Top 5 DIY Healthy Dessert Snacks to Power Your Workouts

Table of Contents

• 1. Energy Balls

• 2. Frozen Yogurt

• 3. Cottage Cheese with Fruits

• 4. Sweet Potato Brownies

• 5. No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars

These delightful treats are delicious and also packed with essential nutrients to keep you energized throughout your exercise routine. Dive into these guilt-free options that will satisfy your sweet tooth and support your fitness goals.

1. Energy Balls

They're incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them with your favorite flavors and ingredients. This recipe provides a basic framework, and feel free to experiment with different nut butters, dried fruits, and seeds!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats

• ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut

• ¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds, peanuts, cashews)

• ¼ cup dried fruit (chopped dates, raisins, cranberries)

• ¼ cup nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter)

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, and dried fruit.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together nut butter, honey, and chia seeds (if using).

3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix well until everything is evenly coated.

4. Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls using your hands.

5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Tips:

• For a chocolatey twist, add a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.

• Need a vegan option? Use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of nut butter, and opt for agave nectar as a sweetener.

• Want a more textured bite? Add a handful of chopped dark chocolate or mini chocolate chips.

Photography by anacristinacanana

2. Frozen Yogurt

This snack is perfect for those hot summer days (or for those who simply crave a cool treat). It's packed with protein and healthy fats to keep you feeling satisfied and energized.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

  • ½ cup berries (fresh or frozen)

  • ¼ cup granola

  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

• Instructions:

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  • Spread the Greek yogurt evenly on the baking sheet.

  • Top with your choice of berries and granola.

  • Drizzle with honey or maple syrup (optional).

  • Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until solid.

  • Break into pieces and enjoy!

Pro Tip: For a chocolatey twist, use a dark chocolate Greek yogurt base. You can also experiment with different toppings, like chopped nuts or seeds.

3. Cottage Cheese with Fruits

Cottage cheese is a source of protein and calcium. Adding fruit and chia seeds creates a textural contrast and a boost of vitamins and fiber.

• Ingredients:

  • ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese

  • ¼ cup chopped fruit (berries, mango, pineapple)

  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds

  • Drizzle of honey or maple syrup (optional)

• Instructions:

  • In a bowl, combine cottage cheese, fruit, and chia seeds.

  • Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness (optional).

4. Sweet Potato Brownies

These brownies are packed with sweet potatoes, creating a moist and delicious treat while sneaking in some extra vitamins and fiber.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 cup mashed sweet potato (roasted or boiled)

  • ½ cup almond flour

  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

  • ¼ cup honey or maple syrup

  • 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil

  • 1 egg

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • Pinch of salt

• Instructions:

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

  • In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potato, almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, honey/maple syrup, and melted coconut oil.

  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  • Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into squares.

    Pro Tip: You can also top your brownies with chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a dollop of nut butter.

5. No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars

These bars are perfect for those days when you're short on time but still craving a sweet treat. They require no baking and are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber to keep you feeling full and energized.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rolled oats

  • ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, peanuts, cashews)

  • ¼ cup dried fruit (chopped dates, raisins, cranberries)

  • ¼ cup chia seeds

  • ½ cup nut butter (almond, peanut, cashew)

  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

• Instructions:

  • In a large bowl, combine oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, and chia seeds.

  • In a small saucepan, heat the nut butter and honey/maple syrup over low heat until well combined.

  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until well coated.

  • Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Press the mixture evenly into the pan.

  • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Cut into bars and enjoy!

Pro Tip: For a chocolatey twist, use dark chocolate nut butter. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet and salty flavor combination.

These are just a few ideas to get you started on your journey to creating delicious and healthy dessert snacks for your workout routine. Choose ingredients that are packed with nutrients and will keep you feeling energized throughout your exercise session. You can experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find what you love best.