5 High Protein Holiday Treats to Keep You Dialed In! By coach JKH.

Healthy High-Protein Treats to Satisfy Your Holiday Cravings

The holiday season is synonymous with indulgence, but that doesn't mean you have to abandon your commitment to a healthy lifestyle. This Christmas, treat yourself and your loved ones to delicious high-protein treats that not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also contribute to your overall well-being. Here are five festive recipes to elevate your holiday celebrations.

1. Protein-Packed Peppermint Bark

Ingredients:

- 1 cup dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)

- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder

- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

- Crushed candy canes for topping

*Melt the dark chocolate and mix in the protein powder and peppermint extract. Spread the mixture on a parchment-lined tray, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top, and refrigerate until set. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a protein-rich twist on a holiday classic.*

2. Gingerbread Protein Bites

Ingredients:

- 1 cup almond flour

- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder

- 1 teaspoon ground ginger

- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

- 1/4 cup molasses

- 1/4 cup almond butter

Combine all ingredients in a bowl, roll into bite-sized balls, and refrigerate until firm. These gingerbread protein bites offer the perfect blend of holiday spices and protein to keep you energized throughout the festivities.

3. Cranberry Orange Protein Muffins

Ingredients:

- 1 cup oat flour

- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt

- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

- 1/4 cup fresh cranberries

- Zest of one orange

Mix the dry ingredients, then add in the wet ingredients and fold in cranberries and orange zest. Spoon the batter into muffin cups and bake until golden brown. These muffins are a delightful combination of tart cranberries and citrusy orange with a protein boost.

4. Protein Eggnog Chia Pudding

Ingredients:

- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk

- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder

- 1/4 cup chia seeds

- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

- 1 tablespoon maple syrup

Whisk together all the ingredients and refrigerate overnight. Wake up to a festive and protein-packed breakfast or snack with this creamy and nutritious eggnog chia pudding.

5. Dark Chocolate and Pistachio Protein Truffles

Ingredients:

- 1 cup pitted dates

- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder

- 1/2 cup unsalted pistachios

- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder

- A pinch of sea salt

Blend dates, protein powder, and half of the pistachios until a sticky dough forms. Roll into small truffles and coat them with a mixture of chopped pistachios, cocoa powder, and sea salt. These decadent truffles are a guilt-free way to satisfy your chocolate cravings.

Indulge in the holiday spirit without compromising your health with these high-protein treats. These recipes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep you fueled and festive all season long. Enjoy guilt-free indulgence this Christmas!

Coach JKH CrossFit Rising Sun East Nashville.

Kyle Hopkins