Sweet Eats

Are you ready for the dessert avalanche February and Valentine’s Day bring your way? If your family’s mouths are watering at the thought of something sweet, feast on some of these rich, wholesome, less-sugary eats. 

Graham crackers & nut butter

                Why: Choose whole-grain graham crackers as they provide a dose of fiber and a good source of energy to help meet your daily grain needs. Nut butter (peanut, soy, sunflower, almond, etc.) is packed with protein and healthy fats, all great for growth and maintenance needs.

                How: Simply smear room temperature or warm, melty nut butter on graham cracker squares. “My kids and I top them with mini chocolate chips and make hearts,” says Christi, Overland Park mother of three.

Sweet & Salty Popcorn

                Why: All-natural popcorn is another whole food that helps meet your daily grain needs. Popcorn also offers a punch of magnesium needed for nerve control. Honey is loaded with antioxidants and even has antibacterial properties.

                How:  Pop a small bag of natural popcorn, drizzle with two spoonfuls of honey and top with sea salt. Shake well and let your heart crunch on.

Sweet Stuffed Apples

                Why: A medium apple adds a full serving of fruit to your kid’s day and is a good source of potassium, which protects heart health.

                How: Simply core and slice apples to about a half-inch thick. In the oven, warm a baking pan drizzled with oil or butter. Add apples, cinnamon and granola, then bake. Once the apples are tender, let your heart go wild with enjoyment. Relish this sweet treat further over yogurt, oatmeal or pancakes.

Berry Dips

                Why: Whether strawberries, raspberries or blackberries, these gems all contain an abundance of vitamin C, good for skin health. The yogurt offers a hefty punch of muscle-building protein.

                How:  Combine a cup of Greek yogurt with a quarter cup powdered sugar and blend until smooth. Have your kiddos dip and set the coated fruit on a parchment-lined cookie sheet. Simply freeze until hard.

This month, make your heart feel good and your KC family feel loved with these healthful, simple and creative treats.

Amy Hundley is a registered dietitian nutritionist, licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, and a published freelance nutrition writer. She is currently practicing as a clinical RD and has been a resident of Olathe since early childhood.

Sources: EatRight.org, NationalAcademics.org