13 Sweet Treat Alternatives Just in Time For Halloween
Article posted in: Food & Nutrition
If you’re on a weight loss journey, Halloween can be a tricky time of year. After all, it’s the start of the holiday season. We’ve got some sweet treat alternatives that can help you stay on track with your weight loss goals. So no matter the holiday or event, you can feel confident and healthy about your choices.
Halloween is fast approaching, bringing with it sweet treats and temptations. Take a look at some of these Halloween treats to satisfy your sweet tooth and celebrate the day without derailing your progress.
1. Festive Pumpkin Cupcake Parfait
Nothing says Halloween like pumpkin! Turn the Jenny Craig Vanilla Buttercream Cupcake into a festive fall treat with a dash of pumpkin spice in this our easy Pumpkin Cupcake Parfait recipe.
Pro Tip: Try adding a dollop of whipped Greek yogurt on top for added protein.
2. Frozen Blueberries with Greek Yogurt
Frozen blueberries aren’t just for smoothies or desserts. They’re a great cold and refreshing snack without the added sugar. If you want to go a step further and add a little protein to your snack, dip fresh or frozen blueberries in plain nonfat Greek yogurt using a toothpick and place on a baking sheet. Freeze for at least an hour and enjoy!
3. Protein Shake
Satisfy your sweet tooth and keep hunger at bay with a filling protein shake. You can even turn it into a smoothie or milkshake-inspired treat! Try this recipe: add water or milk, fresh spinach, ½ frozen banana, 1 oz. avocado, a little vanilla extract and a pinch of cinnamon. Blend to create a creamy and satisfying shake. Take it with you on the go or enjoy it at home — this shake is perfect as an afternoon treat or snack!
Pro Tip: Add cocoa powder or a few dark chocolate chips for a chocolaty twist!
4. Spooky Halloween Cocoa Bites
Our Halloween Cocoa Bites recipe is the perfect addition to any spooky gathering. Featuring a rich base of butter, mini marshmallows, and a decadent combination of peanut butter and milk chocolate morsels, these Halloween treats are great for serving up at parties or as a snack on the go!
Pro Tip: Substitute sugar-free chocolate chips and add chopped nuts for extra crunch.
5. Cinnamon Baked Apples
These delicious apples are a simple treat to make and reheat if you have extras. Slice a small Granny Smith apple and add a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg and natural sugar substitute. Bake at 350°F for approximately 15 minutes and prepare to bask in the sweet and spicy aroma of freshly baked fruit.
Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of oats and nuts on top for a makeshift apple crumble.
6. Broiled Grapefruit
It might sound a little scary but give it a try! Broiling grapefruit caramelizes its natural sugars, creating a unique treat. Take one grapefruit, cut it in half, sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon and natural sugar substitute and broil for around five to six minutes or until bubbling and the top of the grapefruit begins to caramelize.
Pro Tip: Add a drizzle of honey or agave for extra sweetness if needed.
7. Black Forest Brownie Delight
Chocolate cravings? Nothing our Black Forest Brownie recipe can’t handle! Simply slice the Jenny Craig Chocolate Walnut Brownie in half and fill it with fresh cherries and rich raspberry preserves. Top with whipping topping and a drizzle of sugar-free chocolate syrup for a decadent dessert!
Pro Tip: Choose a low-calorie whipped topping or Greek yogurt to keep it lighter.
8. Dark Chocolate Dipped Fruit
Replace high-sugar chocolate bars with nutrient-rich fruit dipped in dark chocolate (72% or higher). Strawberries, bananas and oranges are great options. Simply dip the fruit into melted dark chocolate (72% or higher) and refrigerate until hardened for healthier Halloween treats!
Pro Tip: For added crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts or coconut flakes on top.
9. Satisfying Dark Chocolate Squares
Huge chocolate fan? You don’t have to pass it up! Dark chocolate (72% or higher) in moderation is not full of added fat and sugars. One or two small squares of high-quality dark chocolate are all you need!
10. Chocolate Raspberry Parfait
Our Chocolate Raspberry Parfait recipe combines the Jenny Craig Chocolate Muffin with cinnamon, plain nonfat yogurt and raspberries. This recipe is irresistibly sweet!
Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a hint of spice.
11. Homemade All-Fruit Popsicles
Puree your favorite fruit with some water (or lime juice for a little kick), freeze and enjoy! These are simple, sweet and cool Halloween treats with no added sugar.
Pro Tip: Blend in a handful of spinach for a nutrient boost without affecting the flavor.
12. Cottage Cheese with Fresh Fruit
High-protein cottage cheese with fresh berries or sliced fruit makes a filling, satisfying snack. With this combination, you’ll be sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and stay fuller longer due to the protein and fiber. A six-ounce serving of cottage cheese should do the trick!
Pro Tip: For extra sweetness, drizzle a touch of honey or add a sprinkle of cinnamon.
13. Chocolate Cheesecake Stuffed Oranges
Our Chocolate Cheesecake Stuffed Oranges recipe transforms the classic Jenny Craig Chocolate Cheesecake into an exquisite dessert. Turn it into a festive Halloween treat by filling orange peels with chocolate cheesecake filling. Carve little jack-o-lantern faces into the peels for added Halloween fun.
Pro Tip: Garnish with grated dark chocolate or crushed nuts for added flavor and texture.
Stay on Track this Halloween with Jenny Craig!
Whether it’s Halloween or any upcoming holiday, making mindful choices doesn’t mean missing out. Enjoy the festivities with these healthier alternatives.
Ready to kickstart your health journey? Jenny Craig can help you stay committed, healthy and motivated. Get started today!