Some refer to fall as the most wonderful season, most likely because of all the tasty treats it offers! But it can also be a tempting (and trying) time of year, especially if you’re watching what you eat and maintaining your figure before the holidays arrive. Thankfully, there are dozens of delicious recipes that cater to health-conscious individuals, with healthy treats that don’t skimp on taste.
There’s no need to give in to a pumpkin spiced caloric coma this season! Here are a few healthy fall recipes that make great alternatives to your favorite rich dishes:
1. Apple Chips
A sweet and simple treat, this recipe by Delish maximizes flavor without tacking on the guilt.
Ingredients:
2 apples, thinly sliced
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions:
Heat your oven to 200 degrees and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place apples, sugar and cinnamon in a bowl, tossing to combine until apples are fully coated.
Lay apple slices evenly on prepared baking sheet and place in the oven to cook for 3 hours, flipping apples at the 1.5 hour mark.
Once the time is up, remove apples from oven and let cool. Enjoy!
Slice your favorite apple variety to make delicious cinnamon sugar apple chips.2. Pumpkin Pie Dip
A healthy take on pumpkin pie … who could say no? Try this recipe by Skinnytaste for only 105 calories per serving.
Ingredients:
1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree
3/4 cup brown sugar – not packed
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
6 ounces Greek yogurt
8 ounces natural whipped topping
Apple slices for dipping
Directions:
Place pumpkin, brown sugar, vanilla and spices in a large bowl. Blend ingredients with hand mixer, then slowly fold in the yogurt and natural whipped topping. Place in the refrigerator to chill until ready to serve. Remove from fridge and enjoy with apple slices or whole wheat crackers.
3. Healthy Pumpkin Spice Latte
A classic fall favorite, the pumpkin spice latte can’t be ignored this time of year. Unfortunately, guilt can ensue when you take that last sip. Instead of opting for the coffee shop cup with preservatives and excess calories, try this recipe by Cooking Light magazine.
Enjoy a pumpkin spice latte this fall without the guilt!Ingredients:
1 cup water
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
1/2 cup canned pumpkin purée
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
6 cups strongly brewed coffee
3 cups 1 percent low-fat milk
Directions:
Place water, sugars, pumpkin, pumpkin spice and salt in a medium saucepan, whisking together. Set over low heat and let simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract.
Next, brew your favorite brand of coffee. In the meantime, pour milk into a medium saucepan and place over medium heat, whisking well until milk is warm and becomes frothy.
Make an individual pumpkin spice latte by mixing one cup of coffee with four tablespoons of homemade reserved pumpkin syrup. Top with 1/2 cup of frothed milk and enjoy!
Making healthier lifestyle choices, especially during the cozier months, allows you to look and feel your best throughout the holiday season. If you need an additional confidence boost this time of year, schedule your free consultation at Ideal Image today.
