I have such a sweet tooth and there is really nothing I love more than a little sweet treat before bed. Lately I have been really trying to make my fitness goals a priority and just clean up the way I eat in general (my gut says its a non negotiable actually.. ) Since I am not willing to give up my dessert I have been exploring ways to make my evening sweet treat healthier and more guilt free without resorting to eating something that actually sucks.
Listen, I‘d rather have no dessert than some cardboard that I am pretending to enjoy so trust me here these are bangin!
Dates are Packed with Nutrients
Lately I have been actually obsessed with dates! Not only are they delicious but they pack a punch in the health benefits department.
Dates are highly nutritious fruits with a range of health benefits:
Rich in Nutrients Dates are a good source of essential nutrients, including fiber, potassium, magnesium, copper, manganese, iron, and vitamin B6.
High in Antioxidants Dates contain powerful antioxidants like flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acid, which help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.
Promote Digestive Health The high fiber content in dates helps to promote healthy digestion by preventing constipation and promoting regular bowel movements.
Natural Energy Boost Dates are a natural source of sugars like glucose, fructose, and sucrose, making them an excellent energy-boosting snack.
Support Heart Health The potassium and magnesium in dates can help regulate blood pressure, while their fiber content may reduce cholesterol levels, supporting heart health.
Aid Bone Health Dates provide minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which are important for maintaining strong bones and preventing bone-related disorders.
Support Brain Health Dates may help improve brain function due to their antioxidant properties and ability to reduce inflammation. Some studies suggest they could be beneficial in preventing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
Help in Labor and Delivery Consuming dates in the last weeks of pregnancy may promote cervical dilation and reduce the need for induced labor, potentially shortening labor duration.
Aid Blood Sugar Control Despite their sweetness, dates have a low glycemic index and contain fiber, which may help regulate blood sugar levels when eaten in moderation.
Improve Skin Health The vitamins C and D in dates can improve skin elasticity and may reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Additionally, dates contain nutrients that support skin regeneration.
Incorporating dates into a balanced diet can provide these health benefits, making them a nutritious addition to meals and snacks.
All of that and they taste good?? Say less. I typically make my dates with chocolate and peanut butter which is absolutely chefs kiss, but last week I got the itch to try and come up with some different combinations and since white chocolate macadamia nut cookies are one of my favorite cookies ever, we are going off that for inspiration!
Directions
Slice all of your dates open on the side to remove the pit and create a little pocket for your filling. Place each date into its own little baking cup. Something about a cute aesthetic for your sweet treat just makes it that much better, you know what I mean?
Add a small spoonful of granola butter and a few macadamia nuts into each date.
Microwave white chocolate chips in a small microwave safe bowl for 30 second or until the chips are melted. Top each date with melted white Chocolate and place in the fridge to cool for about an hour. I like my dates chilled but there are no rules here, okey? You do you baby girl.
These White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Dates came out so yummy and unexpectedly christmas-y. I am definitely making these again for the holidays! With a cup of hot coco by the fire? Please! I am ready.
I’ll be honest my dates did not come out very pretty. I mean by nature dates are not the cutest thing in the world but the white chocolate on top was lookin a mess. I could have probably microwaved my chocolate chips a bit longer but I was scared of burning them. Next time I think I will either pipe the chocolate!
Looks aside, they were so delicious! Let me know if you try this recipe and happy snacking!
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