Of the four Organix #NOJUNK Challenges we were set this year, the Christmas one daunted me the most. After all, the festive season is all about throwing diets out the window, and revelling in sugary excess!
But, for that same reason, it also turned out to be the most interesting, because I’d never have imagined you could make healthy Xmas goodies. Like these gingerbread stars – they look yummy, right? I’ll let you into a little secret… no sugar. Not even a teaspoon.
I’ve been growing increasingly uneasy about sugar for a while now – it just seems like it’s used gratuitously, or without even considering if there’s a healthier alternative. These little festive beauties were inspired by a recipe I found HERE and tweaked a teensy bit, and uses organic rice syrup (or honey) and pitted dates as natural sweeteners.
Rather than decorating them, I simply gave them a light dusting of icing sugar.
The taste was definitely different – fruitier – but once my taste buds adjusted, I realised I preferred it. So did Big Sis, who proclaimed them ‘the bestest biscuits I’ve ever eaten!’. While I’m pretty sure that’s not true (bless her cotton socks, but I know full well I’m not a great baker) the flavour was fuller, richer, and just more natural. And, best of all, they were healthier, so I could eat more of them. Right?
I’m now planning to make another batch to wrap and give as teachers’ Xmas gifts. Who needs sugar anyway?!
• written in collaboration with Organix
