Divas on a Dime: Homemade Food Gifts
By Patti Diamond
Merry, Mindful and Healthier: Thoughtful Homemade Food Gifts for the Holidays
The holidays are a time for indulging in the treats and traditions we hold dear -- but this year, my family and I are giving our celebrations a little makeover. A slightly healthier makeover. Don't worry, we're not canceling cookies! Instead, we're mixing in some lower-sugar, higher protein, whole-food options alongside our nostalgic favorites.
Deliciously wholesome holiday treats that make giving and sharing a little sweeter. PHOTO CREDIT: www.JasonCoblentz.com
Our goal? To create new, wholesome traditions we'll look forward to just as much as the old ones. And guess what? It seems we're not alone. Nearly everyone I've shared this idea with has said their family is craving the same change. Whether it's to support loved ones managing diabetes or prediabetes, heart health, food allergies and sensitivities, chronic inflammation, or simply to prioritize healthier habits, it's a delicious way to give ourselves the gift of wellness this season.
For those looking to offer thoughtful, health-conscious gifts this holiday season, these recipes are a perfect choice. They're easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor -- proof that healthier choices can still feel indulgent!
DARK CHOCOLATE BARK
Melt unsweetened dark chocolate and spread it out on parchment paper. Top with nuts and a sprinkle of sea salt. Once set, break it into pieces and package it in a decorative box or jar. Dark chocolate is lower in sugar, and the nuts and seeds provide healthy fats and fiber, making this treat both indulgent and nutritious.
PEANUT BUTTER STUFFED DATES
Yield: 1 dozen
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
12 Medjool dates, pitted
1/4 cup peanut butter
1/4 roasted peanuts, chopped
2 tablespoons dark chocolate, chopped
Slice dates lengthwise and remove pits. Fill each date with 1 teaspoon peanut butter. Sprinkle the sticky peanut butter with chopped peanuts and dark chocolate. Chill before serving.
MAPLE TOASTED COCONUT CASHEWS
Yield: about 3 cups or 12 servings
Total Time: 30 minutes
3 cups roasted, unsalted cashews
1/2 cup shredded coconut flakes, unsweetened
1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
3 tablespoons maple syrup
2 tablespoons demerara sugar
Preheat oven to 300 F and line a baking sheet with parchment. In a mixing bowl, mix cashews, coconut and salt. Melt the coconut oil with the maple syrup. Stir in maple syrup mixture to coat cashew mixture. Add sugar and stir once more. Spread the mixture on the baking sheet in a single layer with gaps for airflow. Bake 15 minutes, flip and bake another 10 minutes until golden. Cool for 30 minutes before storing.
NO-BAKE CASHEW COCONUT BITES
Yield: 32 pieces
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
1/2 cup medjool dates, chopped, tightly packed
1 cup roasted, unsalted cashews
1 cup shredded coconut flakes, unsweetened
1/2 cup oats
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1/2 tablespoon pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Blitz dates and cashews in a food processor until chopped. Add coconut, oats and cinnamon and pulse. Add in chia seeds, maple syrup, coconut oil and vanilla and pulse until combined. Press into a parchment lined loaf pan and refrigerate until firm. Slice into squares.
The holidays are meant to be joyful, not stressful, and that includes caring for your health and your budget. By incorporating thoughtful, healthier homemade treats into your celebrations, you're giving yourself and your loved ones a gift that lasts far beyond the season. Remember, it's not about perfection but balance -- and creating traditions that nourish your body, your wallet and your spirit. Wishing you a season that's merry, mindful and filled with love! Cheers!
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Lifestyle expert Patti Diamond is the penny-pinching, party-planning, recipe developer and content creator of the website Divas On A Dime -- Where Frugal, Meets Fabulous! Visit Patti at www.divasonadime.com and join the conversation on Facebook at DivasOnADimeDotCom. Email Patti at divapatti@divasonadime.com
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