. Bursting with antioxidants and the tangy sweetness of fresh pomegranate, this frozen delight is a delightful palate cleanser between festive courses or a refreshing conclusion to a merry meal.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups pomegranate juice
• 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave syrup
• Juice of 1 lime
• Pomegranate arils for garnish

Instructions:

• In a bowl, mix pomegranate juice, maple syrup (or agave syrup), and lime juice.
• Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Transfer to a container and freeze for a few hours until firm.
• Serve topped with fresh pomegranate arils.

These dessert recipes offer a delightful twist to the traditional Thanksgiving spread and a blend of festive flavors perfect for the December holiday season while providing healthier alternatives for those looking to indulge without compromising on taste and catering to various dietary preferences. Enjoy spreading the holiday cheer with these guilt-free treats!

Be Fit. Be Strong. Be Well.
Adriana