photo courtesy Pixabay
by Elizabeth Magee, LRD
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! However, it takes a lot of time, energy, planning, and effort to remember if you've moved the elf to make it wonderful.
Anyone else feeling overwhelmed? Shopping for yourself instead of others (or is that just me…); Questioning if you got everyone equal presents because you know there’s always someone keeping track! Dang kids
Trying to fit in multiple holiday celebrations between family, friends, and coworkers. Or maybe you’re in a late-night wrapping marathon only to find out the elf of the shelf used the last of the tape in some ridiculous shenanigans.
Here are some snack ideas straight from the experts at the North Pole, who know a thing or two about making the holidays magical!
Sleigh-Bell Energy Bites
These little power balls are packed with oats, nut butter, and a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips. They’re quick to make and even quicker to eat—perfect for when you’re racing to finish before midnight.
Almond Joy Protein Balls
· 1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
· 1 cup your favorite nut butter
· ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
· 2 scoops chocolate protein powder
· 1-2 Tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
Place oats, almond butter, honey, protein powder and shredded coconut in a large bowl and stir to combine. Getting the mixture to combine takes a little arm muscle and it may seem too thick at first, but it will come together as you keep mixing. Using your hands can be helpful. Once combined, use a small cookie scoop to scoop and form the dough into balls. Store in a covered container in the fridge or freezer.
Jingle Mix
Combine almonds, dried cranberries, pretzels, and a few peppermint dark chocolate pieces. It’s sweet, salty, and crunchy—like holiday cheer in a bowl. Make it your own, add your favorites or what you have on hand.
Ribbon-Wrangler Veggie Cups
Pre-cut veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers with a Greek yogurt dip or good old-fashioned ranch. They keep your hands busy without leaving greasy fingerprints on that shiny wrapping paper. And it’s amazing how people will eat more veggies if they’re prepped for them.
Cocoa Cozy Smoothie
Blend unsweetened cocoa powder, banana, almond milk, and a dash of cinnamon. It tastes indulgent but won’t send you into a sugar coma while figuring out what to do with the darn elf! If you’ve been nice, you can even add a marshmallow!
Keep yourself fueled and keep spreading that cheer! The world needs it.
Elizabeth Magee is a licensed registered dietitian. Her posts appear monthly on OYT.
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