Without the Worry and Weight

What better way to get in the holiday spirit than baking! Baking is a staple for holiday parties, holiday gifts, and holiday memory-making. The frustrating part, of course, is having these little weight gainers around for weeks and weeks, even after the holidays are over. But before you start packing away the baking supplies, we have a few tips for you to enjoy holiday baking without the worry or the weight.

• Try using organic flour or whole grain wheat flour instead of white flour
• Fruit purees, especially applesauce, can be used in place of  butter, margarine, or shortening
• Substitute buttermilk with yogurt
• Cut down on salt-- keep added salt in your baked goods to no more than 1/2 teaspoon
• Purchase cholesterol-free egg products to substitute whole eggs 
• Use healthier toppings, instead of an icing or frosting, try fresh sliced fruits
• Substitute milk or semisweet chocolate for dark chocolate
• Increase nutritional value by baking with nuts, oats, spices and fruits

Now go ahead, grab your baking supplies and try out these tips for carefree holiday baking!