The holiday season is all about being with friends, celebrating and, of course, baking. There’s nothing quite like preparing desserts you can enjoy throughout the season. And there’s nothing more seasonal than peppermint indulgences!
The peppermint recipes I’m sharing will help you avoid sugar spikes (and crashes), allergenic ingredients and holiday weight gain. That’s because they’re gluten and dairy free, plus they’re made with either upgraded or natural sweeteners like raw sugar, dates and honey.
What’s more? Peppermint oil is known to aid in digestion. It’s helpful if you’re feeling stuffed, bloated or nauseous, or if you have a headache—all likely during this busy and stressful time of year. Just remember to use pure, natural peppermint oil when cooking and baking.
Peppermint Recipe Round-Up
Peppermint Patties:
photo by draxe.com
Who doesn’t love the wintery taste of a peppermint patty? It’s cool, refreshing and the perfect after-dinner treat. This luxurious recipe from Dr. Axe requires only 4 simple ingredients with 4 simple steps. It’s easy to pass on packaged candy when you have your own homemade version on hand. Get the recipe!
Vegan Peppermint Drinking Chocolate:
Photo by minimalistbaker.com
Nothing punctuates the festive season like Peppermint Hot Chocolate. This recipe takes traditional cocoa to a new level by melting dark chocolate to yield a thick, creamy consistency. (The coconut whipped cream is a nice treat too.) Get the recipe.
Chocolate Mint Mini Balls:
Photo by livingwellmom.com
If you’re looking for a cross between a snack and a dessert, these Chocolate Mint Mini Balls are for you. Made with dates, walnuts and a few other healthy ingredients, these are sweet little bites you can feel good about eating (even after the gym). Get the recipe.
Vegan Peppermint Black Bean Brownies:
Photo by minimalistbaker.com
Brownies made with black beans? Yes! It actually works to create a chocolatey, fudgy batter without all the unsavory ingredients. Plus, it’s gluten, dairy and egg free. Just be sure to find a good-quality candy cane for crushing. Get the recipe!
Mint Chip Superfood Smoothie:
Photo by wellplated.com
Upgrade your minty milkshakes with a smoothie that will get you out of bed in the morning. While it tastes like a treat, it’s made with avocado, banana, spinach and fresh mint! Enjoy it for breakfast or anytime you need a holiday pick-me-up. Get the recipe.
Dairy-Free Peppermint Mocha:
Photo by realsimplegood.com
When I used to drink regular coffee and milk, I always looked forward to seeing Peppermint, Gingerbread and Eggnog Lattes show up on the menu. For me, that was the beginning of the holidays. Today, I look forward to acting as my own barista and making all-natural Peppermint Mochas! Get the recipe.
These are just a sampling of the recipes out there where you can unleash your peppermint creativity. I picked these because of their quality, fresh ingredients with little to no processing. I don’t know about you, but now I am craving a mint smoothie!
Enjoy and Happy Holidays!