Healthy Christmas treat ideas
Discover our healthier takes on festive snacks and sweet treats for the season, including fruity baked desserts, slow cooker puddings and filling oat pots.
While we're all in favour of indulging in the food or drink that takes your fancy over the festive season, there are plenty of healthy options that are delicious too. Read on to discover our favourite healthier Christmas treat ideas.
Slow cooker spiced apples with barley
This simple, fruity pudding is packed with flavour and couldn't be easier to make. Simply pop the mixture in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. It's flavoured with warming cinnamon and nutmeg plus orange zest for a Christmassy taste, but it's low in calories and fat. If you use wholegrain barley rather than pearled, it's also a great source of fibre.
Blackberry & apple oat bake
Hearty, wholesome and filling, this healthy treat is ideal served with a dollop of probiotic-rich bio yogurt. Cinnamon and cardamom add a touch of spice to this baked oat recipe, which is studded with chunks of apple and whole blackberries. We've added pecans for a dose of healthy fats and protein, plus a lovely crunchy texture.
Peanut butter & date oat pots
This recipe is a delicious way to start your day, but also makes for a great midday snack or treat. Made using just five storecupboard ingredients (plus yogurt), these jars take 10 minutes to prepare, and they're a quick, fuss-free option that's perfect for the busy festive season.
Cinnamon-stewed apple
Combine apples, raisins and cinnamon to make this quick, light and comforting dessert. Serve with yogurt and a drizzle of maple syrup, if you like.
Oat pancakes
This fibre-rich pancake batter includes cinnamon and orange zest for a festive flavour. The fruity compote topping is rich in vitamin C, and is made using budget-friendly frozen berries, orange juice and apple. Finish with a dollop of Greek yogurt to boost your protein and calcium intake, then enjoy!
Chocolate chia pudding
This impressive little pudding ticks a lot of boxes: it's vegan, gluten-free and low in calories. Chia seeds are rich in fibre, healthy fats and protein, making them a super-healthy ingredient to keep on hand. This recipe is made using just seven ingredients and takes five minutes to prepare – simply pop in the fridge and chill for four hours until set. Serve with budget-friendly frozen berries, which are available year-round in the supermarket freezer aisle.
Cocoa & cherry oat bake
If you like Black Forest gateau, you'll love this good-for-you pudding packed with nutritious ingredients. Dried cherries are a concentrated source of fruity flavour, while cocoa nibs and blanched hazelnuts add a satisfying crunch to every bite. It's vegan, too!
Cinnamon crêpes with nut butter, sliced banana & raspberries
Gluten-free and vegetarian, this colourful breakfast would be a luxurious start to your Christmas morning, or a great dessert any time over the festive season. Serve with nut butter and bananas for a truly delicious, feel-good feast.
Cinnamon crêpes with nut butter, sliced banana & raspberries
More healthy Christmas inspiration
Healthy Christmas menu
How to stay healthy over Christmas
Healthy Christmas buffet ideas
Healthy Christmas party recipes
Our top healthy Christmas canapés
Do you have any must-try healthy Christmas treat ideas? Leave a comment below...
