LEAP Chicago's Healthy Recipe Ideas: 3 Tempting Healthy Desserts

At LEAP, we're committed to making your wellness journey enjoyable without compromising on taste. Here are three delightful and nutritious dessert recipes that prove you can have your sweets and stay on track with your fitness goals.

Chia Seed Pudding Delight:

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup chia seeds

• 1 cup almond milk (unsweetened)

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey

• Fresh fruit for topping (e.g., sliced strawberries, kiwi, or mango)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix chia seeds, almond milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup.

2. Stir well and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

3. Once the mixture has thickened to a pudding-like consistency, give it a good stir.

4. Spoon the chia pudding into serving glasses and top with your favorite fresh fruits.

Enjoy this nutrient-packed dessert loaded with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids

Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream:

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, sliced and frozen

• 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter

• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk

• 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional)

• Crushed nuts for topping (e.g., almonds or walnuts)

Instructions:

1. Place frozen banana slices, peanut butter, almond milk, and honey (if using) in a blender or food processor.

2. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.

3. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and freeze for an additional 1-2 hours for a firmer texture.

4. Scoop into bowls, and garnish with crushed nuts for a delightful combination of creaminess and crunch.

5. This guilt-free "ice cream" is rich in potassium, protein, and healthy fats.

Coconut and Berry Quinoa Bars:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa, cooled

• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

• 1/2 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries)

• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds or pistachios)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, shredded coconut, melted coconut oil, and honey.

3. Fold in the mixed berries and chopped nuts.

4. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

6. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.

7. These quinoa bars offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making them a perfect on-the-go snack or dessert.

With these healthy dessert recipes, you can continue to enjoy sweet treats that support your fitness journey. At LEAP, we believe in making wellness a delightful experience, one delectable recipe at a time. Treat yourself and nourish your body with these guilt-free indulgences!