You Won't Believe These 3 Sweet Holiday Treats Are Actually Healthy—Find Out How They Can Transform Your Celebrations!

Joy Bauer, a renowned nutritionist and health expert, has officially joined the Start TODAY family, bringing her expertise in healthy eating directly to American households. With the holiday season upon us, which often tempts us with festive, indulgent treats, Bauer offers a solution: three better-for-you desserts that combine nostalgia with nutrition. These recipes are designed to deliver all the joyful flavors associated with the holidays, while also being kind to your body.

Bauer's first recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Nutty Puppy Chow, also known as muddy buddies. This version transforms traditional elements into a healthier snack by using popcorn. The result is a sweet-salty crunch, enhanced with chocolate-peanut butter drizzles, chopped peanuts, and a light dusting of sugar. It's an easy-to-make treat that evokes childhood memories while being a lighter alternative. This popcorn can be served in a large bowl for movie nights, packaged for gifting, or just left out to watch it disappear.

Next up are mini frozen ice cream cookie dough sandwiches, which epitomize joyful snacking. These no-bake delights are created with soft cookie dough surrounding a creamy center of either ice cream or banana. Bauer emphasizes their quick preparation, making them ideal for the busy holiday season. For those curious to see these treats in action, Bauer has provided a tutorial on her Instagram, showcasing just how easy and irresistible they truly are.

Lastly, for lovers of pecan pie who dread the hassle of rolling out a crust or waiting for a pie to bake, Bauer presents her innovative pecan pie shooters. This recipe captures the warm, gooey, maple-pecan essence of the classic dessert, utilizing oats, chopped pecans, maple syrup, and cinnamon. A quick microwave step transforms these ingredients into a sticky, luscious filling perfect for spooning into shot glasses or even stuffing into dates. Their adorable presentation makes them a festive addition to any holiday gathering, allowing guests to enjoy the flavors of pie in a fun and convenient way.

With these recipes, Joy Bauer not only makes it easier to indulge during the holiday season but also encourages a more health-conscious approach to celebrating. For those eager to explore more healthy recipes, the Start TODAY app provides additional resources and meal plans to help simplify the journey to better eating.