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Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies

by 45 Comments

Chewy Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are perfect HEALTHY treat to enjoy. These cookies are loaded with nutty peanut butter flavor and dark chocolate chunks. Easy to make, refined sugar-free and ALL NATURAL, these cookies make a perfect kids snack.

With the school year starting in just a few weeks - yeah yeah, I know... what a scary thought - I started planing stuff I need to do before the first day of school. I'm having mild panic attacks over all the things I need to buy and get, like clothes, new shoes, books and of course the NEW Minecraft school bag. God forbids to forget THE bag. Besides being completely crazy with brainstorming and pleasing little mister wishes in all that process, I also started thinking about school snacks and lunchbox meals.

My kiddos favorites school snacks last year was Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars and Chocolate Peanut Butter Roll-Ups. But since I AM a food blogger (and "the best cook in the whole wide world" - his words... aww I know!) I had to be innovative and think of new HEALTHY snacks for the upcoming new school year. Anything to make my boy happy. He really deserves it. He's a such a good boy.

Since we all love oatmeal cookies - Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies are basically the staple in our cookie jar - and we all LOVE peanut butter, last week I decided to test new oatmeal cookie recipe. I decided to make oatmeal cookies with two of our favorite things - peanut butter and chocolate.

Believe me, turning on the oven even thou is like super hot outside was completely worth it. Later that evening we all enjoyed these amazingly soft and chewy Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies filled with crunchy peanuts and dark chocolate chunks that melt in our month.

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are super easy to make, and you only need a few simple ingredients you probably have at home to mix these beauties up. To make them I used all HEALTHY goodies - oats and natural peanut butter. Dah. Like that's not obvious from the recipe title. But let me just praise a little how these goodies promote our health.

If you haven't incorporated oats in your diet, then you definitely should. Oats are among the healthiest grains on the planet. Oats and oatmeal have many health benefits. They promote weight loss, lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Yup, oats keep our heart healthy. That's why I love them the most.

Oats are especially high in the soluble fiber called beta-glucan, which has numerous benefits. It helps reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels, promotes healthy gut bacteria and increases feelings of fullness. But oats are also a good source of plant-based proteins. They are also loaded with many powerful antioxidants, vitamins and essential minerals - like manganese, magnesium, iron and vitamin B1.

I use oats a lot in my cooking and baking, but also I use oats to make no-bake Peanut Butter Energy Balls and my fav breakfast - Peanut Butter Overnight Oats. I also throw a handful of oats in smoothies too. They are so versatile. + Satisfying and full of good-for-you nutrients.

Oats made the cookies so soft and chewable, while natural smooth peanut butter gave that distinct nutty flavor. But what really made these cookies taste so SPECIAL are toasted roughly chopped peanuts and chunks of bitter-sweet dark chocolate right inside the cookie dough. Crunchy peanuts and chocolate added a pleasant surprise into every bite.

I tell you, it's best to skip the packaged cookies and snacks this school year. That store-bought stuff is loaded with processed sugars, unhealthy fats, and who-knows-what. While these delightful Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are ALL NATURAL, refined sugar-free and just sooooo HEALTHY. Satisfying and full of nutrients. Not to mention super delicious!

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are:

  • Made with all natural, WHOLESOME ingredients.
  • Soft and chewy, full of beautiful peanut and chocolate flavor.
  • Easy to make in just 20 minutes.
  • Needs only a few simple ingredients.
  • Deliciously sweet but REFINED sugar-free.
  • Low-calorie and rich in nutrients - quality fibers, plant-based proteins, and minerals.
  • Packed with heart-healthy fats.
  • Perfect quick breakfast or kids school snack.
  • Delicious and highly addictive!

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are more than just a snack or a simple dessert really. Pair these cookies with a glass of milk (or cup off coffee) in the morning and there you have a nice nutritious breakfast.

These cookies are filled with dietary fibers, healthy energy-boosting fats, and proteins. Just what you need to boost you up in the morning. Not just your body but also the mood.

Enjoy!

Recipe

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies with chocolate chips
Print Recipe
4.57 from 82 votes

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies

Chewy Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are perfect HEALTHY treat to enjoy. These cookies are loaded with nutty peanut butter flavor and dark chocolate chunks. Easy to make, refined sugar-free and ALL NATURAL, these cookies make a perfect kids snack. 
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: chewy, chocolate chips, cookies, healthy, oatmeal, peanutt butter
Servings: 12 cookies
Calories: 177kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 356F (180C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In one bowl, mix the dry ingredients - flour, oats, baking powder, and salt. Mix all together until combined.
  • In a separate bowl whisk the egg, peanut butter, vanilla, maple syrup and milk. Mix well with a whisk until well combined.
  • Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix. Finally, stir in the dark chocolate chunks or chocolate chips and chopped peanuts. Mix gently with a spoon. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes.
  • With a scoop or spoon, scoop the dough, and place it on the baking sheet. Arrange the cookies 2-inches apart. Slightly flatten the dough with the spoon.
  • Bake 12-15 minutes until the edges of the cookies begin to brown.
  • Remove cookies from the oven, and let them cool for few minutes on a baking sheet. Then transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Keep in a cookie jar or airtight container.

Nutrition

Calories: 177kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 13mg | Sodium: 93mg | Potassium: 200mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 20IU | Calcium: 46mg | Iron: 1.1mg

Check these peanut butter recipes too:

These are my picks for this recipe:
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Xoxo, Natalie
Let's connect! Find me on - Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

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Chewy Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies with chocolate chips

Peanut Butter Energy Balls

by 43 Comments

These Peanut Butter Energy Balls are nutty, sweet and utterly delicious. They are made with healthy ingredients, loaded with powerful superfoods and have no added sugars. Perfect energising snack or quick dessert.

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No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Balls

I would want to know, who in the world doesn't love peanut butter? I mean, seriously. Ok, except those who have a severe peanut allergy... but common people. Peanut butter is super tasty. It has this perfect, nutty sticky texture that is just sooo YUM. + It's such a HEALTHY and versatile spread that pairs so well with chocolate and the fruity jellies. OMG!

Ok ok, I'll be the first to admit. I wasn't always such a huge fan of peanut butter. That was mainly because I didn't try THE REAL deal peanut butter before. I got peanut butter from the store and it was loaded with sugar and it was so greasy.

I fell in love with peanut butter when I made my first homemade thing - from REAL peanuts. No added ANYTHING. It turned out creamy, super nutty and just delicious. I was instantly hooked. I think it's purely possible that now I'm a biggest peanut butter lover in town. No, I tell you... I'm no joking.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Balls

I put peanut butter in everything now. In my morning smoothies - like this Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie. I'm making no-bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Crunch Bars. I use it as a spread on my Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups. Peanut butter is a staple in my house. I even got my husband and my kiddo to adore this deliciousness with me.

Since lately I'm not in the mood for turning on the oven, and we all love sweet treats in the house, especially ones that include peanut butter - I'm making a bunch of these Peanut Butter Energy Balls for my family. They are super easy to make and super yummy snack that is both satisfying and SO good for our health. + it's energizing and kills the sugar cravings like SUPER fast. Win!

No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Balls

Peanut Butter Energy Balls are nutty, sweet, and beyond words tasty. Sweet treat in the true meaning of the word. But also these little bites are very filling and nutritious, packed with so many good stuff - dietary fibers good for our digestion, ALL NATURAL plant-based proteins and energizing healthy fats. YES!

Peanut butter is a great source of unsaturated - healthy fats and fibers but also proteins + an excellent source of a whole range of vitamins and minerals - like vitamin A and E, folate, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, and many other amazing nutrients. It's OMG, overwhelming how healthy peanut butter is!

And although is high in fat and calories the good news is, you get a lot of nutrition from having these calories so don't feel bad for having a one too many of these Peanut Butter Energy Balls. These beauties are calorie dense, nutrient-packed little wonders.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Balls

To give these Peanut Butter Energy Balls even more power, I added some MORE superfoods - flax seeds, that are loaded with anti-inflammatory omega-3 and fibers. + Flax seeds are also the good source of plant-based proteins.

Balls are naturally sweetened with dates and super low-calorie so feel free to indulge yourself with more than one. Dates have this beautiful caramel flavor that paired so well with nutty peanut butter. I tell you... these little sweet treats are omnomnom delicious!

No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Balls

Peanut Butter Energy Balls are …

  • no-bake and made with only 6 ingredients,
  • full of high-quality dietary fibers that promote good digestion, weight loss, and a healthy digestive system,
  • rich in plant-based proteins,
  • rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin A,
  • ADDED AND REFINED SUGAR-FREE,
  • enriched with superfoods - FLAX SEEDS,
  • gluten-free and vegan,
  • low in calories, kid-friendly and very nutritious,
  • an excellent post-workout snack.

The great thing about this Peanut Butter Energy Balls recipe is that it's super easy to make. You only need like 10 minutes and one bowl. Yup, this recipe is NO-BAKE. All you need is a food processor.

These amazing little energy bomblets are truly a delish treat. Give them a go. I know you'll get hooked on its amazing nutty taste and its soft texture.

Enjoy!

Recipe

No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Balls
Print Recipe
4.77 from 56 votes

Peanut Butter Energy Balls

A protein-packed snack, No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Balls are easy to make, ALL NATURAL healthy treat. Refined and ADDED SUGAR-FREE, these bites are perfect kids lunchbox snack or energizing post-workout meal. Vegan. Gluten-free.
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American, International
Keyword: energy balls, energy bites, oatmeal, peanut butter
Servings: 22 balls
Calories: 99kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

  • 12 Medjool dates pitted and soaked in hot water
  • ½ cup rolled oats *
  • ½ cup almonds
  • ½ cup peanut butter natural creamy without added sugars or oils
  • 3 tablespoon flax seeds ground
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  • Remove the pits from dates and soak them in hot water for several minutes. Drain but keep some water.
  • Place Medjool dates, rolled oats and almonds in a high-speed food processor and process on high for about a minute.
  • Add the rest of the ingredients and process for another 1 to 2 minutes until your dough is formed.
  • Check texture by pinching the dough between your fingers. It should be sticky and able to keep its shape. If the mixture is too dry, add more water in which you have soaked the dates.
  • Using a tablespoon, scoop out dough and roll between your palms to form your balls. Sprinkle with some sea salt.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until serving. Keep the energy balls frozen up to 3 months in the freezer. As a measure, I used a US cup (240ml).
* For GLUTEN-FREE version, use certified gluten-free oats. 

Nutrition

Calories: 99kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 4g | Sodium: 32mg | Potassium: 171mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 20IU | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 0.5mg

Check these peanut butter recipes too:

No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Balls

Iced Coffee Protein Shake

by 28 Comments

Creamy and absolutely delicious, Iced Coffee Protein Shake is perfect breakfast wake-me-up drink! It's nutrient-packed, satisfying, and super HEALTHY - made with only NATURAL real ingredients. NO store-bought protein powders. NO artificial sweeteners. Completely ADDED SUGAR-FREE.

Sugar-free Iced Coffee Protein Shake with superfoods hemp seeds

I'm a HUGE coffee lover but a few years back I've experienced some tummy problems so I had to stop drinking this favorite beverage for a while. My tummy now got better and just recently I started enjoying coffee again. Drink coffee in moderation - my doctor said. Yeah, right... like this is even possible. Who can resist fragrant coffee aroma? I'm barely follow up one cup every few days rule.

So lately I'm very creative and thinking up all these incredible ways to enjoy my favorite cup of coffee but at the same time looking out not to hurt my tummy again. Eat something before you have a coffee - my doctor also said. So I do just that. I eat my breakfast AND have my coffee in one sip.

Coffee Breakfast Smoothie has been my favorite smoothie... along with these amazing coffee smoothies.

But now since temperatures reached sky-high figures, this ice cold Coffee Protein Shake climbed up high on the throne of my favorite beverages in the morning.

Sugar-free Iced Coffee Protein Shake with superfoods hemp seeds

To make this incredible, thick and creamy Iced Coffee Protein Shake I used all healthy NATURAL ingredients. That means NO store-bought protein powders. NO artificial sweeteners. Just delicious nutrient packed REAL FOODS.

As a base, I used soy milk. This plant-based milk alternative is an excellent source of PROTEIN, dietary fiber, and healthy fat. It's loaded with vitamin A, vitamin B-6 and B-12, vitamin D, and essential minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, and magnesium. All these nutrients help in maintaining a good health. That's what we all aiming for, right!?

The protein content in soy milk is comparable to that of cows, that's why I use soy milk when I aim for high-protein drinks / smoothies. Also, soy milk is naturally sweeter than for example almond milk that's why I didn't have to use any added sugar to sweeten this beauty up.

Sugar-free Iced Coffee Protein Shake with superfoods hemp seeds

Frozen banana gave beautiful thick and creamy texture, and natural sweetness, so this Coffee Protein Shake is completely ADDED SUGAR-FREE and REFINED SUGAR-FREE. Perfect! Of course, you can add some maple syrup or honey.

To make this shake protein-packed natural way - without any store bought protein powders - I used ground hemp seeds. Hemp seeds are plant-based nutty flavored seed loaded with amino acids, fatty acids, protein, and many essential minerals. These small powerful seeds are also high in heart-healthy, anti-inflammatory Omega-3 fats and antioxidants, as well as.

The star of this of this shake is, of course, the COFFEE. For making this shake I used Nescafe espresso instant powder. I really LOVE its strong and flavorful taste - I am all into that lately. But since this shake is designed to make your morning better, you can use any coffee you prefer and like and use daily.

Sugar-free Iced Coffee Protein Shake with superfoods hemp seeds

Iced Coffee Protein Shake is:

  • Loaded with nutrients that promote good health.
  • Made with ALL NATURAL healthy real ingredients.
  • Powered with superfoods - HEMP SEEDS loaded with amino acids, fatty acids, and natural proteins.
  • Completely ADDED SUGAR-FREE.
  • Full of wonderful coffee flavor.
  • Packed with plant-based proteins, heart-healthy fats. and dietary fibers.
  • Rich in powerful antioxidants, vitamin C, potassium, calcium and iron.
  • Great post workout meal.
  • Vegan, gluten free, allergy-friendly and unbelievably GOOD!

This coffee flavored protein shake is mildly sweet, full of amazing coffee flavor and so incredibly tasty. It's a coffee lover dream come true.

It's also very nutritious and filling. It will keep you full for a long LONG time. Plus this shake is super easy to whip up and pack to go if you're in a hurry. You thought you don't have time for breakfast AND coffee in the morning? Well, I hope I proved you wrong with this super-drink.

Plus it's the perfect way to refuel after a tough workout too. Double WIN.

Enjoy!

Recipe

Added Sugar-free Iced Coffee Protein Shake with superfoods hemp seeds
Print Recipe
4.52 from 37 votes

Iced Coffee Protein Shake

Creamy and delicious, Iced Coffee Protein Shake is perfect breakfast wake-me-up drink! It's nutrient-packed, satisfying, and super HEALTHY made with only NATURAL real ingredients. NO store-bought protein powders. NO artificial sweeteners. Completely added sugar-free. Vegan. Gluten-free.
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American, International
Keyword: coffee protein shake, iced coffee, iced coffee protein shake, iced coffee shake
Servings: 2 glasses
Calories: 173kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

  • ½ cup milk I used soy
  • 1 cup brewed coffee cold (I used Nescafe instant espresso powder)
  • 1 frozen banana
  • 2 tablespoon hemp seeds
  • 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup optional, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups ice cubes

Instructions

  • Put all ingredients into a blender and blend on high speed until smooth and desired consistency is reached.
  • If the shake is too thick, add a little more liquid - coffee, water or milk and blend again.

Nutrition

Serving: 1glass | Calories: 173kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 27mg | Potassium: 342mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 241IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 96mg | Iron: 3mg

These are my picks for this recipe:

[amazon_link asins='B01N7RGFM0,B01NARS722,B01L1YXQEU,B076CSHCTG,B00R6SL6D4' template='MyPicks' store='natalieshealt-20' marketplace='US' link_id='e208e98b-760c-11e8-b428-4fb1622b654a']

Xoxo, Natalie

Let's connect! Find me on - Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

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Added Sugar-free Iced Coffee Protein Shake with superfoods hemp seeds

Mango Blueberry Smoothie

by 33 Comments

Refreshing and vibrant, Mango Blueberry Smoothie is perfect breakfast for busy mornings! This probiotic-rich smoothie is the packed with many nutrients and FRESH fruits. Refined sugar-free, ALL NATURAL and very filling - super HEALTHY and so delicious.

Mango Blueberry Smoothie topped with goji berries and bee pollen

For the last couple of weeks, smoothies are on my breakfast menu like daily. I don't remember when was the last time I ate solid food for breakfast! And me posting this smoothie today implies only one thing - I'm STILL on that smoothie spree. But can you really blame me for loving smoothies so much? They’re so easy to make - the easiest breakfast you can make - and they keep me full and energized all morning long. And oh boy do I need energy, especially in the morning... 'cause my life is STILL pretty hectic.

It's the last week of school. FINALLY! And we are exhausted in the full meaning of that word. In the morning we hit the snooze button for far too many times - which leads to total panic and chaos before hitting the door at 8 AM. We don't have time for normal family breakfast. My boys grab some Berry Banana Bars or Apple Oatmeal Cookies while I like to mix myself a nice smoothie. I pack my smoothie to-go in my SANS bottle and drink it in the car on my way to work after we drop kiddo at school. I enjoy my smoothie peacefully, mindfully, and relaxed.

Definitely, my favorites lately are Strawberry Peanut Butter Smoothie and irresistible Cherry Chocolate Smoothie... Because of the BERRIES! Yes, I'm obsessed with berries! They are colorful, loaded with nutrients and just delightful. It's hard to resist them. + They are now in season and popping out from everywhere.

Of course, now that temperatures are hitting sky-high numbers, I'm looking for more tropical and refreshing tastes. That's why I fell in love with THIS bright and flavorful Mango Blueberry Smoothie. Yum!

Mango Blueberry Smoothie topped with goji berries and bee pollen

To make this deliciousness I used all the HEALTHY stuff that are good for our health - FRESH seasonal fruits and superfoods.

Blueberries are now in season so I toss them in all my meals. They are highly nutritious and among the world's most powerful sources of antioxidants. And oh how I love to boost my meals with antioxidants.

But the main star of this smoothie is delicious MANGO. Beyond its sweet, luscious taste, mango is really a super-fruit. Many people don't even know that. Mango is loaded with dietary fibers good for healthy digestion and vitamin B6 - one of the essential vitamins. Mango is also a good source of vitamin A and powerful immune-boosting vitamin C. Also mango is rich in minerals like potassium, magnesium, and copper, and it's one of the best sources beta-carotene. Say hello to glowing skin and good healthy immunity.

These two fruits are sweet enough so I didn't use ANY added sweetener in making the smoothie which makes this smoothie completely added + refined-sugar free.

Mango Blueberry Smoothie topped with goji berries and bee pollen

To make this Mango Blueberry Smoothie really powerful, I added some of my favorite superfoods - HEMP SEEDS. Raw hemp seeds hold so much health benefits. How would ever thought such a small seed is so powerful.

Hemp seeds are HIGH in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids - aka healthy fats great for our heart health and reducing inflammation. They are also rich in dietary fibers great for weight loss and gut health. What's really impressive about hemp seeds is the fact that they are loaded with proteins. And I mean really LOADED. + They are so sweet tasting and soft. Perfect for smoothies.

Mango Blueberry Smoothie topped with goji berries and bee pollen

This Mango Blueberry Smoothie is not only packed with nutrients, sweet and so vibrant, but also incredibly creamy and rich in fruity summery flavors.

I usually use plant-based milk in my smoothies, but this time I used probiotic yogurt. Probiotic yogurt promotes good digestion and healthy digestive tract. Probiotics are important for keeping our gut microflora balanced and our gut happy.

Mango Blueberry Smoothie is:

  • Loaded with nutrients that promote good health.
  • Powered with superfoods - hemp seeds, bee pollen and goji berries.
  • Enhanced with super-spice - Ceylon cinnamon.
  • ADDED SUGAR-FREE.
  • Nourishing and wholesome meal.
  • Ridiculously quick and easy.
  • Full of fruity tropical flavors.
  • Packed with plant-based proteins, heart-healthy fats. and dietary fibers.
  • Rich in powerful antioxidants, and vitamin C good for immunity.
  • Vegan, gluten free, allergy-friendly and soooo GOOD!

Blueberry Mango Smoothie makes a lovely breakfast any day of the week. Not only this smoothie is super tasty, but so refreshing too. I dare to say IDEAL for hot summer mornings... or afternoons.

Enjoy!

Recipe

Mango Blueberry Smoothie topped with goji berries and bee pollen
Print Recipe
4.97 from 32 votes

Mango Blueberry Smoothie

Refreshing Mango Blueberry Smoothie is the perfect breakfast for busy mornings! This probiotic-rich smoothie is packed with nutrients and fresh fruits. ADDED sugar-free, ALL NATURAL and very filling – it's super HEALTHY and so delicious.
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American, International
Keyword: blueberry, mango, smoothie, superfoods
Servings: 1
Calories: 436kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

For topping:

Instructions

  • Place mango, half of the yogurt, and vanilla in a blender. Mix well until you get a smooth mixture. Add a tablespoon or more water if the mixture is too thick.
  • Pour the mixture into the glass.
  • Place blueberries, another half of the yogurt, cinnamon and hemp seeds in a blender and mix until you get a smooth mixture. Add a tablespoon or more water if the mixture is too thick.
  • Pour blueberry mixture over mango mixture.
  • Decorate with toppings.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

*For vegan, non-dairy version use coconut probiotic yogurt or kefir. 

Nutrition

Calories: 436kcal | Carbohydrates: 71g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 33mg | Potassium: 391mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 49g | Vitamin A: 1945IU | Vitamin C: 104.4mg | Calcium: 359mg | Iron: 2.8mg

These are my picks for this recipe:

[amazon_link asins='B00R6SL6D4,B01LW7K6G0,B00CIXQYRA' template='MyPicks' store='natalieshealt-20' marketplace='US' link_id='b2730305-7095-11e8-8f4a-0151065c38f7']

Xoxo, Natalie

Let's connect! Find me on - Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

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Blueberry Pancake Casserole

by 34 Comments

Sweet and fluffy, Blueberry Pancake Casserole is the tastiest breakfast casserole you'll ever eat! It's filled with fresh fruits, beautiful cinnamon flavor and HEALTHY, all natural ingredients. + It's refined sugar-free and made with whole grains. A perfect dish that the whole family will enjoy!

Healthy oven baked Blueberry Pancake Casserole topped with banana and raspberries

I love love looove pancakes. I mean, who doesn't?! They are fluffy, sweet, and PERFECT for mornings or afternoons with a cup of coffee or tea. Like Lemon Cardamom Pancakes. Oh sooo yum with a cup of black tea on a sunny terrace on afternoons.

The only thing I don’t like about pancakes is making ones. Especially if I'm making pancakes for a large group of people. OR when I'm super tired, and my family - including me - wants some pancakes for dessert after the dinner. Standing, or should I say slaving over the stove flipping pancakes in the early morning or in afternoons is not my fav thing.

Ok, I can always persuade husband to flip the pancakes... but some days you just want to have that no-fuss quick dessert ready while in same time you have nice relaxed time with your family. You know?! And that's when baked pancake casserole comes to the rescue.

Blueberry Pancake Casserole is THE BEST thing you can make to satisfy your sweet pancake craving. Trust me, this pancake casserole is AMAZINGLY easy, sweet and filled with fruity blueberry + cinnamon flavor. PERFECT! It's the easiest pancake casserole recipe you'll ever make. And you will love it - in the morning, afternoons, for your guest or for your favorite mom for Mother's Day!

Healthy oven baked Blueberry Pancake Casserole topped with banana and raspberries

This Blueberry Pancake Casserole is made with ALL NATURAL, nutritious ingredients – but also out-of-this-world delicious.

To make these pancakes I used whole grain flour - spelt flour (dinkel wheat). It has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and it's loaded with many nutrients. When compared to wheat flour, spelt flour is slightly more nutritious with higher contents of copper, iron, zinc, magnesium, and phosphorus.

I use whole grain flour in baking a lot. Actually, I completely replaced all-purpose wheat flour with whole grain. I even make crepes with whole grain flour. Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups ... yup, also made with whole grain flour. But when making pancakes, I realize that whole grain pancakes tend to be dense and heavy. And while I love that texture in other sweet treats I make, here in this sheet pan pancakes recipe, I wanted more fluffy and tender butter. And that's where BUTTERMILK comes to rescue.

Buttermilk does wonders in baking. It makes the baked good more tender, perfectly light and soft textured. Although you can buy buttermilk in store, I don't do that. I mean, WHY when you can make buttermilk at home in like 5 minutes. It's super easy, and you make it fresh and just enough for what you need, so there's no need for storing bottles in the fridge.

To make buttermilk all you need is some dairy milk and lemon juice or cider vinegar. Just combine 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let sit for 2 minutes. After two minutes you will see that the milk has curdled and is ready to use. Super easy! The acidity in buttermilk will soften gluten in flour and make batter rise to soft fluffy perfection.

That's why this Blueberry Pancake Casserole is so soft and unbelievably thick.

Healthy oven baked Blueberry Pancake Casserole topped with banana and raspberries

I flavored this Baked pancake casserole with beautifully scented Ceylon cinnamon and vanilla. Cinnamon paired nicely with fruity and sweet blueberry flavor, but also enriched the batter and elevate it's overall taste. To sweeten the pancake casserole batter, I used pure maple syrup, making this casserole refined sugar-free treat.

Baked pancake casserole is so much fun to make. You can get creative and use whatever fruit you like to sprinkle it on the batter - bananas, strawberries, raspberries, or any other fruit that is in season. Add some chocolate chunks on top, and you'll get a delicious power-breakfast your family will LOVE. Yum!

Blueberry Pancake Casserole is ideal to serve for brunch too so if you're looking a way to surprise your mom for Mother's Day, a slice of this deliciousness is ideal to say how much you care for her. The softness and sweetness of this fruity pancake slice will surely show her your indescribable love.

This breakfast casserole is also perfect for kids lunch box. Blueberry Pancake Casserole are the best way to feed your family effortlessly.

Blueberry Pancake Casserole is:

  • made with all natural, WHOLESOME ingredients,
  • ridiculously easy to make,
  • sweet but REFINED sugar-free,
  • low-calorie and packed with antioxidants from blueberries,
  • flavored with superspice - Ceylon cinnamon, 
  • perfect weekend breakfast or quick brunch.
  • 100% guilt-free and waistline-friendly.

Weekends are made for baked pancake casserole and Mother's Day is perfect to serve this beauty.

Enjoy!

Recipe

Healthy oven baked Blueberry Pancake Casserole topped with banana and raspberries
Print Recipe
4.52 from 37 votes

Blueberry Pancake Casserole

Sweet and fluffy, Blueberry Pancake Casserole is the tastiest breakfast casserole you'll ever eat! It's filled with fresh fruits, beautiful cinnamon flavor and HEALTHY, all natural ingredients. + It's refined sugar-free and made with whole grains. A perfect dish that the whole family will enjoy!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American, International
Keyword: Banana, Blueberries, Breakfast, Brunch, Casserole, Dessert, Mother's Day, Pancake
Servings: 9 slices
Calories: 212kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 425°F.
  • Line a sheet pan (about 10" x 10") with parchment paper and set aside.
  • In a medium bowl, mix all the dry ingredients - flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, syrup, coconut oil, vanilla, and buttermilk.
  • Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix just until combined.
  • Pour the pancake batter into the prepared sheet pan and even the batter out. Top with blueberries.
  • Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven, until slightly risen and cooked through.

Notes

As a measure, I used UScup (240ml). 
For buttermilk: Combine 1 cup of dairy milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let sit for 2 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 212kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 39mg | Sodium: 169mg | Potassium: 219mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 105IU | Vitamin C: 1.6mg | Calcium: 84mg | Iron: 1mg

These are my recommendation for this recipe:

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Xoxo, Natalie

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Healthy oven baked Blueberry Pancake Casserole topped with banana and raspberries

Lemon Cardamom Pancakes

by 24 Comments

Whole grain HEALTHY Lemon Cardamom Pancakes are simple but very special breakfast. These pancakes are light and fluffy, loaded with many nutrients and oh so delicious. Packed with zesty lemon flavor and topped with delightfully tangy cream cheese filling, these pancakes are like having cheesecake for breakfast! All natural and refined sugar-free.

Whole grain healthy Lemon Cardamom Pancakes with cream cheese filling and strawberries

I have a confession to make. I'm a HUGE pancake fan. I could eat pancakes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Fluffy, light textured, mildly sweet, topped with cream and fresh fruits. What's there not to love? Pancakes are like ultimate weekend breakfast and a favorite among my family beside of course Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups and these French Toast Vanilla Muffins.

But I wasn't always so keen to make pancakes. I just wasn't good at making them. I had an awful old pancake pan, and my batter wasn't perfect. Pancakes never turned out the way I wanted to be. They were tasty and all... but never in perfect shape, because of the batter. And that drove me mad. Well, my hubby still devoured the scraps while I was always nagging. I had so many failures that I almost give up. ALMOST! But the desire to have pancakes for breakfast on Saturday morning was bigger than all my disappointments. So I decided to work on perfecting that pancake batter. I also got myself a new pancake pan. One weekend I whipped out perfect pancakes. Suddenly everything changed. Our Saturday mornings started to be happier and better.

Since lemons are now in season, and we welcomed Spring, I decided to share this delicious, zesty Lemon Cardamom Pancakes with you.

Whole grain healthy Lemon Cardamom Pancakes with cream cheese filling and strawberries

To make these pancakes Lemon Cardamom Pancakes I used ALL NATURAL, healthy and nutritious ingredients - no store-bought pancake mix, no nutrient deprived all-purpose flour, no refined sweeteners. Just beautiful REAL FOOD!

I made these pancakes using whole grain flour - Spelt flour (Dinkel wheat) that is loaded with dietary fibers. You can use any whole grain flour you prefer. To sweeten pancakes I used a bit of pure maple syrup. Pancakes are usually served with fresh fruits, so there's no need to overdo with added sugars in the batter.

What makes this pancakes so special is the lemon. There's no better way to celebrate Spring than with citrus infused sweet treats, right?! Fragrant, zesty and so gorgeous, lemon gave pancakes Spring-like feeling and so much freshness. I used lemon juice - freshly squeezed and organic lemon zest - freshly grated. Strong lemon flavor paired so nicely with mildly sweet and nutty pancakes. It upgraded the taste to beyond delicious.

Whole grain healthy Lemon Cardamom Pancakes with cream cheese filling and strawberries

These pancakes are light, fluffy and loaded with amazing fresh lemon flavor. To add some extra zing, I added a bit of exotic cardamom too. Cardamom is a quite unique spice. It tastes like the mix of mint, lemon, and ginger with a hint of cinnamon. Cardamom enhanced beautiful lemony taste and greatly improved the overall pancake flavor. It added some health benefits too.

You can top these Lemon Cardamom Pancakes with maple syrup and some fresh fruits. OR you can slather them with a delightfully tangy cream cheese filling... like I did. Cream cheese filling wonderfully complemented the pancakes and added an incredibly creamy, rich texture.

Whole grain healthy Lemon Cardamom Pancakes with cream cheese filling and strawberries

Whole grain healthy Lemon Cardamom Pancakes with cream cheese filling and strawberries

Lemon Cardamom Pancakes may seem complicated but quite the opposite. These delicate lemony pancakes are super easy to make and quite simple. Decadent breakfast done in no time. Or quick and easy brunch. But these deliciously palatable pancakes are good for basically any occasion. Trust me, your guest will be surprised when you present them these pancakes. Lemon Cardamom Pancakes will definitely get the compliments streaming in.

You, your family and your guests will love them!

Lemon Cardamom Pancakes are:

  • Very filling and healthy meal - loaded with fibers, healthy fats, and proteins.
  • All natural and refined sugar-free.
  • Ridiculously easy to make.
  • Full of refreshing lemon flavor and sooo delicious.
  • Perfect weekend breakfast or quick brunch.
  • 100% guilt-free and waistline-friendly.

Seriously I can't wait until the weekend to make them again. Do yourself a favor and make these soon. Weekends were made for pancakes! Enjoy!

 

Recipe

Whole grain healthy Lemon Cardamom Pancakes with cream cheese filling and strawberries
Print Recipe
4.77 from 13 votes

Lemon Cardamom Pancakes

Whole grain healthy Lemon Cardamom Pancakes with cream cheese filling are perfect family breakfast. These pancakes are light and fluffy, packed with delightfully zesty lemon flavor and many nutrients. Quick, easy and amazing! All natural and refined sugar-free. 
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Calories: 291kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

For pancakes (makes 6):

  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup whole grain flour
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon cardamon powder
  • ¼ teaspoon Himalayan salt
  • 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Coconut oil or cooking spray for coating the pan

For cream cheese filling:

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, beat the eggs. Add milk, maple syrup, lemon zest and lemon juice. Mix until well combined. Add flour, baking soda, cardamom and salt. Mix to combine, then set aside.
  • Heat a griddle or pancake pan over medium heat. Coat with cooking spray or coconut oil. For each pancake, drop ¼ cup of batter into the pan. Cook 1-2 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface of pancakes. Flip carefully and cook another 1-2 minutes. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm. Make sure to coat the pan before every pancake or batch of pancakes to prevent sticking.
  • Make cream cheese filling: Place all ingredients in a bowl. Mix well until smooth.
  • Place one pancake, browned-sides down, on a plate. Spread cream cheese filling over the pancake. Place another pancake, browned-sides down, on top of the first pancake. Repeat with the rest of pancakes and spread.
  • Serve immediately with fresh fruits. Drizzle with maple syrup if desired.

Notes

6 pancakes serves 4 people. 

Nutrition

Calories: 291kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 114mg | Sodium: 815mg | Potassium: 309mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 450IU | Vitamin C: 2.1mg | Calcium: 197mg | Iron: 1.6mg

These are my recommendation for this recipe:

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Xoxo, Natalie

Let's connect! Find me on - Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

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Whole grain healthy Lemon Cardamom Pancakes with cream cheese filling are perfect family breakfast. These pancakes are light and fluffy, packed with delightfully zesty lemon flavor and many nutrients. Quick, easy and amazing! All natural and refined sugar-free.

Foods That Help Keep Your Heart Healthy

by 3 Comments

Many foods can help keep your heart healthy and happily ticking. Some foods lower your blood pressure while others keep your cholesterol in line. Here are the TOP Foods That Help Keep Your Heart Healthy and happy. + FREE Heart Healthy Grocery Shopping List PRINTABLE.

Foods That Help Keep Your Heart Healthy

High blood pressure is a major cardiovascular disease risk factor for many people around the globe. Having uncontrolled high blood pressure is one of the biggest risks for heart disease and stroke. High cholesterol can also increase the risk for heart disease. Having diabetes and obesity, smoking, eating unhealthy foods, and not getting enough physical activity can all contribute to developing heart disease. The good news is that heart disease can be prevented through healthy diet and lifestyle choices.

My father suffered a heart attack almost 20 years ago. That has changed his life but also affected our entire family. So heart health is a topic of much importance to me. A few years back I was on the same track as my father, leading one very unhealthy lifestyle with high chances to end up just like him - with lifelong heart disease. That made me thinking and pushed me to change my lifestyle.

February is Heart Month, and so it's a perfect time to talk about the risks of heart disease and steps you can take now to help your heart be healthy in the future. Many foods can help you with that. Some foods lower your blood pressure while others keep your cholesterol in line. Here are the Foods That Help Keep Your Heart Healthy and happy. These are all the foods I integrated into my daily healthy diet and hopefully made the impact on my heart health.

FISH HIGH IN OMEGA-3s

Fish are rich in lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fatty acids that help reducing inflammation and prevent cardiovascular diseases. Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential. But our daily diets don't supply us with body’s requirement of omega-3s. That's why eating fish high in omega-3s are so important. Salmon and other fatty fish like sardines and mackerel are the superstars of heart-healthy foods. Eating fatty fish at least twice a week is sooo good for our health.

NUTS AND SEEDS

A handful of nuts like walnuts or almonds will satisfy your hunger and in same time help your heart beating happily. They contain good-for-your-heart fibers, healthy unsaturated fats, and vitamin E, which all helps lowering bad cholesterol. Nuts and seeds - like chia seeds and flaxseeds are also an excellent source of omega-3 fats. You can have delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Chia Seed Pudding loaded with healthy fats for breakfast in the morning. Or have one or two Lemon Turmeric Energy Balls as a quick snack in the office. You can also toss a few nuts into your Roast Pumpkin Pear Salad. Eatherway, you can't never go wrong with nuts and seeds.

WHOLE GRAINS

Whole grains are loaded with fibers, antioxidants, and other nutrients that help reduce the bad cholesterol levels, prevent inflammation and regulate blood pressure. All these help lowering the risk of fat accumulation, which in turn reduces the risk of heart or cardiovascular diseases. Other whole grains such as whole grain bread, whole grain pasta, and grits are also good for our heart. I suggest you always check food labels for those products making sure that they still contain the entire grain. I bet that having Peanut Butter Maca Overnight Oats for breakfast or delicious Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies for quick dessert or snack will make your heart (and tummy) very happy.

CITRUS FRUITS

We usually turn to citrus fruits - like oranges, grapefruits, and lemons for cold prevention. But these fruits are also a great food for your heart, thanks to two different nutrients: pectin and potassium. Pectin is a soluble fiber that blocks cholesterol absorption and protects the heart from scarring, while potassium helps keeping blood pressure in check. Orange Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl and Grapefruit Ginger Smoothie may be great for boosting your immunity, but also they are great for your healthy heart too.

GREEN VEGGIES

When it comes to your health, you really can't go wrong with veggies of any kind. But green vegetables they really give that extra boost to your heart. Green veggies - like kale, spinach, broccoli - are all high in carotenoids, a powerful antioxidant that helps your body get rid of harmful toxins. They're also high in fiber and contain tons of vitamins and minerals. You can stir fry your veggies, or have a bowl of salad. Don't be afraid to fill your plates with greens. Or you can make a delicious body-healing Spicy Broccoli Soup. Sooo healthy and so good.

LEGUMES

Legumes are not only an excellent source of proteins, fibers, vitamins and many minerals but also phytonutrients and cholesterol-lowering antioxidants that help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Heart-healthy legumes include soy, chickpeas, beans, peas, lentils, black beans, kidney beans, etc. If you buy canned beans, look for low-sodium or no-salt-added varieties (sodium can raise your blood pressure). Rinse them in water to wash off any added salt. And then make a beautiful Arugula Beans Salad or Black Bean Corn and Avocado salsa. I dig that totally. Yum!

BERRIES

Blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries and all the other beautiful berries as well are loaded with powerful antioxidants - flavonoids that decrease blood pressure and dilate blood vessels keeping our blood evenly flowing thus preventing cardiac heart failure. They are also chock-full of heart-healthy phytonutrients and soluble fibers. Have rich Blueberry Banana Chia Smoothie or make nutrient-full Strawberry Ginger Smoothie Bowl. Add a handful of berries to yogurt for most delicious healthiest natural fruit yogurt treat. Your heart will jump for joy!

DARK CHOCOLATE

Raw cacao, the plant from which chocolate is made, is rich in flavanols, which helps lower your blood pressure and prevent blood clots. It is also full of powerful antioxidants, which keeps bad cholesterol from sticking to your artery walls. So having a piece of dark chocolate (the one that contains 80% or more cocoa and has NO refined sugars) is not only good for your mood but also for your heart. Yeey! I'm always in the mood for Cacao Turmeric Maca Hot Chocolate and I love to nibble a Chocolate Cinnamon Balls.

Healthy eating starts with having the right heart-healthy foods in your kitchen. They help lower cholesterol and keep your blood pressure in check. If you aren't sure which foods to buy, print this FREE Heart Healthy Grocery Shopping List PRINTABLE to take to the supermarket. #healthylife #healthylifestyle #hearthealth #eatinghealthy #healthyfood #wellness #weightloss #happylife #healthydiet | NATALIESHEALTH.com
Click to download FREE Heart Healthy Grocery Shopping List PRINTABLE

Unhealthy lifestyles are typically a family thing, and it's usually passed down through the generations. So don’t make it something that YOU just need to do. Make eating healthy a family change. Have your family participate and teach your kids to eat better and live healthier so they can then pass on to next generations. Be the example. Be the CHANGE. That way we can break the cycle of heart issues that so many families struggle with.

Grab FREE Heart Healthy Grocery Shopping List printable!

You can grab my free PDF copy of Heart Healthy Grocery Shopping List by clicking here. Print it and take it when you go for shopping next time. Make sure you fill your fridge and pantry with all the heart-healthy goodies.

Xoxo, Natalie

Let's connect! Find me on - Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

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Healthy eating starts with having the right heart-healthy foods in your kitchen. They help lower cholesterol and keep your blood pressure in check. If you aren't sure which foods to buy, print this FREE Heart Healthy Grocery Shopping List PRINTABLE to take to the supermarket. #healthylife #healthylifestyle #hearthealth #eatinghealthy #healthyfood #wellness #weightloss #happylife #healthydiet | NATALIESHEALTH.com

Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl

by 9 Comments

Creamy, sweet and absolutely delicious, this immune-boosting Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl makes the perfect quick breakfast. It's full of wonderful flavors, and made without added sugars. This bowl will surely brighten your day!

Healthy Vegan Gluten-free Refined sugar-free Orange Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl with TURMERIC

Oh man, this winter is LONG. Does it seems long to you? January just ended... spring is not even near! It's kinda depressing thought. And I'm far from easley depressed person. Don't get me wrong - I love winter, the snow, and everything. But lately, I find it more pleasing just to watch winter and the snow from the inside of my warm apartment .... while nibbling on Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies and having warming cup of Cacao Turmeric Maca Hot Chocolate. <-- So YES to that last part!

As I'm getting older, I somehow start to appreciate warmer weather more. I'm seriously thinking of moving to sunny Florida or California. Yeah, that was just my wishful thinking!

Well, we had spring-like temperatures here just a few weeks back. I wished for the weather to stay that mild all winter long. But temperatures started to fall... until freezing. We woke up today covered with snow. SNOW?!? I'm not thrilled. Not thrilled at all. Yup, snow just made me one grumpy mama. (Those with kids and those who have to drive through the city for work will understand my grumpiness.)

I felt a bit down about cold weather, gloominess, the fact spring's not coming... the usual February slump, I guess, so I decided to go on tropical vacation.

At least in my mind. I wished for some exotic flavors and bright colors to brighten up my morning. So I whipped up this amazingness. This sweet and creamy Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl really made my day. So if you are looking for something to cheer you up on a chilly winter day - this is it, guys! This smoothie is packed with beautiful tropical flavors but also with so many nutrients. Perfect!

Healthy Vegan Gluten-free Refined sugar-free Orange Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl with TURMERIC

This smoothie bowl is loaded with dietary fibers, plant-based proteins, as well as with healthy energy-boosting fats. It's an easy and well-balanced meal packed in one bowl. Just what you need when you're in a hurry!

To make this bowl of deliciousness, I used all natural ingredients - beautiful fresh fruits - mango, orange, and banana - filled with fibers, vitamins and essential minerals like potassium. I enhanced the taste with a hint of vanilla and power-boosted the whole bowl with amazing super spice - TURMERIC. Mango, banana, and orange juice combined gave that beautiful summery, sweet taste, while TURMERIC deepened the flavor and made this smoothie bowl so exotic tasting.

Oh, did I mention that this smoothie bowl is added sugar-free?! YES! Just pure fruity flavors. It's a real weight loss friendly sweet-tooth pleaser!

Healthy Vegan Gluten-free Refined sugar-free Orange Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl with TURMERIC

I've expressed my profound love for turmeric trough many of my recipes. Turmeric contains curcumin, a substance with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties thus giving every meal not only flavor but boosting it with many health benefits. It's one amazing spice, and you can use it in so many ways. Actually, you can use it DAILY in almost every meal you eat.

Just imagine having this Tomato Apple Soup for lunch. Or this Turmeric Maca Powder Cacao Energy Balls for the snack. Yummy! All these are enhanced with turmeric. And it takes so little of that spice daily to keep your body healthy and happy.

Healthy Gluten-free Refined sugar-free Orange Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl with TURMERIC

This Orange Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl is not only packed full of nutrients and enhanced with powerful anti-inflammatory turmeric but also incredibly creamy and so good for gut health. To achieve silky smooth texture I used probiotic yogurt. Probiotic yogurt promotes good digestion and a healthy digestive tract. It helps the maintenance of balanced gut microflora. So important, guys!

You know when you feel bloated or sluggish? Well, that's your gut telling you it needs a bit of probiotic aid. This Orange Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl will give your digestion good boost and heal it needs.

Orange Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl is so AMAZING because ...

  • it's made with all natural, HEALTHY ingredients,
  • it's creamy and tropical flavored,
  • it's refined and added sugar-free,
  • it's a wholesome meal,
  • it's rich in nutrients - dietary fibers and plant-based proteins,
  • it's rich in powerful antioxidants, and vitamin C good for immunity,
  • it's rich in potassium, calcium, and iron,
  • it's enriched with anti-inflammatory healing super spice - TURMERIC,
  • + it's deliciously creamy, sweet and amazing!

So, if you're looking for midwinter treat without any extra sweeteners, then this refreshing immune boosting, probiotic-rich, gut healing creamy deliciousness is the right thing for you. It will fill you with good HEALTHY nutrients, and make your body burst with energy. Perfect cheer me up breakfast.

Enjoy!

Recipe

Healthy Gluten-free Refined sugar-free Orange Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl with TURMERIC
Print Recipe
4.50 from 6 votes

Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl

Creamy, sweet and absolutely delicious, this nutrient-packed, immune-boosting Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl makes perfect quick breakfast. It's full of wonderful flavors, all natural, refined and added sugar-free and so HEALTHY. This bowl will surely brighten your day!
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: International
Servings: 1 person
Calories: 401kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

Toppings:

  • 1 tablespoon granola **
  • 1 teaspoon bee pollen
  • 1 teaspoon goji berries crushed
  • Coconut chips

Instructions

  • Place mango, banana, yogurt, and orange juice in a blender. Mix well until you get a smooth mixture. Add vanilla and turmeric and mix again. Add a tablespoon or more water if the mixture is too thick.
  • Pour the mixture into the bowl. Decorate with toppings.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

As a measure, I used UScup (240ml).
*For vegan, non-dairy version use coconut probiotic yogurt or kefir.
** Make sure you use certified organic, sugar-free, gluten-free granola.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowl | Calories: 401kcal | Carbohydrates: 71g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 97mg | Potassium: 1184mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 49g | Vitamin A: 1280IU | Vitamin C: 103.3mg | Calcium: 238mg | Iron: 1.8mg

Xoxo, Natalie
Let's connect! Find me on - Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

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Orange Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl with coconut and probiotic kefir

Orange Mango Turmeric Smoothie Bowl

Monday Motivation #33

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Let's face it. Your life won't change to better if you don't put some work into it. Since it takes time to build new healthier habits, keeping yourself motivated during that time can be a quite challenging. That's why I'm sharing with you few tips how to keep yourself motivated while you're on your journey to happier healthier you. + Get motivated with today's quote!

Keep yourself motivated with motivational quotes about healthy living, healthy eating and positive attitude towards life. Thrive for wellness, weight loss goals, happiness, and HEALTHY HAPPY life. Be inspired with Monday Motivation quotes! #healthy #quote #motivation #fitness #weightloss #fit #monday #positivity #positive #inspiration #QuoteOfTheDay #happiness #healthylife #happylife | NATALIESHEALTH.com

Happy Monday guys and happy new week to you all. How are you doing?

I haven't done Motivation Monday for long, long time. Yup, last Motivation Monday post was like what... month ago?! I talked then about my goals for 2018 and how taking good care of yourself means also giving the best of YOU to people you love too. That's super important and actually that's something that keeps me motivated. At the beginning of the year I also talked about 12 Better Eating Resolutions That Will Make You Healthier. I know that many of you decided to start the change and many of you are sticking to your resolutions. That's GREAT guys! Give yourself a high five - YOU ROCK!

But how many of you are still slacking or not sticking to your resolutions? Yeah, I know... It's freaking hard to change old habits. I've been there so I know ALL about it. I haven't woke up one day and miraculously started to love healthy food and be happier person. It took me quite a time and few trials and errors until I figured it all out + lots of motivation and support. So my best advice is to find good motivation and keep it.

Since it takes time to build new routine and "new you", keeping yourself motivated all the time can be tricky. Good news is that there's a numerous ways to keep yourself motivated and on track with your lifestyle change. I have for you few tips on how to keep that motivation up and running. These simple tips are easy to follow... and with just a few you can be back on track and charged with positivity. Here they are:

  • Close your eyes, and visualize yourself reaching your goals. Visualize yourself happy and healthy, skinny, confident (or whatever your goal is).
  • Take small steps. You don't have to immediately throw yourself on healthy eating and heavy exercising. Just take baby steps, one day at the time, one new healthy decision at the time.
  • Try something new today. New a recipe with some new superfood, like Peanut Butter Maca Overnight Oats, or maybe yoga.
  • Take a walk in a park, and let nature reset your mind. Breathe.
  • Get more sleep. Sleep deprivation could be making you less motivated.
  • Have a cup of Cacao Turmeric Maca Hot Chocolate. It will boost you with energy and uplift your mood.
  • Sit down and make a to-do list. You'll feel encouraged as you cross off items.
  • Make a meal plan for a week. Shop for groceries and have everything prepared. Grab my FREE Weekly Meal Planner to help you with that. Meal planning will save you from stressing over what to eat for dinner and keep you on healthy eating track. Stress kills motivation.
  • Make motivating yourself into a habit.
  • Get a friend or spouse to join you on your healthy journey. This will make everything you do more enjoyable.
  • Let go of your fears. STOP doubting and start making changes!
  • Focus on the positive instead of the negative.
  • Don't compare yourself with others. Compete against yourself.
  • If you fail, pick yourself up and keep going. We all fail sometimes. Remind yourself that it's better to try and fail than living with regrets of never trying.
  • Write down a few things you're grateful for. If you have a more positive mindset, you'll find yourself more motivated.

Remember... YOUR LIFE DOESN'T GET BETTER BY CHANCE. IT GETS BETTER BY CHANGE. You want that change. You need that change. Trust me - it feels GREAT changing you life and live healthier. So START that change. Keep yourself motivated everyday. You doing this for HEALTHIER and happier you. Have in mind that only thing keeping you stuck in place is your bad habits and THAT my friend, you CAN change. You are in control of that.

Until next time, stay HAPPY and healthy.

Xoxo, Natalie

Let's connect! Find me on - Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

Turmeric Maca Powder Cacao Energy Balls

by 21 Comments

Packed with powerful superfoods, these Turmeric Maca Powder Cacao Energy Balls are simple yet so delicious snack that is both satisfying and good for your health. Nutty and sweet, these little power balls are the perfect energizing, good mood snack.

Turmeric Maca Powder Cacao Energy Balls Vegan Glute-Free Refined Sugar-Free Low-Calorie Snack

By now you probably figured out that I'm pretty obsessed with super spice TURMERIC. I use it whenever and wherever I can. In smoothies, like Orange Persimmon Smoothie, and in soups, like Carrot Ginger Soup or Tomato Apple Soup.

Oh, I looove turmeric infused soups. And you can guess what my fav snack is... Lemon Turmeric Energy Balls. Ok, ok... I love chocolate ones too. Do I need to explain why?! (hint: chocolate!)

Lately, I can add another one superpowered food to my obsession list. It's MACA POWDER. And oh boy how I'm hooked on maca powder. Like unbelievably!

Turmeric Maca Powder Cacao Energy Balls Vegan Glute-Free Refined Sugar-Free Low-Calorie Snack

I discovered maca root powder like only three months ago. Yeah, yeah, I know. I didn't realize that something so powerful even exists a few months ago. How didn't I discovered it before? Well, my only explanation is... I'm a lazy learner.

And WHO KNEW that darn thing is soooo delicious. I mean, look at it, its pale beige color. Let's be honest here - it's not a much attractive. Unlike bright yellow turmeric. Am I right?! Someone actually has to convince you to try it.

Well, I've tried it ... finally, after standing there on my kitchen shelf for a month... and I fell immediately in love. It has a taste almost like caramel with a dash of vanilla and ginger.

Also, it has a deep earthy, root-like, flavor that is truly intriguing. And later I found out it pairs beautifully with my favorite turmeric. Bingo!

Turmeric Maca Powder Cacao Energy Balls Vegan Glute-Free Refined Sugar-Free Low-Calorie Snack

There's no doubt that maca is super powerful. It is an ancient Peruvian root, and it's loaded with nutrients - vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids (like 20 different kinds — that’s just about all of them!), and antioxidants. It's great for balancing hormones, physical and mental energy as well as for overall health and immunity.

I will tell you only this... I use it for a month now, almost every day and I FEEL how it affects my energy levels. I feel so much more energized. I can't wait to see how it will effect my PMS thou. If it succeeds to balance my hormones, I'll get a yearly supply of maca powder from my hubby for sure.

Since I fell in love with maca, every day I'm discovering new ways to use it. And since I loveee raw no-bake guilt-free treats, making these Turmeric Maca Powder Cacao Energy Balls was only natural thing to do.

Turmeric Maca Powder Cacao Energy Balls Vegan Glute-Free Refined Sugar-Free Low-Calorie Snack

Turmeric Maca Powder Cacao Energy Balls are a nutrient-dense blend of nuts, dried fruit, as well as four natures greatest most powerful superfoods - Maca powder, raw cacao powder, turmeric and Ceylon cinnamon. Maca is protein dense and has a wonderful caramel, vanilla flavor.

Combined with antioxidants loaded cacao (raw chocolate) makes a super delicious and energizing snack. Turmeric paired beautifully with maca powder deepening its rooty flavor while cinnamon gave the perfect scent.

I rolled balls in crushed goji berries for the extra immunity boost, but you can basically roll these cuties in anything you like - ground nuts or chia seeds - for the extra protein boost.

Turmeric Maca Powder Cacao Energy Balls Vegan Glute-Free Refined Sugar-Free Low-Calorie Snack

These amazing little energy bomblets are truly one scrumptious treat. Plus they're amazingly easy to make.

You simply need to give Turmeric Maca Powder Cacao Energy Balls a try. I just know you'll get hooked on its amazing taste and its soft highly addictive texture.

Balls are naturally sweetened with dates and super low-calorie so feel free to indulge yourself with more than one.

Enjoy!

Recipe

Turmeric Maca Powder Cacao Energy Balls Vegan Glute-Free Refined Sugar-Free Low-Calorie Snack
Print Recipe
4.58 from 21 votes

Turmeric Maca Powder Cacao Energy Balls

Turmeric Maca Powder Cacao Energy Balls packed with nutrients, healthy fats and antioxidants. Nutty and deliciously sweet, these power balls are perfect good mood snack. These are vegan, gluten-free, added sugar-free. 
Prep Time10 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: International
Servings: 22 balls
Calories: 78kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Remove the pits from dates and soak them in hot water for several minutes. When the dates are softened, drain them and place in food processor. Save the water.
  • Add the other ingredients to a food processor and process until mixture begins to thicken and stick together.
  • Check texture by pinching a bit between your fingers. It should be sticky and able to keep its shape. If the mixture is too dry, add 1 Tablespoon more water in which you have soaked the dates.
  • With the teaspoon scoop the mixture and roll into small balls. Roll individual balls in crushed goji berries or ground almonds to coat.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until serving. Keep the energy balls frozen up to 3 months in the freezer. As a measure, I used US cup (240ml).

Nutrition

Serving: 1ball | Calories: 78kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 3g | Potassium: 159mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 20IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 0.6mg

These are my recommendations for this recipe:
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Xoxo, Natalie

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Turmeric Chocolate Energy Balls

12 Better Eating Resolutions That Will Make You Healthier

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The beginning of the New Year is the perfect time to make promises to treat our bodies better this year. That means eating better and leading more healthier lifestyle. Here are super easy to follow 12 Better Eating Resolutions That Will Make You Healthier this year. 

super easy to follow 12 Better Eating Habits That Will Make You Healthier this year

Yes, yes. It's THAT time of year... AGAIN! It's time for New Year's resolutions and making promises that we will treat our bodies better this year. That means eating better and leading more active lifestyle. New year - new me. You know how that goes. And I also know that many of you are only strong at words (khm.. paper, writing it all down and never stick to it).

But WHAT IF this year you make some resolutions and you really stick to it? What if I give you 12 easy to follow resolutions and you actually DO IT this year?

I have a plan... Listen up. It's fairly simple. You take one resolution and stick to it for ONE MONTH! And then you take another one and hold to it for another month.

You see what I just did!? I just got you hooked on healthier habit. Aha... yes! If you stick to one resolution for a whole month, you gonna form a healthier habit. By default. It will happen. And by the time you finish this 12 better eating resolutions, you will already lead healthier lifestyle for one year. You just make sure you keep all your newly formed habits going.

So... with no further setbacks, here are 12 Better Eating Resolutions That Will Make You Healthier this year. One for each month!

1. START YOUR DAY WITH HEALTHY BREAKFAST

Having breakfast in the morning is important for a bunch of reasons. It jump-starts your metabolism and stops you from overeating later. Breakfast doesn't have to be complicated nor fancy. Simple Blueberry Chia Smoothie or Strawberry Banana Muffins will do just fine. Just make it a goal to eat something each morning for breakfast.

2. ADD SOME VEGGIES TO YOUR EVERY MEAL

Try to add one veggie to each of your meal. Veggies are loaded with nutrients and will make you full quickly. That way you won't overeat on other stuff which is great for weight loss. Fill your fridge with colorful veggies - tomatoes, carrots, peppers, arugula... To simplify things, you can wash and dry and cut-up raw veggies, and keep them stored in containers.

Also keep homemade salad dressings on hand too so you can quickly make Cabbage Carrot Slaw  or Arugula Beans Salad to go with your lunch or dinner. Pureed options like butternut squash can thicken soup and add nutrients. Mix cauliflower puree in with mashed potatoes for a healthy boost.

3. CHOOSE HEALTHIER SNACKS

Work in one healthy snack a day. You can trade store-bought sugar cookies or salty, fatty chips for a small handful of nuts or trail mix, homemade popcorns or low-fat yogurt. Find fresh fruits that are in season - have an apple or handful of berries. Try whole-wheat crackers with low-fat cheese instead store-bought pretzels or other refined snacks.

If you feel adventures, make-ahead a bunch of no-bake energy balls, like Apple Pie Energy Balls or Carrot Cake Energy Balls. Just keep one thing in mind. Only snack when you're really hungry. Not just because you're bored or stressed.

4. DITCH THE SUGARY DRINKS

Store-bought drinks are loaded with unnecessary added sugars. These sweet drinks include not only soda, but also sports drinks, chai lattes, and sweetened coffee drinks. Every time you drink these sweet drinks you get yourself sugar-bombed! All that excess added sugars are not only destroying your weight loss goals but are also very UNHEALTHY for your body.

So just STOP drinking store-bought soda drinks. If you're hooked on sodas, try some healthier alternatives, like sparkling water with 100% added sugar-free fruit juice. Or try sipping on iced green tea with a dash of natural sweetener like honey.

5. KEEP YOUR BODY HYDRATED

While you're ditching sugary drinks, start working on drinking more plain water. You may not realize it, but hydration is crucial for our overall health and may also help you lose weight. To keep your body hydrated plain water is the best. Make this task easy by buying yourself a cute water bottle and carry it with you wherever you go. Sip water between your meals, when you feel hungry or just bored. Make it a goal to drink one bottle a day, and keep building from there.

6. EAT MORE HOME COOKED MEALS

When you cook at home, you control what goes into your body. You can make sure you're eating as many fresh, whole foods as possible, and that you're not overloading your meals with extra salt or other unhealthy stuff. That also means avoiding high processed foods - like frozen meals.

If you have to go to a restaurant, or party, then choose lower-calorie foods like grilled chicken or veggies. Fill your plate with salad or have a plain baked potato as a side. If you're looking to get some easy home cook meals inspiration emailed to you, subscribe to my list and get recipes straight into your inbox every week.

12 Months Plan To A Healthier You - 12 Better Eating Habits That Will Make You Healthier this year.
Click to download FREE 12 Months Plan To A Healthier You PRINTABLE

7. STOP WITH FAST FOOD CHEAT MEALS

Many diets promote cheat days - the ones including binging on fast-food, burgers, fries, and pizza - as a way to prevent you from feeling deprived, even boost your metabolism, and increase chances of success with your weight loss diet. Well, I simply don't agree. These foods are extremely harmful foods containing added unhealthy sugars, refined wheat, and trans fats. These foods will only hurt your metabolism, and if you're adapting to new healthier eating it will prevent your metabolic adaptation from ever fully completing. Not to mention it will only feed your addiction to unhealthy foods.

So just stop having cheat days and stop eating fast-foods. But don't get me wrong here. I have nothing against occasional feasting on carbs or calories. But I always choose healthier ones. And I make that a (one) cheat meal not a cheat (whole) day.

8. PRACTICE MINDFUL EATING

On average, we make more than 200 decisions about food each day, but we are only aware of only a small fraction of them. The rest are performed by our unconscious mind, and that can lead to so-called mindless eating. There's a different method to fight this mindless eating. For example, you can keep food out of your sight and keep your mind occupied with other stuff other than food. Slow down your eating speed and just enjoy your meal.

Stop when you feel satisfied - but before you feel full, and use smaller plates when eating. In between meals, don’t chow down unless you’re really hungry. Don't watch TV or scroll on your mobile while you eat. Stay in the moment.

9. CUT DOWN ON ADDED SUGARS

Sugar addiction is one of the worst addictions. Getting off added sugar is not an easy task. Nor the most pleasant experience. But once your body cleanses of that horrible addiction, you will experience not only rapid weight loss but also immediate health improvements.

You can cut your sugar addiction slowly, starting by replacing unhealthy white sugar with healthier alternatives - maple syrup or honey and reducing the amount of sugar you take daily, limiting to only homemade healthier desserts only on weekends, and opt for unsweetened cereals. Or you can cut ALL added sugars for a month, only taking small amounts of healthier alternatives where needed, and avoiding any desserts during that time. That will cleanse your body rapidly, and will break your sugar addiction fast.

After a month completely added sugar-free, you can introduce healthy sugar replacements in your diets and of course have Fudgy Chocolate Brownie for dessert. Occasionally. Remember, even healthier sugars are still sugars, doing damage to your waistline as well as for your health.

10. MASTER A MEAL PLANNING

Meal planning is a lifesaver. Creating a healthy eating plan will not only save you tons of money on groceries. It will save you a lot of nerves and will keep you safe from unwanted supermarket / frozen food / pick-up / fast food raid. Mastering meal planning doesn't require a special skill. Just a spreadsheet or piece of paper and list of family favorite healthy meals.

11. KEEP TRACK OF WHAT YOU EAT

Keeping a food journal isn't about counting calories. It's about learning about the foods you're eating and learning to keep everything in balance. Keeping notes will give you an idea of what and how you eat and how can you improve your everyday healthy diet. You can write it out by hand, but it's better to use an app for your phone.

I used MyFitnessPall app. It's entirely FREE, and it really helped me figured out healthy eating and balancing my meals. I also learned to eat less but more nutritious foods. Try to keep track of every meal you eat for a month. It doesn't have to be exact and super precise. Just enough to get a better idea of your overall eating habits.

12. GET YOUR FAMILY OR FRIEND ON BOARD WITH HEALTHY EATING

It's easier to be strong when you have some support, so just go on and ask a buddy, husband or a family member to eat healthy with you. Hold each other accountable. If you’re all in it together and one of you is tempted to slip, the other one will be there for support. But isn't that also a great way to have all your family eating healthy and lead healthier, happier life? I think so. So get your family and friends on board. Support each others and enjoy happy and healthy.

So... what do you think? Isn't this like the most realistic resolutions you can make? These resolutions are easy to follow AND keep this year, and forever! At the end of the year, you will be completely transformed, and it will affect your health and your weight loss greatly.

So, let's make our better eating resolutions a reality.

Xoxo, Natalie

Let's connect! Find me on - Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

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super easy to follow 12 Better Eating Resolutions That Will Make You Healthier this year

HEALTHY CHRISTMAS COOKIES COOKBOOK

Are you looking for a holiday cookie recipe that taste great and is free of refined sugar? Are you in search of holiday sweet treats that you can enjoy guilt-free? If so, then THIS cookbook is for you!

Healthy Christmas Cookies cookbook

WHY A HEALTHY CHRISTMAS COOKIES COOKBOOK

Healthy Christmas Cookies cookbook is a collection of 12 true healthy cookie recipes, that have been adapted from classic cookie recipes to be more nutritious - High Nutrient / Low Calorie - by using HEALTHY wholesome ingredients. All cookies in this cookbook are made whole grain and refined sugar-free. A perfect guilt-free, weight-loss friendly treats for Holidays!

This digital cookbook features an exclusive collection of my all time favorite Christmas cookies NEVER SEEN ON THE BLOG. These are all simple, easy to make recipes made from healthy ingredients you can find in any store. I’ve included a mix of chocolate, fruit, and spice so you are sure to find something to please everyone.  While these cookies are perfect for the holiday season, they can certainly be made any time of year!

Healthy Christmas Cookies cookbook

WHAT'S IN THE BOOK

Healthy Christmas Cookies is a cookbook with 12 recipes including full page color photos of each cookie, ingredient list, tips and methods. Healthy Christmas Cookies cookbook includes:

  • Ginger Molasses Cookies
  • Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies
  • Christmas Stars Oatmeal Cookies
  • Cranberry Chocolate Balls
  • Almond Thumbprint Cookies
  • Chocolate Coffee Crinkle Cookies
  • Gingerbread Bites
  • Walnut Crescent Cookies
  • Ginger Honey Cookies
  • Chocolate Peanut Butter Truffles
  • Hazelnut Chocolate Cookies
  • Chocolate Turmeric Truffles

Buy now to make your holiday season a nourishing one!Healthy Christmas Cookies cookbookNo one wants to feel like they’re missing something during the holiday season. So treat yourself to some of these Healthy Christmas Cookies without the guilt. Even better, make some extras and give it away to friends and neighbors. After all, the holiday season is all about giving.

Grab your whisks and pans, and start mixing. Let the the healthy holiday baking begin!

HOW TO BUY

To ensure that your purchase and download go smoothly, here are a few simple instructions on how to buy.

  1. Click the "GET IT NOW" button on this page. It'll take you to a shopping cart. Then click "Pay with PayPal" on the left side.
  2. Log into your PayPal account on the next page or choose to pay via debit or credit card.
  3. Soon you will receive DOWNLOAD LINK to your email with PDF file attached.
  4. If for any reason you didn't receive download link, please feel free to reach out to me directly at [email protected] with your receipt. I'll make sure you receive the book.

BONUS - FUTURE EDITIONS

This is just the first edition of the cookbook. I intend to build up the recipe collection and tips and tricks that I learn along the way to include in future editions.

As a token of my appreciation, if you purchase this first edition of the cookbook, you'll receive all updated new editions for free in the future.

Now, grab your copy of Healthy Christmas Cookies Cookbook for ONLY 4,99$ and lenjoy in healthier Holidays!

Healthy Christmas Cookies cookbook

FAQ: e-Cookbook?  How does that work?

This cookbook is not a traditional printed book. It's a digital book - a downloadable PDF file, which means when you purchase your copy, you receive a link to download the book. eCookbook then can be read on the laptop, desktop computer, iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch.  For the best reading experience, the following software is recommended:

  • Laptop or desktop computer - Adobe Acrobat Reader, which you can download for free here.
  • iPad, iPhone and iPod touch - upload to iBooks Library.

Return policy:

Because Healthy Christmas Cookies is a digital book, there are no returns and no refunds.

Payment options:

Payment is carried out through PayPal service. PayPal allows checkout with a credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, AMEX, Diners Club, Discover) without creating a PayPal account.

Halloween Ghost Vanilla Donuts

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Halloween Ghost Vanilla Donuts are perfect kids party treat. These sweet vanilla flavored donuts are made with all wholesome ingredients, REFINED SUGAR-FREE and with no extra fat. Super HEALTHY and super scary. BUU!

Halloween Ghost Vanilla Donuts

I must admit. This Halloween craziness that's been happening over the internet for past two weeks totally got me. Pumpkins are everywhere. Literally! Scary costumes, treats, and Halloween themed desserts are popping out on my screen like crazy. Foggy mornings accompanied with beautiful Fall colors definitely contribute to this overall Halloween mood. I totally like it!

In Croatia, people don't celebrate Halloween like people in the US does - with costumes, candies, trick or treat. Yeah, unfortunately, we don't have that tradition here. But some people still love Halloween and have own tiny version of it at homes. Like my family does.

My boys usually do Jack O' Lantern pumpkin, and we decorate the house. I prepare some Halloween themed snacks and some pumpkin desserts - Pumpkin Loaf Cake is every year so popular. And at evening we usually watch some themed cartoons and family movies and have fun.

So this year for Halloween celebration I decided to make something special for my boys. A screaming Halloween Ghost Vanilla Donuts. These donuts are so sweet. So irresistibly soft... fun and sooo spooky.

Sweet vanilla flavored Halloween Ghost Donuts are perfect Halloween party treat. These are made with all HEALTHY wholesome ingredients and refined sugar-free. Super low-calorie and super scary. BUU! #Halloween #party #kidsfriendly #donuts #healthy #lowfat #skinny #nosugar #breakfast #snack #kids #treat | www.natalieshealth.com

My kiddo is all in ghosts and spooky stuff lately, and that's how the idea for these donuts came to my mind. We were supposed to do ghost cookies together, BUT since my hubby didn't have time to 3D print us ghost cookie mold I looked for another option.

Since it's a tradition to bake donuts when is carnival season here in Croatia, I kinda merged American and Croatian traditions together in this lovely fun ghostly donuts.

Sweet vanilla flavored Halloween Ghost Donuts are perfect Halloween party treat. These are made with all HEALTHY wholesome ingredients and refined sugar-free. Super low-calorie and super scary. BUU! #Halloween #party #kidsfriendly #donuts #healthy #lowfat #skinny #nosugar #breakfast #snack #kids #treat | www.natalieshealth.com

I really love these Halloween Ghost Vanilla Donuts because they require only a few simple ingredients and 15 minutes of time. It's also super fun to make these donuts with kids.

You may think that these Halloween Ghost Donuts are just like any other donuts - full of calories, sugar, and excess fat. Well, you're wrong. These donuts are made with all HEALTHY ingredients. They are refined sugar-free and baked in the oven - which means NO ADDED FATS.

For making these donuts I used whole wheat flour rich in nutrients – fibers and super healthy coconut oil. Donuts are made without refined sugar – they are sweetened with maple syrup. I also used vanilla that enhanced donuts with a beautiful fragrance and warm aroma. For the coating I used powdered xylitol. You can sub this with erythritol.

Sweet vanilla flavored Halloween Ghost Donuts are perfect Halloween party treat. These are made with all HEALTHY wholesome ingredients and refined sugar-free. Super low-calorie and super scary. BUU! #Halloween #party #kidsfriendly #donuts #healthy #lowfat #skinny #nosugar #breakfast #snack #kids #treat | www.natalieshealth.com

What makes these donuts so special and so much healthier than any store-bought ones, is that these donuts are BAKED IN THE OVEN. Meaning - added fat-free!

All you need to make oven baked donuts is a donut pan. Seriously, get one NOW! This donut combo pan kit is amazing - it has everything you need to make HEALTHY donuts at home. Use my code: DONUT15N and get a special 15% discount when purchasing.

Screaming Halloween Ghost Donuts are healthy, low-calorie, highly nutritious, super sweet ... and sooo spooky + EASY and fun to make. Perfect for Halloween party. Save yourself (and your kids and guests from unnecessary calories and sugars) - make, bake and enjoy!

Recipe

Halloween Ghost Donuts
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Halloween Ghost Donuts

Sweet vanilla flavored Halloween Ghost Donuts are perfect party treat. These donuts are made with all HEALTHY wholesome ingredients, without refined sugars and extra fat. Super low-calorie and super scary. BUU!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time14 minutes
Total Time19 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: donuts, ghost donuts, halloween, vanilla
Servings: 12 donuts
Calories: 122kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350F (180C). Grease donut pan.
  • In a large bowl mix together dry ingredients - flour, salt, baking powder and soda.
  • In a separate bowl whisk egg whites. Add melted coconut oil, honey, vanilla extract and Greek yogurt and stir gently.
  • Add dry ingridients into the wet ingredients. Mix well.
  • Fill donut pan with the mixture using a pastry bags or simple plastic bag. Make sure you don't overfill.
  • Bake for 14-17 minutes until donuts get nicely golden.
  • Remove from oven. Allow donuts to cool for 5 minutes.
  • Tip donuts out and coat with powdered xylitol or erythritol. Make ghost eyes from dark chocolate.

Notes

As a measure I used UScup (240ml). *Use refined sugar free dark chocolate with 80% or more cocoa. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1donut | Calories: 122kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 181mg | Potassium: 59mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 11g | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 0.5mg

These are my picks for this recipe:
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Xoxo, Natalie
Let's connect! Find me on - Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

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Sweet vanilla flavored Halloween Ghost Donuts are perfect Halloween party treat. These are made with all HEALTHY wholesome ingredients and refined sugar-free. Super low-calorie and super scary. BUU! #Halloween #party #kidsfriendly #donuts #healthy #lowfat #skinny #nosugar #breakfast #snack #kids #treat | www.natalieshealth.com

5 Weight Loss Tips That Really Works

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Losing weight doesn't have to be daunting. With just a few simple lifestyle changes you can make a big weight loss punch over time. Here are my 5 Weight Loss Tips That Really Work.

When it comes to weight loss, there are a million different tips and tricks out there that claim to deliver fast and easy results. Well, I'm sorry to disappoint you guys, but there's NO easy way to lose those piled pounds. But that's not the reason to give up on your new healthier life nor the reason to despair. Just stop stuffing your face in that chocolate cookie box and listen up.

Losing weight doesn't have to be a pain. While eating healthier and slipping in exercise does take some work, it really doesn't require heroic effort. Making just a few simple diet and lifestyle changes can make a big weight loss punch over time. Today I'm going to reveal you some of my (favorite) weight loss TIPS that REALLY works. These tips are super painless way to lose weight. My -100 punds weight loss story is a proof that these tips actually work.

#1 CUT BACK SUGARS.

I can't be MORE serious about sugar guys. Just STOP consuming so much unnecessary calories. Sugary drinks are the worse. Avoid them at all costs. These are the most fattening things you can put into your body, and avoiding them REALLY helps you lose weight. By removing unhealthy sugars from your diet and by reducing overall sugars intake will keep your insulin levels in balance, naturally kill your appetite and make you lose weight without hunger. Don't quite know How To Quit Sugar? Read it >> HERE.

#2 EAT PROTEINS, FAT, AND VEGETABLES.

Each one of your meals should include a protein source, a fat source, and some veggie. When you compose your meals like that you will automatically bring your nutrient intake into the range that promotes not only good health but also weight loss. Adding protein to your meals reduce the obsessive desire for eating more and makes you so full that you automatically eat fewer calories.

Good protein sources are:

  • Meat - beef, chicken, pork, lamb, ...
  • Fish and seafood - salmon, trout, shrimps, lobsters, ...
  • Eggs - omega-3 enriched or pastured eggs are best.
  • Legumes - peanuts, beans, lentils, peas, ...
  • Seeds - sunflower, sesame, chia, hemp, flax, pumpkin seeds, ...
  • Nuts - almonds, walnuts, cashews, ...
  • Quinoa, spinach, spirulina, ...

When filling your plate with food, don’t be afraid to load it with veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, spinach, and kale. These are low-carb veggies you can eat as much as you like. If you're not sure What's In Season, you're more than welcome to check out my seasonal produce guide >> HERE.

When it comes to fat, don’t be afraid of eating the fats. Fat won't make you fat. The best cooking fat to use is coconut oil. I also use extra virgin olive oil, flax oil, and many other plant-based unrefined oils. Avocado is super healthy too. It's perfect in salads, like Avocado Potato Salad, but can serve to make a delicious dressings too.

#3 WORKOUT AT LEAST 3 TIMES PER WEEK.

I know working out sounds daunting, but some activity is a MUST if you want to start losing weight. You don't have to do heavy weight lifting nor do some vigorous exercise. Simple brisk walking, bicycling, yoga or jogging will do just perfectly. I think walking is a great way to exercise and I think it's completely doable for most of us. I've already talked about the benefits of everyday walking for weight loss. Just 30 minutes a day, three times per week will make a huge difference, not only for your waistline but your overall health.

#4 WATCH YOUR PORTION CONTROL.

Ever heard the trick that using a smaller plate will help you lose weight? It really works! Studies show that people automatically eat less when they use smaller plates. Once you finish eating from your salad plate (rather than a dinner plate), you'll be full enough, and you probably won't feel the need to get up from the table and refill your plate. But, portion control isn't really about measuring your food. It's about not taking on second appetizers at the dinner and about cutting back on your pasta for lunch if you already had bread for breakfast that day. It's about being reasonable with your food intake.

#5 DON'T STARVE YOURSELF.

Starving yourself to lose weight does more harm than good. Yes, with starving you may drastically lose a couple of pounds, but these pounds will come back as soon as you start eating again. Starvation can actually be very harmful to your health. So just forget a diet mindset. Instead of starving yourself to death and restricting yourself from food try be more open minded regarding food you consume.

Add more nutritious and healthy foods to your diet rather than subtracting foods from your plate. You can add your favorite veggie to your morning meal - like tomatoes with scrambled eggs, or have a big bowl of Cabbage Carrot Slaw with your dinner. Slip favorite fruits into your lunch box or in the breakfast bowls. Having veggie soup as an entree is not only super healthy but super filling too. Remember, you don't have to eat less. You just have to eat right.

Does that sound doable? I think it does. ;)

Xoxo, 

Natalie

Let's connect! Find me on - Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

Monday Motivation #27

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Hello, my friends! Happy Monday and happy new week to you all. :) Can you believe it's Monday already. This morning I was all like "where did my weekend go"? Haha ... Coldish and gloomish weather outside definitely wanted me to stay in my bed a bit longer. BUT I got out of my bed in time, I dressed up, did my morning routine, drop my kiddo to school, and now I'm ready to kick off this week. Although I'm a bit low on energy this morning, I'm super positive... And HAPPY! Since it's Monday, it's time for me to pass some of that POSITIVITY to you guys.

I hope last week was a blast and that you got rested during the weekend. Well, I had (again) super productive week. I published my usual Monday Motivation post where I talked about nutrition and how eating well IS a teachable skill. + I published the new recipe for immune boosting Tomato Apple Soup made with healing spice TURMERIC. You need to check that soup out. It's really delicious and super healthy.

As for my weekend... Well, I worked a bit late on Friday night. That drained me and kinda messed up my "no working on weekends" routine that I'm trying to implement last few weeks. But ok. I recharged my batteries on Saturday when I went out with my hubby. We spend an almost whole day together, just the two of us. + It was sunny and warm outside. Just perfect! We went to the local farmers market for groceries. I was amazed by all the colors of the Fall. Also, we found this little coffee shop near our apartment that is just perfect. They have most delicious healthy chocolate cookies. Yum! After that, we went shopping for our kids birthday present and had amazing lunch together. And then on Sunday, we throw this amazing birthday party for our kiddo. We showered him with so much LOVE. Later that evening when we had our usual bedtime group hug, I felt my heart bursting with so much HAPPINESS. My heart opened, and my blood pumped like electricity throughout my body. I felt such a gratitude that I have my beautiful family. I honestly need nothing more in my life.

The weekend was perfect, but it's not always all so great. I tend to fall under negativity from time to time. It happens to me usually when I overdo with work - when I get super exhausted. I become more open to negative thoughts then. I start doubting and questioning my life. Basically, all that I am. Luckily I have my husband who picks me up. We pick each other up when in need - that's what we do. And we both have our beautiful baby boy for which we both live. 

Those days when I'm down and low, I just pause my life. I STOP every thought I have. I just look at them both, and it's like INSTANT REMINDER of all the things that are beautiful in my life. And I feel immediately not better but AMAZING - filled with love, positivity, and HAPPINESS - ready for whatever challenge. My heart is full and in that moment I CHOOSE to be happy.

I genuinely believe that we ALL can achieve happiness and everything we dream of with one simple ingredient - that is a grateful heart. I think that grateful heart is a magnet for HAPPINESS and for miracles.

You are as happy as you decide to be. ;)

Until next Monday, stay HAPPY and healthy. 

Xoxo, 

NH-signature

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Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

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Soft and chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies are filled with beautiful spices and crunchy peanuts. These cookies are made with all wholesome HEALTHY ingredients and REFINED SUGAR-FREE. Perfect treat! Make a double bunch because these pumpkin-flavored cookies are super addictive.

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

I'm absolutely looveee PUMPKINS this year! Don't know what happened to me, but I've never EVER craved and LOVED pumpkin so much like this season. I used to have this opinion about pumpkins - that they are just some simple seasonal produce best fitted only for making soups and stews. Ok, maybe some dessert occasionally. But that was IT! But this season, I fell in love like madly. In its taste, smell, flavor... everything. Pumpkins are so soooo good!

I went on this pumpkin rampage, about month ago, and since then I have fresh pumpkin puree in my fridge like all the time. So you can assume, I add pumpkin puree in everything. In my Pumpkin Overnight Oats and Pumpkin Oatmeal Smoothie... and of course I make my families fav treats - Pumpkin Loaf Cake and Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins.

Since my family is super crazy about my Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies and irresistible Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies, I decided to give pumpkin puree a GO in this Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies. I wasn't disappointed by the outcome at all. Nor was my family.

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies filled with aromatic spices and crunchy peanuts are the perfect Fall treat. These cookies are HEALTHY, refined sugar-free and just delicious! #healthy #cookies #pumpkin #fall #autumn #kids #snack #breakfast #easy #oats #chocolate | www.natalieshealth.com

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies filled with aromatic spices and crunchy peanuts are the perfect Fall treat. These cookies are HEALTHY, refined sugar-free and just delicious! #healthy #cookies #pumpkin #fall #autumn #kids #snack #breakfast #easy #oats #chocolate | www.natalieshealth.com

To make these delicious Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies, you will only need a few simple ingredients and 20 minutes of your time. You can involve your kids in making to make it more fun. Isn't that GREAT, or what?! It is one of those cookie recipes that can be easily prepared and just as quickly those cookies will disappear from a cookie jar.

I used ALL NATURAL and HEALTHY ingredients – rolled oats full of healthy dietary fibers that promotes weight-loss and good heart health, and whole grain flour. I also added some roughly chopped raw PEANUTS in the mixture. Peanuts enriched cookies with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and some essential minerals.

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies filled with aromatic spices and crunchy peanuts are the perfect Fall treat. These cookies are HEALTHY, refined sugar-free and just delicious! #healthy #cookies #pumpkin #fall #autumn #kids #snack #breakfast #easy #oats #chocolate | www.natalieshealth.com

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies filled with aromatic spices and crunchy peanuts are the perfect Fall treat. These cookies are HEALTHY, refined sugar-free and just delicious! #healthy #cookies #pumpkin #fall #autumn #kids #snack #breakfast #easy #oats #chocolate | www.natalieshealth.com

I spiced these Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with beautiful warm and fragrant Fall spices - Ceylon cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg. I used my special spice blend for that. So-called Pumpkin Spice Mix, that I created especially for pumpkin recipes.

Instead of butter, I used healthy coconut oil, and to sweet up cookies I used natural sweetener – maple syrup. You can totally substitute maple syrup with honey.

To make these cookies like really REALLY irresistible, I topped the cookies with some melted dark chocolate. Bitter-sweet dark chocolate and sweet pumpkin flavors are the ultimate combo. Now you definitely can't say NO to these cookies.

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies filled with aromatic spices and crunchy peanuts are the perfect Fall treat. These cookies are HEALTHY, refined sugar-free and just delicious! #healthy #cookies #pumpkin #fall #autumn #kids #snack #breakfast #easy #oats #chocolate | www.natalieshealth.com

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies are...

  • made with all HEALTHY ingredients and whole grain,
  • soft and chewy, full of warm aromatic flavors,
  • easy to prepare and can be made in just 20 minutes,
  • refined sugar-free,
  • low-calorie,
  • rich in nutrients - quality fibers, plant-based proteins, and essential minerals,
  • rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids and powerful antioxidants,
  • enriched with healing super spice - Ceylon cinnamon,
  • contains heart-healthy fats,
  • perfect quick breakfast or kids school snack.

Given that these cookies are very nutritious, filled with HEALTHY stuff like whole grains, peanuts, and super healthy PUMPKIN, you can totally serve these cookies for breakfast. They are great kids school / after school snack too. Fill up their glasses with milk and let them dip their way to happiness!

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies are sooo soft and chewy, fragrant and full of beautiful Fall spices. Let's not forget full of crunchy peanuts. AND full of dark chocolate flavor. My honest advice is, make a double bunch, like right away. These will disappear in a blink of an eye.

Enjoy!

Recipe

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
Print Recipe
5 from 8 votes

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Soft and chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies filled with aromatic spices and crunchy peanuts are the perfect Fall treat. These cookies are made with all wholesome HEALTHY ingredients and refined sugar-free. 
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cookies, oatmeal, pumpkin, pumpkin spice
Servings: 12 cookies
Calories: 148kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

Instructions

  • In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients - flour, oats, baking powder, salt, peanuts and spices.
  • In a separate bowl whisk the egg yolk with coconut, pumpkin puree, syrup and vanilla. Whisk until well combined.
  • Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix.
  • Preheat oven to 356F (180C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
  • With a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop the dough, put it on a baking sheet and shape into slightly flattened balls. Arrange the cookies 2-inches apart.
  • Bake 12-15 minutes until the edges of the cookies begin to brown. Turn off the oven and let the cookies sit in the oven for another minute, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Melt the dark chocolate and drizzle over cookies.

Notes

Keep in airtight container. As a measure, I used US cup (240ml). ¾ cup = 12 tablespoons. Nutrition facts exclude chocolate topping.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookie | Calories: 148kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 31mg | Sodium: 20mg | Potassium: 152mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1300IU | Vitamin C: 0.8mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 1.4mg

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Xoxo,
- Natalie

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Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Motivation Monday #21

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Hi, peeps! Happy (hot and sunny) new week to you all. Can you believe it's Monday again ALREADY? Can someone please STOP Mondays from coming. Only a few Mondays left until schools start. Noessss... BUT Monday also means a new episode of GOT. OMG so excited! Heheh ;)

Anyway, Monday is here, and again I'm here to blab a little about my past week and to give you a POSITIVE push, a MOTIVATION for this brand new week.

How was your last week guys? Was it productive? Did you exercise daily, eat healthy all week? How was your weekend?

My week was productive. Well, not as productive as I hoped - I'm still recovering from my exhaustion from two weeks ago, but still pretty ok. I used this weekend to relax and for continue to recharge my batteries. I have big moving coming in just two weeks (eek).

I've published motivation post, like every Monday. I'm inspired daily by so many things. I gladly pass a bit of my positivity to you guys. Last week I also did a post about seasonal produce for month AUGUST. It's always good to have a guide, don't you agree?! Plus, I've made this amazing, so juicy and refreshing Pineapple Cucumber Salad that you totally need to check it out. + I've cooked all week all HEALTHY meals for my family and me. Well, mostly salads and easy meals cause temperatures are mad here in Mediterranean (southern) Europe. As for my workouts, I slacked with running. I felt bad because I didn't do my usual mileage. But then I realized I don't have a reason to feel bad. Any workout is better than NO workout.

The thing I wanna talk a bit today is something about Gary said on FB yesterday that really cached my eye. He said: "Positivity wins, optimism wins, happiness wins... I wish more people could go the other way where in a "bad day" they could focus on the one "win" the "positive" in that day that allowed it to be a "good day."

It's SO TRUE. We often allow one "bad" decision, one "bad" choice - a "bad" meal or one missed workout ruin all we did well that day or that week. We let this ruin our overall progress sometimes. We allow negativity to poison our mind and to stumble our POSITIVITY and our HAPPINESS.

I've heard so many people nag (ON DAILY BASIS) "I overeat with "bad" food today," "I've skipped my workout, again." "I couldn't resist that chocolate cake"... And then they feel bad. They feel discouraged and let NEGATIVITY takes place. Negativity overpowers their whole day and drags them down.

I say - SO WHAT! That doesn't make you bad nor the loser, nor quitter. Don't let that ONE "bad" decision ruin all you've accomplished so far. Don't beat yourself up. That "mistake" doesn't define who you are. Just accept and MOVE ON. You need to stay positive in your head NO MATTER WHAT. Think about what you have accomplished so far. Look where are you now just from few weeks ago. Negative thoughts don't have to be accepted...they're just thoughts. We can all train our minds to ignore the negative and turn to the positive.

I had a negativity bomb dropped in my life last week - a HUGE one. It was a negativity overload in a second. But I didn't let that ruin my whole day. Nor the day after, nor my week. I decided to not OVERTHINK to much about it - what happened happened. I took some time to think about it and learn from that experience. I decided to BELIEVE in myself. I basically chewed that s** up, digested it and pooped it out. I MOVED ON. I continued to feel HAPPY and POSITIVE. It's exactly what you should do to if negativity bomb drops on you. 

Look for positive things in each day, in everything you do. Some days you MAY need to look a little harder for that positivity, but that CHALLENGE will make you stronger!

Stay happy and healthy. See you next Monday!

Xoxo, 

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How To Stop Sugar Cravings And Lose Weight

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It's well known that consuming an excess amount of sugar is bad for our health. Obesity, chronic diseases such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes, depression - It's all caused by SUGAR. With these easy to follow steps, you can train yourself to stop craving sugar. Here are the TIPS how to stop sugar cravings and lose weight.

How To Stop Sugar Cravings

For years, dietitians advised us to cut down fat and cholesterol intake. These two foods believed to cause the obesity, diabetes, and heart disease epidemics. But a growing number of nutritionists are now pointing the finger at SUGAR, claiming that our over-consumption of sodas, candy, cookies, and other sweets and processed foods are the real cause of our health crisis. Not only that, sugar is proven to be highly addictive, like drugs.

Sugar-bingeing spikes levels of feel-good dopamine (a neurotransmitter your body releases in response to pleasurable activities like sex) and opioids (natural pain-suppressing substances that act like morphine) in the brain. It also sparks activity in the brain’s pleasure center, which is linked to addictive behaviors. Eating sugar makes you feel great; then the lack of it causes you to feel terrible, which makes you crave sugar again. This leads to the formation of tolerance and needing more sugar to get the same feeling again. It's like a never-ending sad and very UNHEALTHY addiction circle that leads to forming diseases. Even if you’re at a healthy weight, sugar still can cause health problems - heart problems, inflammation, headaches, acne, bloating, and energy crashes. It's definitely worth the effort to make the diet change.

Sugar is enemy number one in the western diet. I can totally agree with that. And sugar craving is a HUGE problem, too, because it leads to sugar-binging and forms an addiction loop. Sugar craving was a HUGE problem for me, and if I haven't drastically changed my lifestyle, I would probably develop many of mentioned health problems precisely because of sugar over-consumption.

While sugar occurs naturally in healthy foods like dairy, fruits, and veggies, added sugars such as table sugar and high-fructose corn syrup do more than tickle our taste buds. They stimulate our brain and cause real addiction. Unfortunately, added sugars can be found in many (actually almost all) store-bought food products - cereal, granola, salad dressings, ketchup, sauces, etc. Added sugar lurks literally everywhere!

I suffered from real sugar addiction. My sugar craving was really REALLY bad. Sugary drinks, soda, cookies, candy bars, cakes, muffins, waffles, chocolate... it may helped me cope with the everyday stressful life, but sugar binging (and overall unhealthy lifestyle) led me to serious obesity.

When I started my healthy lifestyle, I knew that my sugar addiction was the first thing I needed to resolve. I struggled so hard to get off the sugar and to stop my sugar cravings. It took me about a month to overcome my sugar addiction and to get my body in balance. I've been through painful and rather unpleasant cold turkey quitting. I suffered from substantial pain in my stomach and my bowels. I was very nervous and tense. It was a nightmare. But these unpleasant feelings didn't last forever. I've followed some rules that helped me ease these unpleasant feelings and in the end resolve my sugar addiction.

Here's How To Stop Sugar Cravings:

1. Do a TOTAL ABSTINENCE from added sugars for the first month.
Some say it's better to cut back sugar gradually because going cold turkey can lead to a binge later on. That was not the case with me. I totally abstained from ADDED SUGARS, I've gone cold turkey, and I didn't binge on cookie nor chocolate afterward. Actually, what happened was total liberation from my sugar addiction. I think that moderation rarely works when getting off the sugar. Eating one cookie can trigger you to eat the whole box. In that first month, I avoided eating ALL added sugars, even healthier alternatives like honey and maple syrup. I did eat some low sugar fruits like kiwi, oranges, berries, but I ate a very moderate amount: one serving per day, and only when I had a craving.

2. Stop DRINKING SODA and store-bought drinks - juices, flavored waters, etc.
Soda drinks and store-bought juices are loaded with added sugars andand are highly addictive. They are worse than solid food since they’re quickly absorbed into the body. Instead of soda, I started drinking plain water – and LOTS of it. The water helped me flush toxins out of my body and reduced my craving for sweets. Since I'm a fan of flavored drinks, I did add few drops of lemon or grapefruit to my water bottle. I even tossed some berries in the glass. Lemon and other fruits not only gave a nice flavor to the plain water but also a vitamin boost, too.

3. Start EXERCISING -  walking or doing yoga.
I realized that my stressful, busy lifestyle was raising the cortisol levels in my body and consequently, that was what was driving my sugar cravings. I knew I had to reduce that stress somehow, so I started exercising - walking and practicing yoga. That helped me not only with my stress but also to jump-start my weight loss. I felt better when I was physically active, and that helped me to feel psychically better. In addition to many health benefits, exercise starts a chain reaction that lowers your desire for unhealthy, high-calorie foods.

4. Stop eating ALL STORE-BOUGHT PROCESSED FOODS.
That meant all store bought packaged food like sauces, ketchup, salad dressings,and even flavored yogurts, etc. I learned to make all these HOMEMADE, without added sugars. The key to reducing sugar cravings is to focus on having a healthy diet by adding real, wholesome foods to it. So I started eating more REAL food, fresh veggies, whole grains, and less store-bought stuff.

5. Eat HIGH-PROTEIN FOODS AND HEALTHY FATS.
High protein foods like eggs, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, quark cheese, and oats reduces sugar cravings, while eating sufficient amounts of healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, and nuts and seeds for breakfast helps keeping hormones balanced. Breakfast has become my favorite and most important meal of the day. It is now a part of my daily routine. I also learned how to make my breakfast well balanced and super healthy. If you're looking for inspiration, check out my healthy breakfast recipes.

6. Swap sugary snacks with a HEALTHY ALTERNATIVE.
In that first month, when I had a mad desire to eat something sweet, instead of sugary snacks like store-bought cookies, energy bars or flavored yogurts, I had a banana with unsweetened peanut butter or plain yogurt with blueberries. That snack-swap removed my sugar craving, but also kept me fuller longer because peanut butter and yogurt contains protein and healthy fats in addition to the natural sugars in the banana and fruits that satisfied my sweet tooth.

This total sugar abstinence doesn't have to last forever. Once you cleanse your body (and your mind) from sugar, and you’ll get your body in balance you absolutely CAN incorporate healthier sugars in your daily diet. That means you CAN start cooking and baking with healthier sugars - like maple syrup, honey, stevia. When your body is in the balance, sugar cravings just stop. That means you won't binge on Carrot Oatmeal Cookies or Raspberry Lemon Cake. You will have one slice and your body will tell you that's enough. At the end of your quitting sugar cold turkey journey, you'll also learn to listen to your body and live a healthier balanced life.

Quitting sugar is tough. It's true. But you know what?! You’re tougher! Set your goals and visualize the positive outcome of your journey. This will help guide you through the tough weeks at the beginning of your cleanse. If you feel your willpower dwindling, remind yourself why you chose to cut out sugar in the first place.

Xoxo,- Natalie

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How To Stop Sugar Cravings and lose weight

Raspberry Peach Ginger Slushie

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Flavorful and dazzling, Raspberry Peach Ginger Slushie is easy summer refreshment that will power you up with vitamins. Smashed summer fruits with the addition of aromatic ginger is something that will delight you and the kids. This slushie is sweet but made refined sugar-free and super HEALTHY. A must try this summer.

My freezer is packed full of summer fruits - sweet cherries, sour cherries, amazing blueberries, and beautiful raspberries. I filled it up as a some kinda squirrel preparing for a long winter. My mom was at my place a few days ago. She made an interesting comment regarding my freezer and content in it. She said: "But hun, you don't have any meat in that freezer. Only fruits and veggies." Made me laugh so loud. Who needs meat, mom. :P

Anyway, I like to grab some frozen fruits when temperatures are so hot outside (+95F). I love to nibble while sitting at my desk and working. But I have very sensitive teeth so that experience is not most pleasant sometimes.

That's how I got this idea, to make myself refreshing slushie. Not a standard fruit smoothie made with milk but frozen treat/drink I can slurp through the straw or eat with the teaspoon. Since peaches and raspberries are totally in season now, I decided to go with that combo. Raspberry Peach Ginger Slushie came out to be absolute BLAST!

Flavorful and dazzling, Raspberry Peach Ginger Slushie is easy summer refreshment that will power you up with vitamins. Smashed summer fruits with the addition of aromatic ginger is something that will delight you and the kids. This slushie is sweet but made refined sugar-free and super HEALTHY. A must try this summer. #summer #drinks #kidsfriendly #family #vegan #sugarfree #glutenfree #fit #fruits #skinny | natalieshealth.com

I know slushies are usually loaded with added sugars. But not this one. I used sweet ripe peaches and added just a bit of maple syrup to sweeten up slushie a little. This Raspberry Peach Ginger is filled with beautiful all NATURAL ingredients - well mostly fruits - what makes him immune boosting goody. I enriched this slushie with powerful super spice - GINGER that gave this slushie amazing aroma.. and a bit spiciness.

Flavorful and dazzling, Raspberry Peach Ginger Slushie is easy summer refreshment that will power you up with vitamins. Smashed summer fruits with the addition of aromatic ginger is something that will delight you and the kids. This slushie is sweet but made refined sugar-free and super HEALTHY. A must try this summer. #summer #drinks #kidsfriendly #family #vegan #sugarfree #glutenfree #fit #fruits #skinny | natalieshealth.com

This is one of those desserts/frozen treats that kids absolutely LOVE. Given that homemade slushies, like this one, are so much HEALTHIER than store bought stuff, ice creams, not to mention candies, I'm totally happy to have my kiddo enjoy in this one as much as he likes. This Raspberry Peach Ginger is something that we all need this summer. 

Enjoy! 

Recipe

Flavorful and dazzling, Raspberry Peach Ginger Slushie is easy summer refreshment that will power you up with vitamins. Smashed summer fruits with the addition of aromatic ginger is something that will delight you and the kids. This slushie is sweet but made refined sugar-free and super HEALTHY. A must try this summer. #summer #drinks #kidsfriendly #family #vegan #sugarfree #glutenfree #fit #fruits #skinny | natalieshealth.com
Print Recipe
5 from 6 votes

Raspberry Peach Ginger Slushie

Raspberry Peach Ginger Slushie is easy summer refreshment that will power you up with vitamins. It's HEALTHY, refined sugar free. A must try this summer.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time55 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Servings: 2
Calories: 123kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Raspberries , frozen
  • 2 Peaches , frozen
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup , honey or stevia (to taste)
  • ½ cups water or ice
  • A piece of fresh ginger , about ½ inch (1cm)
  • 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A few drops of fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  • Put frozen fruit into blender (I use Vitamix), add syrup (or honey), ginger, few drops of lemon and water (or ice) and blend until smooth. 
  • Transfer mixture into a plastic airtight container and place in freezer for an hour. Don't let mixture freeze completely. 
  • Serve and enjoy!

Notes

As a measure I used UScup (240ml). 

Nutrition

Calories: 123kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 320mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 23g | Vitamin A: 350IU | Vitamin C: 31.4mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 0.9mg

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Xoxo, 

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Flavorful and dazzling, Raspberry Peach Ginger Slushie is easy summer refreshment that will power you up with vitamins. Smashed summer fruits with the addition of aromatic ginger is something that will delight you and the kids. This slushie is sweet but made refined sugar-free and super HEALTHY. A must try this summer. #summer #drinks #kidsfriendly #family #vegan #sugarfree #glutenfree #fit #fruits #skinny | natalieshealth.com

Ways To Live Healthy With A Busy Schedule

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Deadlines, family, social life, late nights and early mornings... It's sometimes easy to forget how simple it really is to take control of your life and your health. There's a way you can enhance your everyday health, increase productivity and feel amazing even if you're super busy. Here are some of my tips how I keep maintaining HEALTHY LIFESTYLE although I have a super busy schedule.

For the past seven years, I run a small business together with my husband. It's a day to day struggle to stay in business, to provide food on the table, pay loans and bills, and to have a family and life along the way. Although we love every second of that crazy, stressful, hectic life, it led us to almost complete disaster regarding our health.

In one point of our lives, we worked so hard, and we were under so much pressure. We slept too little. We ate too much of unhealthy junk and store bought meals (I had zero time to cook). It’s was easier to skip breakfast and overdose with caffeine and then overeat with junk food at work, ending up with eating fast (junk) dinner at home. Plus we haven't moved our asses off that darn office chair, NEVER, and at home, we were literally couch potatoes. Brain dead couch potatoes. Our life was a mess. We ended up both emotionally exhausted, tired, and heavily overweight with many serious health issues just waiting to pop up.

For some time we were both still ok, but then that terrible lifestyle started seriously caching on us. It seems like everything was piled up - piled up - piled up.... until one day that pile became too big to hold and all started crashing. I knew all along that something has to change, but I still keep having these silly excuses. I felt like I don't have time to make healthier choices, nor I have time to learn to live differently. I was so busy with my work that I totally forgot about myself and my physical (and mental) health... and the health of my family on that matter.

When my body literally crashed and when I started to experience health issues, that's when I decided to CHANGE my life. Luckily my change didn't come too late.

In that process of rediscovering HEALTHY FOOD and the joy of eating HEALTHY food, I've lost 110 pounds. I started to feel better. But that wasn't all. Since I sorted my messy life and started to eat and live healthy every day, I suddenly started to have TONS of energy. I'm even MORE productive at my work now.

It took me some time to build new habits. But now that I live this HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE, it makes me (and my family) so much healthier and happier.

I know you have a busy schedule. The truth is, we ALL have a busy schedule in some way. I know you think is not doable to lead a healthier life. I thought so too. But guess what?! I was WRONG. With a little planning and effort, you CAN lead healthier happier life even if you are "to busy". Maybe my story and these tips inspire you to implement some changes in your life. Here are my ways to live healthy with a busy schedule.

I keep HEALTHY FOOD stocked in my house.
If your kitchen is stocked with healthy food, it's easy to be on track with healthy life. You'll cook healthy meals, you'll snack healthy snacks, you'll eat more HEALTHIER. Period. When your pantry and fridge is empty, it's easy to give in to fast food, takeout, and other temptations. So I keep my fridge and my pantry fully stocked with all healthy stuff.

I bring HEALTHY MEALS with me to work.
This saves not only time and money but also cuts down inches on your waist too. A first week of starting this new routine can be a bit pain. Planning and prepping food is something you need to get used to. I usually prepare lunch box at evening - veggies, salads, cooked grains, sometimes that can be dinner leftovers... Next morning I just grab my lunch box and go to work. I also prepare some healthy snacks too - energy bars, fruits, raw energy balls, for my between meals office nibbling.

I sneak VEGGIES in all my meals.
Vegetables are the important source of fibers and essential vitamins and minerals. Adding greens to a smoothie, or having fresh tomatoes with eggs for breakfast, or having salad complement a dinner... I can sneak those precious nutrients in almost every meal. It only takes a little imagination.

I have my BREAKFAST every morning.
I never skip breakfast no matter how busy I am. Breakfast is the most important meal of my day. It always consists of some complex carbohydrates, high fiber foods like whole grain bread and some protein rich foods. Also, I make sure I add up some healthy fats like avocado, healthy olive oil, nuts or seeds. Breakfast fills me with needed energy so I can have a productive day. It only takes a little time to plan breakfast meals ahead, and maybe do some preps at evening. It's time well invested. If you're looking for some HEALTHY breakfast recipes, take a look HERE.

I make sure I'm always well HYDRATED.
Staying well hydrated is a must for good health. That's why I always have my bottle filled with fresh water. But I'm kind the person that tends to forget to have a sip. That's why I have my Ulla. Ulla is a smart hydration device, and I have it attached to my bottle. Ulla signals me and reminds me to drink my water. I always carry a bottle around, and I make sure I have at least eight glasses of water a day (that's around ½ gallon or 2 liters per day).

I PLAN my HEALTHY MEALS for week ahead
I'm not THE master of meal planning. I'm complete noob. My meal planning takes only 15 minutes tops. I browse some Pinterest and internet or inspirations for meals I've saved. I just sit on Sundays and make a list. Also I do quick grocery shopping list too + I do my online shopping for things I can't find in stores (it saves my time AND MONEY). And that's it. Nothing fancy. Meal planning helps me a lot to be on track with HEALTHY weekdays meals for me and my family.

I make EXERCISE a priority.
Exercising is important for maintaining healthy life so make it your priority. I simply have it calculated in my weekly schedule. Every morning I do my yoga as part of my morning routine, and at evening I do my runs. On my resting days, instead of watching Netflix, I go out and just walk around the neighborhood. Some nights when I have extra time, I even do gentle bedtime yoga - stretching and relaxing. Exercising fills me up with needed energy, keeps my body and my mind health.

It's possible to be both the busiest and the healthiest version of yourself. I know, it’s always easier said than done, but the impact a few changes can have on your body (and your mind) is totally worth it. I will end up this post with one of my favorite quotes - It's not about HAVING time. It's about MAKING time.

Now let's chat in comments.... Do you have difficulty finding time to incorporate healthy habits in your busy day? How do you maintain your healthy lifestyle while chasing your work and busy schedule?

Xoxo, 

Natalie

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Motivation Monday #17

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Hi, guys! Happy (hot and sunny) new week to you all.

Can you believe it's Monday already? Like, when that happened?! You may need one extra cup of coffee to get you started today (like me), but nevertheless, it's a GREAT day - for new beginnings, for setting new goals, for continuing improving and working on better and healthier you. How was your week? Busy or more relaxing? Have you enjoyed your weekend?

My week was super busy. AGAIN. I worked almost all Saturday. But then Sunday was SUPER relaxing (I can even say a bit lazy). Just me and my husband and my kiddo. We spend the morning outside the house (while temperatures were not so high ), and then the afternoon at home. I cooked the big healthy family lunch while boys helped me with preparing the dessert - Chocolate Cherry Brownies. Afterward, we played video games (Minecraft is kinda fun when we all play together). And the evening was reserved for the family movie - The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies. My kiddo loves that film. We all do, actually... ok, we are kinda family of geeks. 

Last week I published the new recipe for Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars and while I was telling my story how I recently started running with my friend Petra, it got me thinking how it's IMPORTANT to surround yourself with people who are POSITIVE and HAPPY. The people who support you and understand healthy lifestyle you live every day, who love and respect your choices. People who lift you higher, who motivate you. It's good to choose friends who you are proud to know, people you admire. Life is too short to spend time with people who drain the happiness and life out of you.

Negativity and unhealthy habits are contagious. I see and hear that a lot. But positivity, working on self-improvement, healthy habits, and choosing happiness are contagious too.

I often ask myself - "Am I the type of person others want to be around??” Maybe you should start asking the same question. Lead by example and make the right choices.

BE THE ENERGY YOU WANT TO ATTRACT.

BE THE TYPE OF PERSON YOU WANT TO MEET.

The way we live affects everyone around us, so lead the POSITIVE way and be an example. You can improve yourself and you can help people around you be the best versions of themselves too. But it must start with you and your will to MAKE A CHANGE. 

Hugs and kisses. See you next Monday!

Xoxo, 

NH-signature

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Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars

by 31 Comments

Sweet, nutty and absolutely delicious, these no-bake Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars are wonderful snack. These oatmeal bars are energizing, and filled with nutrients, but made without refined sugars. So easy to make with just a few pantry ingredients. Vegan, GF.

Sliced Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars

Man, it's HOT outside. Summer is not joking guys. Daily temperatures reach high 36C (98F). Even here in a countryside where I live, it's almost unbearable. But actually, it's not that these temperatures are so much the issue BUT humidity... omg... humidity is killing me. It feels like you can't breathe. That there's no air. And it's not an even the peak of the summer season.

So, on Wednesday evening, my friend Petra and I went running. The air was SO hot like we were breathing the air from the hair dryer. Not pleasant at all. Anyway, I was bragging to Petra how early that day I went shopping, and I've found this amazing tasting, creamy peanut butter that is made without added sugar or oils. I told her how I scooped one tablespoon just before the run. And I'm glad I did it. Without peanut butter superpowers, I think I wouldn't last not even one lap.

Sliced no bake Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars topped with melted dark chocolate

Next day, I've decided to make these Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars to be my before/post workout snack.... so I don't have to eat peanut butter from the jar.

These bars are super easy to make. You only need few simple ingredients and THE BEST thing is - it doesn't require turning the oven. Yey!!! Who needs more heat when it's so hot already, right?! Ok, for some things still it's worth standing some heat. Like for juicy crumbly Berry Banana Breakfast Oat Bars... or for sweet gingerish Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies.

Sliced no bake Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars topped with melted dark chocolate

I don't hide my love for oats. Oats are part of many my meals. I'm using oats wherever and whenever I can. Lemon Turmeric Energy Balls, Peach Blackberry Crisp, even the Coffee Breakfast Smoothie are all filled with this amazing heart HEALTHY grain.

Oats are super rich in high-quality fibers that are sooo good for our digestion, but also with many other essential nutrients - like plant-based proteins, vitamins and minerals. I love oats because you can eat them raw - with milk for breakfast or in raw treats and smoothies, or you can cook and bake them. And they turn out equally delicious, in any of mentioned ways.

In addition to the super-healthy oats, which makes the base for these Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars, the real star of this recipe is, of course, the peanut butter... that I crazily insanely unbelievably LOVE. Peanut butter is packed with so many nutrients that are good for our health - like plant-based proteins and fibers. + It's packed with powerful antioxidant vitamin E, and bone-building magnesium, and muscle-friendly potassium, and immunity-boosting vitamin B6. + It's great for weight loss because it fills you up and keeps you feeling full longer.

Sliced no bake Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars topped with melted dark chocolate

Peanut butter also has anti-inflammatory properties, which helps with muscle recovery after exercise. That's why fit people dig peanut butter. Sticky, thick and full of taste... How just not to love it.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars are so soft, pleasantly sweet but made without refined sugars. I used the ripe banana to naturally sweeten these bars with the little addition of mild tasting rice syrup. You can sub rice syrup with maple syrup or honey.

Sliced no bake Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars topped with melted dark chocolate

I rounded up this delicious story with some dark chocolate... because I just couldn't resist to put it on top. Peanut butter + banana + chocolate is the BEST combo ever. + Dark chocolate is powerful antioxidant and a great mood booster. It stimulates the production of endorphins, chemicals in the brain that bring on feelings of pleasure.... And I'm always in the mood for some good-mood food. ;)

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars are great for midday healthy snacking. You can pack these in school lunch box for your kids, or you can bring it to work. These bars are powerful energy booster and thus PERFECT before/after workout meal. MUCH better than ANY store-bought, sugar-loaded, artificial protein bars... not to mention 1000 million times better than calorie-bomb Snickers.

Sliced no bake Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars topped with melted dark chocolate

Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars benefits

These delicious oatmeal bars are:

  • made with wholesome ingredients good for health,
  • full of high-quality dietary fibers that promote good digestion and weight loss,
  • easy to prepare and needs only a few simple ingredients,
  • refined sugar-free,
  • rich in plaint-based proteins,
  • vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free,
  • great grab-and-go snack,
  • perfect before or after workout meal.

Decadent and rich in dark chocolate-peanut flavor, these Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars are one amazing treat. Make sure you prepare few batches at once and store in ziplock bags in the freezer. That way you'll have them ready whenever you need a healthy boost of energy.

And now I'll leave you with  the recipe.... Enjoy!

Recipe

Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
Print Recipe
4.31 from 33 votes

Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars

Sweet, nutty and absolutely delicious, these Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars are wonderful snack. These oatmeal bars are energizing, and filled with nutrients, but made without refined sugars. So easy to make with just a few pantry ingredients. Vegan, GF.
Prep Time5 minutes
Freeze time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: no bake peanut butter bananaoatmeal bars, no bake peanut butter oatmeal bars, oatmeal bars, peanut butter banana oatmeal bars, peanut butter oatmeal bars
Servings: 8 bars
Calories: 347kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

  • 3 cups rolled oats
  • 2 bananas ripe
  • ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
  • ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup dark chocolate or dark chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Line the bottom of a 9x9 inch (22x22cm) square pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
  • Put half of the oats into the food processor and pulse for 2 second to cut up oats in smaller pieces. Combine with the rest of the oats in a large mixing bowl.
  • In the separate bowl, mash banana with the fork. Add syrup or honey and vanilla extract and peanut butter. Mix well until you get a smooth mixture. 
  • Add the mixture into oats and stir until evenly combined. Use spatula.
  • Transfer mixture to a prepared pan. Press down using the second sheet of parchment to press it evenly into the bottom of the pan. Place in freezer for 15 minutes.
  • In meantime, melt dark chocolate in a microwave or using the stove. Let it cool for few minutes then spread the melted chocolate on top of the oats.
  • Freeze until firm enough to cut into bars.

Notes

FOR GLUTEN FREE make sure you use certified gluten-free oats. FOR VEGAN version use vegan dark chocolate chips.
Keep in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 1 week. Place in ziplock bags and freeze up to 3 months. 
Nutritional Disclaimer

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 347kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 44mg | Potassium: 447mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 27IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 48mg | Iron: 4mg

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Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars

 

Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread

by 23 Comments

Moist, tender and full of sweet corn flavor, Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread is perfect summer dessert. This cornbread is made with all HEALTH ingredients, refined sugar-free, wholesome but moderate in calories. It's rustic, beautiful and just amazingly delicious!

Healthy Refined sugar-free Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread

I'm a HUGE fan of cornbread. Of all the quick breads, and I mean ALL, I like cornbread the most. I love it more than banana bread. There. I've said it. Cornbread is one of those simple desserts, rustic, yet so deliciously sweet, and above all flavorful.

I know cornbread is very popular in America, but it's actually very popular in Croatia too. Especially here in northern parts of Croatia - Zagorje county where I live. We call it here Zagorska zlevka, or Zlevanka. Ever since I recreated my grandma's old cornbread recipe and made healthier version, cottage cheese cornbread, my whole family kinda fell in love with this old but now new recipe. So I bake cornbread quite a lot. Even my mother-in-law, who is like "the queen" of ALL traditional bakes, even she asks ME to bake this cornbread for our family gatherings. What to say... I'm flattered. I love the fact that my healthy cornbread is so popular.

So last week my mother-in-law filled my fridge with sour cherries from her backyard. I knew I had to prepare something while sour cherries are still in season. I decided to combine the sweet taste of classic cornbread with this amazing, yet completely neglected fruit. And this is how I made this Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread. It's filled with all HEALTHY wholesome stuff, and the taste is, believe my words, completely out of this world delicious. Perfect summer dessert

Moist, tender and full of corn flavor Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread made with all HEALTH ingredients, refined sugar-free, wholesome and it's moderate in calories. Perfect for BBQ, holiday table or any celebration. #glutenfree #sugarfree #healthy #kidsfriendly #lowcalorie #whole30 #weightloss #bbq #summer #dessert #holiday #chia #cherry | natalieshealth.com

To make this Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread I used corn flour and corn grits - polenta. I enriched the mixture with cottage cheese and Greek yogurt which gave the cornbread a wonderfully moist texture but also a huge protein boost.

My mother-in-law once told me the story how her grandma used to put plum jam on top of cornbread. That inspired me to try something similar with this cornbread. I didn't want to use any store-bought stuff so I decided to make homemade sour cherry jam from scratch.

Sour cherry jam, it's just like blackberry chia jam that my family loves so much. It's super easy to make and it's packed with all wonderful natural ingredients. It's SO delicious that you will completely forget store-bought jams. And the best thing about this sour cherry chia jam is that it doesn't contain any refined sugars nor additives. Ok, so maybe it can't last long, but if you keep it in the fridge you can enjoy its fresh taste up to one week.

I'm not much fan of piling up stack of jars in my pantry. I keep all my fruits frozen and when I want to eat the jam, I just make one. In takes less than 10 minutes to have freshly made jam that suits my current desires made. Vanilla or cinnamon flavored, or with spicy ginger... I always make something new and exciting and surprise myself and my family. That's the beauty of easy homemade jams made from fresh/frozen fruits.

Moist, tender and full of corn flavor Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread made with all HEALTH ingredients, refined sugar-free, wholesome and it's moderate in calories. Perfect for BBQ, holiday table or any celebration. #glutenfree #sugarfree #healthy #kidsfriendly #lowcalorie #whole30 #weightloss #bbq #summer #dessert #holiday #chia #cherry | natalieshealth.com

Moist, tender and full of corn flavor Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread made with all HEALTH ingredients, refined sugar-free, wholesome and it's moderate in calories. Perfect for BBQ, holiday table or any celebration. #glutenfree #sugarfree #healthy #kidsfriendly #lowcalorie #whole30 #weightloss #bbq #summer #dessert #holiday #chia #cherry | natalieshealth.com

I always try to boost all my food with nutrients as much as I can. So I enriched this sour cherry jam with chia seeds. Also, chia seeds did thicken the jam nicely.

Corn is naturally sweet so this Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread has little added sugar. To sweeten up this cornbread I used natural sweetener - honey, but you can use maple syrup or even stevia. Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread is refined sugars free and moderate in calories, but rich in proteins, healthy omega-3 fats and full of quality fibers good for our digestion. It's also packed with vitamins and many important minerals - especially iron.

Moist, tender and full of corn flavor Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread made with all HEALTH ingredients, refined sugar-free, wholesome and it's moderate in calories. Perfect for BBQ, holiday table or any celebration. #glutenfree #sugarfree #healthy #kidsfriendly #lowcalorie #whole30 #weightloss #bbq #summer #dessert #holiday #chia #cherry | natalieshealth.com

Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread is ...

  • made with all HEALTHY wholesome ingredients,
  • full of high-quality dietary fibers that promote good digestion and weight loss,
  • refined sugar-free,
  • rich in nutrients - proteins, and healthy fats and low in calories,
  • gluten free and kids friendly.

I'm not quite sure whether to call this Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread a dessert or real meal because it's so well balanced and so nutritious. However, I'm sure you'll gonna enjoy this one, either for breakfast or with your tea or coffee. My husband was so delighted with its taste that he already ordered a new bunch for next weekend. And he doesn't even like cherries nor sour cherries. :)

Recipe

Healthy Refined sugar-free Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread
Print Recipe
5 from 9 votes

Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread

Moist, tender and full of corn flavor Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread is perfect summer dessert. This cornbread is made with all HEALTH ingredients, refined sugar-free, wholesome but it's moderate in calories. 
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Servings: 9 slices
Calories: 208kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

  • 1 cup corn flour*
  • ½ cup cornmeal polenta
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder*
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon Himalayan salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2-3 tablespoons syrup or honey
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin coconut oil , melted and cooled
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt

For Sour Cherry Chia Jam:

  • 1 cup fresh or frozen sour cherries , pitted
  • 1 tablespoon syrup or honey or stevia (to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 392F (200C). Line the bottom of a 9x9 inch (22x22cm) square baking pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
  • In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients, corn flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • In a separate bowl beat the eggs. Add syrup or honey, vanilla extract and coconut oil.
  • Stir the dry ingredients into the wet. Mix well.
  • Add Greek yogurt and cottage cheese. Lightly whisk the mixture and pour into baking pan.
  • Place the jam on top of the cornbread. Gently mix to the mixture with the fork.
  • Bake 30-35 minutes until the cornbread is nicely browned (do the toothpick test).
  • Remove pan from the oven. Allow cornbread to cool completely at room temperature.
  • Slice and enjoy!

For Sour Cherry Chia Jam:

  • In a saucepan, bring sour cherries to a low boil, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to low and simmer until the cherries soften, about 5 minutes. Lightly mash the cherries with a potato masher or fork.
  • Remove from heat and stir in syrup or honey or stevia and chia seeds. Stir for few minutes, and leave until mixture thickens for about 5 minutes.
  • Use the jam for making a cornbread. Store jam leftovers in a glass jar and refrigerate. The jam will keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Notes

* For gluten-free version make sure you use certified gluten-free products. Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. As a measure, I used UScup (240ml).

Nutrition

Calories: 208kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 82mg | Sodium: 231mg | Potassium: 153mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 350IU | Vitamin C: 2.5mg | Calcium: 70mg | Iron: 1.3mg

These are my picks for this recipe:

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Xoxo,
- Natalie

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Healthy Refined sugar-free Sour Cherry Chia Jam Cornbread

Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies

by 56 Comments

Nutty, sweet and full of wonderful ginger flavor, these Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies are perfect HEALTHY treat your family will love.  These cookies are whole grain, refined sugar-free, low-calorie and super easy to make. Perfect on-the-go breakfast or quick snack. Healthy cookies for kids all ages.

Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies

The weather is beautiful for the past few days. We have lots of sun and temperatures above 20C (around 70F). Spring has arrived, like definitely. The days have become longer. Everything is green and in bloom. Just lovely.

But what I love the most about Spring is farmers market. It's full of veggies and colorful fruits. It looks so vibrant. I'm completely mad about CARROTS ... and broccoli, spring cabbage and young potatoes. And since this spring Cabbage Carrot Slaw is so popular in my house lately, I decided to make some sweet treat with this Spring veggie. Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies were the obvious choice. They are deliciously sweet, nutty and so full of wonderful flavors. Absolutely irresistible, to all - young and olds.

Healthy wholegrain Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies filled with oats, grated carrots, ginger, and walnuts. These cookies are low-fat, refined sugar-free, kid-friendly and super easy to make. Perfect breakfast or snack. #sugarfree #healthy #easy #snack #brakfast #cookies #easter #spring

If you liked my Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies, then you'll like these Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies too. These cookies are super easy to make, and you only need few simple ingredients which you've probably have in the house already.

To make these Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies I used whole grains - rolled oats full of healthy dietary fibers and proteins, and whole grain flour. I also added some ground walnuts in the mixture. Walnuts enriched cookies with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and essential minerals.

Instead of butter, I used healthy coconut oil, and to sweet up cookies I used natural sweetener - maple syrup. I spiced these Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies with beautiful fragrant vanilla and super healthy ginger. Yummy!

Healthy wholegrain Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies filled with oats, grated carrots, ginger, and walnuts. These cookies are low-fat, refined sugar-free, kid-friendly and super easy to make. Perfect breakfast or snack. #sugarfree #healthy #easy #snack #brakfast #cookies #easter #spring

These cookies are PERFECT for busy families and for those who want to snack something healthy on-to-go during weekdays. Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies are very nutritious and can be served as breakfast. Or you can pack them into kids school lunch box... GREAT idea, right?

Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies are so irresistibly soft, fragrant and full of ginger flavor ... true spring dessert. Cookies are sweet but in every bite hides bits of crunchy walnuts that gives that omnomnom feeling... They are perfect with afternoon tea or coffee, and I found out that these cookies are AMAZING dipped into milk. Ohhh YES my friends!

Healthy wholegrain Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies filled with oats, grated carrots, ginger, and walnuts. These cookies are low-fat, refined sugar-free, kid-friendly and super easy to make. Perfect breakfast or snack. #sugarfree #healthy #easy #snack #brakfast #cookies #easter #spring

Btw, have you noticed this adorable bowl and plate on my photos?  This is enameled tableware from Emalco's NEW Spring Collection.

It's absolutely gorgeous. Isn't? Personally, I'm delighted with the design and the quality of the Emalco products, but also with all experience that comes with this product - the story and the tradition. Be sure to stop by in Emalco web-shop. Emalco is offering 5% DISCOUNT on the first purchase for those who sign up.

Healthy wholegrain Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies filled with oats, grated carrots, ginger, and walnuts. These cookies are low-fat, refined sugar-free, kid-friendly and super easy to make. Perfect breakfast or snack. #sugarfree #healthy #easy #snack #brakfast #cookies #easter #spring

Ok, let me sum up why I LOVE these cookies so so much.

This Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies are ...

  • made with all healthy ingredients,
  • soft and chewy, full of warm aromatic flavors,
  • easy to prepare and can be made in just 20 minutes,
  • needs only a few simple ingredients,
  • refined sugar-free,
  • low-calorie,
  • rich in nutrients - quality fibers, plant-based proteins, and essential minerals,
  • rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin A,
  • enriched with healing super spice - ginger,
  • contains heart-friendly fats,
  • perfect quick breakfast or kids school snack.

Healthy wholegrain Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies filled with oats, grated carrots, ginger, and walnuts. These cookies are low-fat, refined sugar-free, kid-friendly and super easy to make. Perfect breakfast or snack. #sugarfree #healthy #easy #snack #brakfast #cookies #easter #spring

Healthy wholegrain Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies filled with oats, grated carrots, ginger, and walnuts. These cookies are low-fat, refined sugar-free, kid-friendly and super easy to make. Perfect breakfast or snack. #sugarfree #healthy #easy #snack #brakfast #cookies #easter #spring

Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies are soft and chewy on the inside, very thick and not crumbly at all. Even after few days stored in airtight container. That is of course if they last that long.

In my house, these cookies really don't last long. Even my husband, who isn't a fan of carrots like AT ALL, devours these cookies like some maniac. Actually, everyone loves these cookies... kids, family, friends, neighbors (ohhh... especially my recipe-testing neighbors)... I just yell "cookies" and watch how cookies are disappearing from a plate.

Hope you'll like these Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies.

Make a bunch... and enjoy!

Recipe

Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies
Print Recipe
4.60 from 35 votes

Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies

These Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies are perfect HEALTHY treat your family will love. They are whole grain, refined sugar-free, low-calorie and super easy to make. Perfect on-the-go breakfast or quick snack. 
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: carrot, carrot cake, cookies, healthy, oatmeal
Servings: 12 cookies
Calories: 173kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

Instructions

  • In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients - flour, oats, baking powder, salt, and walnuts.
  • In a separate bowl whisk the egg. Add coconut oil, vanilla, and syrup. Mix well with a whisk until well combined.
  • Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix. Finally, stir in the grated carrots and ginger. Mix gently with a spoon. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes (not necessary).
  • Preheat oven to 356F (180C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
  • With a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop the dough, then shape into slightly flattened balls. Arrange the cookies 2-inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake 12-15 minutes until the edges of the cookies begin to brown. Turn off the oven and let the cookies sit in the oven for another minute, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Keep in airtight container.
As a measure, I used US cup (240ml).

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookie | Calories: 173kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 67mg | Potassium: 15mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 1700IU | Vitamin C: 0.8mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 1.1mg

Check these HEALTHY cookie recipes too:
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
Strawberry Oatmeal Cookies
Orange Carrot Oatmeal Cookies
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

These are my picks for this recipe:
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Xoxo, Natalie
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** This post is sponsored from Emalco Enamelware in exchange for mention on the blog. All words, thoughts, and opinions are my own. I only support products that I truly love. 

Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta

by 61 Comments

Simple yet delicious Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta is easy to make and packed with flavor. Soft chicken with penne whole wheat pasta wrapped in a creamy basil pesto sauce made with avocado will delight your palate. Is tasty, filling, and quick to throw together. The perfect HEALTHY weeknight meal that your family will love. 

Don't get me wrong.... I don't mind chocolate  or the double chocolate desserts at all, BUT it's time for me to pull a break and take the pause from sweets. My husband told me the other day I have to share some "non-dessert", a savory recipe next, or people will think we eat only muffins and cakes .  Hehe he's right. And so here it is... one simple yet so delicious pasta - my family's favorite Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta. This Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta is so flavorful and tasty that it would be so wrong not to share this recipe with you. 

Easy Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta is the perfect HEALTHY weeknight meal for busy days. Packed with flavors and ready under 20 minutes! CLICK to read the recipe or PIN for later. [natalieshealth.com] #recipe #healthy #easy #family #chicken #low-fat #pasta #pesto

I don't know about you, but I LOVEEEE pasta! Pasta is the one food, in addition to chocolate, which I just can't and won't give up no matter what diet I follow. When I switched to healthy eating, many people wondered how it is possible to eat pasta and call my diet healthy. People literally stared at me when I intercede that pasta IS an healthy food. People consider pasta like ultimative evil food, bad for your waist. Well... that's sooo wrong! Pasta made from whole grains is by no means bad food and should not be excluded from the diet. 

And this recipe is a GOOD example how pasta CAN be healthy, wholesome meal without excess calories. 

Easy Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta is the perfect HEALTHY weeknight meal for busy days. Packed with flavors and ready under 20 minutes! CLICK to read the recipe or PIN for later. [natalieshealth.com] #recipe #healthy #easy #family #chicken #low-fat #pasta #pesto

Easy Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta is the perfect HEALTHY weeknight meal for busy days. Packed with flavors and ready under 20 minutes! CLICK to read the recipe or PIN for later. [natalieshealth.com] #recipe #healthy #easy #family #chicken #low-fat #pasta #pesto

To make this Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta I used chicken white meat - chicken breasts without skin, healthy fats - avocados and olive oil, and whole wheat penne pasta. I also added some veggies - green beans to add up some more healthy fibers and nutrients. You can easily switch green beans for any seasonal veggie. Broccoli in this pasta is a blast - a must try!  

As I said, this Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta is one of my family's favorite meals. We all LOVE it! Actually, you can never go wrong with pesto pasta if you have kids. I prepare this pasta whenever I catch fresh basil in the store. Well I've tried to grow basil on my kitchen window but without luck. I failed miserably few times and given up completely. Basil is so delicate plant, it seems too delicate for me.   Too bad, though because I love basil!  

Easy Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta is the perfect HEALTHY weeknight meal for busy days. Packed with flavors and ready under 20 minutes! CLICK to read the recipe or PIN for later. [natalieshealth.com] #recipe #healthy #easy #family #chicken #low-fat #pasta #pesto

Homemade Basil Pesto

I always make my own, homemade pesto from fresh healthy ingredients. I don't like store bought things... I don't trust E-stuff and colorings, palm oils etc... And why buy things you can prepare in no time at your home. Right?! 

To make beautiful, fragrant homemade basil pesto you'll only need few simple ingredients - fresh basil, a handful of walnuts, olive oil or avocado, salt, fresh lemon juice, and a food processor. Pesto made from olive oil is very flavorful and more intense, with dense texture. It is an excellent addition to pasta and salads and can be easily stored in refrigerator for weeks. Pesto made from avocado has creamier texture and it's ideal for pasta and as a spread. The one problem with avocado basil pesto is that the avocado quickly turns black and pesto made from avocado will quickly change the color no matter how good lid you had. My husband has solution for that problem. Just eat it quickly, says he ... as if that is some kinda problem for me. 

Easy Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta is the perfect HEALTHY weeknight meal for busy days. Packed with flavors and ready under 20 minutes! CLICK to read the recipe or PIN for later. [natalieshealth.com] #recipe #healthy #easy #family #chicken #low-fat #pasta #pesto

Basil pesto can be made in advance and kept refrigerated up to two weeks (well the one made with olive oil). I it holds on for so long.  I always make about one jar and use throughout the week with my pasta, as addition to salads and as spread for sandwiches. It is so SOO good, I could literally eat it with the spoon. Some put garlic in basil pesto. I don't because I want to emphasize basil aroma in this beautiful creamy Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta. But you can totally add garlic if you like it. 

Oh yes, another great thing about this pasta... it can be made in less than 20 minutes!!!! Whoaaa right?!  It's PERFECT for busy families! 

Now I'll leave you with cooking... Hope you'll enjoy this pasta! 

Recipe

Easy Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta is the perfect HEALTHY weeknight meal for busy days. Packed with flavors and ready under 20 minutes! CLICK to read the recipe or PIN for later. [natalieshealth.com] #recipe #healthy #easy #family #chicken #low-fat #pasta #pesto
Print Recipe
4.80 from 20 votes

Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta

Soft chicken with penne whole wheat pasta wrapped in a creamy basil pesto sauce made with avocado will delight your palate. Is tasty, filling, and quick to throw together. The perfect HEALTHY weeknight meal that your family will love. 
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Servings: 2 people
Calories: 518kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

  • 8 oz chicken breast skinless, boneless (230g)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Himalayan salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup green beans
  • 1 ½ cups whole wheat penne pasta
  • Parmesan cheese Parmigiano-Reggiano or Grana Padano, freshly grated

For Basil Pesto

  • 2 cups fresh basil
  • 4 tablespoons walnuts
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese Parmigiano-Reggiano or Grana Padano, freshly grated
  • ½ avocado OR ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Himalayan salt to taste

Instructions

  • In the larger deeper pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken cut into smaller pieces. Fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes until golden on all sides. Add salt and pepper to taste. Remove the pan from heat.
  • In the meantime, boil the green beans for 10 minutes and drain. Cook the pasta al dente according to the instructions on the package in salted water. Drain the pasta but save the pasta water.
  • Add boiled beans and cooked pasta in the pan with chicken. Add 3 tablespoons of basil pesto and mix well. Add 1-2 tablespoons water in which the pasta was cooked if pasta is too dry.
  • Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and serve warm.

For Basil Pesto

  • In food processor add fresh basil and walnuts and mince.
  • Add grated cheese (and garlic if you use it), and continue to mix. Using rubber spatula scrape the mixture from the walls of the bowl. 
  • Add avocado and mix until you get a nice smooth mixture. Add a little olive oil if the mixture is too thick. OR instead of avocado, add olive oil and mix until you get a nice smooth pesto mixture.
  • Put the pesto in a jar and close with the lid. Keep refrigerated up to 2 weeks.

Notes

I used US cup (240ml) as a measure.

Nutrition

Calories: 518kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 14g | Cholesterol: 72mg | Sodium: 448mg | Potassium: 335mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1600IU | Vitamin C: 30.5mg | Calcium: 190mg | Iron: 3.1mg

 
Xoxo, 

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Easy Basil Pesto Chicken Pasta is the perfect HEALTHY weeknight meal for busy days. Packed with flavors and ready under 20 minutes! CLICK to read the recipe or PIN for later. [natalieshealth.com] #recipe #healthy #easy #family #chicken #low-fat #pasta #pesto

Healthy Valentine's Day Recipes

by 30 Comments

Spice up your romantic evening with these HEALTHY Valentine's Day Recipes - delicious appetizers, entrees, and scrumptious desserts that will trigger feel-good mood and make your date night sexy and special.

Spice up a romantic dinner with these healthiest sexiest Valentine’s Day Recipes - delicious appetizers, entrees, and desserts that will trigger feel-good mood and make your V-Day special and sexy. #valentinesday #romantic #dinner #desserts #valentine #healthyrecipes #appertizers #wholefoods #sugarfree #healthy #healthylife | NATALIESHEALTH.com

When we were younger and still going out, my husband and I used to celebrate Valentine's Day with gifts and a special meal out. It was a true romance night. A full package. And then we started a family, got our kid, and somehow the February 14 has taken on the different feel.

These days instead of heading out for a fancy dinner we like to have nice romantic dinner at our home. That doesn't mean that it's less romantic evening. While grandma is babysitting on our kid for the night, we like to cook our dinner together, listen to some music and then just enjoy the food and nice conversation. Without gifts. Nothing too pompous. Just the two of us and relaxed time together. Although I have nothing against romance, going out and gifts, somehow we prefer the privacy of our home and ease. The advantage of staying at home is, of course, the savings in the home budget, especially after wasteful December and holiday season, but also the fact that cooking at home for us means eating good food and eating healthy.

If you are too, romantics and advocates of healthy eating who likes to spend Valentine's Day at home, then this roundup is just the right for you. Today I've rounded up 25 healthy Valentine’s Day Recipes - from appetizers that will raise your libido, delicious main dishes, to scrumptious desserts that will, surely awaken your passion and make you Valentine's Day / Date Night very special ... and super sexy

These meals are carefully selected to include only healthy ingredients and fresh whole foods so you can enjoy your dinner worry AND guilt-free.

Enjoy!

 DESSERTS

Full of luxurious dark chocolate flavor, made with all healthy ingredients these Fudgy Cocoa Pomegranate Brownies are the pure cocoa pleasure. Soft and fudgy, enriched with warm aromatic spices, this melt in your mouth dessert will surely delight you. CLICk to grab recipe or PIN for later!

Fudgy Cocoa Pomegranate Brownies via Natalie's Food & Health

CHOCOLATE FRUIT CRISP FOR TWO via The Organic Dietitian

Baked Figs with Goat Cheese via Happy Kitchen Rocks

Strawberry Layer Cake in a Glass via Use Your Noodles

Wonderful, soft and fragrant Chocolate Cinnamon Balls made without added sugars and with all healthy ingredients. This chocolate delight is perfect holiday dessert or healthy snack anytime. CLICK to grab recipe or PIN for later!

Chocolate Cinnamon Balls via Natalie's Food & Health

Skinny flourless dark chocolate cake via Healthy Seasonal Recipes

Raspberry Ripple and Chocolate Raw Cheesecake Bars via Lauren Caris Cooks

Healthy Dark Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls via The Rising Spoon

APPETIZERS

SUPERFOOD QUINOA STUFFED MUSHROOMS via Contentedness Cooking

Fruit Skewers via Coffee & Brunch bcn

Fresh Radish and Ricotta Crostini via She Eats

Spice up a romantic dinner with healthiest sexiest Valentine's Day Recipes - delicious appetizers, entrees, and desserts that will trigger feel-good mood and make your V-Day special and sexy. CLICK to read more or PIN for later! *** natalieshealth.com

MUSSELS IN WHITE WINE via Caroline's Cooking

Spice up a romantic dinner with healthiest sexiest Valentine's Day Recipes - delicious appetizers, entrees, and desserts that will trigger feel-good mood and make your V-Day special and sexy. CLICK to read more or PIN for later! *** natalieshealth.com

Roasted Delicata, Arugula and Raddichio Salad with Creamy Tarragon Dressing via Pinch and Swirl

ROASTED BEET HUMMUS via Stellicious Life

FIG, RICOTTA AND PROSCIUTTO SALAD via Sprinkles and Sprouts

TOMATO BASIL CAPRESE APPETIZER via Apples for CJ

MAIN COURSE

ZUCCHINI RAVIOLI via Veggies Don't Bite

One Pan Greek Chicken via Swanky Recipes

Winter Sweet Citrus Salad with Pomegranate & Pistachios via Home & Plate

 ONE PAN PARMESAN TUSCAN CHICKEN via It's Cheat Day Everyday

Squid Ink Spaghetti With Shrimp via Krumpli

Creamy Red Lentil Carrot Soup via Nutmeg Nanny

Cherry beer braised chicken thighs with figs via BBQ Bastard

WALNUT CRUSTED SALMON via Haute and Healthy Living

SESAME SEARED AHI TUNA WITH GINGER SOY SAUCE via Champagne Tastes

Have a sexy, happy and healthy Valentine's Day.

Xoxo, Natalie

Let's connect! Find me on - Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

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Fudgy Cocoa Pomegranate Brownies

by 20 Comments

Full of dark chocolate flavor, made with all healthy ingredients and REFINED SUGAR-FREE these Fudgy Cocoa Pomegranate Brownies are the ultimate treat. Dense and rich this melt in your mouth dessert will surely delight you.

Fudgy Cocoa Pomegranate Brownies

Somehow I'm in the mood for chocolate desserts these days. It's because of the weather. Cold temperature and fog in the morning, sun and hot temperature afternoon and mild evenings. My body just don't know what season is. Is it spring or fall or winter. I'm stressed out. My body badly needs some happy hormones.

So I shamelessly enjoy in Chocolate Cinnamon Balls and Chocolate Banana Cake to get my moods up. But like that's not enough chocolate in my life...  therefore I decided to indulge myself in the ultimate chocolate dessert - this Fudgy Cocoa Pomegranate Brownies.

Many consider chocolate brownies to be just an ordinary cake, but this fudgy cocoa pomegranate brownies are more than just a daily dessert. It's a chocolate BLAST! Fudgy, full of luxurious dark chocolate flavor, with a bit of pomegranate freshness. Just heavenly!

Full of luxurious dark chocolate flavor, made with all healthy ingredients these Fudgy Cocoa Pomegranate Brownies are the pure cocoa pleasure. Soft and fudgy, enriched with warm aromatic spices, this melt in your mouth dessert will surely delight you. CLICk to grab recipe or PIN for later!

For making this delicious brownies I used whole grain flour rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Instead of loading this brownie with refined white sugar, I used a healthy, mild flavored honey that is rich in nutrients. The star of this brownie is, of course, super healthy raw cocoa.

I used organic cocoa, rich in flavor, without unnecessary fats. You know how Spanish conquistadors called cocoa? The "black gold"! And with good reason. Raw cocoa is packed with many nutrients but also with antioxidants that protect our body from many illnesses. Cocoa is full of minerals, especially magnesium, iron, manganese, and zinc and it is known that cocoa affects our moods, reduces stress and depression, and protects our heart.

Full of luxurious dark chocolate flavor, made with all healthy ingredients these Fudgy Cocoa Pomegranate Brownies are the pure cocoa pleasure. Soft and fudgy, enriched with warm aromatic spices, this melt in your mouth dessert will surely delight you. CLICk to grab recipe or PIN for later!

What makes the fudgy brownies so unique it's his dense texture. To obtain that moist, fudgy taste you have to use fats - melted chocolate and butter. I wanted my brownie to be super healthy, so I skipped the butter and used healthy coconut oil. Also I added Greek yogurt, which gave a brownie moisture and fudgy texture but also gave a nice protein kick.

I complemented brownie's chocolate flavor with fragrant Ceylon cinnamon and nutmeg, which gave the fudgy cocoa pomegranate brownies beautiful warm aroma. And I didn't stop there. No no no. I need some more chocolate  ... YES ... so I topped brownies with melted dark chocolate.

And to make my brownies more interesting, healthier and well ... more eye pleasing, I also added some pomegranate seeds. Pomegranate seeds gave that special tangy freshness in every bite. The texture of this fudgy cocoa pomegranate brownies is really irresistible - it's dense, moist, really melt in your mouth. And it's loaded with all healthy stuff. I hope that simplicity of this fudgy cocoa pomegranate brownies and the taste will impress you same as me.

Full of luxurious dark chocolate flavor, made with all healthy ingredients these Fudgy Cocoa Pomegranate Brownies are the pure cocoa pleasure. Soft and fudgy, enriched with warm aromatic spices, this melt in your mouth dessert will surely delight you. CLICk to grab recipe or PIN for later!

Fudgy Cocoa Pomegranate Brownies are...

  • made with all healthy ingredients,
  • easy to prepare and made in only 20 minutes,
  • don't contain refined sugar and unhealthy fats,
  • rich in nutrients and low in calories,
  • full of fibers and minerals, with a protein kick,
  • enriched with super-spice Ceylon cinnamon,
  • the main ingredient is raw cocoa that affects mood, reduces stress and depression.

As a true fan of anything chocolate, I'll end up today's post with a quote from British writer Patrick Skene- Catling: "Other things are just food. Chocolate is CHOCOLATE."

Do you agree with this? I'm totally with him on this one. ;)

Enjoy!

Recipe

Fudgy Cocoa Pomegranate Brownies
Print Recipe
4.50 from 6 votes

Fudgy Cocoa Pomegranate Brownies

Full of luxurious dark chocolate flavor, made with all healthy ingredients these Fudgy Cocoa Pomegranate Brownies are the pure cocoa pleasure. Dense and fudgy, enriched with warm aromatic spices, this melt in your mouth dessert will surely delight you.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: brownies, cocoa, fudgy
Servings: 9 slices
Calories: 209kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup whole gain flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon Himalayan salt
  • ½ cup raw cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 eggs
  • 6 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin coconut oil melted and cooled
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons milk plant-based or low-fat cows
  • 1 cup fresh pomegranate seeds

For the glaze

  • ½ cup dark chocolate 80% or more cocoa refined sugar-free

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 356F (180C) degrees. Line the bottom of a 9x9 inch (22x22cm) square baking pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
  • In one bowl, mix the dry ingredients - flour, baking powder, salt, cocoa powder, and spices.
  • In a separate bowl mix the eggs with honey. Add coconut oil, greek yogurt and milk.
  • Add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
  • Pour batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 20 or until a toothpick can be inserted into the center and come out almost clean (you want it to be a little moist with batter).
  • Remove pan from the oven. Allow the brownies to cool completely on room temperature.
  • Melt the dark chocolate.
  • Top the brownies with chocolate glaze and fresh pomegranate seeds. 

Notes

Brownies will stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. As a measure I used UScup (240ml). 

Nutrition

Calories: 209kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 37mg | Sodium: 23mg | Potassium: 263mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 60IU | Vitamin C: 1.9mg | Calcium: 42mg | Iron: 2.5mg

These are my picks for this recipe:
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Xoxo, Natalie

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Full of luxurious dark chocolate flavor, made with all HEALTHY ingredients these Fudgy Cocoa Pomegranate Brownies are the pure cocoa pleasure. Soft and fudgy, enriched with warm aromatic spices, this melt in your mouth dessert will surely delight you. #chocolate #healthy #dessert #brownies #nosugar | www.natalieshealth.com

Full of luxurious dark chocolate flavor, made with all healthy ingredients these Fudgy Cocoa Pomegranate Brownies are the pure cocoa pleasure. Soft and fudgy, enriched with warm aromatic spices, this melt in your mouth dessert will surely delight you. CLICk to grab recipe or PIN for later!

Pumpkin Loaf Cake

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Delicious and flavorful, this easy to make Pumpkin Loaf Cake is real Fall treat. It's made with all HEALTHY ingredients, packed with Fall spices and bursting with sweet pumpkin flavor. It's a super tasty pumpkin recipe you don't want to miss this season.

Pumpkin Loaf Cake with chocolate

Fall has definitely arrived. The leaves have turned yellow and started to fall. The streets are wet from morning fog. Moist air is filled with the smell of wood and the days are getting shorter. And what else to do around the house, than to bake some sweet desserts.

Since pumpkins are now in season, I decided to bake this Pumpkin Loaf Cake recipe for my boys.

Pumpkins are super nutritious and so sweet and flavorful. Mixed in delicious loaf cake with spices and chunks of dark chocolate - they are just irresistible.

Delicious pumpkin loaf cake made with all healthy ingredients, packed with aromatic autumn spices, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and tons of sweet pumpkin flavor. CLICK o grab recipe or PIN for later!

Pumpkin is one of the best-known sources of beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant known to give orange vegetables and fruits their vibrant color and which is converted to vitamin A in the body. Consuming one cup of cooked pumpkin will provide you with over 100% of your daily needs for vitamin A.

Well I'm impressed... Also pumpkin is one of the low-calorie fruit. 100 g has just 26 calories and contains no saturated fats or cholesterol. However, it is rich in dietary fiber and minerals like copper, calcium, potassium and phosphorus.

Delicious pumpkin loaf cake made with all healthy ingredients, packed with aromatic autumn spices, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and tons of sweet pumpkin flavor. CLICK o grab recipe or PIN for later!

To make this Pumpkin Loaf Cake I used homemade pumpkin puree made from fresh pumpkin I bought on farmers market. Using fresh pumpkin and preparing it yourself will give you the most health benefits.

If you decide to make your own pumpkin puree, preparation is pretty easy. Just peel pumpkin and slice it to bite size pieces. Put it in a cooking pan and add water. Cook until pumpkin is softened (around 15 min), drain water and blend pumpkin until smooth. Put puree in a glass jar and store in the refrigerator. Prepared, puree may stand in the fridge for several days and can be used for the preparation of various pumpkin dishes. 

Delicious pumpkin loaf cake made with all healthy ingredients, packed with aromatic autumn spices, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and tons of sweet pumpkin flavor. CLICK o grab recipe or PIN for later!

Pumpkin puree gave the cake desired moisture and sweetness, while spices - Ceylon cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg are responsible for the overwhelming cake fragrance.

Pumpkin Loaf Cake is really easy to prepare and of course, it is moderate in calories.

To make this Pumpkin Loaf Cake even more nutritious, I used whole grain flour. Also, I used natural sweetener - pure maple syrup, but you can substitute syrup with honey. 

Delicious pumpkin loaf cake made with all healthy ingredients, packed with aromatic autumn spices, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and tons of sweet pumpkin flavor. CLICK o grab recipe or PIN for later!

What makes this Pumpkin Loaf Cake super special, is dark chocolate chunks that hides in every sweet bite. It melts in your mouth while cake is still warm, adding sweetness to the cake. I suggest you serve this pumpkin loaf cake with pumpkin cheese spread. Spread's soft sour taste wonderfully complements the sweet taste of the cake.

Now I'll let you enjoy this fragrant deliciousness.

Happy fall season everyone!

Recipe

Pumpkin Loaf Cake with chocolate
Print Recipe
5 from 1 vote

Pumpkin Loaf Cake

Pumpkin Loaf Cake made with HEALTHY ingredients, packed packed with aromatic autumn spices, chocolate chips, and tons of sweet pumpkin flavor.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, International
Keyword: healthy, pumpkin, pumpkin loaf cake, pumpkin spice
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: 197kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 356F (180C). Put baking paper in a 9x5 baking pan and grease a bit with coconut oil.
  • Mix the dry ingredients - flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices and salt in a large bowl.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add honey or syrup, pumpkin puree, coconut oil and whisk until well combined.
  • Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
  • Pour mixture into prepared baking pan.
  • Bake for 35-40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in comes out clean.

Notes

As a measure I used US cup (240ml).

Nutrition

Calories: 197kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 27mg | Sodium: 86mg | Potassium: 214mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 4805IU | Vitamin C: 1.3mg | Calcium: 55mg | Iron: 1.3mg

These are my picks for this recipe:
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Xoxo, Natalie

Let's connect! Find me on - Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

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Delicious Pumpkin Loaf Cake made with all HEALTHY wholesome ingredients, packed with aromatic autumn spices - cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and tons of sweet pumpkin flavor. #healthy #wholegrain #lowcalorie #skinny #pumpkin #holiday #thanksgiving #kidsfriendly #choocolate #fall #dessert | www.natalieshealth.com

Easy Homemade Cottage Cheese Cornbread

by 9 Comments

Full of sweet corn flavor this easy homemade cottage cheese cornbread is perfect addition to any meal. It's made with all healthy ingredients and moderate in calories. It may be plain but it is just beautiful!

Full of proteins, and full of sweet corn flavor, this easy homemade cottage cheese cornbread is made with all healthy ingredients. Flavored with vanilla, enriched with easily digestible fibers, wholesome but moderate in calories. It may be plain but is just beautiful! CLICK to read more or PIN for later!

Last week I got the idea to do a recipe makeover on my blog. I've never done it before, so I thought, it could be fun! For the makeover, I decided to go with an old Croatian recipe that my grandma use to make. A recipe is called "Zagorska Zlevka". This dish is well known in the region where I was originally from - a northwest Zagorje county in Croatia. But it's probably familiar to all of you as well. So I took the old recipe and adapted it to be more HEALTHY, flavored and nutritious.  

Full of proteins, and full of sweet corn flavor, this easy homemade cottage cheese cornbread is made with all healthy ingredients. Flavored with vanilla, enriched with easily digestible fibers, wholesome but moderate in calories. It may be plain but is just beautiful! CLICK to read more or PIN for later!

In Croatia, it's called "Zagorska Zlevka" or "Zagorska Zlevanka" (literal translation would be "poured cake"), but you may know it by the name - CORNBREAD. When I was researching for this recipe I've found out that cornbread is a native American dish and that European explorers learned the original recipes from Indians and transformed it to cornbread we know and make today. So this recipe is like hundreds of years old. Whoa right?! :)

In my country, "Zagorska Zlevka" aka cornbread was considered a pauper's food, food for hard workers and it was made from ingredients that were available to simple peasant family those days - eggs, corn, and cows milk. Originally Croatian Zlevka is made of full-fat homemade cow cheese and sour cream, and off course corn meal/flour. It's known for its sweet taste and simple, plain look. It's almost forgotten meal in my country, so with this recipe, I try to revive it and bring it to modern family tables.

As I said, my grandma and my late grand grandma use to make this cornbread, so it's quite special to me. It reminds me of two of them, the old grandma's house and my lovely Zagorje.

Full of proteins, and full of sweet corn flavor, this easy homemade cottage cheese cornbread is made with all healthy ingredients. Flavored with vanilla, enriched with easily digestible fibers, wholesome but moderate in calories. It may be plain but is just beautiful! CLICK to read more or PIN for later!

This cornbread is made with all HEALTHY ingredients. The traditional recipe calls for full-fat cheese and sour cream. Instead, I used low-fat cottage cheese and Greek yogurt. Those ingredients are rich in protein and low in fat, which makes this cornbread protein-packed, wholesome but moderate in calories. Also, instead of using regular granulated sugar, I used healthier option - raw honey. It provided enough sweetness to the cornbread, but being neutral in taste, it did not distract sweet corn flavor.

The main ingredients in this easy homemade cottage cheese cornbread are eggs, cornmeal, and corn flour.  I also used healthy coconut oil, and I added a bit of vanilla extract which gave the cornbread wonderful warm aroma.

Perhaps your first impression may be that this cornbread surely has a rough texture, because of grits and cornmeal, but believe me, the texture of this cornbread is irresistibly soft and fragrant. It may seem as a plain cornbread, but it's just beautiful fragrant cake!

Full of proteins, and full of sweet corn flavor, this easy homemade cottage cheese cornbread is made with all healthy ingredients. Flavored with vanilla, enriched with easily digestible fibers, wholesome but moderate in calories. It may be plain but is just beautiful! CLICK to read more or PIN for later!

This easy homemade cottage cheese cornbread is light but very fulfilling. Is best served warm, so don't hesitate to have a slice straight from the oven for the unforgettable rustic experience. Serve it with homemade jam or yogurt for a super healthy wholesome breakfast. Easy homemade cottage cheese cornbread is an ideal after-workout meal too - it's rich in protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. It gives lots and lots of energy and it's low in calories.

I'm not sure, is it because of the sweet corn aroma, or sourness of cottage cheese in every bite, or the irresistible vanilla flavor, but this cornbread is just amazing. My husband liked it too. He noticed that even I used different ingredients, the cornbread flavor remained quite old fashioned. I really hope you going to like this cornbread too.

Let me know what you think when you try this recipe. 

Enjoy!

Recipe

Homemade Cornbread made with cottage cheese
Print Recipe
3.90 from 10 votes

Easy Homemade Cottage Cheese Cornbread

Full of sweet corn flavor this easy homemade cottage cheese cornbread is perfect addition to any meal. It's made with all HEALTHY ingredients and moderate in calories. It may be plain but it is just beautiful!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Croatian
Keyword: cornbread, cottage cheese cornbread, easy homemade cornbread, healthy cornbread
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: 175kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

  • 1 cup corn flour (maize flour)
  • ½ cup corn meal polenta
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon Himalayan salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil or melted butter
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 2 cups cottage cheese

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 392F (200C). Grease 13 x 9'' (33x23cm) baking pan with oil.
  • In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients, corn flour, corn meal, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
  • In a separate bowl beat the eggs. Add honey or syrup, vanilla extract and coconut oil.
  • Add in Greek yogurt and cottage cheese.
  • Stir the dry ingredients into the wet.
  • Pour the mixture into baking pan.
  • Bake 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is nicely browned (do the toothpick test).
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before serving.

Notes

As a measure I used UScup (240ml).

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 175kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 75mg | Sodium: 304mg | Potassium: 140mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 148IU | Calcium: 72mg | Iron: 1mg

More healthy desserts to try

Full of sweet corn flavor and just delicious, this easy homemade cottage cheese cornbread is perfect addition to any meal. Flavored with vanilla, packed with easely digestible fibers, wholesome but moderate in calories. It may be plain but it's just beautiful!#Thanksgiving #Holiday #cornbread #cheese #healthy #easy #family #dinner #weightloss #sugarfree #lowcalorie | www.natalieshealth.com

Pineapple Coconut Chia Pudding

by 16 Comments

Creamy, refreshing, and bursting with tropical flavor, this Pineapple Coconut Chia Pudding tastes like a piña colada in breakfast form. It combines vanilla coconut chia pudding with a sweet, icy pineapple puree for a delicious breakfast, snack, or light dessert.

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Pineapple Coconut Chia Pudding layered with pineapple puree and topped with fresh pineapple and coconut flakes

I'm a huge fan of chia pudding. It's one of those simple recipes that looks beautiful, tastes delicious, and requires almost no effort to make.

Chia seeds can be combined with so many different flavors, but pineapple and coconut are definitely among my favorites. This tropical combination is sweet, refreshing, and instantly reminds me of summer.

This Pineapple Coconut Chia Pudding has two delicious layers: creamy vanilla coconut chia pudding and a thick frozen pineapple puree. It tastes almost like a piña colada, only in a wholesome breakfast form.

It's simple, colorful, and so delicious. Perfect for breakfast, a refreshing afternoon snack, or a light summer dessert.

Why should you try it?

  • It's creamy, refreshing, and full of tropical pineapple and coconut flavor.
  • It's made with only six simple ingredients.
  • It requires no cooking and very little preparation.
  • It's naturally dairy-free and gluten-free.
  • It can easily be made vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey.
  • It's suitable for meal prep and can be made ahead.
  • It makes a delicious breakfast, snack, or light dessert.

Ingredients used

This pineapple coconut chia pudding recipe is super simple. You will need only a few basic ingredients:

pineapple chia seed pudding recipe ingredients
  • Chia seeds. You can use black or white chia seeds. Both work equally well and create the same thick, pudding-like texture.
  • Coconut milk. I used unsweetened coconut milk. It gives the chia pudding a creamy texture and a lovely coconut flavor. Coconut milk from a carton will create a lighter pudding, while canned coconut milk will make it richer and thicker.
  • Pineapple. I used frozen pineapple to make a thick, cold fruit puree. You can also use fresh pineapple.
  • Sweetener. I used honey, but pure maple syrup works equally well. Use maple syrup to make this recipe vegan.
  • Vanilla extract. Just a splash of vanilla pairs beautifully with the coconut and makes the pudding taste even more delicious.
  • Coconut flakes. These are optional, but they add extra coconut flavor and a little texture.

How to make Pineapple Coconut Chia Pudding

This chia pudding is very easy to make. You will need only basic kitchen tools: a mixing bowl, spoon or whisk, and a blender or food processor.

Step-by-step instructions

  • Start by measuring all the ingredients. I like to use measuring cups.
  • Place chilled coconut milk in a mixing bowl.
  • Add honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract. Stir until the sweetener is completely dissolved.
  • Add chia seeds and mix well using a whisk or spoon.
  • Leave the chia pudding to rest for 15 minutes. The seeds will absorb the liquid and expand, creating a thick pudding.
  • Stir the mixture halfway through the resting time. This will help the chia seeds absorb the liquid evenly and prevent clumps.
  • While the chia pudding is resting, place the frozen pineapple in a blender or food processor.
  • Blend until you get a thick and smooth pineapple puree.
  • Taste the pineapple puree and add a little honey or maple syrup if needed.
  • Prepare two glasses or jars for serving.
  • Divide the pineapple puree between the glasses.
  • Spoon the coconut chia pudding over the pineapple layer.
  • Top with fresh pineapple pieces and coconut flakes.
  • Serve and enjoy!
Pineapple Coconut Chia Pudding layered with pineapple puree and topped with fresh pineapple and coconut flakes

Tips for storing

  • Keep the chia pudding sealed in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • For the best texture, store the chia pudding and pineapple puree in separate containers and assemble them before serving.
  • You can also prepare the pudding in individual jars for an easy grab-and-go breakfast.
  • Chia pudding becomes thicker the longer it sits. Add a splash of coconut milk and stir before serving if it becomes too thick.
  • Add fresh pineapple and coconut flakes just before serving.

Substitutions

  • You can substitute honey with pure maple syrup, date syrup, or agave nectar.
  • You can use fresh pineapple instead of frozen pineapple.
  • You can also use drained canned pineapple packed in juice. Avoid pineapple packed in heavy syrup.
  • Substitute pineapple with mango or use a combination of pineapple and mango.
  • Substitute coconut flakes with chopped almonds, macadamia nuts, granola, or hemp seeds.
Pineapple Coconut Chia Pudding layered with pineapple puree and topped with fresh pineapple and coconut flakes

Recipe variations

  • Make it vegan. Use pure maple syrup or another plant-based liquid sweetener instead of honey.
  • Make piña colada chia pudding. Add a little lime zest to the pineapple puree and finish with toasted coconut flakes.
  • Make pineapple mango chia pudding. Replace half of the pineapple with frozen mango.
  • Make it extra creamy. Add a spoonful of coconut yogurt to the chia pudding before serving.
  • Make it with protein powder. Add a small amount of vanilla protein powder to the coconut milk mixture. You may need to add more milk because protein powder absorbs liquid.
  • Make it for meal prep. Divide the pudding between individual jars, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  • Make a chia pudding parfait. Alternate smaller layers of pineapple puree and coconut chia pudding, then top with yogurt and granola.

Recipe tips

  • Make sure to stir the chia pudding twice: once when you add the chia seeds and again after about 5 minutes. This prevents the seeds from clumping or settling at the bottom.
  • Use chilled coconut milk for a refreshing pudding.
  • If the chia pudding is too thick, add more coconut milk, one tablespoon at a time.
  • Frozen pineapple creates a colder and thicker puree. Let it soften for a few minutes if your blender has difficulty processing it.
  • If using fresh pineapple, choose one that is ripe and naturally sweet.
  • For a smoother chia pudding, blend the coconut milk, chia seeds, vanilla, and sweetener before leaving the mixture to set.
  • You can serve this pudding after about 15 minutes, but the texture will become thicker if you refrigerate it for several hours or overnight.
Pineapple Coconut Chia Pudding layered with pineapple puree and topped with fresh pineapple and coconut flakes

Sweetener recommendation

I used honey in this pineapple coconut chia pudding recipe. It adds mild sweetness and pairs beautifully with pineapple and coconut.

You can use other sweeteners:

  • Use pure maple syrup to make the recipe vegan.
  • Use date syrup or agave nectar.
  • Use liquid stevia or another liquid low-carb sweetener.
  • Avoid granulated sweeteners unless they dissolve easily in cold liquid.

Always taste the pineapple before adding extra sweetener. A ripe pineapple may be sweet enough on its own.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Yes. Fresh pineapple works very well in this recipe. Use ripe, chilled pineapple and blend it until smooth. You can also reserve a few pieces for topping the pudding.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes. Use canned pineapple packed in juice and drain it well before blending. Avoid pineapple packed in heavy syrup.

What type of coconut milk should I use?

Unsweetened coconut milk from a carton creates a lighter chia pudding. Canned coconut milk produces a richer and thicker texture. If using canned coconut milk, you may need to dilute it with a little water or another milk.

Can I make this chia pudding overnight?

Yes. Mix the coconut chia pudding, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. It will become quite thick, so add a splash of coconut milk and stir before serving if needed.

Why isn't my chia pudding thickening?

Make sure you have used the correct ratio of chia seeds to milk and stirred the mixture thoroughly. Leave it to rest for at least 15 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Some chia seeds may take a little longer to absorb the liquid.

Is pineapple coconut chia pudding vegan?

It is vegan when made with maple syrup, date syrup, agave, or another plant-based sweetener. The recipe is not vegan when made with honey.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes. Pineapple coconut chia pudding can be prepared ahead and stored in sealed jars in the refrigerator. For the best results, add fresh toppings immediately before serving.

How long does chia pudding last in the refrigerator?

Store the chia pudding in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Stir it before serving and add more coconut milk if needed.

This pineapple chia pudding is creamy, fruity, and wonderfully refreshing. It's packed with tropical flavors and made with simple ingredients, making it a perfect quick breakfast or light dessert.

There's nothing left for me to say other than: grab your spoon, imagine yourself somewhere warm and sunny, and enjoy this little tropical treat!

Recipe

Pineapple coconut chia pudding layered with pineapple puree and topped with fresh pineapple and coconut flakes
Print Recipe
4.09 from 46 votes

Pineapple Coconut Chia Pudding

This Pineapple Coconut Chia Pudding is creamy, refreshing, and bursting with tropical flavor. Made with coconut milk and a sweet pineapple puree, it's an easy no-cook breakfast or light dessert made with only six simple ingredients.
Prep Time15 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: International
Keyword: Breakfast, chia pudding, chia pudding recipe, pineapple chia pudding, pineapple coconut chia pudding, summer
Servings: 2
Calories: 225kcal
Author: Natalie

Equipment

  • Measuring cups
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Blender or food processor
  • Serving glasses or jars

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
  • 4 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 1 tablespoon honey or pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup frozen pineapple
  • Fresh pineapple, for topping
  • Coconut flakes, for topping

Instructions

  • Place chilled coconut milk in a mixing bowl. Add honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract. Stir until the sweetener is completely dissolved.
  • Add chia seeds and mix well using a whisk or spoon.
  • Leave the chia pudding to rest for 15 minutes. Stir halfway through the resting time to prevent clumps.
  • While the chia pudding is resting, place the frozen pineapple in a blender or food processor.
  • Blend until you get a thick and smooth pineapple puree. Add a little honey or maple syrup if needed.
  • Divide the pineapple puree between two serving glasses or jars.
  • Spoon the coconut chia pudding over the pineapple layer.
  • Top with fresh pineapple pieces and coconut flakes.
  • Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Notes

This recipe makes two servings.
As a measure, I used a US cup measuring 240 ml.
Substitutions
  • Substitute honey with pure maple syrup, date syrup, or agave nectar.
  • Use fresh or drained canned pineapple instead of frozen pineapple.
  • Use mango or a combination of pineapple and mango.
  • Use pure maple syrup to make the recipe vegan.
Tips for storing
  • Keep the chia pudding sealed in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • Add fresh pineapple and coconut flakes immediately before serving.
  • If the pudding becomes too thick, add a splash of coconut milk and stir.

Nutrition

Calories: 225kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 5mg | Potassium: 210mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 50IU | Vitamin C: 39.4mg | Calcium: 222mg | Iron: 2.1mg

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Cinnamon Vanilla Donuts are perfect quick treat your whole family will love. These delicious donuts are covered with chocolate. perfectly flavored but 100% HEALTHY - whole grain and REFINED-SUGAR-FREE. Yummy and easy to make.

Cinnamon Vanilla Donuts

It's carnival time here in Croatia, and that means only one thing - it's time for DONUTS! Fatty, sugar-sprinkled, jam / Nutella-filled donuts. People are very enthusiastic about overeating with these sugary, fatty treats, but me.. kinda NOT.

But don't think we healthy-eaters don't enjoy carnival donuts too. Yes, we are! But we make healthy ones. Like Double Chocolate Banana Donuts or BUU spooky Ghost Vanilly Donuts. Today I'm sharing yet another of my family favorite donut recipe - this  Cinnamon Vanilla Donuts that are everything but overloaded with unnecessary calories. These are delicious, chocolate covered perfect treat.

Delicious and healthy, chocolate covered cinnamon vanilla donuts. Dessert made from all healthy ingredients, baked in the oven without added fat. CLICK on link to read more. PIN for later!

Cinnamon Vanilla Donuts

For making these Cinnamon Vanilla Donuts I used all HEALTHY ingredients - whole grain flour, maple syrup, and coconut oil, and I used spices - vanilla and Ceylon cinnamon to give donuts this amazing flavor and scent. In takes just about 15 minutes in the oven, and donuts are ready for coating with my favorite raw dark chocolate. 

This time I decorated these donuts with colorful sprinkles, but you can sprinkle these with shredded coconut, carob, poppy seeds or ground nuts. The options are numerous.

Cinnamon Vanilla Donuts

Cinnamon Vanilla Donuts-4562

These delightful little donuts are are BAKED IN THE OVEN. Meaning - added fat-free!

All you need to make oven baked donuts is a donut pan. Seriously, get one NOW! This donut combo pan kit is amazing - it has everything you need to make HEALTHY donuts at home. Use my code: DONUT15N and get a special 15% discount when purchasing.

These round chocolate covered Cinnamon Vanilla Donuts are beauties you just don't want miss trying. They will delight you - they are simple to make and absolutely delicious. + HEALTHY too, baked in the oven without added fat and REFINED SUGAR-FREE. 

I can only say, omnomnom till next year and carnival time. Enjoy!

Recipe

Print Recipe
5 from 4 votes

Cinnamon Vanilla Donuts

Cinnamon Vanilla Donuts are perfect quick treat your whole family will love. These delicious donuts are covered with chocolate. perfectly flavored but 100% HEALTHY - whole grain and REFINED-SUGAR-FREE. Yummy and easy to make. 
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cinnamon, donuts, healthy, vanilla
Servings: 9 donuts
Calories: 179kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

For chocolate topping:

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350F (180C). Grease donut pan.
  • In a large bowl mix together dry ingredients - flour, salt, baking powder, soda and ground cinnamon.
  • In a separate bowl whisk egg whites. Add melted coconut oil, syrup or honey, vanilla extract and milk and gently stir.
  • Add wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix well.
  • Fill donut pan with the mixture. Make sure you don't overfill.
  • Bake for 14-17 minutes until donuts get nicely golden.
  • Remove from oven and allow donuts to cool for 5 minutes.
  • Tip donuts out and dip into a chocolate topping. Sprinkle with colorful sprinkles, chia seeds or coconut flakes. 
  • For chocolate topping: Mix all ingredients in a bowl until you get smooth mixture. 

Notes

As a measure I used UScup (240ml).

Nutrition

Serving: 1donut | Calories: 179kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 217mg | Potassium: 163mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 20IU | Calcium: 46mg | Iron: 0.9mg

Check out my other HEALTHY desserts:
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Chocolate Banana Cake
Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

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Xoxo, Natalie

Let's connect! Find me on - Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

*** PIN for later ***Chocolate covered Cinnamon Vanilla Donuts are perfect quick dessert or breakfast. These delicious donuts are made with all HEALTHY ingredients - whole grain and refined sugar-free, baked in the oven without added fat. #donuts #dounuts #breakfast #kidsfirndly #sugarfree #wholesome #healthy #healthyrecipes #eatinghealthy #famillyrecipes #fatfree #healthymeals | NATALIESHEALTH.com

French Toast Vanilla Muffins

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Oven baked French Toast Vanilla Muffins are perfect EASY breakfast your whole family will love. Soft, delicious and healthier than classic French Toast. Whole Grain, fat-free, refined sugar-free and just yummy.

French Toast Vanilla Muffins baked in the oven, fat-free and just delicious. Perfect kid-friendly HEALTHY breakfast! CLICK to read recipe or PIN for later! via natalieshealth.com #healthy #breakfast #lowfat #sugarfree #kidfriendly

Isn't it the French Toast like the BEST breakfast ever? I mean I love having Coffee Chocolate Smoothie or Berry Breakfast Bars. But I loveeee French toast. My whole family loves it.

When I changed my diet, I easily give up almost all unhealthy food, but when it came to French Toast, that was a real struggle. We love having a French Toast for breakfast. That's why I had to think of something that will satisfy our cravings and yet not overload us with unnecessary fats. I needed a healthier version of classic fried French Toast.

For a long time, I didn't know that there is an alternative. Lately, I'm experimenting a lot with food baked in the oven - as an alternative to deep frying in oil. So I thought, maybe I can somehow bake bread in the oven and have nutritious breakfast that we really love.

And so the idea for oven-baked French Toast was born. And why not make it more fun and put French Toast in a muffin pan. Heureka!

French Toast Vanilla Muffins baked in the oven, fat-free and just delicious. Perfect kid-friendly HEALTHY breakfast! CLICK to read recipe or PIN for later! via natalieshealth.com #healthy #breakfast #lowfat #sugarfree #kidfriendly

We all know that french toast is a great way to reuse old bread. According to the classic recipe, the bread is soaked in a mixture made from eggs and full-fat milk and fried in oil or butter. Later, you try to "squeeze out" the excessive grease with paper towels, but that doesn't help much. Fat is already absorbed deep into bread, and you end up eating empty calories.

To make a HEALTHY French Toast I used whole wheat bread, eggs, plant-based milk and healthy fats - coconut oil. Ha! Healthy tweaks!

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French Toast Vanilla Muffins baked in the oven, fat-free and just delicious. Perfect kid-friendly HEALTHY breakfast! CLICK to read recipe or PIN for later! via natalieshealth.com #healthy #breakfast #lowfat #sugarfree #kidfriendly

Preparation is really easy. A classic, with a twist at the end. First I made a mixture from eggs and milk to which I added a pinch of salt and vanilla extract. Then I added whole wheat toast bread sliced into small cubes into the mixture. (TIP: As older the bread, the better because it will quickly absorb a tasty mixture.) And now, instead of frying bread in oil, just fill muffin cups with bread mixture and bake for 20 minutes in the oven. Easy peasy!

When the cute little French Toast Vanilla Muffins are done, pour some honey or syrup over it and serve with fresh fruits - blueberries, raspberries, bananas, whichever you prefer. And voilà... your nutritious and healthy French Toast Vanilla Muffins are ready. I promise you and the kids gonna love it!

 Enjoy!

 

Recipe

French Toast Vanilla Muffins baked in the oven, fat-free and just delicious. Perfect kid-friendly HEALTHY breakfast! CLICK to read recipe or PIN for later! via natalieshealth.com #healthy #breakfast #lowfat #sugarfree #kidfriendly
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5 from 3 votes

French Toast Vanilla Muffins

Sweet, nutritious and healthy French Toast Vanilla Muffins served with fresh fruits. A snack your kids going to love and perfect meal to start the day.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: French
Servings: 12 muffins
Calories: 90kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

  • 5 large eggs
  • 6-8 thick slices of whole wheat toast bread
  • ½ cup milk plant-based or cow's low-fat
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • Pinch of Himalayan salt
  • extra virgin coconut oil for greasing muffin pan
  • Honey or syrup for drizzling
  • Fresh fruits blueberries, strawberries, banana...

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a muffin pan with olive oil.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt and vanilla extract. Slice toast bread into small cubes. Add the sliced bread to the mixture and whisk together until the bread absorbs the mixture.
  • Divide the bread among the muffin cups.
  • Bake for 20 - 25 minutes until slightly crisped on top and browned.
  • Allow the cups to cool for 5 minutes in the muffin pan then scoop each one out and serve topped with honey or syrup and fresh fruit.

Nutrition

Serving: 1muffin | Calories: 90kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 69mg | Sodium: 127mg | Potassium: 72mg | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 115IU | Calcium: 42mg | Iron: 1.2mg

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Let's connect! Find me on - Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

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Healthy Coconut Bites

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Coconutty and flavorful, these Healthy Coconut Bites will surely delight you. These little joys look beautiful on the Holiday table. They are completely guilt-free, loaded with HEALTHY stuff and made without refined sugar.

I'm really a big fan of coconut. A BIG fan! But until a year ago I didn't know that eating a coconut is actually really healthy for my body. To be perfectly honest, until a year ago I didn't know much about that tropical splendor.

For example, I didn't know that you can make coconut milk out of coconut flour at home. Or that there is a coconut oil you can cook with, or that you can replace all-purpose white flour with coconut flour in making cakes or bread. 

Now that I know all these wonderful things about coconut and how its consumption contributes to my health, coconut is my favorite superfood beside chocolate, and a must have in my kitchen.

And since I'm a huge fan of energy balls - Turmeric Energy Balls and Carrot Cake Balls are my favorite, making these Healthy Coconut Bites was just natural thing to do when I rediscovered coconut. 

Healthy coconut bites that combine tropic flavor of coconut and aromatic vanilla, made from healthy ingredients - a superfood coconut oil and coconut flour, naturally sweetened with honey. CLICK to read more or PIN for later!

For making these Healthy Coconut Bites you will need only 4 ingredients - shredded unsweetened coconut, coconut oil, honey and vanilla extract.

Also, you will need a food processor with the extension for grinding or an ordinary coffee grinder. While grinding coconut flakes in the electric grinder some of oils from coconut releases and you'll get a wet, dense mixture - something like the coconut butter.

Transfer the mixture into a bowl and just add other ingredients. Stir until you get thick paste-like dough. Coconut will absorb liquids from oil and syrup will combine the whole thing into a compact mass.

 I formed little bite-size coconut balls with my hands, and I used a teaspoon for dosing. When you put a piece of the mixture in your hand, coconut oil will slowly melt so you can shape your ball nicely. Once you made a ball, roll it in a shredded coconut immediately. 

Healthy coconut bites that combine tropic flavor of coconut and aromatic vanilla, made from healthy ingredients - a superfood coconut oil and coconut flour, naturally sweetened with honey. CLICK to read more or PIN for later!

Healthy coconut bites that combine tropic flavor of coconut and aromatic vanilla, made from healthy ingredients - a superfood coconut oil and coconut flour, naturally sweetened with honey. CLICK to read more or PIN for later!

The main ingredient in these coconut balls is a superfood - coconut oil. Coconut oil is very healthy and if you still haven't incorporated it into your daily diet, DO IT! It helps in lowering bad cholesterol, improves the absorption of vitamins and minerals, has a positive effect on a blood sugar, and preserves the health of our heart. Also it strengthens the immune system and improves digestion and helps with weight loss.

Coconut oil also contains medium chain fatty acids which is easily digested in the human organism and almost immediately converted into energy. So these sweet coconut bites are actually like a small healthy energy bomblets.

Put Healthy Coconut Bites in a container and refrigerate. Have them as a treat, snack or serve as a dessert on your holiday table. These energy bites are also good as a post workout snack.

Enjoy!

Recipe

Healthy coconut bites that combine tropic flavor of coconut and aromatic vanilla, made from healthy ingredients - a superfood coconut oil and coconut flour, naturally sweetened with honey. CLICK to read more or PIN for later!
Print Recipe
4.10 from 156 votes

Healthy Coconut Bites

Dessert made from healthy ingredients - a superfood coconut oil and coconut flakes, naturally sweetened with honey, combines a divinely tropic flavor of coconut and vanilla into a delightful bite-size energy bomblets.
Prep Time10 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: International
Keyword: coconut bites, coconut energy balls, no bake coconut balls
Servings: 24 balls
Calories: 72kcal
Author: Natalie

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Pulse the shredded coconut in a grinder for a few seconds until flakes releases some of oils and texture becomes wet and dense. Transfer the mixture into a bowl and add other ingredients. Stir with a spoon until you get a thick paste.
  • Leave the mixture for few minutes at room temperature, and then transfer it to the refrigerator for 20 minutes until mixture become firm and harden.
  • Dose mixture with a teaspoon and form small bite-size balls with your hand. Immediately roll a ball in shredded coconut and place on a wax paper.
  • Place finished coconut bites in a refrigerator to cool completely. Keep in cool place until serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ball | Calories: 72kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 42mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 0.3mg

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Xoxo, Natalie

Let's connect! Find me on - Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

*** PIN for later ***

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