It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Houses are aglow inside and outside with numerous festive decor, the weather is cooling down, and we prepare for the oncoming hustle and bustle. The holiday season is also a time where kitchens stay warm and delicious meals and treats are prepared. For many, it’s a delightfully delicious dream come true and a time to enjoy the company of friends and family. For many, too, this time can be a bit stressful. Make no mistake, a little bit of stress is OK and healthy. But when stress levels become too high, that’s when things can start to tumble out of control.

For those of us working on eating more healthy, the holidays are usually the opposite of a compliment to healthy eating. All of the cakes and cookies and snacks and appetizers and large meals and eating out and holiday parties (and more!) can be a recipe for disaster when it comes to staying on track with healthy habits and goals. The key to success over the holiday season is not absolute deprivation. It’s okay to indulge without overindulging. One way to make sure that you’re on track without feeling like you’re missing out is to have healthy treats on hand. 

Our Peppermit Bark is the perfect holiday treat for those who want to be a part of the action without completely derailing. Packed with 15g of protein, this recipe is not only good for you, but it’s filling - helping to keep you feeling fuller longer and less likely to snack on other goodies. This recipe does need some time to set up in the freezer, so you’ll want to start this one a few hours before you’re ready to eat it. It stays good in the freezer for up to a couple weeks after you prepare it; so, go ahead and double or triple your batch to make sure you’ve got enough on hand when those cravings for sweets hit! 

Ingredients:

• 1 packet MRC Double Chocolate Pudding protein powder
• 1 packet MRC Vanilla Creme Pudding protein powder
• Water
• Peppermint extract
• 1 sugar-free peppermint candy cane or candy, crushed

Instructions:

1. In separate bowls, mix each packet of pudding with about 5-6 oz of water until you reach a spreadable consistency. Add 1 drop of peppermint extract to each pudding bowl.
2. Place a piece of waxed paper over a quarter size rimmed baking sheet with about an inch hanging over the sides (this will make it easier to remove). Pour both puddings onto the sheet and swirl together as you spread it into a rectangular shape. Top with crushed peppermint and place in the freezer until frozen solid (at least 2 hours). 
3. Remove from the freezer, take out of the pan, and cut or break into pieces. Store any uneaten bark in an airtight container or zip lock bag in the freezer. 

Makes 2 Servings | Serving Size: 1/2 recipe | One Serving Replaces: 1 HNS/protein drink