Are you tired of filling your kids’ Easter baskets with sugary treats that leave them bouncing off the walls? Look no further! We’ve got some fun and healthy alternatives that will have your little ones hopping with joy.
Recipe 1: Carrot Cake Energy Balls
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pitted dates
- 1 cup raw almonds
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
Instructions:
- In a food processor, pulse the dates and almonds until they form a sticky mixture.
- Add in the shredded carrots, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pulse until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into small balls and then roll in the shredded coconut.
- Place the energy balls in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Enjoy!
Nutritional Information:
- Serving size: 2 energy balls
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 13g
Cooking Time:
15 minutes
Equipment:
- Food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Serving Suggestions:
Pair these energy balls with some fresh fruit for a fun and healthy snack.
Variations:
You can swap out the almonds for your favorite nut or seed if you have an allergy or preference.
Substitutions:
If you don’t have unsweetened shredded coconut, you can use regular shredded coconut, but the nutrition information will be slightly different.
Storage:
Store the energy balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Tips:
- If the mixture is too sticky to roll into balls, you can add a tablespoon of water to help bind it together.
- If you don’t have a food processor, you can use a blender, but it may take longer to get the right consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make these energy balls ahead of time?
- Yes! These energy balls are a great make-ahead snack.
Recipe 2: Bunny Trail Mix
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole grain cereal
- 1/2 cup unsalted nuts (such as almonds, cashews, or peanuts)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
- 1/2 cup whole grain pretzels
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
- Mix all of the ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Divide the trail mix into individual bags or containers.
- Enjoy!
Nutritional Information:
- Serving size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 14g
Cooking Time:
5 minutes
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Individual bags or containers
Serving Suggestions:
This trail mix is perfect for on-the-go snacking or to pack in a lunchbox.
Variations:
You can customize this trail mix by swapping out any of the ingredients for your favorite nuts, dried fruit, or whole grain cereal.
Substitutions:
If you don’t have dark chocolate chips, you can use milk chocolate or omit them altogether.
Storage:
Store the trail mix in an airtight container or individual bags for up to a week.
Tips:
- You can make a big batch of this trail mix and portion it out for a quick and easy snack during the week.
- If you have allergies or preferences, feel free to swap out any of the ingredients for something else.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I add more chocolate chips to the trail mix?
- Yes! Feel free to add as many or as few chocolate chips as you like.
Final Thoughts
These no candy Easter basket ideas are a fun and healthy way to celebrate the holiday with your little ones. Whether you make the carrot cake energy balls or bunny trail mix (or both!), your kids are sure to love these treats. So hop to it and try out these recipes today!