HEALTH-IER CHRISTMAS

There is SO much to indulge on during the holidays. Moderation is definitely the key to avoiding unwanted weight gain during the holidays. Another tip is to make "healthier" alternatives to your favorite treats.  

This recipe is a healthier option to the all famous "Christmas Crack", without sacrificing on flavor!  Put a healthier spin on a not-so-healthy classic, and save some calories at your next holiday gathering.

"HEALTHIER CHRISTMAS CRACK"

Ingredients:
36 square Whole Grain crackers
1/2 cup Coconut Sugar (this is a natural sweetener, like cane sugar, but lower on the glycemic index.. meaning it sweetens your food without spiking your blood sugar)
1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter
1 cup Dark Chocolate
1/4 cup Chopped Almonds
2-3 TBL Dried Cranberries (chopped)
Canola Cooking Spray

Directions:
-Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
-Line a 9X9 square pan with foil and lightly spray with cooking spray. Arrange crackers in a single layer to cover the bottom of the pan. 
-In a saucepan over medium heat, add butter and sugar. Stir with a whisk until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved. Bring mixture to a low boil and let boil for 4 min. Remove from the heat and immediately pour the mixture over the crackers and use a rubber spatula to spread over the crackers.
-Place in the preheated oven, now melt your chocolate; add chocolate chips to a glass bowl and heat in the microwave for 20-sec intervals, mixing between intervals. Once most of the chocolate is melted, remove from the microwave and stir until it is completely melted and smooth.
-Remove crackers from the oven, let cool for 1-2 min, then drizzle melted chocolate on top and spread. Top with almonds and dried fruit.
-Place in the fridge to set for 1-2 hours. Once set, the crack will be completely hard. Pull pan from the fridge or freezer, peel away foil and break into pieces. Enjoy!

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