Growing up it was a tradition for extended family and friends to attend my nana’s annual Christmas Eve party. It’s hard to put words to the emotions that are tied to that experience for me, but it never quite felt like Christmas until after my nana’s party.
Her house was filled with gorgeous holiday decorations, celebratory food and holiday cheer that are etched in my memory right alongside her hearty laugh and contagious smile. I miss my nana deeply around the holidays and hope that I can recreate the christmas spirit for my son the way she did for me. The thing I struggle with most is which sweet treats to serve. For most of us, it isn’t a kick-ass holiday party without sweet treats (and yummy drinks) to fill our bellies! But as a kid, too much sugar, gluten and butter made me feel nauseous, tired and even crabby. It’s no surprise because that’s what sugar does to little bodies (or any body for that matter)!
I doubt any kids want to feel junky during the most wonderful time of the year. That’s why, I’ve searched for a few yummy, holiday treats that are kid-friendly and junky-feeling free. I’ve scoured my favorites sites for some oldie but goodies and new treats too. Every recipe listed here is gluten and dairy free, but you’ll also find them to be refined sugar free and low sugar too. Plus, since I have a few nut-free kiddos joining us, I’ve included nut-free treats too. Enjoy!
Gluten-free and dairy-free
Real Deal Chocolate Chip Cookies by Danielle Walker, author, Against All Grain – you can’t go wrong with chocolate chip cookies and these are so unbelievably yummy that I had to share.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies by Adrienne from Whole New Mom blog – you can use sweetener of your choice like maple syrup and skip the stevia
White Chocolate Chai Cookies by Kelly Brozyna, author and blogger, The Spunky Coconut – these look amazing for kids and adults alike
Snickerdoodles by Elana Amsterdam, author and blogger, Paleo Cooking from Elana’s Pantry – my husband flipped for these cookies too!
Nut-free
Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bites by Danielle Shea Tan, functional family nutritionist (me!), Healthy Mamas for Happy Families – these may not look pretty, but they sure do taste delicious!
Pumpkin Bread by Danielle Walker, author, Against All Grain – turn this yummy bread into mini muffins and they’re perfect for small hands!
Peppermint Marshmallow Crunch Cookies by Danielle Walker, author Against All Grain – these are melt in your mouth good.