The beet

The holiday season is filled with so many delightful traditions—festive music, twinkling lights, gift-giving, and, of course, indulgent treats! While we all cherish a classic chocolate chip cookie, I love to switch up the ingredients now and then to enhance the nutrient content or reduce sugar, allowing me to enjoy these goodies while still feeling my best.

This December, we visited the Nutrition Nook to share some creative ideas for adding more nourishing ingredients to your holiday baking, so you can satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. We reinvented a classic apple crumble and sugar cookie recipe by swapping in whole wheat flour to boost fiber, vitamins, and minerals. We gave the beloved Midwestern “buckeye” treat a protein-packed upgrade, transforming it into a satisfying snack that keeps you fuller longer—perfect for snowball fights and shoveling on those cozy snow days. For a gluten-free option, try our double chocolate chip cookie enhanced with buckwheat powder. And for a wintertime classic, we whipped up homemade hot chocolate made with cocoa powder and natural sweeteners, packing in a punch of antioxidants.

We hope these festive, wholesome treats bring joy to your holiday season just as much as they do to ours!

About the Author

Katelyn is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Dietitian/Nutritionist. Katelyn holds a strong interest in culinary nutrition and believes that all foods fit into a nutritious diet. She is frequently searching for new recipes to try, and you will often find her at local farmers markets on the weekends. Katelyn has a varied experience in the nutrition field, ranging from counseling adults who are critically ill to educating children on the fundamentals of nutrition. Katelyn is empathetic in nature and enjoys helping others set achievable goals towards a healthier lifestyle.