Indulge in the sweet and satisfying world of healthy candies! We’ve scoured the web for the most delicious and nutritious treats that will satisfy your cravings without compromising on taste or nutrition. From classic favorites to innovative twists, we’ve got 20 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a health enthusiast, a foodie, or just someone who loves a good treat, these healthy candy recipes are perfect for snacking, sharing, or gifting.
From creamy fudge and chewy energy balls to fruity gummies and nutty truffles, our selection has something for everyone. And the best part? These treats are all made with wholesome ingredients and minimal added sugars – so you can indulge without guilt. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and treat yourself (or your loved ones) to a sweet escape!
Dark Chocolate Almond Butter Cups
Transform your snack time with these rich and creamy treats. Crunchy almond butter meets velvety dark chocolate for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond butter, confectioners’ sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. Add honey and mix until combined.
4. Roll tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture between your hands to shape into cups.
5. Place cups onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cup.
6. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Dip the top of each almond butter cup into melted dark chocolate, coating about half of the cup.
8. Sprinkle with chopped almonds and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
9. Store cooled cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None
Homemade Fruit Gummies
Create your own delicious fruit gummies at home using fresh fruit purees and a simple gelatin-based mixture. These chewy treats are perfect for snacking, decorating, or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fruit puree (such as strawberry, orange, or raspberry)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the fruit puree, sugar, and 1/4 cup of water. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Add the softened gelatin to the saucepan and stir until fully incorporated.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Pour the mixture into a silicone gummy mold or a 9×13 inch baking dish. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to tint the gummies.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
7. Once set, remove the gummies from the mold and cut into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Peanut Butter Energy Balls
Boost your energy levels with these no-bake, bite-sized treats packed with peanut butter goodness! Made with just a few simple ingredients, these energy balls are perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine peanut butter, honey, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Add rolled oats and chocolate chips to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 6-8 energy balls.
4. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake energy balls are ready when you need them.
Date and Nut Truffles
Treat your friends and family to these rich and decadent truffles, packed with sweet dates and crunchy nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped dates, nuts, and salt.
2. In a small saucepan, warm the heavy cream over low heat until it starts to simmer.
3. Pour the warmed cream over the date mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Add the softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Roll each ball between your hands to shape into a rough sphere.
Cooking Time: None required! These truffles are best served chilled.
Coconut Oil Chocolate Fudge
A classic treat gets a healthy twist with this recipe that uses coconut oil instead of butter or milk chocolate chips for an added layer of creaminess. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings, these fudgy squares are also dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, sugar, and cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips until smooth.
4. Pour into prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
5. Cut into squares and enjoy! If using walnuts, sprinkle on top before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (includes chilling time)
Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Moist and flavorful banana oatmeal cookies that are perfect for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Strawberry Yogurt Bark
This refreshing strawberry yogurt bark recipe is a perfect way to cool down on a warm day or satisfy your sweet tooth any time of the year. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Chopped nuts or shredded coconut for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Fold in sliced strawberries.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Pour the yogurt mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Drizzle melted chocolate over the yogurt mixture.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
8. Break into pieces and garnish with chopped nuts or shredded coconut if desired.
Cooking Time: None required!
Avocado Chocolate Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the creaminess of avocados with the richness of dark chocolate. This mousse is perfect for chocolate lovers looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract; whip until combined.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate until well combined.
5. Add the avocado mixture to the chocolate-whipped cream mixture and blend until smooth.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Yield: 4-6 servings
Chia Seed Pudding Pops
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized treats that combine the nutritional benefits of chia seeds with the fun of popsicles! Perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy pick-me-up any time.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 10-12 popsicle sticks
– Optional: sliced fruit (e.g., strawberries, blueberries), nuts, or shredded coconut for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
2. Stir in honey until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top.
4. Insert a popsicle stick into each mold.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
6. Once set, remove from molds and enjoy! Optional: add sliced fruit, nuts, or shredded coconut on top.
Cooking Time: 4 hours or overnight
Apple Cinnamon Energy Bites
Boost your energy with these wholesome treats that combine the natural sweetness of apples and cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried apple, chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, chopped apple, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. In a small bowl, mix peanut butter and honey until smooth. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until a dough forms.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each ball.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Protein Balls
These bite-sized treats combine the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the protein-packed punch of rolled oats and Greek yogurt. Perfect for a post-workout snack or a healthy indulgence any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (about 25 grams)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, yogurt, pumpkin puree, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until smooth.
3. Add protein powder and mix until a dough forms.
4. Use your hands to shape the dough into 6-8 balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are ready to go straight from the fridge.
Matcha Green Tea Bliss Balls
A refreshing twist on traditional energy balls, these bite-sized treats combine the invigorating powers of matcha green tea with nourishing ingredients for a delicious and healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dates, pitted
– 1/4 cup creamy almond butter
– 2 tablespoons matcha powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, blend oats until coarsely ground.
2. Add dates, almond butter, matcha powder, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Process until well combined and sticky.
3. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 bliss balls.
4. Place on a parchment-lined plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None, as these are no-bake energy balls!
Cashew Butter Stuffed Dates
Sweet and Savory Cashew Butter Stuffed Dates Recipe
Elevate your snacking game with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the creamy richness of cashew butter. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a sophisticated party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted Medjool dates
– 1/2 cup creamy cashew butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cashew butter, honey, and pinch of salt until smooth.
3. Stuff each date with about 1-2 teaspoons of the cashew butter mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the filling is slightly caramelized and the dates are tender.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your sweet and savory Cashew Butter Stuffed Dates!
Blueberry Coconut Clusters
These bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of blueberries with the crunch of toasted coconut flakes, all held together with a hint of saltiness. Perfect for snacking or as a sweet addition to your next party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together oats, peanut butter, and honey until well combined.
3. Fold in blueberries and shredded coconut. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cluster.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly toasted.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Almond Joy Protein Bars
Get ready to blend the flavors of Almond Joy bars with the power of protein! These no-bake bites are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional treats, packed with wholesome ingredients and 10 grams of protein per serving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and coconut flakes. Mix until well combined.
2. Add chocolate chips and mix until evenly distributed.
3. Stir in sliced almonds and vanilla protein powder.
4. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with salt.
5. Press mixture into a lined or greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. Cut into bars.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bars are ready in 30 minutes or less.
Carrot Cake Energy Balls
These bite-sized energy balls are a delicious and healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth while getting a boost of nutrients from carrots, oats, and nuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup grated carrot
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, carrot, and peanuts.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to shape the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are no-bake.
Raspberry Chia Jam Bars
These chewy bars are packed with the sweetness of raspberries and the nutty goodness of chia seeds, making them a perfect snack for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh raspberries
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, peanut butter, and honey until well combined.
3. Stir in raspberries, chia seeds, and salt.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Sweet Potato Brownie Bites
Sweet Potato Brownie Bites Recipe
Transform your love of brownies into a healthier, sweet potato-based treat with these bite-sized brownies that combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with rich chocolate flavor.
Ingredients:
• 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add mashed sweet potatoes to the wet ingredients and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Coconut Macaroons
These chewy macaroons are infused with the bright citrus flavor of lemon and the richness of coconut, making them a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, confectioners’ sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Add lemon juice and butter; mix until combined.
4. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow to cool on wire rack before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Turmeric Golden Milk Truffles
These bite-sized treats combine the benefits of turmeric and golden milk with a rich, creamy chocolate center.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons golden milk powder (or 1 tablespoon turmeric and 1 tablespoon cinnamon)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, almond flour, coconut sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, vanilla extract, turmeric, ginger, and golden milk powder. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll into small balls and place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments. Stir until smooth.
6. Once truffles are cool, dip each one in melted chocolate, then place on parchment paper to set.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the sweet and healthy side with these 20 delicious candy recipes. From classic treats like peanut butter cups and chocolate fudge to creative twists like strawberry yogurt bark and avocado chocolate mousse, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make homemade fruit gummies, energy balls, and protein bars using wholesome ingredients like almonds, dates, and coconut oil. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while nourishing your body, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest palates.
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