My sister recently pointed out that I didn’t have any desserts posted here yet (she has more than one sweet tooth), so I figured I should change that! The holidays are certainly an appropriate time for sweets and treats, so many wonderful memories include them — from gingerbread houses to cookie swaps and treats for Santa.

It can be tempting to give yourself a free pass to indulge without restraint until January first, but this might not leave you feeling all that merry. For me personally, I know how too much sugar impacts my skin, mood, energy level, immune system and waistline. Too much indulging can also come with a fair amount of guilt that we shouldn’t need to feel during this season! For my daughter, sugar can bring out some behaviors that I would prefer not to deal with during exceptionally busy weeks and time with extended family. For us, its all about trying to find the right balance between sweet treats (and the fun family traditions that accompany them) and the sustaining, nutrient-dense foods that help us feel healthy enough to truly enjoy the holiday season.

All that to say, one way we try to find balance is by incorporating healthier versions of sweet treats! This pudding recipe is one example. The base of the recipe is avocado and plant-based milk - both offering healthy sources of fat that nourish, satiate and help keep blood sugar stable. You can sweeten this pudding with honey or maple syrup, both are a still a treat but offer more nutritional benefits than table sugar. For a little holiday flair, we added a hint of peppermint to our pudding and topped with shaved peppermint chocolate and crushed candy canes! For kids who aren’t keen on the “spicy” taste of mint, fresh vanilla bean is also quite tasty!!

Avocado Peppermint Pudding Recipe

Ingredients:

Four small avocados
3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tsp peppermint (optional)
1/2 cup of cashew or coconut milk
1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup
pinch of sea salt
fresh grated peppermint chocolate and candy canes for topping

Directions:

Combine all ingredients (except for the toppings) in a high powered blender and blend until smooth!
Serve chilled and enjoy!