Easter is around the corner. Chocolate treats shaped like bunnies and eggs are filling the shelves. Growing up eating Peeps, Cadbury eggs and other confections can hold a special place in our childhood memories, but alternatives abound and making yummy treats with our children or grandchildren is a win, win, win, win.
Win – Time with loved ones
Win – A teaching moment on how healthy food can taste great
Win – Eating the treat
Win – No belly ache or mood swings from low grade ingredients
All of us humans are tantalized by treats and, unfortunately many are unhealthy. The treats we make from scratch with real ingredients taste better and we feel the difference afterwards. I’d like to see our children create positive eating habits that help them thrive.
Here is an easy, healthy, sweet treat that can be altered by the dried fruit and nuts you have in your pantry. The 2:2:1 ratio is most important so the balls hold together…
Choco-Nut Balls
Ingredients:
2 Cup Macadamia, Brazil or Pistachio Nuts
2 Cup dried figs (packed)
1 Cup cacao nibs
1/4 tsp good quality salt
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in food processor and process until a sticky dough forms. Test by squeezing a large spoonful together to see if it holds a ball shape. Roll into balls.
Roll balls in 1/4 Cup cacao powder mixed with 2 tsp of coconut sugar or, shredded coconut. Store in refrigerator in a single layer.
Note: Recipe courtesy of Dr. Elizabeth Strugatz
And, here are some natural recipes to have fun making your own dyes for Easter Eggs.
Blue
Cut 1/4 head of red cabbage into chunks and add to 4 cups boiling water. Stir in 2 Tbsp. vinegar. Let cool to room temperature and remove cabbage with a slotted spoon.
Green
Peel the skin from 6 red onions and simmer in 2 cups water for 15 minutes; strain. Add 3 tsp. white vinegar.
Orange
Take the skin of 6 yellow onions and simmer in 2 cups water for 15 minutes; strain. Add 3 tsp. white vinegar.
Yellow
Stir 2 Tbsp. turmeric into 1 cup boiling water; add 2 tsp. white vinegar.
Pink
Cut 1 medium beet into chunks and add to 4 cups boiling water. Stir in 2 Tbsp. vinegar and let cool to room temperature; remove beets.
Lavender
Mix 1 cup grape juice and 1 tablespoon vinegar.
Enjoy and Happy Spring Equinox!
Image Credit: Marta Greenleaf
