Healthy Holiday Tip #9

When it comes to modifying a recipe some individuals would agree, making grandma’s traditional recipe healthier is a good idea, while others would disagree.

If you know me, you know I’m all about modifying a recipe to make it healthier. However, I don’t always modify recipes because I believe in balance. Balancing my healthy and unhealthy food choices helps me enjoy those higher calorie foods every so often - birthdays or celebrations, cookouts, holidays, or times when I desire something sweet!

For those experimental bakers like me and who are up for a fun baking challenge, try these healthy substitutions!

• Reduce sugar in a recipe by cutting out 1/3-1/2 of the amount it calls for • Substitute in equal amounts unsweetened applesauce or fruit purée for sugar in recipes.

• Use heart-healthy oils - vegetable oil, olive oils, or soft margarine instead of butter

• Try herbs & spices instead of using salt

• Instead of whole milk or heavy cream, substitute reduced-fat (2%) low-fat (1%) skim milk

• Consider using a non-fat Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or butter

• Use shredded carrots or pumpkin purée to increase nutrients and moisture

• Incorporate whole-grain flours (whole wheat, whole white wheat, or other whole grain flours)

Photo credit: Media from Unsplash/Anshu A