Discover some delicious homemade candy recipes that satisfy your sweet cravings without refined sugar.
Craving something sweet but looking to avoid refined sugar? You’re in for a treat! Homemade candies made with natural sweeteners can be just as delicious as their sugar-loaded counterparts. Here are some delightful recipes that can satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. Read on!
Dates are often referred to as nature’s candy because of their rich, caramel-like sweetness. These bites are simple to make and packed with nutritious ingredients. Start by soaking a cup of pitted dates in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften them. While the dates are soaking, finely chop half a cup of nuts in a food processor. Almonds, walnuts, or cashews are great options. Once the nuts are ready, drain the dates and add them to the processor along with one tablespoon of cacao powder and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture becomes sticky and forms a dough-like consistency.
Coconut lovers, rejoice! These macaroons are a delightful treat that skips the refined sugar without compromising on flavour. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine two cups of unsweetened shredded coconut with a quarter cup of coconut flour. In another bowl, whisk together a quarter cup of maple syrup, two tablespoons of melted coconut oil, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until well combined. Scoop the mixture into small mounds on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Chocolate-dipped strawberries are a classic treat that’s both elegant and easy to make. To keep them refined sugar-free, use dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content, which is often lower in sugar and higher in antioxidants. Start by melting one cup of dark chocolate chips in a microwave or a double boiler until smooth. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off. Place the strawberries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
If you love peanut butter cups but want a healthier option, try these almond butter cups. Begin by lining a muffin tin with paper liners. Melt half a cup of dark chocolate chips and spoon a small amount into each liner, just enough to cover the bottom. Freeze for about 10 minutes to set. Meanwhile, mix half a cup of almond butter with a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. Place a teaspoon of the almond butter mixture on top of the chocolate in each liner and smooth it out.
For a quick and easy treat, try these fruit and nut clusters. Start by melting one cup of dark chocolate chips. Mix in a combination of chopped nuts and dried fruits, such as almonds, walnuts, cranberries, and apricots, totalling about a cup and a half. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until set. These clusters combine the natural sweetness of dried fruits with the satisfying crunch of nuts, all enveloped in rich dark chocolate. They’re perfect for a quick snack or a sweet ending to a meal.
Each of these homemade candies offers a way to indulge your sweet cravings while avoiding refined sugar. With natural ingredients and wholesome sweeteners, you can enjoy these treats guilt-free. Happy snacking!
