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5 Healthy and DELICIOUS Smoothie Recipes

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all 5 smoothies in cups with ice, blueberries, and almond milk on the side

Here are the 5 smoothie recipes I make every week! They’re SUPER healthy, incredibly delicious, and come together in only a few minutes. These healthy smoothies are the perfect quick, easy, and portable breakfast or snack!

all 5 smoothies lined up in glasses with toppings on each

How to Make a (Delicious) Smoothie

  • Pick your frozen fruits. Every smoothie recipe starts with a curated selection of frozen fruit. The frozen fruit is what you’ll taste the most of in your smoothie, so make sure it’s a combination you’ll love!
  • Add in some healthy fats. Now that you have your fruit, it’s time to round the nutrition out with a bit of healthy fats. Healthy fats will slow the digestion of the naturally occurring sugar in fruit, which will stabilize your blood sugar and provide you with a long-term source of energy to get you through the morning! My favorite healthy fats for smoothies are unsweetened almond butter, avocado, or hemp seeds.
  • Consider adding fresh or frozen vegetables. Depending on which vegetable you choose to add to your smoothie, you most likely won’t be able to taste it at all! Spinach is always a great addition, yielding very little flavor yet TONS of nutrients. Or, steamed then frozen cauliflower is a perfect way to not only add nutrients to a smoothie, but helps to thicken it up as well.
  • Give it a boost with protein and/or powdered superfoods. I prefer unsweetened, unflavored, and plant-based protein in my smoothie recipes. However, feel free to use whichever protein powder is your favorite! Though in my chocolate peanut butter protein smoothie recipe, I highly recommend the Aloha Chocolate Protein Powder – it’s so darn good.
  • Select a liquid to blend. Any liquid will work! Water or milk will yield the least flavor, allowing the fruit to shine. Or, you can use juice for an even sweeter and fruitier smoothie if you’d like.
all 5 smoothies in cups with ice, blueberries, and almond milk on the side

Blenders 101

I’ve owned many blenders in my day, though these two have stood out the most:

  • Vitamix: I know …she’s expensive, but boy is she incredible! I purchase a refurbished Vitamix a few years ago after saving up for one. And let me tell ya, it was worth EVERY penny. There’s nothing the Vitamix can’t blend, it’s truly the most powerful blender on the market. So if you’re looking to splurge, the Vitamix is definitely the blender for you!
  • Nutribullet: The nutribullet is great for everyday use! It takes up very little counter space, and is super easy to clean. I had my first nutribullet for almost 10 years before it eventually died on me. And that was after daily use in a four-person household! Also, the larger cup is enough to blend up to two serving sizes. I really can’t recommend the nutribullet enough, it’s fairly priced and comes with a one year warranty.

Turn Any Smoothie Into a Smoothie Bowl

Turn any of the below smoothie recipes into a smoothie bowl! It’s seriously so easy, all you’ll need to do is start with half the amount of liquid listed in the recipe. Then, continue to add more liquid as needed or until it’s perfectly thick and smooth. Once smooth, transfer your smoothie to a bowl and top with some fresh fruit, a handful of granola, and maybe even a scoop of almond or peanut butter!

Can I Add Protein Powder To These Smoothie Recipes?

Yes! Feel free to add a scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder to any of these smoothie recipes. I almost always throw in a scoop of either Aloha vanilla protein powder and/or Further Foods unflavored collagen to boost the protein and overall nutrients in my smoothies!

close-up overhead image of all 5 smoothie recipes
5 from 2 votes

5 Healthy and DELICIOUS Smoothie Recipes

Here are the 5 smoothie recipes I make constantly! They’re SUPER healthy, incredibly delicious, and come together in only a few minutes. These healthy smoothies are the perfect quick, easy, and portable breakfast or snack!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • blender

Ingredients

Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Smoothie

  • 1 1/2 frozen bananas
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder or 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon peanut butter
  • 1 cup almond milk, or regular milk

Strawberry Banana Smoothie

  • 1 frozen banana
  • 1/2 cup frozen strawberries
  • 1 tablespoon almond or peanut butter, optional
  • 1 cup milk, I used almond milk

Glowing Green Smoothie

  • 1 cup frozen mango
  • 1/2 cup frozen peaches
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1/2 avocado
  • 1 cup water or milk

Tropical Smoothie

  • 1 cup frozen mango
  • 1/2 cup frozen pineapple
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt, unsweetened
  • 1 cup coconut milk

Very Berry Smoothie

  • 1/2 cup frozen cherries
  • 1 cup frozen mixed berries
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt, unsweetened
  • 1 cup water or milk

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
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Dairy-Free

4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Dough Bark

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Hand holding a piece of 4 ingredient peanut butter cup cookie dough bark.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy and Fast: Made with minimal ingredients and no baking required, this recipe comes together in minutes.
  • Healthier Dessert: Sweetened with maple syrup and packed with healthy fats from peanut butter and almond flour, this bark satisfies your sweet tooth while keeping it wholesome.
  • Customizable: You can switch up the flavors, toppings, and even the type of nut butter for a bark that’s truly your own.
Close up image of 4 ingredient peanut butter cup cookie dough bark.

What You’ll Need to Make Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Dough Bark

For the Cookie Dough Base:

  1. Almond Flour: The foundation of the bark, almond flour provides a soft, cookie-dough-like texture and is naturally gluten-free.
  2. Unsweetened Peanut Butter: Adds richness and flavor while binding the ingredients together. Make sure to use a drippy, natural peanut butter for the best results.
  3. Maple Syrup: Acts as the natural sweetener, giving the cookie dough a perfect touch of sweetness.

For the Chocolate Layer:

  1. Chocolate Chips: Melted chocolate creates a decadent top layer. I use Guittard Extra Dark Chocolate Chips in most of my recipes because they’re dairy-free, but rich and not-too-sweet.
  2. Chopped Peanuts (Optional): Add a delightful crunch and extra peanut flavor to the bark.

How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Dough Bark

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, mix together the almond flour, peanut butter, and maple syrup until a soft dough forms.
  2. Shape the Bark: Line a small baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper. Place the dough on the paper and spread it evenly with your hands to form a large, flat rectangle.
  3. Melt the Chocolate: Heat the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
  4. Assemble the Bark: Pour the melted chocolate over the dough, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top, if desired.
  5. Freeze and Serve: Place the bark in the freezer for at least 1 hour. When ready to enjoy, remove from the freezer and break or cut into pieces.
Overhead image of 4 ingredient peanut butter cup cookie dough bark cut into large pieces.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store the bark in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • Freezer: Keep leftovers in the freezer for up to 1 month. Simply remove pieces as needed and let them sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before eating.

Switch Up the Flavors of This Recipe

  • Add a Drizzle: Drizzle melted peanut butter or caramel over the chocolate layer before freezing for added flavor.
  • Toppings Galore: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt (I love this Maldon Flaky Sea Salt), crushed pretzels, or cacao nibs for a fun twist.
  • Different Nut Butter: Swap peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a subtle flavor variation.
5 from 1 vote

Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Dough Bark

This peanut butter cup cookie dough bark is a quick and easy treat that’s not only delicious but also healthy! Made with just 4 simple ingredients, it’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, and sweetened with maple syrup. It’s perfect for when you’re craving something sweet and indulgent yet wholesome. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or a special occasion, this bark is sure to be a hit!
Print Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Freezing Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Equipment

  • 1 small bowl
  • 1 small baking sheet

Ingredients

  • 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons almond flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened creamy peanut butter
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 3/4 cup chocolate chips melted
  • chopped peanuts (optional) for topping

Instructions

  • Mix together the almond flour, peanut butter, and maple syrup in a bowl.
  • 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 chocolate chips, then pour the melted chocolate over the 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 peanut butter cup cookie dough bark from the freezer and either cut or break into large pieces. Enjoy right away or store leftover bark in the freezer for later!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 293kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 21g | Sugar: 14g
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Dairy-Free

Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars (dairy-free!)

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three healthy gluten free pecan pie bars stacked on top of each other.

I have to be honest, I’m not the biggest fan of pie. Especially around thanksgiving and christmas – I feel like the dessert table is 90% pies and none are gluten-free. :/ For the last few years I’ve been baking and bringing my own gluten-free desserts, like my gluten-free almond flour brownies, or my almond flour chocolate chip cookies which are always such a hit! But this year, I wanted a dessert that better fit the holiday/pie category, so I came up with the idea for healthy gluten-free pecan pie bars.

These bars are wayyy less daunting than a pie and so much easier to make! They require just 6 simple ingredients, one bowl, and a baking dish. But trust me when I tell you, they’re just as good as any pie (yup, I said it!!!!) and no one will ever guess how much healthier they are!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthier Ingredients: This recipe skips traditional ingredients like refined sugar and flour, making it gluten-free, grain-free, and dairy-free while retaining the classic flavors.
  • Easy and Quick: With a simple crust and filling, these bars are ready for the oven in under 15 minutes.
  • Versatile and Customizable: Add a splash of bourbon or chocolate chips for a twist on traditional pecan pie flavors.
overhead image of a healthy gluten-free pecan pie bar.

What You’ll Need to Make These Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars

Almond Flour: The base of our shortbread crust, almond flour provides a rich, buttery flavor and keeps these bars gluten-free and grain-free.

Coconut Oil: Used in both the crust and filling, coconut oil brings moisture and healthy fats to each bite.

Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that pairs beautifully with pecans, adding just the right amount of sweetness.

Coconut Sugar: Coconut sugar gives the filling a subtle caramel-like flavor, perfect for that traditional pecan pie taste.

Eggs: These help bind the filling, creating that signature pecan pie texture that holds up well as bars.

Pecans: The star ingredient! Chopped pecans add crunch and warmth to every bite.

How to Make Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars

  1. Prepare the Crust: Mix all crust ingredients and press into a lined baking pan. Bake until golden brown and set aside.
  2. Make the Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together the filling ingredients, then fold in the chopped pecans.
  3. Assemble and Bake: Pour the filling over the baked crust and return to the oven until the filling is set. Let cool before slicing.
healthy gluten-free pecan pie bar with a bite taken out.

Can I Make These Vegan?

Yes! Substitute the eggs with a flax egg (2 tablespoons flaxseed meal mixed with 6 tablespoons water) and allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

Switch Up the Flavor of Your Pecan Pie Bars

For a unique twist, try adding:

  • Bourbon: Add 1 tablespoon for a rich, warm flavor.
  • Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle ½ cup over the crust before adding the filling for a chocolatey surprise.

Storage Tips

Store these pecan pie bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

three healthy gluten free pecan pie bars stacked on top of each other.
4.63 from 8 votes

Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars

These gluten-free pecan pie bars are the perfect way to enjoy the classic flavors of pecan pie in an easy-to-make, healthier bar form. Made with an almond flour shortbread crust, naturally sweetened filling, and crunchy pecans, this recipe is gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, and made with just 6 main ingredients!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

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

Ingredients

For the shortbread crust:

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

For the pecan pie filling:

  • 1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract optional, but recommended
  • 2 eggs at room temperature (very important!)
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans raw and unsalted

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Add all shortbread crust 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 dish. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges.
  • While the crust bakes, make the filling by whisking together the coconut sugar, coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and eggs. Once that’s combined, mix in the chopped pecans.
  • When the crust is finished baking, remove it from the oven and pour the pecan pie filling mixture over the crust. Bake again for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set. Remove the bars from the oven and let cool for at least 30 minutes in the pan.
  • Once the pan is cool, transfer the bars to the fridge to chill for about an hour. Then, remove the bars from the pan and cut into 16 squares. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to 1 week!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 272kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 2.5g | Fat: 10g | Sugar: 26g
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Dairy-Free

Gluten-Free Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This gluten-free apple cake is a delicious, simple treat that’s also healthier than traditional cakes. It’s naturally sweetened with maple syrup, making it refined sugar-free, and packed with apples, providing a warm and comforting flavor. This one-bowl recipe is quick to mix up and even easier to enjoy!

gluten-free cinnamon sugar apple cake sliced into squares on a baking sheet.

What You’ll Need to Make This Gluten-Free Apple Cake

  • Milk (I used almond milk): Adds moisture to the cake, keeping it soft. Almond milk makes it dairy-free, but any milk will work.
  • Maple Syrup or Honey: A natural sweetener that brings sweetness without refined sugar. Maple syrup keeps it vegan-friendly.
  • Unsweetened Applesauce: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and moisture while reducing the need for additional fats.
  • Melted Coconut Oil: This healthy fat keeps the cake moist and tender. It also adds a subtle coconut flavor, enhancing the cake’s richness.
  • Large Eggs: Bind the cake ingredients together, providing structure and moisture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor with a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the apples and cinnamon.
  • Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: Provides the base of the cake while keeping it gluten-free. Any 1:1 gluten-free blend should work. I use and love Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free 1:1 Baking Flour in my gluten-free recipes!
  • Almond Flour: Adds moisture and a slightly nutty flavor, while also making the cake nice and tender!
  • Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.
  • Cinnamon: Brings warmth and coziness to the cake, pairing perfectly with the apple slices.
  • Apple, Thinly Sliced: Provides sweet, tart bites throughout the cake, enhancing flavor and texture.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and creates a caramelized crust on top of the cake.
  • Cinnamon: Adds a warm, comforting spice that pairs well with apples.
  • Melted Butter or Coconut Oil: Helps the topping adhere to the cake and caramelize in the oven, creating a golden, crunchy layer.
gluten-free cinnamon sugar apple cake slice on a small dish with a fork.

How to Make Gluten-Free Apple Cake

  1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F, and line and grease a 9×9-inch cake pan for easy release.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, applesauce, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Add the gluten-free all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and cinnamon to the bowl, mixing gently until just combined.
  4. Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the thinly sliced apples to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
  5. Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter or coconut oil, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the cake batter.
  6. Bake: Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
  7. Optional Topping: Just before serving, sprinkle with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple powdered sugar icing for a little extra sweetness.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge before serving.

What Type of Apples Are Best for Apple Cake?

Opt for tart, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These hold their shape well during baking and balance the sweetness of the cake!

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and coconut oil as written for a dairy-free version.
  • Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and choose maple syrup as the sweetener.
  • Low Sugar: Reduce or omit the maple syrup for a naturally less-sweet cake, and use less sugar in the topping if desired.
gluten-free cinnamon sugar apple cake slice on a small dish with a fork.
5 from 1 vote

Gluten-Free Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake

This gluten-free cinnamon sugar apple cake is perfect for fall and cozy gatherings! Made with wholesome ingredients like almond flour, applesauce, and maple syrup, it’s moist, flavorful, and has a sweet, spiced topping for an extra treat. It’s healthy, gluten-free, and can easily be made dairy-free with just ONE bowl!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

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

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup milk (I used almond milk) at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened apple sauce
  • 1/3 cup melted coconut oil or melted butter
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups gluten-free all purpose flour see Notes
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 apple cored and very thinly sliced

For the cinnamon sugar topping:

  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter or melted coconut oil

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit then line and lightly grease a 9×9-inch cake pan (round or square).
  • Add the milk, maple syrup, apple sauce, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to a large bowl then whisk to combine.
  • Then, add in the gluten-free all purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon and gently mix until just combined.
  • Fold the thinly sliced apples into the cake batter until evenly distributed throughout the batter, then transfer the batter to the prepared cake pan.
  • In a small bowl, mix together all ingredients for the cinnamon sugar topping, then sprinkle the topping evenly over top of the cake.
  • Bake the cake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted down the center of the cake comes out clean. Remove the cake from the oven, then remove the cake from the pan and transfer to a wire cooling rack to cool completely before serving. Just before serving, sprinkle with powdered sugar or drizzle with powdered sugar icing!

Notes

Gluten-Free All Purpose Flour: I use and love Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 Gluten-Free All Purpose Baking Flour.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 148kcal | Carbohydrates: 18.5g | Protein: 2.8g | Fat: 7.9g | Sugar: 8.8g
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30 Minutes or Less

Healthier Caramelized Apples

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Sweet, tart, and warm – my caramelized apples recipe is an easy-to-make healthy Fall dessert, perfect to eat with a scoop of ice cream. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and even vegan too!

How to Make Caramelized Apples

Yay, more apple-based recipes! I have so many I need to use after all that apple picking I did in September, so hopefully this simple recipe can come in handy for you this Fall, too.

For this recipe, the apples are sautéed in butter, sugar, and cinnamon until tender and caramelized. They can then be added to sweet or savory dishes from pancakes to roasted pork loin, or be eaten directly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

What Does Caramelization Mean?

One thing to keep in mind that often gets confused is that caramelized apples are not caramel apples! Caramelization is actually the browning of sugar used in cooking for the resulting sweet nutty flavor and brown color. 

healthier caramelized apples in a skillet with a spoon.

What You’ll Need to Make Caramelized Apples

  • Apples – Use 2-3 gala, granny smith, or any other firm cooking apple.
  • Butter – I used non-dairy.
  • Sugar – I used coconut sugar, but white sugar or brown sugar would also taste great!
  • Cinnamon

Tips and Tricks

What Are The Best Apples to Use For Caramelization?

The best apples to use for this recipe are a firm apples such as Granny Smith, Fuji, Gala or Honeycrisp. Most people prefer Granny Smith because they are tart, which pairs perfectly with the sweet buttery caramelized sauce. It’s not a good idea to use a softer apple because they will fall apart while cooking.

What to make with caramelized apples?

Caramelized apples can be used on top of ice cream, on your pancakes, or as a pie filling. You can also use caramelized apples in savory dishes like chicken or turkey if you enjoy a sweeter taste to your meals. But honestly, you can use caramelized apples on almost anything you want!

How to Store Caramelized Apples?

Once cooled, place it in a jar with a tight fitting lid and refrigerate. It should keep for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

5 from 4 votes

Healthier Caramelized Apples

Sweetly tart and thoroughly warming, my vegan and refined sugar free caramelized apples recipe is an easy-to-make healthy Fall dessert, perfect to eat with a scoop of icecream.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Equipment

  • large saucepan

Ingredients

  • 2-3 whole apples
  • 1 tablespoon butter I used non-dairy butter
  • 2 tablespoons sugar I used coconut sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  • Slice apples into even-sized pieces.
  • Melt butter in a large saucepan before adding in the sugar, apples, and cinnamon.
  • Cook for 4-5 minutes, tossing apples every minute or so until tender.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 84kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 2.9g | Sugar: 11g

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