If you’re in need of some healthy snack ideas, then you, my friend, are in luck! I’ve got two healthy snacks that I think you’re going to love. And best of all, they’re super quick and easy to make!
Back in January, I and a few other moms that contribute to Miami Moms Blog participated in our New Year’s Health Challenge. I consider myself to be pretty healthy for the most part, but let’s be honest–there’s always room for improvement, right?! YES!!! This challenge was all about getting back on track, getting rid of foods that are keeping us unhealthy, and learning new ways to move and challenge our bodies! And for me, personally, learning to sleep better.
One of the snack ideas Adita (our fearless and wonderful leader) encouraged us to try was apples and almond butter. I don’t know why I’ve never thought of putting this healthy dynamic duo together, but let me just say, I tried it and I loved it! But I decided to kick it up just a tad with a little grain-free granola and a little drizzle of melted chocolate for those days when you really NEED chocolate.
The chocolate part is completely optional, but I thought it added a nice touch! I don’t know if you’re into these chocolate chips, but I always buy Enjoy Life Chocolate Chips because they’re free of everything – gluten, soy, dairy, and nuts. But they somehow still taste like chocolate! I’m telling you, they’re a win-win and they melt beautifully.
Here’s my four-ingredient recipe for these healthy and delicious apples:
- 1 apple, sliced
- 1 – 2 tbsp almond butter
- 1 – 2 tbsp grain-free granola
- a little drizzle of melted chocolate, optional
Directions:
- Slice your apple and add a little smear of almond butter on each piece.
- Sprinkle a little granola on top for some added crunch.
- If you’re needing chocolate, add a little drizzle!
- EAT!
Now, for my no-bake energy balls/bars.
These energy balls can be made one of two ways: in the form of a ball, or you can line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper and evenly spread the mixture out in the pan (I use my hand to do this), refrigerate for one hour, then slice into bars! The choice is totally yours. If you make the energy balls, you should be able to get 16 balls.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pitted dates
- 1 cup pecans
- 1/2 cup almonds
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (make sure there’s no added sugar)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- pinch of kosher salt
Directions:
- Add the dates to your blender or food processor and blend until the dates form a ball.
- Next, add the nuts, seeds, and salt. Blend again for about 20-30 seconds, making sure all of the nuts get chopped up.
- I made balls out of the dough using a mini ice cream scoop, but you can make bars if you prefer.
- Once the balls were made, I laid them on a sheet pan and stuck the pan in the freezer for about 20 minutes to let them harden.
- I had a little leftover melted chocolate that I didn’t want to waste, so I drizzled just a tad on top of each ball. This isn’t necessary, but look how pretty!
- Store your energy bars/balls in a glass or Tupperware dish and refrigerate.
When you’re feeling low on energy in the afternoon, grab one of these for a little extra pep in your step! Both of these snacks are full of healthy fats and are naturally sweetened (without the chocolate).
I hope you love these snack ideas!
Cheers to happy and healthy eating!
-Whitney
