11 Hidden Veggie Summer Desserts for Picky Eaters

sneaky healthy summer treats
sneaky healthy summer treats

Hidden veggie desserts are a clever way to sneak nutrition into summer treats, ideal for picky eaters. Options like zucchini brownies and sweet potato ice cream incorporate veggies while maintaining delicious flavors. Avocado chocolate mousse and beetroot red velvet cupcakes offer unique twists, while cauliflower cheesecake and pea and mint sorbet provide invigorating variations. Pumpkin spice muffins and cucumber lemonade granita add seasonal flair. Exploring these delightful ideas can make summer desserts both enjoyable and healthy. Discover even more creative options ahead.

Zucchini Brownies

zucchini brownies moist nutritious treat
zucchini brownies moist nutritious treat
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Zucchini brownies are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, adding moisture and nutrition without compromising flavor. This rich and fudgy dessert is perfect for chocolate lovers, even those who might be hesitant to eat vegetables.

These brownies are an ideal treat for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply an indulgent snack at home. The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional 25 minutes for baking, making it a quick and satisfying dessert option.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the grated zucchini, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. If desired, fold in chocolate chips and/or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
  8. Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!

Variations and Tips:

  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder to heighten the chocolate flavor.
  • For a more decadent treat, try drizzling melted chocolate on top before serving or adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the warm brownies.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Sweet Potato Ice Cream

sweet potato frozen dessert
sweet potato frozen dessert
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Sweet Potato Ice Cream is a deliciously creamy and naturally sweet frozen treat that incorporates the subtle flavors of sweet potatoes into a revitalizing dessert. This dessert is not only a fantastic way to sneak in a serving of vegetables but also perfect for families looking for a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream.

The preparation time for this delightful treat is about 15 minutes, plus a few hours for freezing, making it a simple yet satisfying summer indulgence that both kids and adults will love.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup coconut milk (or any milk of choice)
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup (or honey)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly and pierce them with a fork a few times. Bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Let them cool, then scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl.
  2. Make the Ice Cream Base: In the bowl with the sweet potato flesh, add the coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Blend using a hand mixer or transfer to a blender and blend until you reach a smooth and creamy consistency.
  3. Chill the Mixture: Pour the sweet potato mixture into a container, cover it, and refrigerate for about 1-2 hours until it is thoroughly chilled.
  4. Freeze: Once chilled, transfer the mixture to an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer, stirring every 30 minutes for about 3 hours.
  5. Serve: Once the Sweet Potato Ice Cream is firm, scoop it into bowls and serve immediately, or transfer to an airtight container and store in the freezer until ready to enjoy.

Variations and Tips:

  • For a chocolate twist, blend in 2-3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate.
  • Add additional mix-ins such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit during the last few minutes of churning if using an ice cream maker.
  • For a vegan-friendly option, verify your sweetener is plant-based, such as maple syrup or agave nectar.
  • If you prefer a smoother texture, use a high-speed blender rather than a mixer.
  • Feel free to experiment with spices by adding a pinch of ginger or allspice for an extra flavor dimension.

Avocado Chocolate Mousse

creamy dairy free chocolate mousse
creamy dairy free chocolate mousse
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Avocado Chocolate Mousse is a creamy, rich dessert that surprises everyone with its luscious texture and decadent flavor while being completely dairy-free and guilt-free.

This dish is perfect for those looking for a healthier dessert option, ideal for vegans, and anyone who loves chocolate but wants to sneak in some nutritious ingredients. The preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, making it a quick and easy treat for summer gatherings or a personal indulgence.

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe avocados
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 1/4 cup almond milk (or other non-dairy milk)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt
  • Optional toppings: whipped coconut cream, berries, or nuts

Cooking Steps & Tips:

  1. Start by cutting the avocados in half, removing the pit, and scooping the flesh into a blender or food processor.
  2. Add the unsweetened cocoa powder, maple syrup (or honey), almond milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the blender.
  3. Blend the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed to incorporate everything thoroughly.
  4. Taste the mousse and adjust sweetness if necessary, adding more maple syrup or honey to your preference.
  5. Once you reach the desired flavor and texture, transfer the mousse into serving dishes or bowls.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set and firm up before serving. This also enhances the flavors.
  7. Serve with optional toppings like whipped coconut cream, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

Variations:

  • For a minty twist, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the mixture.
  • To incorporate extra nutritional benefits, you can blend in a couple of tablespoons of nut butter or protein powder.
  • For a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for an unexpected flavor profile.

Tips:

  • Make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe for the smoothest consistency.
  • This mousse can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, although it’s best enjoyed fresh.
  • Feel free to experiment with different natural sweeteners like agave or stevia based on your dietary preferences.

Beetroot Red Velvet Cupcakes

beetroot infused red velvet cupcakes
beetroot infused red velvet cupcakes
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These Beetroot Red Velvet Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, offering a rich flavor while sneaking in some nutritious veggies.

Vibrant in color and moist in texture, these cupcakes are perfect for summer picnics, birthday parties, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests. The preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, followed by a baking time of 20-25 minutes, making it a quick and fun baking project.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cooked and pureed beetroot
  • 1⅓ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp white vinegar
  • Cream cheese frosting (for topping)
  • Optional: red food coloring (if more color is desired)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the pureed beetroot, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and white vinegar. Mix until smooth.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the beetroot mixture, stirring gently until combined. If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring to intensify the color.
  5. Fill the cupcake liners about 2/3 full with the batter.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Once cooled, frost with cream cheese frosting and serve.

Variations & Tips:

  • For a chocolatey twist, add chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
  • For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use a plant-based oil.
  • Top with finely chopped nuts or coconut for added texture and flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
  • Enhance your frosting with a splash of lemon juice for a tangy contrast to the sweetness.

Cauliflower Cheesecake

cauliflower cheesecake dessert recipe
cauliflower cheesecake dessert recipe
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Cauliflower cheesecake is an innovative twist on the classic dessert, making it a unique and delicious way to incorporate veggies into your sweet treats. This creamy, subtly sweet cheesecake is perfect for those looking to indulge in a guilt-free dessert, or for anyone who loves to surprise guests with something different.

Preparation takes about 30 minutes, plus chilling time of at least 4 hours, ensuring you have plenty of time to enjoy the summer sun while you wait.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 ½ cups cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • ¾ cup sugar (or sweetener of choice)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (or homemade)
  • Fresh fruit for topping (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Begin by steaming the cauliflower florets until they are tender, about 8-10 minutes. Let them cool slightly.
  2. Once cooled, transfer the steamed cauliflower to a food processor and blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, salt, and lemon juice. Beat with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  4. Gradually fold in the pureed cauliflower until fully incorporated. Make sure there are no lumps.
  5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the cauliflower cheesecake mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing it out evenly.
  6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour.
  7. Once cooled, cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set completely.
  8. Before serving, garnish with fresh fruit if desired, slice, and enjoy your delicious hidden veggie dessert!

Variations & Tips:

  • For an added hint of flavor, consider mixing in a tablespoon or two of cocoa powder for a chocolate version or using different extracts like almond or coconut.
  • Swap out the graham cracker crust for a nut crust or a gluten-free option if desired.
  • To enhance the nutritional value, use low-fat cream cheese and yogurt.
  • If you prefer a flavored cheesecake, try incorporating mashed berries or other fruits into the cauliflower mixture before baking.
  • Serve with a drizzle of fruit compote or a dollop of whipped cream for extra delight!

Carrot Cake Pops

delicious bite sized carrot treats
delicious bite sized carrot treats
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Carrot Cake Pops are a delightful twist on traditional carrot cake, transforming this beloved dessert into bite-sized treats that are perfect for summer gatherings, birthday parties, or even just a fun family snack.

With their sweet, moist flavor and crunch from the carrots, these cake pops are not only visually appealing but also surprisingly healthy! The preparation time is around 30 minutes, plus an additional 1 hour for chilling and setting, making them a great option for those who want a quick yet impressive dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups finely grated carrots
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 8 oz white chocolate, melted
  • Lollipop sticks
  • Sprinkles (optional)

Cooking Steps:

1. Prep the Carrots: Begin by finely grating the carrots and set them aside.

2. Make the Cake Batter****: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the oil, eggs, vanilla, and grated carrots. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

3. Bake the Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.

4. Make the Cake Pops: Once the cake has cooled, crumble it into a large bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Combine this mixture with the crumbled cake and mix until fully incorporated.

Form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Insert lollipop sticks into each ball.

5. Chill the Pops: Place the cake pops in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.

6. Coat with Chocolate: Dip each cake pop into the melted white chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. If desired, decorate with sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet.

7. Set and Serve: Place the finished cake pops upright in a floral foam block or a cake pop stand and allow the chocolate to set completely before serving.

Variations and Tips:

  • Flavored Icing: Add a splash of lemon or orange extract to the cream cheese mixture for a zesty twist.
  • Add-ins: Consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the cake mixture for added texture.
  • Storage: Store cake pops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
  • Colorful Coatings: Use colored candy melts instead of white chocolate for a fun, vibrant coating that suits various themes or holidays.
  • Make them bite-sized: For mini pops, reduce the size of the balls to bite-sized pieces and shorten the lollipop sticks accordingly.

Enjoy making these creative and fun Carrot Cake Pops that are sure to impress both kids and adults alike!

Spinach Banana Smoothie Parfaits

nutritious summer dessert parfaits
nutritious summer dessert parfaits
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Spinach Banana Smoothie Parfaits are a delightful and nutritious summer dessert that combines the benefits of leafy greens and fruits into a revitalizing treat. This dish is ideal for health-conscious individuals, parents looking to sneak greens into their kids’ diets, or anyone wanting to indulge in a sweet yet healthy dessert option.

With a prep time of just 15 minutes, these parfaits are quick to assemble and perfect for warm weather enjoyment.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh spinach, packed
  • 2 ripe bananas
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
  • 1 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup granola
  • Fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries), for topping

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine the spinach, bananas, Greek yogurt, almond milk, honey (if using), and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  2. In serving glasses or bowls, layer the spinach banana smoothie mixture with granola, splitting both evenly among the servings.
  3. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of your glasses or bowls, finishing with a layer of smoothie.
  4. Garnish each parfait with fresh berries and a sprinkle of additional granola for added texture.
  5. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes before serving.

Variations & Tips:

  • Fruit Variations: Feel free to add other fruits such as mango, pineapple, or avocado to the smoothie for different flavors and textures.
  • Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the sweetness to your liking; you can add more or less honey/maple syrup based on the ripeness of your bananas.
  • Nut Allergy Alternative: Substitute almond milk with coconut milk or oat milk if nut allergies are a concern.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the smoothie mix ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just layer it with granola when ready to serve.
  • Presentation: Use clear cups or mason jars to showcase the beautiful layers for a visually appealing dessert.

Pea and Mint Sorbet

innovative summer dessert recipe
innovative summer dessert recipe
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Pea and Mint Sorbet is an innovative and invigorating summer dessert that cleverly incorporates hidden veggies into a delightful treat. This vibrant green sorbet is perfect for those seeking a unique dessert option, making it suitable for adventurous eaters, health-conscious individuals, and anyone looking to impress their guests with something out of the ordinary.

The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, but you’ll need to allow a few hours for freezing to achieve the perfect sorbet texture.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh green peas (or frozen peas, thawed)
  • 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional: extra mint leaves for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Prepare the Mint Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the mint leaves and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool before straining out the mint leaves.
  2. Blend the Base: In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh peas, strained mint syrup, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and vibrant green.
  3. Chill the Mixture: Pour the blended pea and mint mixture into a freezer-safe container. Cover and place in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the mixture starts to firm up but is still soft enough to blend again.
  4. Whip for Texture: After 2 hours, remove the container from the freezer and transfer the mixture back to your blender or food processor. Blend again until creamy and fluffy, adjusting with a little water if the consistency is too thick.
  5. Final Freeze: Pour the whipped mixture back into the container, cover, and freeze for an additional 2-3 hours, or until solid.
  6. Serve: Once completely frozen, scoop out the sorbet into bowls and garnish with extra mint leaves if desired. Enjoy your invigorating pea and mint sorbet!

Variations and Tips:

  • Add Citrus: For a zesty twist, consider adding a small amount of lime or orange juice to the mix before blending.
  • Alcohol Upgrade: For adults, you could add a splash of gin or vodka to the mixture before freezing for a sophisticated touch.
  • Smooth Texture: To achieve an ultra-smooth sorbet, pass the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve before freezing to remove any small bits of peas.
  • Sweetness Level: Adjust the sugar level to your taste preferences; you can reduce or increase the amount based on how sweet you want the final dessert to be.

Pumpkin Spice Muffins

moist pumpkin spice muffins
moist pumpkin spice muffins
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Pumpkin Spice Muffins are a deliciously moist and aromatic treat that perfectly embody the flavors of fall. These muffins are not only delightful for breakfast or a snack, but they also provide a hidden serving of vegetables, making them a great option for health-conscious individuals and families.

With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a baking time of 20 minutes, these muffins are quick to whip up and ideal for gathering around the kitchen while enjoying the spicy-sweet aroma.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Cooking Steps

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or spray with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well blended.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are some lumps.
  5. Add Mix-Ins: If desired, fold in the chopped nuts and/or chocolate chips.
  6. Fill Muffin Tin: Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
  8. Cool and Serve: Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations & Tips

  • Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference; adding more cinnamon or a pinch of allspice can enhance the flavor.
  • Dairy-Free: Substitute the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil and use flax eggs for a vegan version (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg, let sit for 5 minutes).
  • Storage: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Toppings: For an extra treat, consider a creamy cream cheese frosting or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Pumpkin Spice Muffins that are bound to impress friends and family, while sneaking in some nutritious veggies!

Cucumber Lemonade Granita

refreshing summer cucumber dessert
refreshing summer cucumber dessert
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Cucumber Lemonade Granita is a revitalizing and unique summer dessert that combines the cooling qualities of cucumber with the tartness of fresh lemons. This icy treat is perfect for hot days, offering a light and hydrating option that’s great for both kids and adults alike.

It takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus some freezing time, making it an easy and fun way to impress your guests or enjoy a revitalizing snack by yourself.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • A pinch of salt
  • Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped cucumbers, lemon juice, sugar, water, and salt. Blend until smooth.
  2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding any solids to guarantee a smooth texture.
  3. Pour the cucumber-lemon mixture into a shallow dish (like a glass baking dish) and spread it evenly.
  4. Place the dish in the freezer and let it freeze for about 2 hours, or until the edges begin to harden.
  5. Use a fork to scrape the mixture gently, breaking up any icy crystals. Return to the freezer for another hour.
  6. Repeat the scraping process every 30 minutes until the granita is fluffy and completely frozen, which usually takes about 3-4 hours in total.
  7. Serve the granita in chilled bowls or glasses, garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Variations and Tips:

  • For an extra flavor kick, you can add a splash of lime juice or a tablespoon of honey to the mix before blending.
  • You can also infuse the sugar with fresh herbs like basil or mint for an additional layer of flavor.

Simply simmer the sugar with the herbs in water until dissolved, then cool and strain before adding to the blender.

  • Use a combination of cucumbers and other melons for a different flavor profile.
  • If you’re looking for a more adult version, consider adding a splash of gin or vodka for a revitalizing cocktail twist!

Hidden Veggie Energy Bites

hidden veggie energy bites
hidden veggie energy bites
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Hidden Veggie Energy Bites are a delicious and nutritious snack perfect for adults and kids alike.

These little treats are an ideal pick-me-up for those super busy summer days when you need a quick energy boost without reaching for processed snacks. Packed with hidden vegetables like carrots and spinach, these bites are easy to prepare in about 15 minutes, with no baking required. They’re perfect for pre-workout fuel, afterschool snacks, or a healthy addition to lunchboxes.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter of your choice)
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup finely grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, grated carrots, chopped spinach, ground flaxseed, chocolate chips (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they form a well-combined mixture. If the mixture seems too dry, add a teaspoon of water or more nut butter until you reach the desired consistency.
  3. Once mixed, use your hands to form small bite-sized balls (about one inch in diameter) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
  4. Once all the mixture is rolled into balls, refrigerate them for about 30 minutes to firm up.
  5. Store the energy bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

Variations and Tips:

  • Swap out the almond butter for peanut butter or sun butter if allergies are a concern.
  • Feel free to mix in different additions, such as dried fruits (like raisins or cranberries), nuts, or seeds to personalize your bites.
  • You can use different veggies such as zucchini or sweet potato in place of carrots; just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture if using watery vegetables.
  • For protein boost, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder into the mixture.
  • These bites can be made ahead of time and stored to have a healthy grab-and-go snack throughout the week.
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Hi! I’m Emily, the creator of arkerecipes.com – a place where busy parents and time-strapped home cooks can find quick, wholesome recipes that don’t compromise on flavor.