Healthy sweet treats
In today’s fast-paced world, self-care often takes a backseat. Yet, integrating mindful practices into our daily lives can make a significant difference in our overall well-being. One area where self-care can intersect with our routines is through the food we consume, particularly when it comes to sweet treats. At Heritage Fine Foods, we believe that indulging in healthy, delicious treats can be both satisfying and nurturing and it should never be at the expense of flavour or enjoyment.
The power of mindful eating
Sweet treats often have a reputation for being indulgent and even a little naughty. But when approached thoughtfully, they can be a wonderful way to practice self-care without sacrificing your health goals. Here are a few ways to make your sweet treats both delightful and nourishing:
- Opt for Natural Sweeteners: Instead of refined sugars, which can lead to energy crashes and other health issues, choose natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. These alternatives not only add a unique flavour but also offer additional nutrients.
- Incorporate Whole Ingredients: Embrace whole, nutrient-dense ingredients such as fresh fruits, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. These ingredients not only boost the nutritional profile of your dessert but also provide satisfying textures and flavours.
- Experiment with Superfoods: Superfoods like chia seeds, cacao, and berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Adding these to your desserts can enhance their health benefits while also creating exciting new flavour profiles.
- Focus on Balance: A well-balanced dessert incorporates healthy fats, proteins, and fibre. This balance helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and keeps you feeling full longer.
Check out some of our recipes below and add your own suggestions over on our facebook post.
Chia seed pudding
Prep time: 15 mins
Chilling time: 8 hours
Serves 1
This easy chia seed pudding recipe is a perfect healthy breakfast or pudding! Store it in a lidded jar or airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Vegan, gluten-free.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- ½ teaspoon maple syrup
- ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
Optional toppings
- Tart cherries
- Blueberries
- Chopped nuts or granola
- Coconut flakes
- Maple syrup
Method
Healthy chocolate avocado mousee
Total time: 5 mins
Serves 4
This secretly healthy chocolate avocado mousse will take you completely by surprise. Avocados are 100% cholesterol-free, contribute nearly 20 vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients; and just one serving of the superfood offers eight percent of the daily value of fibre—a nutrient which provides a feeling of fullness.
Ingredients
- Flesh of 2 ripe avocados (240g)
- 20g cocoa powder
- 45g melted chocolate chips
- 3-4 tbsp milk of choice
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 80g pure maple syrup or honey
Method
Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor until completely smooth!
Mixed fruit and nut energy bites
Prep time: 5 mins
Bake time: 5 mins
10 servings / 120 kcal per serving
Mixed Fruit Energy Bites is a gluten free, grain free paleo recipe that comes together in about 10 minutes with healthy, clean, and whole ingredients!
Ingredients
- 105g Unsalted Almonds, roughly chopped
- 40g Pumpkin Seeds
- 154g Dried Cranberries
- 65g Dried Apricots, sliced
- 33g shredded coconut
- 113g Honey
- 180g Almond Butter
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- ½ tsp Kosher Salt
- Melted Dark Chocolate, optional
Method
Berry almond crumble
Prep time: 5 mins
Cook time: 30 mins
Serves 6
A summery take on crumble pudding. Delicious served with Greek yogurt.
Ingredients
- 300g mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 100g almond flour
- 20g rolled oats
- 30g chopped almonds
- 60ml coconut oil (melted)
- 30g coconut sugar or date sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Greek yogurt to serve (optional)
Method
Preheat your oven to 175°C.
In a bowl, mix the berries with honey (or maple syrup) and lemon juice. Spread the berry mixture evenly in a baking dish.
In another bowl, combine almond flour, rolled oats, chopped almonds, melted coconut oil, coconut sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until the mixture is crumbly.
Sprinkle the crumble mixture over the berries.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the berries are bubbling.
Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or chilled, topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt if desired.
