The past month I have been busy getting all aspects of my health in balance. My diet has been a focus. I realized once I cut carbs and excessive sugar that I was taking in a ton of unnecessary things into my diet. Being drastic in saying “no” to things I normally said “yes” to made me see the error in my diet. I ate far to few fruits and veggies. I ate every cookie that crossed my path. I never chose my food for fuel but rather for convenience. That led to some pretty awful habits. Now I am focused on making sensible choices when eating. Here are 2 of my favorite go to “treats” when I am craving chocolate and something indulgent. I have made a few changes that amps up the healthy and reduced the sugar I used to crave. I encourage you to give these a try. They really are a game changer for you and your family!
Peanut Butter Protein Power Balls
1/3 cup Peanut Powder
3 Tablespoons of honey
1/2 cups of old fashioned oats
1/2 cup rice cereal
1 scoop of vanilla protein powder
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
2 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut
2-3 teaspoons water
In a medium sized bowl combine all of the ingredients except the water. Stir together and then add the water 1 teaspoon at a time till you can form a ball. Using a small cookie scoop and slightly damp hands roll the mixture into balls and place on a plate. Chill in the refrigerator till you are ready to eat.
Cherry Chocolate Granola Bars
2 cups quick oats (you can use gluten free)
1 3/4 cup rice cereal
1/4 cup flax meal
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1/2 cup sliced almonds (or nut of your choice)
1/2 unsweetened shredded coconut
3 tablespoon chopped dried cherries, chopped
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
6 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/4 cup local honey
1/3 cup dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla paste
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Line a 9×13 baking pan with parchment paper. Add the oats, cereal, flax meal, chia seeds, almonds, coconut and cherries in a large bowl and toss together. In a small saucepan bring the butter, brown sugar and honey to a boil for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and add in the vanilla paste and sea salt. Pour the hot honey mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir till it is all mixed together. Add the chocolate chips and stir. Pour the mixture into the baking pan and spread evenly. Using another sheet of parchment paper press the mixture down into the pan till it is even. Place in the refrigerator to cool for 1 hour and then cut into bars and wrap in wax paper. Keep in an airtight container till you eat.