Having festive drinks is a large part of the holidays. Many times we look forward to the delicious drinks almost as much as the yummy food. However, sometimes those fun holiday drinks can weigh you down with more sugar and fat than we would like. This year, turn your naughty drinks nice with these reimagined low-calorie holiday drinks. Enjoy these recipes from Joy Bauer, and check out our pinterest page for more holiday recipes. Cheers!
Naughty Eggnog – The average serving of eggnog has an overwhelming amount of fat with cream, whole milk, and egg yolks combined. This drink will usually average around 350 to 450 calories per an 8 ounce serving, with up to 12 or more grams of saturated fat, and over 14 teaspoons of sugar.
Nice Eggnog: Combine and blend 5 cups of cold milk, 1 (3.4 oz) package of vanilla instant pudding mix, ¾ teaspoon rum extract, and ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes so it can set, and when ready pour into glasses and sprinkle with nutmeg. Makes 5 (1 cup) servings. 175 calories per serving.
Naughty Hot Cocoa – When it’s cold outside, nothing can warm you up like a homemade cup of hot chocolate. However, hot chocolate can contain large amounts of sugar. Steer clear of coffee shop made hot chocolates which can contain 250 calories or more in every serving. Cut your calories in half with this nice recipe for homemade hot cocoa.
This lighter version taste just as chocolatey and delicious.
Nice Hot Cocoa: Heat 3 cups of milk in a sauce pan over medium-high heat until the milk begins to steam. Remove pan from heat and whisk in 4 teaspoons of sugar, ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract, ¼ cup of semisweet chocolate chips and a pinch of kosher salt. Serve in mugs and top with which cream if desired. Makes 3 (1 cup) servings. 175 calories per serving.
Naughty Holiday Sangria – Everyone loves this fruity holiday drink! There are multiple sangria recipes, but some are more health conscious than others. White wine sangrias can be a bit more naughty as they lack some of the heart healthy antioxidants that red wine has to offer.
Diluting your sangria with extra flavor cuts down on the naughty factor as well. Adding a splash of seltzer dilutes calories and makes the drink last longer.
Nice Holiday Sangria: Combine 1 bottle of red wine in a pitcher with ¾ cup of 100% orange juice, ¼ cup of orange liqueur, fresh fruit slices (1 orange, 1 green apple, and 1 pear), and 1 cinnamon stick. Let the mixture sit for at least four hours. When serving finish the drink with a few ounces of pomegranate, cranberry, or orange seltzer. Makes 8 servings. 150 calories per serving.
Neighbors Emergency Center supports you and your families healthy lifestyle. Remember, Neighbors Emergency Center is open 24/7- even during the holidays! Stay updated and learn more about our upcoming emergency center openings! Check our facebook page for information about our new locations coming to Texas City and Odessa. We hope you have a safe and fun holiday season!