Around here, we like to adopt a sensible approach to sweets. Life is short and we think it should be savored. It seems that finding the right balance when it comes to indulgence is a key to happiness. If you're trying to recalibrate after a particularly indulgent holiday season, here are some choose-this-not-that ideas for your favorite baked goods.
Craving cookies? Bake
Cranberry Oatmeal instead of Triple Chocolate Chip. You'll save about 35-50 calories per cookie! You can also make half-size cookies by cutting each ball of cookie dough in half. (Remember to monitor baking times, which will be 3-4 minus less for smaller cookies.) A half-size cookie means half the calories. (Our
Nibblers bite-sized cookies are a perfect way to indulge with balance.)
Craving brownies? Try our
Reduced-Fat Chocolate Brownie recipe. Or, if you're using a mix, swap applesauce for vegetable oil in your recipe. You'll save calories and fat, but won't notice a difference in taste!
Craving cake? Our
No Frosting Chocolate Bundt Cake is so rich and moist, it does not need frosting (which saves a ton of calories).
Craving bread? The darker the bread, the better for your body. If you're not a fan of whole wheat or multigrain, try using half and half (white flour and whole wheat) to ease into the flavor. If you're used to buying artisan breads, ask the baker to pre-slice it for you extra thin. You'll save half the calories.
Craving donuts? Our
Baked Cake Donuts recipe is still one of our most popular. You'll get the great flavor of a cake donut, with nearly half the calories.
Craving a sugary breakfast or snack? Try our
Healthy Breakfast Cookies,
Homemade Granola or these
No-Bake Energy Bites instead of a pastry in the morning. They will satisfy your sweet tooth, but keep you from having a sugar crash. These are also great for an afternoon snack.
Cutting back on gluten? Our
Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe is so good, you won't believe that gluten didn't get invited to the party.
Do you have other tips for being sensible with your sweet tooth? Share them in the comments!
