Tips From Tara

Using Natural Sweeteners in Holiday Baking

Tables full of baked goods are often a sign that the holiday season is just around the corner. Unfortunately, all of this added sugar is the biggest culprit when it comes to holiday weight gain. Sugar will also completely zap your energy … and this time of year, we need all the energy we can get!

Luckily, there are some natural alternatives to white sugar that will taste just as sweet in your holiday baking. Here are three of my personal favorites:

• Agave Nectar – For each cup of white or brown sugar, substitute two-thirds of a cup of agave nectar and reduce all other liquids by 25 percent. In addition to substituting agave nectar for sugar, reduce the baking temperature by 25 degrees.
• Brown Rice Syrup – This can be substituted cup per cup for white sugar, however you will need to reduce the other liquids by 25 percent.
• Fruit Juice Concentrate – Use three-quarters of a cup of concentrate for every one cup of white sugar and reduce all other liquids by three tablespoons.

Finally, if you really just prefer the taste of white sugar, try reducing the total amount by one third. You can cut down on the total sugar and still keep the sweetness of your holiday favorites. You can always pair a steaming cup of tea with your sweets too. Tea has zero calories, so you can add even more flavor without any effect on your waistline.

And remember, a few small steps can lead to big changes.

 

For more tips from Tara Coleman, Salada Tea Spokesperson, be sure to check back here at www.UnbottleYourTea.com/Tara or find her on Facebook and Twitter. 

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