The winter season brings with it a time of merriment, where the aroma of baked goods and sweet treats fills the air. Amidst the cold, desserts become a source of warmth and joy, creating a cosy atmosphere in homes. However, traditional winter desserts are often laden with calories, challenging the health-conscious.
Video: Original Recipes by Mashed/YouTube
1. No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
These cookies blend the nutritious benefits of old-fashioned oats with the indulgence of chocolate. While containing sugar and chocolate, the key is moderation. These cookies, brimming with oats, seeds, and dried fruits, offer a healthy twist to conventional cookies, making them an ideal treat any time of the day.
2. Fruit Custard
A delightful blend of fruits and milk, fruit custard is a nutritious winter dessert. Easy to prepare, it incorporates the goodness of various fruits, adding essential nutrients to one's diet. Opting for healthier sweeteners like jaggery instead of sugar can enhance its health quotient.
Image Credit: Freepik
3. Cinnamon Cookies
Freshly baked cinnamon cookies, infused with the warmth of cinnamon and ginger, are perfect for Christmas. Incorporating dates and dry fruits adds to their nutritional value. Cinnamon and ginger, known for their health benefits, bring a cosy warmth, making these cookies a healthy choice.
4. Mini Apple Pies
These bite-sized delights are a healthier version of the traditional apple pie. With only five tablespoons of sugar in the entire recipe, including the streusel topping, these mini apple pies are a guilt-free way to satisfy apple pie cravings. They are perfect for portion control and can be enjoyed by everyone.
5. Roasted Makhana Kheer
Makhana kheer, made with roasted makhanas, is a low-calorie dessert option. Known for aiding in weight loss, makhanas create a delicious kheer that can be sweetened with honey or jaggery. This dessert can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it versatile for winter evenings.
6. Peanut Laddoo
Peanut laddoos, made with roasted peanuts, jaggery, and ghee, are a nutritious treat. These laddoos are a healthier alternative to traditional sweets and do not hinder weight loss efforts when consumed in moderation. They are a delightful way to satisfy sweet cravings healthily.
7. Blueberry Crumble
Ideal for gatherings, blueberry crumble is a crowd-pleaser. The topping, which can be prepared ahead, is a mix of oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter. Fresh blueberries, rich in antioxidants, form the heart of this dessert, topped with a crumbly, cinnamon-infused layer.
Winter desserts are more than just a treat; they are a celebration of the season. The joy of indulging in a sweet dessert on a cold day is unmatched. These seven desserts prove that one can enjoy the decadence of winter treats without compromising on health. Each dessert brings its unique flavours and health benefits, ensuring that the winter season is both delightful and nutritious.