Enjoy Springtime Festivities the Healthy Way with these 5 Refined Sugar Free Spring Treats!

Spring is a time of celebration and indulgence, but that doesn't mean we have to sacrifice our health in the process. With the rise of the Clean Eating Lifestyle, more and more people are looking for ways to enjoy festive treats without the harmful effects of refined sugar.

Spring is a time of celebration and indulgence, but that doesn't mean we have to sacrifice our health in the process. In this blog post, we will explore 5 festive spring treats that are refined sugar-free, along with their easy DIY recipes.

The Health Benefits of these 5 Refined Sugar Free Spring Treats

By making your own clean eating lifestyle-friendly treats, you can avoid the health repercussions of conventional Easter candies that are full of cane sugar, corn syrup, food dyes, and other non-natural ingredients. These harmful ingredients have been linked to various health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and inflammation.

On the other hand, enjoying homemade treats has several health benefits:

No Refined Sugar

Refined sugar is known to cause a spike in blood sugar levels, leading to energy crashes and cravings. By mindfully using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in your homemade treats, you can satisfy your sweet tooth occasionally without the negative effects of refined sugar.

Nutrient-Dense Ingredients

When you make your own treats, you have control over the ingredients used. By choosing nutrient-dense ingredients like coconut oil, nut butters or nut-free butters, and fresh fruit juices, you can add a boost of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats to your treats.

Avoid Artificial Additives

Commercial treats are often filled with artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. These additives have been linked to allergies, hyperactivity in children, and other health issues. By making your own treats at home, you can avoid these harmful additives and enjoy a more natural and wholesome treat.

Skip the Candy Aisle and Make these Delicious Treats this Spring

Marshmallow Fluff

Who doesn't love the fluffy goodness of marshmallows? Unfortunately, most store-bought marshmallows are loaded with cane sugar and corn syrup. But fear not! You can easily make your own marshmallow fluff using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup honey or maple syrup 

- 3 egg whites

 - 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar 

- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

In a large glass bowl, combine honey or maple syrup with 1/4 cup of water.
Place the bowl over a medium pot of gently simmering water and whisk until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form. Slowly pour the hot syrup into the egg whites while continuing to beat on high speed.
Add vanilla extract and continue beating until the mixture is thick and glossy. Transfer the marshmallow fluff to a jar and let it cool before using.

Chocolates

Chocolates are a staple during Easter and spring celebrations, but most commercial chocolates are filled with refined sugar and artificial additives. Luckily, you can easily make your own primal-friendly chocolates using natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or stevia.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup cocoa powder or carob powder 

- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted 

- 1/4 cup monk fruit, or stevia

 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

In a bowl, whisk together cocoa powder or carob powder, melted coconut oil, coconut sugar or sweetener, and vanilla extract.
Stir until well combined and smooth.
Pour the mixture into chocolate molds or an ice cube tray.
Place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to fully set.
Once set, remove from the molds and enjoy!

Gummies

Gummies are a fun and delicious treat for both kids and adults. Unfortunately, most store-bought gummies are packed with artificial flavors, colors, and high-fructose corn syrup. But don't worry, you can easily make your own gummies using natural fruit juices and gelatin.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup 100% fruit juice (such as apple, pear, or fruit punch)

 - 3 tablespoons grass-fed granulated gelatin 

- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

In a saucepan, heat the fruit juice over low heat until warm.
Slowly whisk in the gelatin powder until dissolved.
If desired, add honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Pour the mixture into silicone molds or a baking dish.
Place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set.
Once set, remove from the molds or cut into bite-sized pieces.

Caramels

Caramels are a rich and decadent treat, but most conventional caramels are made with corn syrup and refined sugar. Luckily, you can make your own caramels using natural sweeteners like coconut sugar and nut butter or nut-free butters.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup coconut sugar

 - 1/2 cup almond butter, sunflower seed butter, tigernut butter, or coconut butter 

- 1/4 cup coconut oil 

- 1/4 cup full-fat coconut milk

 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

In a saucepan, combine coconut sugar, almond butter or nut-free butter, coconut oil, and coconut milk.
Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and let it cool completely.
Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!

Lemon Pudding

Lemon pudding is a refreshing and tangy dessert that is perfect for spring. Unfortunately, most store-bought lemon puddings are loaded with artificial flavors and preservatives. But don't worry, you can easily make your own lemon pudding using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup coconut milk

- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

- 1 teaspoon lemon zest

 - 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

 - 4 egg yolks

Instructions:

In a medium saucepan, whisk together all ingredients.
Cook over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, whisking often to prevent scorching, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Pour the mixture into individual serving dishes. Refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours to set and chill before serving.

Make Your Family Happy by Making these 5 Refined Sugar Free Spring Treats!

This spring, indulge in the festive spirit without compromising your health. Try these 5 festive spring treats that are refined sugar-free and enjoy the benefits of homemade, clean eating lifestyle-friendly treats. Your taste buds and your body will thank you!

*Not medical advice

Sources

https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/the-sweet-danger-of-sugar

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/why-high-fructose-corn-syrup-is-bad

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/food-colours-and-hyperactivity/