These 4 healthy chocolate treat recipes for kids are so delicious and naturally sweetened, moms keep coming back to them for snack time, lunchboxes, and dessert.
Why moms avoid refined sugar in treats
Blood sugar spikes can lead to mood swings, hyperactivity, and then energy crashes in kids. This makes their focus at school difficult
Weakened immune system – Too much sugar can actually reduce the body’s ability to fight off illness as it weakens the immune system
Tooth decay – Refined sugar is a leading cause of cavities in young children
Behaviour issues – Some parents notice more tantrums, sleep disruptions, irritability, and moodiness after their kids eat sugary snacks
Poor nutrient absorption – Excess sugar intake can interfere with how the body absorbs micro and macronutrients by affecting the gut microbiome
Eating habits – Early exposure to high sugar foods can set children’s taste preferences for years to come
Alternatives to sugar that moms love baking with
Some alternatives to sugar that have more health benefits and are less processed are
- Maple syrup (not pancake syrup)
- Honey
- Dates
- Berries
- Applesauce
- Pure vanilla extract
These all provide sweetness in baked goods and even pancake recipes, that taste delicious and don’t have the side effects that refined sugar can. Here are 4 healthy chocolate recipes that are sweetened with healthier alternatives. For the recipes that call for optional chocolate chips, simply leave them out or choose the pure, dark chocolate chips that are healthier.
Chocolate Protein Pancakes | Moms love to elevate and tweak classic recipes here to be more healthy for kids and that is what this Mama Bare has created with these healthy chocolate protein pancakes. Packed with protein from ricotta cheese, calcium, and antioxidants! Why you will love these healthy pancakes (read more)
Chocolate Cake with Hidden Zucchini | This rich and fudgy chocolate cake with hidden zucchini is the ultimate kid-friendly dessert or breakfast that sneaks in veggies -perfect for picky eaters! Not only is this cake, or loaf, made without flour, but it is gluten free and naturally sweetened with maple syrup. Pure cacao powder provides the chocolately look and feel, without… (read more)
Healthy Brownies Made From Beans | Look no further for the best, healthy brownies made from beans recipe that is nutritious while being free from nuts and gluten for those with dietary restrictions. This recipe is a slight twist on my usual brownie recipe. I used tahini instead of almond butter, and garnished them with melted dark chocolate chips. They make a nutritious… (read more)
Healthy No Bake Granola Bars | These healthy no bake granola bars are packed with omega 3’s, fibre, natural sweetener and plant-based protein. Easily make them nut-free for a school-safe treat. Why your family will love these granola bars Ingredients you will need Rolled or quick oats provide the fibre and base for these granola bars Nut and/or seed butters: I… (read more)
