Apple-Cinnamon Muesli

  

Ingredients

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk

1 cup whole-milk plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt

1 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/4 cup chopped dried apples

1/4 cup dried cranberries

1/4 cup sliced almonds, plus more for garnish

3 tbsp no-sugar-added apple juice

2 tbsp unsalted roasted sunflower kernels, plus more for garnish

2 tbsp chia seeds

1 1/2 tbsp pure maple syrup

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp cinnamon pdr, plus more for garnish

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 medium Honeycrisp apple, thinly sliced

 Instructions

Stir oats, almond milk, yogurt, applesauce, dried apples, cranberries, almonds, apple juice, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon and salt together in a large bowl. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours (and up to 3 days).  

To serve, divide the mixture among 4 bowls. Top each with 1/3 cup sliced apple. If desired, garnish with almonds, sunflower seeds and cinnamon.  

 

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  

https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

https://cancersupportindia.blogspot.com  for info on cancer and health related topics

https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs

 

Spiced Cranberry Punch

  

Ingredients

2 cups cranberry juice

1 cup orange juice

1/2 cup pomegranate juice

3 tbsp honey

2 cinnamon sticks

3-star anise

4-5 whole cloves

1 orange, sliced

Cranberries for garnish

Fresh mint leaves for garnish

 

Preparations

In a large saucepan, combine cranberry juice, orange juice, pomegranate juice, and honey.

Add the cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves to the saucepan.

Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse fully into the punch.

Remove from the heat and strain the punch to discard the whole spices.

Pour the warm punch into mugs or glasses.

Garnish each serving with orange slices, cranberries, and mint leaves.

This punch is warm, fragrant, and festive, with spices adding depth without overpowering the fruity base.

For a chilled version, skip the heating step and serve the punch over ice topped with sparkling water.

 

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  

https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

https://cancersupportindia.blogspot.com  for info on cancer and health related topics

https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs

 

22 Sugar Substitutes

We all know that sugar is bad for us. It contains empty calories that add to your weight gain while causing you tooth decay and increasing the risk of Type II Diabetes among adults. It can be very tempting to reach for that extra spoonful of sugar, but you may want to think twice before you do so. These natural sweetening substitutes will convince you to make the healthier switch! 

 

Here are 22 natural substitutes for sugar: 

 

1) Cinnamon 

 

Cinnamon can be used to add flavor to oatmeal, cereal, cookies, and even a teaspoon to a cup of tea or coffee for an interesting kick! Cinnamon helps fight off harmful bacterias, reduces LDL cholesterol levels, and helps to regular blood sugar. Add that pinch of cinnamon to your diet! 

 

2) Honey 

 

Honey is composed of glucose and fructose, which are natural sugars that give it that sweet delicious taste. Honey also contains plenty of antioxidants, which help repair your immune system when you get sick. You can add a teaspoon of honey to almost any dish to give it a bit more flavor and taste. 

 

3) Agave Nectar 

 

Agave nectar has a taste similar to that of honey. Agave syrup can be substituted for sugar when preparing brownies, cookies, or cakes. You can even flavor your iced tea with a little agave. Agave nectar is high in fructose, so be sure you take it in moderation. 

 

4) Rum 

 

Rum is the main alcohol ingredient used in popular Mojito drinks. Rum extract can also be used to prepare rum raisin cookies, rum raisin bread, and hot buttered rum mix. You can add a teaspoon or two to sweeten fruits as well. 

 

5) Grapefruit 

 

The popular citrus fruit is packed with vitamin C and powerful antioxidants that help keep your body well protected against diseases. You can add a little grapefruit juice to club soda or even sweeten your green tea with a teaspoon or two. 

 

6) Maple Syrup 

 

Maple syrup goes can be spread over pancakes, waffles, granola mix, and low-fat muffins, and baked goods. Maple syrup is loaded with antioxidants. Avoid refined maple syrup and go for the natural brands instead. 

 

7) Lemons 

Don't reach for that teaspoon of sugar to add with your tea, just squeeze a little lemon juice instead. Lemon juice mixes perfectly with honey, for a delicious salad dressing to add life to vegetable salads or chicken dishes. Avoid lemonade, since it's loaded with tons of refined sugar. 

 

8) Mashed Bananas 

 

Puréed bananas can be added to pancake or waffle mixes and banana bread as a sugary replacement. Bananas are naturally sweet and contain high amounts of potassium, which helps to promote healthy hearts. Bananas also make great snacks on the go. 

 

 9) Lime 

 

Lime is an ideal substitute for carbonated beverages. Lime juice blends perfectly with club soda for a zesty carbonated taste. Lime slices can be added to pies and other baked goods for a tangy treat. 

 

10) Raisins 

 The health benefits of raisins go back nearly 2,000 years. Raisins can be added to salads, cookies, sandwiches, or eaten from tiny packets. Raisins are high in fiber and fat-free. You can keep them in the freezer or stored in the cupboards, for a quick and nutritious treat. 

 

11) Frozen Juice Concentrate 

 

Frozen juice concentrate is a diluted liquid that can be used to bake traditional homemade apple pies. Frozen juice concentrate is high in fibers and antioxidants. Frozen juice concentrate is available in grape, lemon, and orange flavors. Make sure you get the concentrate that is low in additives. 

 

12) Stevia 

 

Stevia is a calorie-free natural sweetener that replaces the spoonful of sugar to your cup of tea. Tea leaves are a preferred choice among diabetics, since the natural sugars aren't metabolized by the body. 

 

13) Apricot Puree 

 

Apricots are a rich source of fiber, iron, and vitamin C. You can mix apricot purée together with baked foods, vegetable salads, and Greek yogurt. Apricots also help prevent cancer. Don't be afraid to experiment with some apricot purée! 

 

14) Molasses 

 

The dark brown sugar is a Molasses is a derivative of refined sugarcane and sugar beets. Molasses provides high levels of iron and calcium and is used as the main ingredient when baking gingerbread cookies or Moravian cookies. Make sure you keep your molasses intake low, since it does contain sucrose. 

 

15) Unsweetened Cocoa Powder 

 

Unsweetened cocoa powder makes for a perfect hot beverage option during those cold snowy days. Add the cocoa powder mix into a glass of hot water or mix it together with skim milk. Try adding a touch of vanilla extract for a pleasant surprise. 

 

16) Cranberries 

 

 

Cranberries are renowned for having strong antioxidant properties, and for preventing kidney diseases. Sprinkle a handful of cranberries on yogurts or cereals, for a nutritious breakfast meal. Enjoy the cranberry sauce at your Thanksgiving dinner!     

 

17) Milk 

 

Milk contains plenty of calcium and vitamin D, which promotes strong healthy bones in your body. The lactose found in milk provides natural sugars that are good for you. Try drinking skim or low-fat milk as a replacement to whole milk. 

 

18) Applesauce 

 

Use the sugar-free applesauce while whipping up a batch of cookies, brownies, and muffins. Applesauce is a low-calorie treat that can be served straight from the jar for a healthy and delicious dessert. You can even add a few scoops into a homemade fruit salad for a wonderful taste. 

 

19) Club Soda 

 

Club soda gives you the carbonated buzz for a bit of energy. Pour a little club soda over a natural fruit smoothie for a fantastic treat! Ditch the sugary carbonated soft drinks for sparkling club sodas instead. 

 

20) Coconut Sugar 

Coconut sugar is derived from the coconut palm tree blossom. It has a high level of sucrose, so it shouldn't be used in high amounts. Coconut sugar contains high levels of potassium, magnesium, zinc, and iron as well.

21) Sucanat 

 

Sucanat is the acronym that stands for Sugar Cane Natural. The natural sweetener is extracted from sugar canes and contains less sucrose than refined sugar. Sucanat may be added to tea, chocolate desserts, or baked goods. 

 

22) Brown Rice Syrup 

 

Brown rice is the healthiest sugar substitute available next to tea leaves. It resembles honey in texture, is gluten-free, and makes for a perfect corn syrup substitute. You can add brown rice syrup to waffles instead of maple syrup for tasty breakfast.  

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  

https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

https://cancersupportindia.blogspot.com  for info on cancer and health related topics

https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs

Fig Cranberry Sauce

 

A nice and classy twist to the good old cranberry sauce. How about some figs? Bet you never thought of that! Throw some wine in there and you have yourself a rich cranberry sauce. For a non-alcoholic alternative, go for clear apple juice.

Ingredients for sauce: 

 

Red wine - 1 cup 

 

Dried figs - 1 cup (stemmed, coarsely chopped) 

 

Cranberries - 12 oz. (fresh or frozen) 

 

White sugar - 3/4 cup 

 

Orange peel - 3 strips

Method of preparing the sauce: 

 

Boil the wine with the figs. Remove from heat, cover for 30 minutes. 

 

Remove the figs, and add to the wine cranberries, sugar, and orange peel. 

 

Return to the heat. Simmer until sugar dissolves and then for another 10-15 minutes. 

 

Discard the orange peel, add the figs back in and let cool completely. 

 

Chef's Tip: When you peel the orange, make sure you don't peel the white pith as well, as it's bitter. 

 

 

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  

https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

https://cancersupportindia.blogspot.com  for info on cancer and health related topics

https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs

 

Carrot and Nut Muffins- Healthy

A muffin recipe that isn’t only on the healthier side, but is also ridiculously easy to prepare and needs very little cleanup. This recipe is dairy free and it also replaces part of the flour with almond flour, which results in a denser (and healthier) muffin.

They also contain healthy plant oils and nuts, full of the essential omega 3 fats and fiber, dried cranberries, carrots and ginger rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy plant compounds. True, we do use eggs, minimal quantities of whole wheat flour and added sugar in this recipe, which means that you won’t be able to survive on these muffins exclusively (I know I want to), but we stand by the belief that it’s still a good idea to stick to healthier alternatives, especially when you’re craving sweets so badly your hand is reaching for cookies as you read this.

 

As is the case with all of our recipes, this recipe can be prepared in 1 bowl and it’s ready in a blink of an eye (sadly also gone in a blink because they’re so delicious).

Dry Ingredients  

 

½ cup (50 g) almond flour* 

 

2 cups (250 g) whole wheat flour 

 

1 tsp baking soda 

 

1 tsp cinnamon pdr

 

¼ tsp nutmeg pdr

 

½ tsp salt 

 

*I don’t buy ready-made almond flour. Instead, I wizz some almonds in my blender until they form a powder. If any bigger almond bits remain, don’t worry, they will give your muffins some extra crunch.

 

 Wet Ingredients 

 

1 cup (240 ml) soy milk 

 

1 tsp vinegar 

 

¾ cup (150 g) brown sugar 

 

2 eggs 

 

½ cup (125 g) applesauce 

 

¼ cup (60 ml) coconut oil 

 

1 tsp vanilla extract 

 

2 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional) 

 

“Filling” 

 

1 cup (50 g) shredded carrots (about 2 small carrots) 

 

 ¾ cup (90g) unsweetened dried cranberries 

 

1 cup (150 g) chopped walnuts (reserve half for the topping)

Preparation:

 

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 

 

Prepare the soy buttermilk by whisking the soy milk with vinegar and letting it thicken for about 10 minutes until it resembles buttermilk. 

 

In a large bowl, combine and mix all the wet ingredients together until smooth, adding in the buttermilk last. 

 

Sift in all the dry ingredients, whisking the batter until smooth and glossy, but it’s crucial not to over-mix the batter because it won’t rise as it’s supposed to. 

 

Add in all the ingredients from the “filling” section and work them in gently with a spatula. 

 

Divide your batter evenly into the lined muffin tray, topping each muffin with some of the walnuts you reserved. Bake the muffins in the midsection of the oven for 18-20 minutes. The top of a perfectly-cooked muffin should be domed and golden brown, and the edges of the muffin should pull away slightly from the edges of the muffin tin. 

 

Take the muffins out of the oven and let them cool down for at least 10 minutes before taking them out. Enjoy warm or cold, I love to combine these with morning coffee, so delicious!

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  

https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

https://cancersupportindia.blogspot.com  for info on cancer and health related topics

https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs.

Oat-apples- cranberries cookies

 Ingredients and Method

Oats  230 gm/ 1 cup pdr not too fine transfer to a bowl, then add

1 tsp baking pdr

½ tsp cinnamon pdr, mix all well

Apples 2, remove the core, chop them big pieces, blend the apples into smaller bits

Add apple pieces to oats mixture  add

Egg yolks 3

Cranberries 50 gm and

Vanilla essence 1 tsp mix all well

3 Egg whites with a pinch of salt, blend with a hand blender till it forms a peak

1^st add half the whipped white egg mixture, mix well

Then add the remaining egg white,  mix well

Scoop 1 tbsp of the mixture on a butter paper, spread them about 1” apart

Bake in a pre-heated oven @ 180 C / 360 F for 25 minutes, kindly check in between as time can very depending on the size of the oven, voltage etc.

Oat-apples- cranberries cookies are ready

 

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  

https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

https://cancersupportindia.blogspot.com  for info on cancer and health related topics

https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs.