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If we’re being completely honest, I’m not sure the last day I went without eating any chocolate. I always manage to have at least a little chocolate throughout my day, and then of course, to end my day. My chocolate of choice is usually something I can quick and easy, that I can just grab-and-go. Recently I’ve had a batch of my 3-ingredient healthy crunch bars stored in my freezer which have been fabulous! And next to those, are my last batch of healthy homemade date caramels – SO GOOD.

To keep my daily chocolate streak going, I decided to add yet another chocolatey treat to the mix. *Enter healthy edible brownie batter, made with just 5 ingredients!* This edible brownie checks all of my boxes. One, it’s chocolate. Two, it’s super easy to make. Three, there’s no baking require. And four, it’s entirely gluten-free, dairy-free, and low sugar! SO if you’re anything like me and just can’t live without at least a bite of chocolate to get you through the day, then you’re going to love this edible brownie batter. Enjoy, friends! And if you try this recipe, please leave a star rating and review. I always appreciate your support so so much!

healthy edible brownie batter in a jar on a tea towel.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make and comes together in just minutes! It’s perfect for when you want a quick, indulgent treat that’s also healthier than traditional brownie batter. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be adjusted for vegan or low-carb diets.

What You Need to Make Edible Brownie Batter

  • Butter or Coconut Oil: Adds richness and a creamy texture to the batter. Coconut oil keeps the recipe dairy-free and adds a subtle tropical flavor, while butter offers a more classic taste.
  • Milk (Non-Dairy or Dairy): Helps create a smooth, spreadable consistency. You can use any milk, but non-dairy versions like almond or oat milk work great for a plant-based option.
  • Coconut Sugar or Brown Sugar: Sweetens the batter naturally, with coconut sugar providing a lower-glycemic option than regular sugar, while brown sugar brings a caramel-like sweetness.
  • Almond Flour or All-Purpose Flour: Almond flour keeps this recipe gluten-free and adds a slightly nutty flavor. If you plan on doing a lot of healthy, gluten-free baking, I recommend buying your almond flour in bulk on Amazon to save money! But If you’re not gluten-sensitive, regular all-purpose flour works too. But if you’re going to use all-purpose flour, make sure you heat-treat it first to ensure it’s safe to eat in this brownie batter.
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds that rich, deep chocolate flavor to give the batter its brownie taste.
  • Chocolate Chips: The final touch for a bit of texture and extra chocolatey goodness. I use and love the Guittard extra dark chocolate chips in all of my chocolate recipes (they’re dairy-free btw!).

Is it Safe to Eat?

Yes, this recipe is completely safe to eat! There are no raw eggs involved, and if you use almond flour, you avoid any potential issues with uncooked all-purpose flour. If using regular flour, be sure to heat-treat it first by microwaving or baking it to ensure it’s safe to consume.

healthy edible brownie batter in a small jar with a spoon.

How to Make Edible Brownie Batter

Making this brownie batter couldn’t be easier! Simply mix together all the ingredients, fold in your chocolate chips, and enjoy right away. There’s no need for baking or any fancy equipment.

Storage Tips

Store your edible brownie batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it come to room temperature for a few minutes for a softer texture. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Switch Up The Flavors of This Edible Brownie Batter

This edible brownie batter is delicious as-is, but you can easily switch up the flavors to keep things exciting! Try adding a pinch of sea salt, a splash of vanilla extract, or even some crushed nuts for extra crunch. For a minty twist, mix in a drop of peppermint extract!

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Vegan: Use coconut oil and non-dairy milk, and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips.
  • Low Carb: Swap out the coconut sugar for a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
  • Nut-Free: Use all-purpose flour instead of almond flour and replace any nut-based ingredients with allergy-friendly alternatives.

Healthy, Gluten-Free, and Low-Sugar!

This edible brownie batter is a healthier alternative to traditional recipes, with just 5 ingredients and no refined sugar. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and can easily be made vegan, making it a great guilt-free treat you can whip up anytime.

close up image of healthy edible brownie batter in a jar with a spoon.
5 from 2 votes

Healthy Edible Brownie Batter

This simple and healthy edible brownie batter recipe is made with just 5 ingredients, is gluten-free, and can easily be adjusted to fit various dietary needs. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your brownie cravings without any baking required!
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons softened coconut oil or butter
  • 3-4 tablespoons milk (I used non-dairy milk)
  • 1/4 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup almond flour or heat-treated all purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips (I used extra dark chocolate chips)

Instructions

  • Add all ingredient except chocolate chips to a large bowl and mix to combine.
  • Then, fold in the chocolate chips and enjoy!

Notes

The nutrition facts have been calculated for 4 servings, and without the chocolate chips. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 240kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 5.6g | Fat: 18g | Sugar: 13g

Since my last cookie dough bark recipe went viral, I’m back with a protein version! This protein cookie dough bark is just as delicious, but with an additional 8 grams of protein per serving. I love making a batch at the beginning of the week to snack on all week long. But if you’re in need of a sweet treat with even more protein, give my single serve protein cookie a try (with 30 grams of protein). What can I say? I just really love a high-protein, gluten free, and low sugar snack!

protein cookie dough bark pieces stacked on top of each other.

What You’ll Need to Make This Recipe

  • Almond Flour: Acts as a gluten-free and low-carb base. I buy almond flour in bulk on Amazon, since I use it in so many of my healthy gluten-free recipes!
  • Vanilla Protein Powder: Boosts the protein content, making this a nutritious snack option. I used the Be Well By Kelly Vanilla Protein Powder, but your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder will work. Or, feel free to swap out the protein powder for unflavored collaged – I like this brand!
  • Coconut Oil: Helps bind the dough while adding healthy fats. If you don’t have coconut oil, you can use melted butter in its place.
  • Maple Syrup: Provides natural sweetness, complementing the protein powder and chocolate chips!
  • Chocolate Chips: Adds sweetness and richness—both mixed into the dough and melted on top for the bark. I use and love the Guittard Dairy-Free Extra Dark Chocolate Chips in all of my recipes!

Is This Cookie Dough Bark Safe to Eat?

Yes! Since it’s made without raw eggs or raw flour, this cookie dough bark is safe to eat right out of the freezer. The protein powder and almond flour create a safe, edible base.

Storage Tips

Keep the bark in an airtight container in the freezer. It stays fresh for up to two months… but there’s no way it’ll last that long! To enjoy, let it thaw for a minute or two at room temperature before serving.

protein cookie dough bark on a baking sheet.

Switch Up The Flavors of This Protein Cookie Dough Bark

Get creative by changing the flavor combinations:

  • Swap out the vanilla protein powder for chocolate or peanut butter protein.
  • Add chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to the mixture for extra texture and nutrients.
  • Drizzle peanut butter or caramel over the bark before freezing.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Vegan: Use a plant-based protein powder and dairy-free chocolate chips.
  • Make it Low Carb: Replace maple syrup with a sugar-free sweetener like monk fruit syrup, and opt for sugar-free chocolate chips.
  • Make it Nut-Free: Swap the almond flour for coconut flour to make this a nut-free cookie dough bark recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a high-protein, low-sugar, gluten-free treat. It’s made with just 5 simple ingredients and can easily be adjusted to meet various dietary needs. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy cookie dough in a healthier, grab-and-go type form!

a piece of protein cookie dough bark with flaky salt on top.
5 from 2 votes

Protein Cookie Dough Bark

This 5-ingredient protein cookie dough bark recipe is a quick and healthy snack that’s gluten-free and high in protein! It's easy to customize with different flavors and can easily be made vegan or low-carb. Store this protein cookie dough bark in the freezer for a quick, guilt-free snack anytime!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Freezing Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or your favorite liquid sweetener
  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips, divided

Instructions

  • Mix together the almond flour, protein powder, coconut oil, and maple syrup in a bowl. Add in ½ cup of chocolate chips and mix again to combine.
  •  Line a small baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper, then place the cookie dough mixture on top of the parchment paper. Spread and flatten the mixture with your hands to form a large piece of cookie dough bark.
  • Melt the remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips, then pour the melted chocolate over the cookie dough bark. Spread the chocolate into an even layer, then place the bark in the freezer for at least one hour.
  • When ready to eat, remove the protein cookie dough bark from the freezer and either cut or break into large pieces. Enjoy right away and store leftover bark in the freezer for later!

Nutrition

Serving: 1piece | Calories: 357kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 23g

I’ve been making a variation of this healthy gluten-free apple crisp for the last 6+ years! But it wasn’t until this year that I finally decided to sit down, perfect it, and write out each ingredient.

It’s just one of those staple recipes I come back to every fall/holiday season. It’s that perfect end-of-day treat, best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream… and maybe even a healthy homemade pumpkin spice latte on the side?? Yup, now we’re talkin’! So head to your local orchard, pick alllll the apples, then run home and bake up this cozy apple crisp.

overhead image of healthy gluten free apple crisp in a baking dish

What Makes This the BEST Gluten-Free Apple Crisp?

  • Quick and Easy: No complicated steps, just mix, sprinkle, and bake!
  • Wholesome Ingredients: Made with healthier alternatives like coconut sugar and almond flour.
  • Perfect Texture: Gooey apples with a crisp, buttery oat topping. YUM!
  • Adaptable for Dietary Needs: Can easily be made vegan and nut-free without sacrificing flavor.
  • Delicious Fall Flavor: The combination of tart apples, cinnamon, and a touch of lemon gives this dessert a warm and comforting taste.

What You’ll Need to Make This Recipe

Apples: Granny Smith apples are recommended because they hold their shape well and provide a nice tartness that balances the sweetness of the topping. Other firm apples like Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, and Fuji are also great options.

Coconut Sugar or Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness without overpowering the dish. Coconut sugar is less refined and has a subtle caramel flavor.

Corn Starch: Helps thicken the apple juices as they bake, preventing the filling from becoming watery.

Lemon Juice (Optional): Brightens the apple filling and enhances the flavors. It also prevents the apples from browning too much before baking.

Cinnamon: Essential for that classic fall flavor. It adds warmth and depth to both the filling and the topping!

Rolled Oats: Provides a crisp, crumbly texture to the topping. Be sure to use certified gluten-free oats if necessary.

Almond Flour: A great gluten-free alternative to regular flour, adding a subtle nutty flavor and additional texture to the topping.

Butter (Non-Dairy Optional): Adds richness and helps create a crispy topping. Non-dairy butter works perfectly if making this vegan. I used Miyoko’s non-dairy butter and it works great in this recipe!

Top 5 Apples For Baking

  1. Granny Smith: Tart and firm, making them perfect for baking as they hold their shape.
  2. Honeycrisp: Sweet, juicy, and crisp, adding great flavor and texture.
  3. Pink Lady: Sweet with a nice tartness, they retain their shape well when baked.
  4. Braeburn: Well-balanced between sweet and tart, perfect for crisps and pies.
  5. Fuji: Sweet and firm, they add a great depth of flavor to any baked dessert.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Nut-Free: Replace almond flour with oat flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the recipe nut-free.
  • Vegan Option: Use non-dairy butter to keep it fully vegan.
gluten free apple crisp on a plate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

Can I Make Other Gluten-Free Fruit Crisps?

Absolutely! This versatile crisp recipe can be adapted with various fruits:

Cherry Crisp: Use fresh or frozen cherries in place of apples. Reduce the coconut sugar slightly to account for the cherries’ sweetness.

Pear and Cranberry Crisp: Replace apples with sliced pears and add 1 cup of fresh cranberries for a tart twist.

Peach Blueberry Crisp: Substitute peaches and blueberries, but reduce the sweetener slightly as these fruits can be naturally sweeter.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion This gluten-free apple crisp is not just another dessert; it’s a comforting, warm, and healthier treat that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re accommodating dietary restrictions or just looking for a delicious fall dessert, this crisp checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s easy to adjust, making it the ideal recipe for any gathering.

gluten free apple crisp in a baking dish with a spoon and two scoops of ice cream on top.
5 from 2 votes

Gluten-Free Apple Crisp

This healthy gluten-free apple crisp is the easiest and best fruit crisp you’ll ever make. It’s perfectly sweet with a crumbly oat topping, and ready in no time! This recipe is not only gluten-free but can be adapted to be dairy-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the apples:

  • 5-6 apples, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thin)
  • 1/4 cup coconut sugar, or brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon corn starch
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the crisp:

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 3/4 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 cup coconut sugar, or brown sugar
  • 6 ounces butter, cut into 1-inch cubes (I used non-dairy butter)
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit.
  • Add all apple ingredients to a 9-inch baking dish and toss together until evenly coated, then spread apples into an even layer around the dish.
  • Add all crisp ingredients to a large bowl. Use a fork to mix together, until a crumbly mixture forms. Sprinkle crisp topping evenly over the apples.
  • Bake for 40-45 minutes or until apples are soft, then let cool slightly before serving.

I LOVE dates. I almost always have a bag on-hand. They’re perfect for stuffing with peanut butter, like in my 4-ingredient healthy snickers, or blending with oats to make healthy cookie dough date bites. Or… if you’re like my husband, dates are delicious all on their own!

Dates are the main ingredient in these 4 ingredient date caramels. They’re softened with a little hot water, then blended with almond butter and coconut oil to make a lusciousssss healthy date caramel. And because everything tastes better dipped in chocolate (ok ok, MOST things taste better dipped in chocolate), each date caramel is dunked in melted chocolate, then placed in the freezer until firm. The end result is a perfectly sweet and healthier chocolate-covered caramel candy. YUM!

overhead image of date caramels lined up with flaky sea salt on top.

What You’ll Need to Make This Recipe

  • Medjool Dates: The star ingredient! Medjool dates are naturally sweet and sticky, making them the perfect base for these caramels. If your dates are a bit dry, soaking them in hot water helps soften them up for easy blending. Here’s a link to the medjool dates I purchase on Amazon!
  • Creamy Almond Butter: Adds creaminess and a subtle nutty flavor to the caramels. You can substitute with any nut or seed butter like peanut butter or sunflower seed butter to make the recipe nut-free.
  • Coconut Oil: This helps bind the ingredients together and adds a touch of richness. Use refined coconut oil to avoid any coconut flavor, especially if you want the dates’ natural sweetness to shine through.
  • Chocolate Chips or Bar: Choose a high-quality dark chocolate for a rich coating. If you’re keeping this treat refined sugar-free, look for a chocolate that’s sweetened with coconut sugar or another natural sweetener. The coconut oil added to the chocolate helps it melt smoothly and gives the caramels a beautiful glossy finish.

How to Make Date Caramels

  1. Soak the Dates: Start by soaking the dates in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften them, making them easier to blend.
  2. Blend: After soaking, drain the dates and add them to a food processor along with the almond butter and melted coconut oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Shape & Freeze: Spread the date mixture into a parchment-lined loaf pan and freeze for 2-3 hours until firm.
  4. Cut into Squares: Once firm, remove from the freezer and cut into 12 small squares.
  5. Dip in Chocolate: Melt the chocolate with a bit of coconut oil, then dip each caramel square into the chocolate until fully coated. Place the coated caramels on a parchment-lined plate and refrigerate until the chocolate is set.
close up image of a date caramel candy with a bite taken out.

Make Them Nut-Free

If you’re catering to a nut-free crowd, simply swap out the almond butter for sunflower seed butter. The consistency and flavor are just as delicious, making this treat accessible for those with nut allergies!

Tips and Tricks

  • Use Fresh Dates: Fresh, soft dates blend more easily and give you a smoother caramel. If your dates are dry, don’t skip the soaking step.
  • Don’t Overheat the Chocolate: When melting the chocolate, keep the heat low to prevent burning. A double boiler works well, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
  • Storage: These caramels keep best in the fridge or freezer, so you can always have a batch on hand for when the craving hits. They taste great straight from the freezer too!

These caramels are a healthier take on the classic candy, with no need for a candy thermometer or complicated techniques. Perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

date caramels on a plate with flaky sea salt on top.
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4 Ingredient Date Caramels

If you’re looking for a vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free treat that’s perfect for gifting or snacking, these 4-ingredient date caramels are your answer! They’re rich, chewy, and coated in decadent chocolate—ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth while sticking to your dietary needs. Plus, they’re easy to make and great for parties!
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Ingredients

For the date caramel:

  • 1 cup packed medjool dates, pitted
  • 2 tablespoons creamy almond butter, or any nut/seed butter
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted

For the chocolate coating:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips, or an 8-ounce chocolate bar
  • 2 teaspoons coconut oil, melted

Instructions

  • Soak the dates in a bowl of very hot water for 10 minutes.
  • Once dates are very soft, drain them from the water and transfer the soaked dates to a food processor or high-speed blender. Add the almond butter and coconut oil to the dates, and pulse until completely smooth.
  • Transfer the date caramel to a 9×5-inch loaf pan lined with parchment paper, then place the pan in the freezer for 2-3 hours, or until date caramel is firm to the touch.
  • Remove the loaf pan from the freezer, and lift the date caramel out of the pan. Place the date caramel on a cutting board and slice into 12 small squares.
  • Melt the chocolate chips and 2 teaspoons coconut oil in a heat-safe bowl in either the microwave or over a double boiler on the stove. Once chocolate is completely smooth and melted, dip each caramel square in the chocolate to fully coat. Carefully lift the caramel out of the chocolate and transfer to a parchment-lined plate.
  • Repeat the dipping process with all caramels, then transfer to the fridge for 1 hour or until chocolate has hardened and is completely set. Once set, enjoy your chocolate covered date caramels, or keep stored in the fridge to enjoy later on!

Notes

  • These date caramels are best stored in the fridge or freezer! If left at room temperature, the chocolate will melt.
  • I’m here to give the people what they want, and it’s become very clear that the people want MORE COOKIE DOUGH! So here we go, vegan, gluten-free, no-bake chocolate chip cookie dough bark. I basically took my gluten-free edible cookie dough recipe and combined it with my no-bake healthy cookie cough bars to create this delicious sweet treat!

    This cookie dough bark is an indulgent yet healthier dessert that combines the classic taste of cookie dough with the ease of a no-bake treat. And like I said before, it’s gluten-free, vegan, low-carb, and low in sugar, making it perfect for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth without compromising on dietary needs. Plus, it only requires four simple ingredients and a few minutes of preparation time, setting in the freezer instead of the oven!

    close-up image of 4 ingredient healthy cookie dough bark.

    What You’ll Need to Make This Recipe

    Almond Flour: Almond flour is a gluten-free, grain-free alternative to traditional flour. It adds a slightly nutty flavor and provides a sturdy base for the cookie dough, making it perfect for creating a delicious bark. I buy this bulk bag of almond flour on Amazon, it’s a pantry staple in my home!

    Melted Coconut Oil: Coconut oil acts as the binding agent and helps the ingredients meld together. It also keeps the cookie dough bark vegan and dairy-free. However, if you don’t have coconut oil, you can use melted butter instead (do not use vegetable oil!)

    Maple Syrup: Maple syrup is a natural sweetener that adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the cookie dough. It’s a healthier alternative to refined sugar and blends seamlessly with the other ingredients.

    Chocolate Chips: Using dark chocolate chips keeps the sugar content low and ensures the bark remains vegan. The melted chocolate forms the layers that sandwich the cookie dough, creating a delightful crunch with each bite.

    Is This Cookie Dough Bark Safe to Eat?

    Yes, this cookie dough bark is safe to eat. The recipe uses almond flour instead of raw flour, eliminating the risk of contamination. Additionally, it’s egg-free, which means there’s no risk of salmonella from raw eggs. This makes it a worry-free indulgence for cookie dough lovers!

    Storage Tips

    Store the cookie dough bark in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.

    4 ingredient cookie dough bark on a baking sheet with milk on the side.

    Switch Up the Flavors of This Cookie Dough Bark

    Personalize your cookie dough bark by adding various mix-ins. You can stir in some chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or sprinkles for added texture and flavor. For a fun twist, sprinkle some crushed pretzels or M&M’s on top of the melted chocolate before it sets. If you prefer a different flavor profile, try adding a spoonful of peanut butter or a dash of cinnamon to the cookie dough mix.

    Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

    • Vegan: Uses plant-based ingredients like coconut oil and almond flour.
    • Gluten-Free: Almond flour replaces traditional wheat flour.
    • Low-Carb: Almond flour and dark chocolate keep the carb content low.
    • Low Sugar: Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and uses dark chocolate chips.
    4 ingredient gluten free cookie dough bark piece with sea salt on top.
    3.80 from 215 votes

    4 Ingredient Cookie Dough Bark

    This 4 ingredient cookie dough bark is the ultimate no-bake sweet treat! It’s gluten-free, vegan, low sugar, and totally delicious.
    Print Pin Rate
    Prep Time: 5 minutes
    Cook Time: 1 hour
    Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
    Servings: 6 servings

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup almond flour
    • 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
    • 1/4 cup maple syrup
    • 1 cup chocolate chips, divided

    Instructions

    • Mix together the almond flour, coconut oil, and maple syrup in a bowl. Add in 1/4 cup of chocolate chips and mix again to combine.
    • Line a small baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper, then place the cookie dough mixture on top of the parchment paper. Spread and flatten the mixture with your hands to form a large piece of cookie dough bark.
    • Melt the remaining 3/4 cups of chocolate chips, then pour the melted chocolate over the cookie dough bark. Spread the chocolate into an even layer, then place the bark in the freezer for at least one hour.
    • When ready to eat, remove the cookie dough bark from the freezer and either cut or break into large pieces. Enjoy right away and store leftover bark in the freezer for later!