Baking Substitutions for Healthier Treats by By Toni Wilson, Registered Dietitian
If you find that you just can't live without holiday treats this year at least try to make them a healthier version! Here is a guide to help you exchange high fat, high calorie ingredients to make your treat less sinful.
In place of an egg use 2 egg whites. This will save 60 calories, and 7 grams of fat in the recipe.
Use dried fruit in place of nuts. For each 1/4 of a cup you can save between 75 and 125 calories, and about 19 grams of fat for the recipe. If you don't want to give up your nuts, cut the quantity of nuts in half and then use dried fruit for the other half.
Substitute an equal portion of unsweetened applesauce for oil. Substitute at least half of the oil called for in the recipe. So if the recipe calls for 1/4 cup oil, use 1/8 cup oil and 1/8 cup applesauce. Doing this will save you 235 calories, and 28 grams of fat for the recipe!!!
Instead of greasing the baking pan with shortening or butter, spray it with a cooking spray, or use wax paper. Then you won't be adding any extra fat or calories!
Replace your whipping cream with evaporated fat free milk. For each cup you will save 620 calories and 87.5 grams of fat!!! WOW!
Making some of these subtle changes in your baked goods can improve its nutritional value without sacrificing taste, but remember just because you made them a healthier version doesn't mean you can eat all you want of them. Eating in moderation is still very important!
Registered Dietitian at Inches-A-Weigh Weight Loss Center For Women in Mesa Arizona 480-832-8600 http://www.InchesAWeightArizona.com