Are you a sweet tooth with a conscience? Do you crave indulgent treats that are also nutritious and good for you? You’re in luck! We’ve scoured the globe to bring you 18 scrumptious and healthy candy recipes that will satisfy your cravings without compromising on taste or nutrition. From classic candies like peanut butter cups and chocolate chip cookies, to innovative treats like matcha green tea truffles and chia seed gummies, we’ve got something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of healthy candy-making, where natural ingredients meet creative flavors. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for guilt-free snacks or an athlete seeking post-workout treats that will fuel your body, these recipes are sure to delight. So, go ahead and indulge in some sweet fun – your taste buds (and your health) will thank you!
Dark Chocolate Almond Butter Cups
These Dark Chocolate Almond Butter Cups are a decadent dessert perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With the combination of creamy almond butter, dark chocolate, and crunchy almonds, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup creamy almond butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups semisweet dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream together butter and almond butter until smooth.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Pour melted chocolate onto prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer.
6. Dollop tablespoon-sized balls of almond butter mixture onto the chocolate layer.
7. Sprinkle chopped almonds over the top.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is no-bake!
Homemade Fruit Leather
Make your own delicious and healthy fruit leather at home with just a few simple ingredients! This recipe is perfect for snacking on the go or adding some fun to lunchboxes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon pectin (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the mixed fruit until smooth.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the fruit puree, honey, and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 220°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in pectin (if using).
5. Pour the mixture onto a silicone mat or parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
6. Use a spatula to spread the mixture into an even layer, about 1/8 inch thick.
7. Place the baking sheet in the oven and dehydrate for 3-4 hours, or until the fruit leather reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Date and Coconut Energy Bites
Boost your energy levels with these no-bake bites packed with natural goodness from dates, coconut, and oats. Perfect as a quick snack or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted Medjool dates
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Soak the dates in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and blend the dates with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the blended dates, coconut, oats, chia seeds, and salt.
4. Mix well to form a sticky dough.
5. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
8. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
Yield: About 12-15 energy bites
Matcha Green Tea Truffles
Elevate your sweet treats with the subtle bitterness and grassy notes of matcha green tea. These bite-sized truffles are perfect for a unique dessert or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the confectioners’ sugar and matcha powder.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the matcha mixture until well combined.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Stir the softened butter and vanilla extract into the melted chocolate.
6. Fold the matcha-cream mixture into the chocolate mixture until smooth.
7. Roll into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None required, as these truffles are chilled before serving.
Peanut Butter Protein Balls
A delicious and healthy snack option, these protein-rich balls are perfect for fitness enthusiasts and peanut butter lovers alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup protein powder of your choice (e.g. whey or plant-based)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the oats and protein powder.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the peanut butter mixture to the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 balls.
5. Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These bites are ready straight from the fridge.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious peanut butter protein balls as a post-workout snack or anytime you need a pick-me-up!
Raw Cacao and Avocado Fudge
This indulgent treat combines the velvety texture of avocados with the deep, rich flavor of raw cacao to create a decadent dessert that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup raw cacao powder
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the remaining ingredients to the blender and process until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Pour the mixture into a lined or greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the fudge to set.
5. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is raw and requires no cooking.
Chia Seed Gummies
These bite-sized gummies are infused with the nutritious benefits of chia seeds and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the chia seeds and water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, lemon juice, and salt. Heat over low heat until the honey is fully dissolved.
3. Add the chia seed mixture to the saucepan and stir well.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the gummies have thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Use a piping bag or spoon to shape the mixture into desired shapes (e.g., squares, circles).
7. Place the gummies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tips:
– You can customize the flavor by adding different extracts (e.g., vanilla, almond) or fruit purees.
– Store the gummies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Banana Oat Cookies with Dark Chocolate Chips
A sweet and satisfying treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the earthy goodness of oats, and a burst of dark chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add mashed bananas and mix until well combined.
5. Stir in the dry ingredients until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Fold in dark chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown around edges.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Turmeric and Ginger Honey Drops
These bite-sized treats combine the anti-inflammatory powers of turmeric with the warming properties of ginger, all wrapped up in a sweet and sticky honey coating. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the oats, honey, ginger, turmeric, and salt until well combined.
2. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 drops.
3. Place the drops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
4. Store the Turmeric and Ginger Honey Drops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None, as these are no-bake treats!
Cashew and Vanilla Bliss Balls
These bite-sized treats are a delicious combination of creamy cashews and sweet vanilla, perfect for snacking or as a healthy dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup raw cashews
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the cashews, then blend them with the oats, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the bliss balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None needed! Just blend, shape, and chill.
Strawberry Yogurt Bark
A refreshing and healthy treat perfect for warm weather! This no-bake Strawberry Yogurt Bark is easy to make and packed with sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup shaved dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Fold in the sliced strawberries.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
4. Pour the yogurt mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle the shaved dark chocolate over the top of the yogurt mixture.
6. Drizzle the lemon juice and sprinkle with salt.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Break into bark-sized pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake recipe)
Pumpkin Spice Energy Bars
Pumpkin Spice Energy Bars: A Delicious and Nutritious Treat
These soft and chewy energy bars are perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat, packed with the warm spices of pumpkin pie. With only 5 ingredients and 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these tasty bars ready in no time!
Ingredients:
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup dried dates, pitted
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats and dates.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together almond butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the pumpkin pie spice to the almond butter mixture and stir well.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Press the mixture into a lined or greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake energy bars are ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Apricot and Walnut Energy Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick energy boost or as a healthy snack on-the-go. Made with rolled oats, apricots, walnuts, and honey, they’re packed with fiber, protein, and natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, apricots, and walnuts.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the honey over low heat until smooth and runny.
3. Pour the warm honey over the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. If using chia seeds, add them to the mixture and stir.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
6. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to shape the mixture into bite-sized balls.
7. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe!
Carob and Coconut Clusters
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these chewy and nutty clusters, perfect for a quick snack or dessert. With the combination of carob’s rich flavor and shredded coconut’s tropical twist, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup carob chips
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine oats and carob chips.
3. In a separate bowl, mix softened butter and honey until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Fold in shredded coconut and salt.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cluster.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow clusters to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blueberry Chia Jam Candies
These bite-sized candies combine the natural sweetness of blueberries with the nutty flavor of chia seeds, all wrapped up in a delicious jam-like filling. Perfect for a healthy snack or dessert topping!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the blueberries and combine with chia seeds in a small saucepan.
2. Add honey, lemon juice, and water to the saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and the chia seeds have absorbed some of the liquid.
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
5. Spoon the cooled jam into small candy molds or a lined mini muffin tin.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Potato Brownie Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of brownies, creating a unique and irresistible dessert. Perfect for parties or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate chips for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
4. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Orange and Pistachio Chocolate Bark
Brighten up your day with this sweet and tangy treat! This Orange and Pistachio Chocolate Bark combines the richness of dark chocolate with the warmth of orange zest and the crunch of pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the orange marmalade, pistachios, and orange zest.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: None required! Just chill and enjoy!
Spiced Apple and Walnut Candies
These chewy candies combine the warmth of spices with the crunch of walnuts and the sweetness of apples, perfect for a snack or gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh apple
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Combine brown sugar and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in chopped apple, walnuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture onto a parchment-lined surface or a silicone mat. Let cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
4. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut into desired shapes. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes (including cooling time)
Enjoy your homemade Spiced Apple and Walnut Candies!
Summary
Get your sweet fix with these 18 delicious and nutritious candy recipes! From dark chocolate almond butter cups to matcha green tea truffles, and from peanut butter protein balls to chia seed gummies, these treats are not only tasty but also packed with health benefits. With ingredients like coconut, avocado, and turmeric, you’ll be indulging in guilt-free goodness. Whether you’re a sweet tooth or just looking for a healthier snack option, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body.
Leave a Reply