Delicious Pandemic Resolutions

Author: Erin Henze 

The pandemic has halted many things over the last 10 months, but many people are still attempting to carry on with one tradition that always accompanies the start of a new year: New Year’s Resolutions.  We all know that it can be difficult to hold true to our resolutions for an extended period of time, regardless of what our promises may be.  If your resolution for 2021 includes striving for a healthier and more energetic you, look no further than these nutritious recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings!

Fudge Brownies

These brownies are my absolute favorite dessert! You honestly aren’t even able to tell the difference between these and any store-bought brownie mix. These treats are significantly lower in sugar and fat than your traditional brownie, so you won’t feel guilty for eating more than one (or the entire pan). 

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine ¼ cup flour, ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and ¼ tsp salt. Microwave melt ½ cup chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of butter. Mix in ¼ cup sugar, ¼ cup brown sugar, ¾ cup non-fat Greek yogurt, 2 eggs, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract. Combine wet and dry ingredients, and pour into a greased pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes and enjoy warm!

Edible Cookie Dough

Do you have a bad habit of eating raw cookie dough from the bowl any time you make cookies? Yeah, me too. But with this recipe, eating raw “cookie dough” won’t leave you with an upset stomach or guilty conscience! I like to enjoy this with pretzels, graham crackers, or by the spoonful. 

• Add 1 can rinsed and drained chickpeas, ¼ cup peanut butter, ¼ cup oats, ¼ tsp baking powder, ¼ tsp cinnamon, 1 tablespoon honey, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 tablespoon vanilla, and a handful of chocolate chips to a blender or food processor. Blend until combined and refrigerate until chilled. 

Berry Cheesecake Smoothie

Craving both a milkshake and a nice, hearty slice of cheesecake? Look no further than this smoothie. It is the perfect combination of sweet and savory, and will certainty satisfy your every desire without the added fat and sugar. 

• Combine 1 (5.3oz) container of flavored Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons low-fat cottage cheese, ½ cup unsweetened almond milk or water, 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 cup any variety berries, fresh or frozen,a dn 1 cup ice cubes in a food processor or blender. Blend until fully combined and desired consistency is reached. Top with granola or enjoy plain!