Tag

healthy candy

Browsing
Dairy-Free

6-Ingredient Healthy Snickers

By
overhead image of healthy snickers bars on a table with flaky salt on top.

With a sweet tooth like mine, it’s no surprise I love a candy bar! And I’ve certainly made it my mission to make healthier versions of all of my favorites. It started with healthy twix bars, then healthy butterfingers, healthy peanut butter cups, date caramels, and now healthy snickers! These homemade candy bars are made with just 6 simple ingredients, lightly sweetened with maple syrup, and shockingly easy to make. They’re perfect to store in the fridge or freezer whenever your sweet cravings strike (which… if you’re anything like me, they strike daily)!

the inside of a healthy snickers bar.

What Makes This Recipe Healthy?

  • Naturally sweetened with maple syrup
  • Made with nutrient-dense almond flour
  • No refined sugar
  • Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan
  • Healthier fats from nuts and coconut oil
  • Homemade alternative to processed candy

These bars give you the same layered texture and flavor as a traditional snickers, but with better ingredients!

a close up bite shot of a healthy snickers bar.

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Snickers

These healthy snickers bars have everything you want in a dessert: sweet, salty, crunchy, and chocolatey layers that taste nostalgic but are made with better-for-you ingredients! They’re surprisingly easy to make, require no complicated baking skills, and are perfect for prepping ahead so you always have a sweet treat in the fridge or freezer. With just 6 simple ingredients, they deliver the classic candy bar experience while being gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and healthier than store-bought versions!

Storage Tips

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. These bars taste amazing straight from the fridge or slightly thawed from frozen!

overhead image of healthy snickers bars on a table with flaky salt on top.
No ratings yet

6-Ingredient Healthy Snickers

These healthy Snickers bars are a homemade twist on the classic candy, made with just 6 simple ingredients! They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and layered with shortbread, caramel, peanuts, and chocolate. Perfect for a healthier dessert, these homemade healthy snickers are easy to make and totally delicious!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 29 minutes
Total Time: 49 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan
  • 1 small saucepan

Ingredients

For the shortbread layer:

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional

For the caramel layer:

  • 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter unsweetened (cashew butter or almond butter work too!)
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional

For the filling:

  • 1/2 cup roasted peanuts

For the chocolate layer:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • flaky salt for topping (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Add all shortbread ingredients to a large bowl and mix to combine. Then, transfer the crust to your prepared baking pan and press the crust down into an even layer over the base of the pan. Bake for 10minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges. Leave the shortbread to cool for at least 10 minutes before adding the caramel.
  • Make the caramel layer by adding all caramel ingredients to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk the mixture together, and continue whisking as it heats up and starts to gently bubble.After 2 minutes, remove the caramel from the heat and pour over the cooled shortbread crust, then evenly sprinkle the peanuts over the caramel.
  • Transfer the baking pan to the fridge to allow the caramel to set for at least 30 minutes and up to one hour. Once the caramel is completely set and firm to the touch, make the chocolate layer.
  • To make the chocolate layer, melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel and gently spread into an even layer.
  • Transfer the pan back to the fridge to set one last time for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened. Remove the snickers bars from the fridge, then remove them from the pan and cut into 16 “full size”bars or 32 “mini” bars.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 340kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 6.5g | Fat: 28g | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 10g
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Sour Apple Collagen Gummies

By

Everyone loved my 3-ingredient healthy watermelon gummies so much, I knew I had to make a new flavor! Though, in the spirit of fall, I decided to go with apple this time. And let me tell you – these healthy sour apple gummies might be even better than the watermelon kind! They’re perfectly sweetened, made with NO added sugar, and rolled in a sour coating that will make your mouth water. Surprisingly easy to make in just a few simple steps, with five ingredients!

What Makes This Recipe Healthy?

  • Collagen boost: Grass-fed gelatin provides natural collagen and supports skin, hair, and joint health.
  • No refined sugars: Sweetened with monk fruit, a zero-calorie natural sweetener option.
  • Real fruit base: Apple juice + lemon add natural flavor and a dose of vitamin C.
  • Customizable & clean: No artificial dyes or preservatives—food coloring is optional and minimal.
close up image of healthy sour apple collagen gummies

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Sour Apple Collagen Gummies

  • You get chewy, flavorful candy with health benefits – NO sugar crash!
  • They’re fun for both adults and kids, and make cute additions to lunchboxes.
  • These gummies are shelf-stable (when refrigerated), portable, and great for custom flavors.
  • The sour coating adds a kick without overwhelming sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for monk fruit sweetener?
You can use erythritol, stevia blends, or allulose. Just note that some sweeteners may affect texture or shelf life slightly.

How do I prevent the sour coating from dissolving?
Toss the gummies just before serving, and store them chilled. High humidity or warmth may cause the coating to dissolve.

Can I change the flavor of this recipe?
Absolutely! Swap the apple juice for pomegranate, orange, cranberry, or other juices. Use food coloring or natural powders to adjust the color.

monk fruit sweetener for healthy sour apple collagen gummies.

I highly recommend using granulated monk fruit sweetener in this recipe for the best taste and results!

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Use low heat when dissolving the gelatin so it doesn’t clump or bubble.
  • Use silicone molds for easy removal – here’s a link to the ones I used!
  • For firmer gummies, let them chill a bit longer than 30 minutes.
  • Store gummies in the fridge in an airtight container to maintain shape and texture!
No ratings yet

Healthy Sour Apple Collagen Gummies

These healthy sour apple collagen gummies are a fun and nourishing twist on classic gummy candy! Made with real fruit juice, collagen-rich gelatin, and no refined sugar. Each bite is sweet, sour, and packed with skin-supporting nutrients. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and the perfect healthy snack or post-workout bite!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Equipment

  • 1 small saucepan
  • 2 gummy molds

Ingredients

  • 1 cup apple juice
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons granulated monk fruit sweetener
  • 1/4 cup grass-fed gelatin
  • 2-3 drops green food coloring

For the sour coating:

  • 1/4 cup granulated monk fruit sweetener
  • 1/2 teaspoon citric acid optional, but will make them extra sour!

Instructions

  • Add the apple juice, lemon juice, monk fruit sweetener, grass-fed gelatin, and food coloring (if using) to a small saucepan over low heat. Whisk the mixture together until the gelatin powder has fully dissolved, about 2 minutes, then remove it from the heat.
  • Transfer the gelatin mixture to the molds, then refrigerate 30 minutes, or until the gummies are fully set. Pop the gummies out of the molds then serve/store as-is, or move on to the next step for the sour coating.
  • Mix together the monk fruit sweetener and citric acid in a bowl, then toss the gummies in the sour coating. Enjoy right away!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 35kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 4g | Sugar: 4g
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

3-Ingredient Healthy Date Caramel Cups

By
3 healthy date caramel cups stacked on top of each other.

Someone asked me recently what my favorite ingredient to bake with is and while it’s tough to choose just one, I’d say medjool dates are in my top three. They’re naturally sweet, super versatile, and great for no-bake sweet treats! Some of my most popular recipes actually feature dates as the main ingredient – like my smashed dates with peanut butter, healthy date snickers, and 5 ingredient chocolate chip date cake. When it comes to dates, the possibilities really are endless! So when I set out to create a new healthy dessert recipe, these healthy date caramel cups were a no-brainer. They’re quick and easy, made with just 3 ingredients, and there’s absolutely no baking required. I also love having a batch of these in my freezer at all times for when I’m craving a little something treat!

hand holding a healthy date caramel cup with a bite taken out.

Why You’ll LOVE These Healthy Date Caramel Cups

  • Made with only 3 clean, whole-food ingredients
  • Naturally sweetened with dates (no added sugar!)
  • Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan
  • No baking required
  • Rich, chocolatey, and deeply satisfying

What Makes This Recipe Healthy

These date caramel cups skip the refined sugars and processed fillings you’d find in store-bought candies. Medjool dates provide natural sweetness and fiber, while dark chocolate adds antioxidants. With no dairy, gluten, or unnecessary additives, they’re a more wholesome option for indulging your sweet tooth!

healthy date caramel cup with flaky sea salt on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a regular muffin tin?

Yes! You can absolutely use a standard muffin tin, just note that the caramel cups will be larger and yield fewer total cups. You may want to increase the chocolate and date caramel amounts accordingly.

What kind of chocolate should I use?

Any chocolate chips will work—dark, semi-sweet, or dairy-free depending on your dietary needs. We recommend at least 60% cacao for a richer flavor and lower sugar content.

What if my dates are too hard?

Make sure to soak them in hot water for at least 10 minutes. If they’re still tough, let them soak a bit longer or try chopping them up before blending for smoother caramel.

Storage Tips

Store your caramel cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Let frozen cups thaw for 5–10 minutes before enjoying for the best texture.

3 healthy date caramel cups stacked on top of each other.
No ratings yet

3-Ingredient Healthy Date Caramel Cups

These 3-ingredient healthy date caramel cups are the perfect no-bake treat – rich, chocolatey, and naturally sweetened with Medjool dates! They're vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and made with just chocolate chips, coconut oil, and dates. Whether you're craving a wholesome dessert or a midday snack, these caramel cups are healthy yet indulgent!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12 date caramel cups

Equipment

  • 1 mini muffin pan
  • 1 small bowl
  • 1 food processor or high speed blender

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Medjool dates pitted
  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips I used extra dark chocolate chips
  • 2 teaspoons coconut oil

Instructions

  • Soak the Medjool dates in a bowl of very hot water for 10 minutes, then line a mini muffin pan with mini liners.
  • Melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely melted and smooth.
  • Once the chocolate is melted, pour about 1 teaspoon of melted chocolate into the bottom of each mini muffin liner and use a spoon to spread the chocolate around to cover the entire bottom of the liner. Once all liners are lined with chocolate, transfer your muffin pan to the freezer to set and place the remaining melted chocolate aside for now.
  • Once the dates are very soft, drain them from the water and transfer the soaked dates to a food processor or high-speed blender and blend until they are mostly smooth, scraping down the sides of the food processor or blender as needed.
  • Spoon about 1-2 teaspoons of date caramel into each cup lined with chocolate. Repeat this process until all cups have been filled with date caramel.
  • Pour 1-2 teaspoons of melted chocolate over each date caramel cup, making sure you completely cover the date caramel inside. Once all cups are filled with chocolate, transfer the pan back into the freezer for 10-15 minutes or until the chocolate is completely set. Remove date caramel cups from the freezer, transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge or enjoy right away!

Nutrition

Serving: 1date caramel cup | Calories: 145kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 8g | Sugar: 10g
View Post
By
30 Minutes or Less

6-Ingredient Healthy Twix Bars (gluten-free & vegan!)

By
healthy twix bars stacked on top of each other with flaky salt on top.

Healthier sweet treats are kinda my thing. I recently set out to recreate as many of my favorite classic candy recipes to make them healthier, gluten-free, and dairy-free. My 4-ingredient healthy snickers have been a huge hit, and so have my 4-ingredient date caramels. I even made a healthy homemade butterfingers recipe for halloween last year and OMG they were gone in three days! These healthy twix bars were the obvious next choice because, well – who doesn’t love a twix?! This healthy twix bars recipe absolutely nail the classic flavors and textures we’re all addicted to when it comes to the traditional candy bar. A buttery shortbread crust, smooth and perfectly sweet caramel, and crispy chocolate shell make the perfect quick and easy sweet candy-inspired treat!

overhead image of healthy twix bars on parchment paper with flaky sea salt on top.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Made with wholesome ingredients – No refined sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives.
  • Gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free – Perfect for various dietary needs.
  • Easy to make – Just a few simple steps, no complicated techniques required.
  • Rich, chewy, and delicious – Just like the classic Twix bars but with a healthier twist!

What You’ll Need to Make Homemade Healthy Twix Bars

  • Almond Flour – Creates a light, buttery shortbread base while keeping the recipe gluten-free. I buy my almond flour in bulk on Amazon!
  • Coconut Oil – Used in all three layers for moisture, structure, and a silky texture.
  • Maple Syrup – Naturally sweetens the bars while adding a subtle caramel-like flavor.
  • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the sweetness and deepens the flavors of both the shortbread and caramel layers.
  • Peanut Butter – Provides a rich, creamy caramel-like texture without any refined sugar. Swap with almond or cashew butter for a different flavor.
  • Chocolate Chips – The perfect finishing touch for that classic Twix-like chocolate layer. Use dark chocolate for a richer taste!
close up image of healthy twix bars with flaky salt on top.

How to Make Healthy Twix Bars

  1. Prepare the Shortbread: Mix almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Press into a lined 9×9-inch pan and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes. Let cool.
  2. Make the Caramel Layer: Heat peanut butter, coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a saucepan until smooth and bubbly. Pour over the shortbread layer and refrigerate until set.
  3. Melt the Chocolate: Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil, then spread over the caramel layer. Refrigerate again until firm.
  4. Slice & Enjoy! Remove from the fridge, cut into bars, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use regular flour? – No, almond flour is key to the texture and gluten-free nature of this recipe.
  • Can I make these nut-free? – Yes! Swap almond flour for oat flour and use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
  • What makes these “healthy”? – These bars use natural sweeteners, healthy fats, and no processed ingredients.
  • How do I store them? – Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months!
healthy twix bar with a bite taken out.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • For a crispier shortbread layer, bake for an extra 2-3 minutes.
  • Want a thicker caramel layer? Add an extra ¼ cup of peanut butter!
  • Use dark chocolate for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
healthy twix bars stacked on top of each other with flaky salt on top.
5 from 8 votes

6-Ingredient Healthy Twix Bars

These homemade Healthy Twix Bars are made with just six simple ingredients, featuring a buttery almond flour shortbread, creamy peanut butter caramel, and a rich dark chocolate topping. They’re gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, and naturally sweetened, making them a better-for-you sweet treat!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 13 minutes
Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan
  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 small saucepan

Ingredients

For the shortbread layer:

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the caramel layer:

  • 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter unsweetened
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the chocolate layer:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips I used dark chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • flaky salt for topping (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Add all shortbread ingredients to a large bowl and mix to combine. Then, transfer the crust to your prepared baking pan and press the crust down into an even layer over the base of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges. Leave the shortbread to cool for at least 10 minutes before adding the caramel.
  • Make the caramel layer by adding all caramel ingredients to a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk the mixture together, and continue whisking as it heats up and starts to gently bubble.After 2 minutes, remove the caramel from the heat and pour over the cooled shortbread crust. Transfer the baking pan to the fridge to allow the peanut butter to set for at least 30 minutes and up to one hour. Once the caramel is completely set and firm to the touch, make the chocolate layer.
  • To make the chocolate layer, melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel and gently spread into an even layer. Transfer the pan back to the fridge to set one last time for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened. Remove the twix bars from the fridge, then remove them from the pan and cut into 16 “full size” bars or 32 “mini” bars.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bar | Calories: 218kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 17g | Sugar: 11g
View Post
By
Dairy-Free

Healthy Homemade Butterfingers

By
close up image of healthy butterfingers cut in half.

This healthy homemade butterfingers recipe is made with just 5 simple ingredients! They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and naturally sweetened for a better-for-your treat. They join my healthy candy lineup, right alongside healthy snickers, 3 ingredient homemade crunch bars, and healthy date caramels. These homemade butterfingers are perfect for anyone looking for a healthier version of a favorite candy bar!

healthy homemade butterfingers on parchment paper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These healthy homemade butterfingers are a delicious and satisfying treat with just 5 simple ingredients. They’re a guilt-free version of the classic candy bar, made gluten-free, dairy-free, and with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for storing in the freezer for a quick snack or dessert.

What You Need to Make Healthy Butterfingers

  • Peanut Butter: The rich, creamy base that gives these bars their signature nutty flavor. Choose a natural variety with no added sugar for a healthier option.
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: These natural sweeteners bring the perfect touch of sweetness while keeping the recipe refined-sugar free.
  • Corn Flakes: Adds the necessary crunch to replicate the crispy texture found in classic butterfingers. Make sure to choose gluten-free corn flakes if needed. The Real Cereal Organic Corn Flakes are the best ones I’ve found, they’re unsweetened and made with just 2 ingredients!
  • Chocolate Chips: Melting the chocolate for coating gives that irresistible outer layer, while dark chocolate keeps the sugar content lower.
  • Coconut Oil: Helps melt the chocolate smoothly and adds a subtle flavor boost. I use and love Nutiva Organic Coconut Oil in many of my recipes!

How to Make Healthy Homemade Butterfingers

Start by crushing the corn flakes and mixing them with peanut butter and honey to form a crispy, sweet mixture. Press it into a loaf pan to set in the freezer before dipping each bar in melted chocolate. Freeze them again for a crunchy, chocolate-covered treat that’s perfect for a healthier snack or dessert.

healthy homemade butterfingers stacked on top of each other,

Storage Tips

Once made, store your homemade butterfingers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. This way, they’ll stay fresh and ready for whenever you need a sweet treat.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Vegan: Swap the honey for maple syrup and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
  • Low Carb: Choose a sugar-free chocolate alternative and use a low-carb cereal.
  • Make it Nut-Free: Substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
close up image of healthy butterfingers cut in half.
No ratings yet

Healthy Homemade Butterfingers

This healthy homemade butterfingers recipe is made with just 5 simple ingredients. They're gluten-free, dairy-free, and naturally sweetened for a better-for-your treat. These homemade butterfingers are perfect for anyone looking for a healthier version of a favorite candy bar!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Freezing Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 9×4-inch loaf pan
  • 1 small bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 2 cups corn flakes
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 2 teaspoons coconut oil

Instructions

  • Add the corn flakes to a large zip-top bag, seal the bag and crush the cereal into small pieces.
  • Add the peanut butter and honey or maple syrup to a large bowl and mix together to combine. Add the crushed corn flakes to the bowl and mix again to fully combine.
  • Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper, and press the cereal down into the pan to create an even layer. Place in the freezer to harden for at least 1 hour.
  • Remove the pan from the freezer and carefully lift the corn flake mixture out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and cut into 12 bars.
  • Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together, whisk to combine, and then dip each bar into the melted chocolate to completely coat. Remove the bar from the chocolate and set on a parchment-lined plate. Repeat this process with all 12 butterfingers until all are coated in chocolate.
  • Transfer the butterfingers to the freezer for about 10 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened. Then, enjoy right away or store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months (if they last that long!).

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 241kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 15g | Sugar: 12g
View Post
By