Pull out the mixer, cookie cutters and Grandma’s recipes – it’s time for the busy baker in all of us to shine! Spruce up some of your recipes this season by adding a few healthy ingredients.

• Nuts: From almonds to pistachios, all nuts offer a wealth of healthy nutrients, such as vitamin E and selenium, crucial for protection against damage that occurs from air pollution and UV light. Stir ½ cup to 1 cup into cookie, cake or quick bread recipes.
• Butter alternative: Sure, butter makes goodies taste great, but you can still get the same flavor with fewer calories and less saturated fat by using a “faux” butter. Substitute half the butter in your recipe with prune puree. This can be made with dried plums in a food processor, or with the baby food.
• New sweetener: Give some of the new sugar substitutes like Xylosweet a try to help cut back on added sugar (helpful for those with diabetes or who are watching their weight.) These alternate sweeteners are tasty and safe for all to use. Follow manufacturers’ recipes.
• Egg swap: For those needing to curb cholesterol intake due to heart health concerns, substitute two egg whites for one whole egg. You can also use egg substitutes for most recipes. And for an added health boost, use eggs with omega-3 essential fats.
• Persimmons & cranberries: Try a new recipe with seasonal fruit – fresh or dried. Persimmons and cranberries pack an array of nutrients such as potassium for healthy blood pressure and antioxidants for cancer protection. These tasty fruits do well in cookies, quick breads and cakes.