These brownies are made with rich dark chocolate, creamy avocado, and whole wheat flour. This recipe is dairy-free. The only thing you’ll taste is rich, chocolatey goodness!

Who says rich, chocolatey brownies can’t be a better-for-you dessert? We swap the oil and butter in traditional recipes with avocado for less saturated fat. You won’t even be able to taste the difference!

Nutrition Tip: Adding avocado to your plate ensures that you are receiving fat-soluble vitamins A, E, and K, as well as healthy monounsaturated fat that helps the body absorb these vitamins.

It’s no secret that many people in the United States are avocado-obsessed. We’ll put it on toast, in our smoothies, and even in our guacamole. But have you ever thought about putting avocado in your brownies? We know, it sounds a little crazy. But trust us, these Dark Chocolate Avocado Brownies are absolutely delicious.

These brownies are made with rich dark chocolate, creamy avocado, and whole wheat flour. They’re also dairy-free, so they’re perfect for many folks with food allergies or sensitivities. And don’t worry, you won’t be able to taste the avocado at all. The only thing you’ll taste is rich, chocolatey goodness.

Avocado? In Desserts?

The avocado is a fruit that is often consumed in savory dishes, but it is actually really tasty when used in sweet dishes! Here are three reasons why avocado is good in desserts:

1. The creaminess of avocado makes it a great addition to smoothies and ice cream.

2. Avocado adds a unique flavor to desserts that you can’t get from other ingredients.

3. Avocados are a healthy source of fats, which can help you feel satisfied after eating dessert.

Desserts Can Be Made Healthier

We all love dessert, but sometimes they can be packed full of sugar and unhealthy ingredients. Here are a few tips on how to make your desserts a little healthier without sacrificing taste.

1. Cut back on the sugar. Sugar is often the main ingredient in desserts, so cutting back on it can make a big difference. Try using natural sweeteners like honey or stevia instead.

2. Use healthier ingredients. Instead of processed flour, use whole wheat flour or almond meal. Use fruit instead of sugary syrups to top your desserts.

3. Get creative with portion control. Don’t feel like you have to eat a huge slice of cake or pie. Serve smaller portions or make mini versions of your favorite desserts.

Storage Dark Chocolate Avocado Brownies Tips

Assuming you store them in an airtight container at room temperature, these Dark Chocolate Avocado Brownies will last about three or four days. If you pop them in the fridge, they’ll last closer to 1 week. But let’s be honest – they probably won’t last that long because they’re just too darn delicious.

Make sure to PIN IT!

Print

Dark Chocolate Avocado Brownies

Who says rich, chocolatey brownies can’t be a better-for-you dessert? We swap the oil and butter in traditional recipes with avocado for less saturated fat. You won’t even be able to taste the difference!

Course Desserts

Keyword avocado, brownies, dessert

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 40 minutes minutes

Servings 16 brownies

Calories 215kcal

Author Christine Pittman

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 8 ounces dark chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup dark cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
• 2 avocados

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch cake pan with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. Set aside.
• Beat eggs and sugar with electric mixer at medium speed until bubbly and fluffy.
• Place chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl and microwave on HIGH in 15 seconds increments, stirring in between, until melted.
• With mixer running, add chocolate to egg mixture. Fold in cocoa, salt, vanilla and flour.
• Mash avocados in separate bowl until very smooth. Add to batter and mix well.
• Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 30 minutes, or until toothpick is inserted in center and comes out clean.
• Let cool before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1brownie | Calories: 215kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.004g | Cholesterol: 41mg | Sodium: 69mg | Potassium: 241mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 98IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 54mg | Iron: 1mg

More recipes to try:

Chocolate Avocado Mousse

Double Chocolate Black Bean Brownies

The post Dark Chocolate Avocado Brownies appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

Try these Strawberry Valentine’s Day Skewers for a change-up from the candy this year. This simple snack is perfect for the kids to assemble themselves during a classroom party or at home. A super simple, healthy, and fun treat for spreading the love!

I love making Valentine’s treats and snacks with the kids. Last year, we made a simple Valentine’s Day Fruit Tray, and I even packed them up in our fun Emoji Bento Box. Well, the house is decorated with a few cards and heart cutouts, and the kids asked if we could make a treat. I looked in the refrigerator to see what we had, and right in front of me were containers of fresh fruit. Okay, well, that made it easy to go healthy…but I wasn’t sure how to make something festive. Then I realized that strawberries have a natural heart shape, so I grabbed those.

What we love about these Strawberry Valentine’s Day Skewers

These Strawberry Valentine’s Day Skewers are easy, fresh, and fun. The best part? The kids can assemble them all by themselves. If you want to slice the stems off for them, go or it. Or have them use some kid friendly knives to do it. Either way it is an easy snack that you can feel good about.

Key Ingredients for these fruit skewers

• Strawberries
• Blueberries

Of course you could customize these with you child’s favorite fruits, too. But we kept it simple with the two berries.

Health Benefits of Strawberries

For starters, strawberries are loaded with Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an essential vitamin that is not only great for our immune system building against colds and flus, but it helps the bones to build collagen too. In your cup serving of strawberries, you’ll reap over 50 percent of your daily allowance since they provide 85 milligrams of Vitamin C per serving! How awesome is that?

Iodine is another very essential nutrient that is vital to our body functioning. We need iodine primarily for the thyroid to function properly. Iodine helps the body to metabolize fats, and plays a role in skin, hair, and teeth health. When you eat a cup of strawberries, you’ll reap 12.96 micrograms of iodine per serving.

Another health benefit of strawberries is that they are loaded with potassium. Potassium is central to the body functioning properly, for without it, we would not be able to live. This electrolyte controls heartbeats, blood pressure, and fluid balances in the body. Strawberries give us around 239 milligrams of potassium in a serving.

There is also folic acid, B Vitamins, and magnesium! We could go on and on about strawberries and why we love them for days! So for more check out our produce page!

How to make these Strawberry Valentine’s Day Skewers

First grab some skewers. Then wash and prepare the strawberries and blueberries. We cut the stems off and cut them slightly if necessary to look more like a heart. You can use a heart shaped cutter if you have them.

Then carefully add the heart shaped strawberries and blueberries onto the skewers by alternating them. Then lay them on a white, pink, or red platter for serving. Repeat to make as many skewers as you would like to serve and enjoy!

Have fun sharing what you love about others in your family leading up to Valentine’s Day! Tape them to doors, the fridge, notebooks, or wherever your loved ones are sure to see them. Spread the love!

Make sure to PIN IT!

Print

Strawberry Valentine’s Day Skewers

These simple, healthy, and festive fruit skewers are perfect for Valentine's Day.

Course 5 ingredients or less, Snack

Keyword Fruit Skewers, strawberries, strawberry, Valentine’s Day

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 14kcal

Author Amanda Keefer

Ingredients

• 12 large strawberries
• 12 blueberries
• 4 skewers

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

• Use a small heart-shaped cookie cutter or knife to turn strawberries into hearts.
• Assemble skewers by adding alternating rows of strawberries and blueberries.

Nutrition

Calories: 14kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 58mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 6IU | Vitamin C: 22mg | Calcium: 6mg | Iron: 1mg

More recipes to try:

• Chocolatey Fruit Skewers
• Valentine’s Day Snack Board
• Strawberry Lime Infused Water

The post Strawberry Valentine’s Day Skewers appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

Looking for a healthy and festive treat to serve up for Valentine’s Day? Assemble your favorite fruits in a heart shape for this Valentine’s Day Fruit Tray. This cute fruit platter is easy to assemble, tasty, and a healthy alternative to candy and chocolate.

Over the years, as the kids have grown, we continuously experiment with fun and festive ways to enjoy all the holidays—yet in a healthier manner. Last Valentine’s Day, we made Tiramisu for Tots, which was a hit with the family. Last week, we made Strawberry Valentine’s Day Skewers. The kids seem to get a kick out of anything shaped like something or in interesting forms. This Valentine’s Day Fruit Tray is arranged in the shape of a heart to help celebrate Cupid’s day.

We used strawberries for their natural heart shape and red coloring. But if you want to use raspberries, purple grapes, or even cherries would work well, too. Have fun with this. It is simple so the kids can all assemble a mini version for themselves with the fruits they like!

Key Ingredients for this Valentine’s Day Fruit Tray

• Strawberries
• Kiwi
• Blueberries

Yes! An easy and festive Valentine’s Day treat! And you don’t need anything fancy to make this. Just grab out your knife or some kid friendly knives and a platter.

Print these free Valentine’s Day Affirmation hearts and have fun sharing what you love about others in your family leading up to Valentine’s Day! Tape them to doors, the fridge, notebooks, or wherever your loved ones are sure to see them. Spread the love!

What We Love About Strawberries

As one of the most loved fruits, strawberries are so juicy, flavorful, and loaded with so many great benefits! You can cook with them, bake with them, or enjoy them just as they are. Strawberries are loaded in Vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. They are also known to have many heart healthy benefits, too. Strawberries are a low calorie food and contain no sodium!

Health Benefits of Kiwi

Kiwi are a powerhouse for Vitamin C, one serving contains more than eating two oranges! They also are know to help control blood pressure, help promote healthy kidney function, and are great for our digestive track! These little sweet juicy fruits are popular with children since they are so tasty, too!

How to Assemble this Valentine’s Day Fruit Tray

First start by washing and preparing the fruits you are using. We peeled and sliced the kiwi and cut them in halves. We removed the greens off of the strawberries and sliced them in half, too.

Then grab a white platter or even a cheese board and assemble the strawberries and blueberries in the center. Next layer the kiwi fruit around and form into a heart shape. Refrigerate until ready to serve and enjoy!

Make sure to PIN IT!

Substitutions and Additions:

• Looking for different fruit? How about raspberries, red apple slices, or even purple grapes.
• Want a little chocolate? Add some mini chocolate chips to the platter.
• Need a little sweetness? Sprinkle some powdered sugar over the fruit.
• Do the kids like to dip their fruit? Try our Chocolate Yogurt Fruit Dip

For more Valentine’s Day ideas, check out our 20 Healthy Valentine’s Day Treats

Print

Valentine’s Day Fruit Tray

This festive fruit tray is easy to make and perfect for a healthy Valentine's Day treat.

Course 5 ingredients or less, Snacks

Keyword fruit tray, strawberries, Valentine’s Day

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 45kcal

Author Amanda Keefer

Ingredients

• 2 kiwi peeled, sliced
• 1 cup sliced strawberries
• 1/4 cup blueberries

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

• Assemble fruit tray by placing kiwi in heart shape on large plate. Fill in with strawberries and blueberries.

Nutrition

Calories: 45kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 204mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 49IU | Vitamin C: 64mg | Calcium: 22mg | Iron: 1mg

More recipes to try:

Valentine’s Day Snack Board

Easy Chocolate Strawberry Hand Pies

Strawberry Valentine’s Day Skewers

The post Valentine’s Day Fruit Tray appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

If you’re looking for a fun, festive, and nutritious way to celebrate, this Valentine’s Day Snacking Board featuring four delicious apple recipes is a must-try. Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show love—not just to the people around us but also to our hearts!

Whether you’re planning a family-friendly activity, a romantic appetizer, or a nutritious treat for kids, this apple-inspired snack board will impress with its balance of sweet and savory flavors.

A Heart-Healthy Valentine’s Choice

Apples are packed with fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients that promote heart health. They’re naturally sweet and pair beautifully with both creamy and savory ingredients. This snack board highlights four easy, mess-free apple treats for kids and adults, perfect for Valentine’s Day.

What’s on the Valentine’s Snack Board?

This Valentine’s Day apple snack board features four simple yet delicious apple treats, each bringing a unique flavor and texture combination:

1. Apple Slices – A fresh and crunchy option that pairs well with dips.
2. Apple Peanut Butter Sandwiches with Coconut – A protein-packed, fun-to-make snack.
3. Greek Yogurt Apple Heart Phyllo Dough Cups – A crispy, creamy, and naturally sweet treat.
4. Apple Skewers – A balance of sweet and savory flavors in a mess-free, handheld snack.

These nutrient-dense, heart-healthy snacks are kid-friendly, easy to assemble, and perfect for making ahead.

How to Make Each Apple Snack

1. Classic Apple Slices

A simple yet essential part of any fruit board, apple slices add crunch, natural sweetness, and vibrant color.

How to Prepare:

• Wash and thinly slice apples to maximize crunch and visual appeal.
• Serve as-is or pair with Greek yogurt, honey, nut butter, or cheese for an extra flavor combination.
• If prepping in advance, toss slices with a splash of lemon juice to slow down browning.

2. Apple Peanut Butter Sandwiches with Coconut

A fun and interactive snack perfect for kids and adults! These mini apple sandwiches deliver a protein boost from peanut butter, fiber from apples, and natural sweetness from shredded coconut.

Ingredients:

• 1 large apple, cored and sliced into rounds
• ¼ cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
• 2 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut

Instructions:

1. Use a small heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut a heart out of half of the apple rounds.
2. Spread peanut butter on the uncut apple rounds.
3. Sprinkle with shredded coconut for extra texture and natural sweetness.
4. Top with the cut-out apple round to form a sandwich.

Kid-Friendly Tip: Let kids help assemble Valentine’s decor over the snack board! They’ll love using cookie cutters and spreading peanut butter.

3. Greek Yogurt Apple Heart Phyllo Dough Cups

These crispy phyllo dough cups filled with Greek yogurt, apples, and a touch of honey bring the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and creamy flavors.

Ingredients:

• 6 pre-made phyllo dough cups (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• ½ apple, heart shaped with cookie cutter 

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt with honey until smooth.
2. Fill each phyllo cup with a spoonful of Greek yogurt mixture.
3. Top with heart shaped apples.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Sweet & Savory Balance: The tangy Greek yogurt and flaky phyllo dough complement the natural sweetness of apples beautifully.

4. Apple Skewers

Apple skewers are a mess-free, easy-to-hold snack that combines apples with cheese, nuts, and dried fruit for a sweet and savory mix. Take your cookie cutter and cut your apples. Thread your cut apples onto small skewers with your favorite cheeses and fruits. Alternate ingredients for color contrast and variety and serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips for a Mess-Free & Kid-Friendly Snack Board

One of the biggest concerns with charcuterie boards and snack platters is mess and preparation time—especially when kids are involved. Here’s how to make it stress-free and fun:

• Pre-slice apples ahead of time and keep them fresh with our tips on how to keep apples from browning. 
• Use small serving plates or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Let kids assemble their own apple treats—this makes them more likely to try new flavors!
• Keep it balanced by offering both sweet (yogurt cups, coconut, honey) and savory (cheese, nuts, peanut butter) options. Our Caramel Apple Trifle is a great example of how delicious combination can turn.

This Valentine’s Day Apple Snacking Board is simple, nutritious, and fun to make, making it perfect for date night, a kid-friendly snack, or a festive holiday spread. Combining crisp apples with creamy, crunchy, and sweet ingredients pleases all taste buds while keeping things heart-healthy and mess-free.

So, grab your favorite apples, get creative with shapes, and enjoy a delicious and beautiful Valentine’s Day snack board!

For more Valentine’s inspiration, recipes, and ideas… Check out 20+ Healthy Valentine’s Snacks!

The post Healthy Valentine’s Day Snack Board: 4 Delicious Apple Recipes appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

In February, we are encouraged to take part in the fight against heart disease. Explore healthy foods, appropriate portion sizes, and manageable lifestyle adjustments that promote heart health. Learn heart-healthy tips to enhance your overall well-being!

You can modify a healthy diet and lifestyle to decrease your risk of disease and increase your quality of life. Choosing to follow heart-healthy guidelines doesn’t mean having to eat bland foods. All foods can be incorporated into your meal plan if the quantity and frequency are in moderation.

It’s also important to talk your doctor and a registered dietitian about reducing cholesterol and fat (especially saturated fat) and finding out which portion sizes work best for you to maintain a healthy weight.

Fruits and vegetables contain essential vitamins, minerals and fiber that may help protect you from chronic diseases, like heart disease. Compared with people who consume a diet with only small amounts of fruits and vegetables, those who eat more generous amounts as part of a healthful diet are likely to have reduced risk of heart disease.

Healthy-Heart Meal Tips

Enjoy More:

• Fruits and Vegetables – fresh, canned or frozen are all good options
• Whole Grains – 100% whole wheat bread, brown rice, quinoa
• Plant-Based Proteins – Beans, nuts, seeds and legumes
• Lean Animal Protein – Fish, lean red meat and poultry
• Fat-Free and Low-Fat Dairy Products
• Healthy Fats – olive, peanut, and canola oils (some of my favorite oils used in roasting vegetables)

Eat Less:

• Sodium and Salt – instead, use herbs and spices to flavor foods
• Saturated Fat – found mostly in animal products; eat in moderation, watch portion size and choose leaner cuts of meat
• Sweets and Added Sugars – skip the soda, pastries and sugary cereals
• Trans Fat and Partially Hydrogenated Oils – Often found in margarine and salad dressings
• Canned fruits or vegetables with high-calorie sauces or added salt or sugars

While this is just a small snapshot of what I’m serving up at home to make heart-healthier meals, if you’re interested in learning more about heart disease and dietary prevention or maintenance, be sure to visit the American Heart Association website. It’s my one-stop shop for educational materials and resources regarding all things related to our heart!

February is also when we celebrate Valentine’s Day. It’s a holiday associated with love notes, roses, romantic dinners and candy. Valentine’s Day offers an opportunity to help children make a positive association with healthy choices and a healthy heart.

Tips to Encourage a Healthy Valentine’s Day for Your Family

• Kids can create their own personal Valentine’s Day cards for friends and family.
• Instead of sending candy to your child’s school or daycare, consider mini boxes of raisins or pretzels, or even pencils, erasers or stickers.
• Talk to your kids about activities that are heart-healthy, such as running, walking, skipping, and dancing.
• Discuss foods that promote a healthy heart such as water, fruits, veggies, whole grains & low-fat dairy.
• Surprise your kid with a heart-healthy lunchbox note on festive paper.
• Indulge in sweets with benefits. Instead of the standard box of milk chocolates, enjoy a few pieces of dark chocolate, which is rich in antioxidants.
• Plan a healthy Valentine’s meal. Our healthy, kid-friendly recipes, like these heart-shaped Flourless Berry Banana Pancakes, are perfect. Dessert can also be something simple but delicious such as fresh strawberries and low-fat whipped cream, topped with a few mini dark chocolate chips.
• If your kid comes home from school with a bag of candy, let him or her enjoy it, but in moderation. I have found that if I restrict my daughter’s candy, she tends to want it more. Instead, I let her pick a few of her favorite pieces to enjoy that day, then give her a couple per day (only if she asks).

Plan special family activities to center the holiday around family time; quality time is one of the most meaningful gifts. One of my family’s favorite Valentine’s Day activities is going around the dinner table and saying what we love about each member of our family. However, if you celebrate Valentine’s Day, make it heart-healthy with these tips.

The post Heart-Healthy Eating Tips for Your Family appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

Looking for a lovely and festive way to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Try this Valentine’s Day Snack Board with strawberries, raspberries, yogurt pretzels, brie, crackers and more. This platter is a fun way to celebrate the holiday with loved ones. 

No, you weren’t shot by cupid but you will fall in love with the Valentine’s Day snack board! This grazing board is festive, pretty, and loaded with all the good stuff! We have been obsessed with making snacking boards lately, especially if we have any friends and family over. They are easy to assemble by grabbing out your favorite cutting board, pizza peel, or cheese board. Then just load them up with your favorite fruits, cheeses, crackers, or other festive items.

We love raspberries and strawberries, so they are the star of the show on this snack board. We added some dragonfruit, too. If you have never had dragonfruit, it is a superpower fruit with many benefits. They are very mild in taste, and the texture is like a kiwi. Dragonfruit is loaded with Vitamin C and B Vitamins and is high in antioxidants. They are also high in dietary fiber as well. Low in calories but high in many essential nutrients make this fruit a powerhouse!

For more on how to store them, select them, and prepare them, check out our Produce Tips Page!

Key Ingredients for this Valentine’s Day Snack Board

• Rice Crackers
• White Chocolate Pretzels
• Brie Cheese
• Strawberries
• Raspberries
• Dragonfruit
• Pomegranate Arils
• Shredded Coconut flakes

We loaded our snack board up with some red and pink fruits obviously to help us celebrate the holiday. But you could always add other fruits of choice that your family enjoys!

How to make a this Valentine’s Day Snack Board

First start by washing and prepping the fruit you will be using. We sliced our strawberries in half and cut and sliced the dragonfruit with the skin on for color.

Then grab a large tray or board and start assembling the ingredients.

We placed the pomegranate arils into a small glass dish along with the raspberries. Then we scattered the other ingredients around.

When ready to serve, place it on the table and let everyone grab what they like! Enjoy!

Print these free Valentine’s Day Affirmation hearts and have fun sharing what you love about others in your family leading up to Valentine’s Day! Tape them to doors, the fridge, notebooks, or wherever your loved ones are, Spread the Love!

Valentine’s Day Snack Board Variations

• If you are up for it, melt some dark chocolate and dip the strawberries in it!
• Add some chocolate chips sprinkled over the board or even some Hershey Kisses or other Valentine’s candies.
• Have some other fruits around? Try some dragon fruit, cubed watermelon, or cherries.

Make sure to PIN IT!

For more festive treats check out our 20 Healthy Valentine’s Day Treats

Need some Valentine’s Day printables? Here are some cute free ones!

Print

Valentine’s Day Snack Board

No, you weren’t shot by cupid but you will fall in love with the Valentine’s Day snack board! Complete with strawberries, raspberries, yogurt pretzels, brie, crackers and more, it’s fun way to celebrate the holiday with loved ones. Don’t forget to share your valentines!

Course Appetizer, Egg Free, Snacks

Keyword fruit, snack board, Valentine’s Day

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Calories 335kcal

Author Amanda Keefer

Ingredients

• 16 rice crackers
• 4 ounces white chocolate pretzels
• 3 ounces brie cheese
• 2 cups strawberries
• 1 cup raspberries
• 1 dragonfruit sliced
• 1/4 cup pomegranate airls
• 1/4 cup toasted coconut

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

• Assemble all ingredients on large cutting board or serving tray.
• For added flair, sprinkle with coconut flakes or mini chocolate chips.

Nutrition

Calories: 335kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 21mg | Sodium: 617mg | Potassium: 294mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 144IU | Vitamin C: 51mg | Calcium: 84mg | Iron: 3mg

More recipes to try:

Tiramisu for Tots

Strawberry Valentine’s Day Skewers

Chocolate Yogurt Fruit Dip

The post Valentine’s Day Snack Board appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

If you are craving a sweet and easy dessert recipe, we have these easy Chocolate Strawberry Hand Pies that can be prepped in just 20 minutes and are delicious! They are filled with fresh strawberries and a little chocolate. No one in the family will be able to turn these down.

If you are a fan of easy, delicious, personal sized desserts, these Chocolate Strawberry Hand Pies are just for you! Not only are they absolutely amazing, they are cute, and made with only six ingredients. These little strawberry pies are perfect for Valentine’s Day, during strawberry season, or really anytime you want to make a sweet treat for your loved ones.

This easy dessert recipe uses just 6 simple ingredients and is ready-to-eat in 45 minutes. Kids will love helping in the kitchen with this yummy dessert, once you have the strawberries prepped, they can stuff the dough with them! Using store-bought refrigerated pie crusts makes these delicious, perfectly-portioned desserts a breeze. You can also sub in your favorite homemade pie crust if you prefer, but some days…ok, most days…I like to go the easy route when I can. I am all about saving time when possible!

Key Ingredients in Chocolate Strawberry Hand Pies

• Fresh strawberries
• Chocolate chips
• Pie crust

You will also need some pantry staples; sugar, cornstarch, and an egg.

How to make these Easy Chocolate Strawberry Hand Pies

First start by preheating the oven to 375F. Then wash and prep the strawberries and finely dice them.

Next mix the strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch in a large bowl and set aside.

Then roll the pie dough out on lightly-floured surface. Use a small bowl or glass (about 3½ inches in diameter) to cut out 20 rounds. Reroll scraps as necessary.

Place the 10 dough circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Fill the center with strawberries and chocolate chips. Wet the edges of the dough with water. Top with the second dough circle and press the edges firmly to seal or use a fork to seal edges. Brush with egg whites.

Then bake the hand pies for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before serving and enjoy!

Can you refrigerate leftover hand pies?

Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. You may want to pop them in the oven for a few minutes to warm them up and give the crust that crispy texture again.

Can you freeze these dessert hand pies?

• Yes! If you have leftovers, I recommend wrapping them individually and then add them to a ziplock bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• If you would like to prep these hand pies ahead of time so that you can just grab them from the freezer and bake so you have an easy dessert ready-to-go, you can do that too! I recommend prepping the hand pies as directed, but stop when it says bake! Pop the hand pies in the freezer (on parchment paper on the baking sheet) for a few hours, then wrap them individually, put them in a ziplock and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Then, when you are ready to enjoy some chocolate strawberry amazingness, all you have to do is take one (or several) from the freezer, allow them to thaw and bake as directed.

Nutrition Tip: Young kids can get all the immune-boosting vitamin C they need in a day with just three medium strawberries!

Can you use different fruit?

Sure can! We love using fresh fruit that’s in season when making dessert hand pies, feel free to experiment! And don’t forget to come back and let us know your favorite combination.

Make sure to PIN IT!

Print

Strawberry Hand Pies with Chocolate

Filled with fresh strawberries and a little chocolate, the whole family will love this easy dessert recipe.

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Keyword chocolate, chocolate milk, desserts, healthy desserts, strawberry

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Total Time 45 minutes minutes

Servings 10 servings

Calories 128kcal

Author Amber Gray

Cost $5

Ingredients

• 1 package refrigerated pie crust dough
• 2 cups finely chopped Wish Farms® strawberries
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 large egg white beaten

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375F.
• Mix strawberries, sugar and cornstarch in large bowl. Set aside.
• Roll dough out on lightly-floured surface. Use small bowl or glass (about 3½ inches in diameter) to cut out 20 rounds. Reroll scraps as necessary.
• Place 10 dough circles on parchment-lined baking sheet. Fill center with strawberries and chocolate chips. Wet rim of dough with water. Top with second dough circle and press edges firmly to seal or use a fork to seal edges. Brush with egg whites.
• Bake 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before serving.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 128kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 78mg | Potassium: 66mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 14IU | Vitamin C: 17mg | Calcium: 13mg | Iron: 1mg

More recipes to try:

• Mini Apple Pie Empanadas
• Peach Hand Pies
• How To Make Frozen Strawberry & Yogurt Bites

The post Easy Chocolate Strawberry Hand Pies appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

Enjoy a new spin on cupcakes with this lightened-up cranberry cupcake recipe! It’s made with canned cranberry sauce and topped with a cranberry cream cheese frosting for a sweet dessert. Perfect for Mother’s Day, holiday celebrations, birthday parties, and more…

I have to admit, I’m not the biggest fan of cupcakes. My sweet tooth tends to lean more dark chocolate than cake and frosting. So, when our friends at US Cranberries reached out about doing a cranberry cupcake, I knew I was going to need some taste-testers to help me out.

Luckily, our team is always ready to try a new dish! After a couple of rounds getting the recipe just right, the team bit in and their eyes lit up – BINGO! We had it.

What makes these cupcakes special?

First, their light, fluffy and super moist thanks to the cranberry sauce. I could eat them just as they are without the cream cheese frosting. There would be no complaints on these for breakfast as a “muffin.”

Second, I love that they have a balanced sweetness. They’ve got a little, but not hit-you-in-the-face sugar sweetness that you often get with boxes or store-bought cupcakes. The average store-bought cupcake can pack around 27g of sugar! This recipe contains 11g with over half of that coming from natural sources like cranberries.

Third, I’m a sucker for cream cheese frosting and love the addition of cranberry sauce to add some flavor and turn it into a pretty pink color with no food coloring needed.

Related: Learn all about cranberries from when to buy to how to store them!

Cranberry Cupcakes Key Ingredients

The ingredients needed for these cupcakes are pretty standard, most of these items you can probably find in your pantry already. Here are a few things to keep in mind with this recipe:

• Flour: This recipe called for standard all-purpose flour. I didn’t test these using a different type of flour, so I can’t guarantee that a gluten-free flour would give you the same fluffy texture.
• Canned cranberry sauce: I used “whole cranberry sauce” but any type would do. Or if you have leftover cranberry sauce from a holiday celebration, that works too!
• Honey: You could also swap for maple syrup (for a slightly different flavor) or agave nectar
• Cream Cheese: Make sure to set this out a few hours before making the frosting so it has time to soften. It’ll make a huge difference in how easy it blends!

How many cupcakes does this recipe make?

This recipe made 16 cupcakes when I tested it at home. However, I made them at a friends house and it made 12. I think her muffin tin was slightly larger than mine. Maybe one was a “standard” size and the other wasn’t? Either way, be prepared for this recipe to make 12-16 cupcakes, depending on the side of your pan.

Related: Try our Angel Food Cupcakes with Blood Orange Frosting!

Cupcake Decorating Tips

Wanting to make your cupcakes look like they’re fresh from a cupcake shop? Go for it! Here are some tips.

Use a Piping Bag

Fill a piping bag with your frosting for that professional frosting look. Since the frosting does contain cranberry pieces, I’d use a tip with a larger opening so it doesn’t get clogged

Give these cupcakes some added flair by topping with a sugared cranberry! Here’s how to make them:

1. Thaw frozen cranberries in water or small bowl at room temperature.
2. Toss in a little sugar until coated.
3. Add to your cupcakes!

Commonly Asked Questions About Our Cranberry Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Q: What are the main ingredients in Cranberry Cupcakes?
A: The main ingredients in Cranberry Cupcakes are all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, eggs, canned cranberry sauce, melted butter, honey, vanilla, and cream cheese for the frosting.

Q: How many cupcakes does the Cranberry Cupcake recipe make?
A: The Cranberry Cupcake recipe makes 12-16 cupcakes depending on the size of your muffin tin.

Q: Does the cream cheese frosting need to be refrigerated?
A: Yes, any leftovers of the Cranberry Cupcakes with cream cheese frosting should be refrigerated. Let it warm up to room temperature before eating again.

Q: What makes these cupcakes a lighter dessert?
A: These cupcakes use healthier ingredients like Greek yogurt in the frosting and have less sugar than traditional cupcakes, with only 11g per serving.

Other Sweet, but Not Too Sweet Desserts to Try

• Applesauce-Filled Carrot Muffins with Cream Cheese Frosting
• Healthy No Bake Cheesecake in Mini Mason Jars
• Chocolate Yogurt Fruit Dip
• Broiled Peaches with Greek Yogurt & Almonds
• Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Print

Cranberry Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Enjoy a new spin on cupcakes with this lightened-up cranberry cupcake recipe! It’s made with canned cranberry sauce and topped with a cranberry cream cheese frosting for a sweet, but not too sweet, dessert.

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Keyword baking, cranberries, cranberry cupcakes, cupcakes, healthier desserts

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 40 minutes minutes

Servings 16

Calories 205kcal

Author Amanda Keefer

Equipment

• Piping Bag and Tips
• Silicone Cupcake Liners
• Muffin Pan

Ingredients

Cupcakes

• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• ½ tsp. baking soda
• ¼ tsp. salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup canned cranberry sauce
• ½ cup unsalted butter melted
• ⅓ cup honey
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Frosting

• 8 oz. cream cheese softened
• ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 2 Tbsp. canned cranberry sauce
• 1 Tbsp. honey
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

• Cupcakes
• Preheat oven to 350F. Line muffin tin with paper liners or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
• Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt in large bowl.
• In a separate bowl, beat eggs. Mix in cranberry sauce, butter, honey and vanilla.
• Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients until just combined.
• Fill muffin cups to about ¾ full. Bake 16-20 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean (ovens can vary, check at 16 minutes). Remove from oven and let cool 2-3 minutes before removing from muffin tin and letting cool on wire rack.
• Frosting
• Beat cream cheese, yogurt, cranberry sauce, honey and vanilla with an electric mixer until smooth. 
• Spread evenly on top of cooled cupcakes before serving.

Video

Notes

• The recipe makes 12-16 cupcakes, depending on the size of your muffin tin.
• Make sure to let your cream cheese soften at room temperature before making the frosting. This will make it much easier to mix.
• Refrigerate leftover cupcakes. Take out of refrigerator and store at room temperature for an hour if you want them "warmed up" for eating.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupcake | Calories: 205kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 50mg | Sodium: 162mg | Potassium: 58mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 406IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 46mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Cranberry Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

All you need is 4 simple ingredients – Greek yogurt, cocoa powder, honey, and vanilla extract – to make this simple, healthy, and delicious Chocolate Yogurt Fruit Dip! Grab some of your favorite fruit for dipping.

Looking for a sweet treat that you can feel good about eating? This Chocolate Yogurt Fruit Dip is so creamy and delicious. This yogurt dip makes the perfect after school snack, date night dessert, or even a treat for the holidays.

I know what you are thinking: A healthy chocolate dessert? Yes, it is possible. And yes, it still tastes great! This Chocolate Yogurt Fruit Dip is one of my family’s newest favorite snacks. We have been whipping up different fruit dips to help us get excited about snack time. It was made with strawberries, bananas, and other fresh fruit.

This healthy snack comes together quickly and easily with just a few ingredients. This dip is great to serve as a yummy dessert for Valentine’s Day or as an easy way to get some extra protein in at snack time. This treat is easy enough to let the kids help make it.

Ingredients for Chocolate Yogurt Fruit Dip

• Greek yogurt
• Cocoa powder
• Honey
• Vanilla extract
• Fruit, for dipping (plus graham crackers, if you’d like)

We love this dip with strawberries and bananas for dipping. Apples, pineapple and cherries would also be delicious!

What we love about Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a great addition to your diet as it contains many wonderful benefits for our bodies. It can improve bone health, digestive health, and even heart health. Greek yogurt is also rich in probiotics, aiding in gut health, and packed with protein to keep you fuller longer.

We prefer to buy plain Greek yogurt and sweeten it ourselves with a little honey for less added sugar. My family also prefers the taste of whole milk Greek yogurt (as opposed to nonfat or reduced-fat Greek yogurt).

Grab whatever Greek yogurt your family prefers! We definitely suggest Greek yogurt over regular yogurt though. It’s thicker and better for dipping.

Nutrition Tip: Chocolate Lovers, rejoice! Because cocoa is so rich in minerals and flavonoids, it can provide a wide range of health benefits. Some include balancing cholesterol levels, improving mood, supporting the heart, and reducing chronic fatigue.

How to Make This Creamy Chocolate Yogurt Dip

1. Mix together your ingredients until well mixed.
2. Taste and add more honey or cocoa powder as needed.
3. Serve with fruit for dipping!

This recipe can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Go ahead and double or triple the recipe for yummy snacking for the weekend!

Make sure to Pin It!

Commonly asked questions about our Chocolate Yogurt Fruit Dip recipe

Q: How long does it take to make Chocolate Yogurt Fruit Dip?
A: It only takes about 5 minutes to make this easy chocolate yogurt fruit dip.

Q: What fruits go well with this dip?
A: Strawberries and bananas are recommended for dipping in this chocolate yogurt fruit dip. Other fruits like apples, pineapple, and cherries would also be good.

Q: Is Chocolate Yogurt Fruit Dip a healthy snack?
A: Yes, this chocolate yogurt fruit dip is a healthy snack option. It’s made with protein-rich Greek yogurt and natural sweeteners like honey.

Q: What makes this chocolate dip different from other chocolate dips?
A: This dip is healthier using Greek yogurt and natural sweeteners compared to dips made with heavy cream or processed sugars.

Let’s make and enjoy this delicious dip!

Print

Chocolate Yogurt Fruit Dip

All you need is 4 simple ingredients to make this simple, healthy and delicious Chocolate Yogurt Fruit Dip! Grab some of your favorite fruit for dipping.

Course Snacks

Keyword chocolate, fruit dip, healthy snack, yogurt

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 2 servings

Calories 71kcal

Author Trish James

Ingredients

• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 Tbsp. cocoa powder
• 1 Tbsp. honey
• ¼ tsp. vanilla extract

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

• Mix Greek yogurt, cocoa powder, honey and
  vanilla in a bowl.
• Serve with fruit for dipping.
  
  

Nutrition

Calories: 71kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 20mg | Potassium: 188mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 65mg | Iron: 1mg

Other Fruit Snack Ideas to Try:

• Caramel Apple Yogurt Parfait
• Very Berry Cheesecake Dip
• Coconut Granola Fruit Cups
• Strawberry & Yogurt Bites

The post Chocolate Yogurt Fruit Dip appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

February is filled with love—heart-shaped candy, chocolates, and Valentine’s Day! This lovely celebration is known for its sweet treats, so we gathered 20 Healthy Valentine’s Day Treats you and your family can enjoy!

Just because we are surrounded with sweets and candy, doesn’t mean that this holiday has to be unhealthy. We strive to provide our families with family friendly, healthier, and fun recipes. These 20 Healthy Valentine’s Day Treats are festive, easy to make, and fun for the kids.

February is also American Heart Month, giving families a great opportunity to make sweet treats good for you. Here are some great tips for a heart-healthy Valentine’s day.

When it comes to holidays focused on candy and sweets, there’s always a debate on how much or how little our kids should be eating. Make sure to check out Episode 37 of our podcast, where our registered dietitian, Sally of RealMomNutrition.com, share her thoughts as both a nutrition expert and mom on how families can balance the sugar rush.

Hint: You can still eat candy! Life is all about balance.

Print these free Valentine’s Day Affirmation hearts and have fun sharing what you love about others in your family leading up to Valentine’s Day! Tape them to doors, the fridge, notebooks, or wherever your loved ones are sure to see them. Spread the love!

Here are 20 of our favorite healthy (and sweet!) Valentine’s Day Treats!

20 Healthy Valentine’s Day Treats

1

Strawberry Valentine's Day Skewers

Easy to make and still festive, these fruit skewers are perfect for Valentine's Day!

Get the Recipe

2

Valentine's Day Snack Board

This Valentine's Day Snack Board is loaded with festive items, healthy fruits, and other snacks.

Get the Recipe

3

Tiramisu for Tots

Looking for a family friendly version of a classic decadent dessert? Try this Tiramisu for Tots!

Get the Recipe

4

Strawberry & Yogurt Bites

Just two ingredients come together to make these healthy heart shaped treats the kids will love.

Get the Recipe

5

Chocolate Avocado Mousse

Yes you read that right, chocolate and avocado blend together perfectly to create a creamy, healthier chocolate mousse.

Get the Recipe

6

Strawberry Hand Pies with Chocolate

Fresh strawberries and chocolate chips make these little hand held pies a fun treat!

Get the Recipe

7

Nutella-Strawberry Cheesecake Bites

Photo Credit: www.thekitchenismyplayground.com

These little strawberry cheesecake bites are a fun and healthier spin on a classic dessert.

Continue Reading

8

Easy Fruit Salad for Valentine's Day

Photo Credit: www.courtneyssweets.com

Fun heart shaped fruits come together in a festive fruit salad to help celebrate Valentine's Day!

Continue Reading

9

Black Bean Lava Cakes

Photo Credit: www.thehealthymaven.com

Craving some chocolate? Try these lava cakes that are made with black beans!

Continue Reading

10

Gluten Free Pop Tarts

Photo Credit: www.allergyfreealaska.com

These little heart shaped pop tarts are made with a gluten free crust and strawberry jam.

Continue Reading

11

Easy Healthy Dark Chocolate Fondue

Photo Credit: www.anediblemosaic.com

Just two ingredients come together for a wonderful chocolate dip.

Continue Reading

12

Red Velvet Energy Bites

Photo Credit: namelymarly.com

These little bites are loaded with power foods and still tastes great.

Continue Reading

13

Decadent Dark Chocolate Chia Pudding

Photo Credit: www.joyfulhealthyeats.com

This decadent chocolate pudding is made with healthy foods for a tasty treat.

Continue Reading

14

5-Ingredient No Bake Strawberry Tart

Photo Credit: triedandtasty.com

These little strawberry tarts are easy to make, no baking required, and are loaded with power foods.

Continue Reading

15

Valentine’s Day Emoji Bento Box

The kids will love opening their lunchboxes to this fun Valentine's Day Emoji Box!

Get the Recipe

16

No Bake Strawberry Coconut Cream Bites

Photo Credit: www.spoonfulofflavor.com

Fresh strawberries and coconut flavors combine to make these fun bite sized treats.

Continue Reading

17

3-Ingredient "Chocolate-Covered Strawberry" Frozen Greek Yogurt Bites

Photo Credit: twohealthykitchens.com

Strawberry and chocolate make these little frozen yogurt bites absolutely delicious.

Continue Reading

18

Valentine's Day Fruit Tray

Looking for an easy way to help celebrate the holiday? Try this simple heart shaped fruit tray.

Get the Recipe

19

Valentines Cucumber Bouquet

Photo Credit: www.superhealthykids.com

A flower bouquet made from fresh vegetables? How fun! Let the kids help assemble these little flower shaped veggie treats.

Continue Reading

20

Flourless Raspberry Banana Pancakes

This quick and easy breakfast idea will be a great way to start the day!

Get the Recipe