With Halloween just a week away, many people are buying candy for the trick-or-treaters. This year, why not try something new? Instead of going for the same old chocolate bars, how about picking up some new, healthy sweet treats that won’t scare your health?
In this blog you will find new types of candy that are made with natural ingredients even kids can pronounce. These little treats still have calories, but at least they don’t have chemicals that can pollute your body. Yes, we know that many kids can eat as much junk food and still be skinny and look healthy, but why risk their health when better options are available? BONUS: If there’s any leftover candy, you won’t have to feel bad about eating it!
Peppermint Pattie
If you love peppermint patties but don’t want any of the artificial flavors, then check out Sunspire peppermint patties. You can either get them online or at Whole Foods Market (1400 Glades Rd., 561/447-0000.)
Healthy Dark Chocolate
If you love chocolate, then I suggest trying chocolate-covered cacao nibs by Sweetriot to satisfy your craving. Because they are minimally processed, these cacao nuggets are full of healthy antioxidants and minerals.
I love that this chocolate comes in little tins, so portion control is easy and much more satisfying than a bag of artificially-colored M&Ms. You can buy them online or at Whole Foods Market (1400 Glades Rd., 561/447-0000.)
Peanut Butter Cups
Move over GMO Reese’s—there’s a new kid in town that won’t sacrifice your health for a few minutes of taste. It is time to stop settling for less—try Justin’s Peanut Butter Cups. They make it easy for you to choose your favorite chocolate—dark (vegan) or milk. They are also gluten-free, non-GMO and full of flavor. BONUS: They now come in packs of ten, which make them perfect for trick-or-treaters. You can buy them online, at Publix 21230 Saint Andrews Blvd., 561/544-2422) or at Whole Foods Market (1400 Glades Rd., 561/447-0000.)
Cookies
Besides being a chocolaholic, I also happen to be a cookie enthusiast, and I want to share this great find—Ginny Bakes chocolate chip macadamia cookie love. It is divine!
One of great things about this company is that the cookies are portion-controlled, so you can get one of these small packs and not worry about devouring the entire box. Try them layered with my chocolate mousse (recipe below) for an even more decadent treat both children and adults can enjoy. You can buy them online or at Whole Foods Market (1400 Glades Rd., 561/447-0000.)
Quick and Healthy Chocolate Mousse
2 ripe avocados
½ cup raw agave syrup
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup sweetened vanilla almond milk or coconut water
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon vanilla bean
Decoration Options:
Crushed pistachios
Cacao nibs
Crushed goji berries
Chopped pecans
Directions:
Blend mousse ingredients in a Vitamix or another high-speed blender, and put in individual cups. Decorate with your choice of berries, cacao nibs or nuts.
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About Alina Z.
Alina Z., aka “The Green Goddess,” is a certified holistic health coach, detox specialist and raw-food chef (she conducts occasional classes at Whole Foods in Boca). Prior to moving to Florida, Alina hosted her own TV show in Maryland—“Entertaining A to Z”—for people who didn’t have time to cook but wanted to eat healthy. Catch one of her web episodes at eHow.com, visit Alina’s website at alinaz.com, or follow her on Facebook (facebook.com/CoutureFood) or Twitter (@CoutureFood). The Green Goddess blog runs every other Wednesday at bocamag.com.
