Healthy Indulgences

Holidays are about celebrating what’s most important in life, and at the top of my list is the health and happiness of my friends and family. I always treat them to “good for you” gifts that also feel decadent and indulgent. Here are a few of my favorite healthy holiday gift baskets that are sure to get raves.

Healthy Indulgences: Put together a collection of luscious treats packed with nutritious perks. My favorites: toasted or spiced almonds; sweet, tart dried cherries; top-quality extra-virgin olive oil; local honey; bottle of red wine; selection of dark chocolate.

Tea for Two: A cup of hot tea is one of life’s simple pleasures, and to top it off you even get a healthy dose of antioxidants. For a simple but thoughtful gift, gather an assortment of tasty teas that will help your loved ones stay warm and relax during the holiday season.

Breakfast Basket: One of the things I enjoy the most about holidays is having the time to lounge around in the morning with my family, relaxing in our pajamas. A breakfast basket is a great way to share some of the things that help make those holiday mornings. Try homemade muffins, like my Better Blueberry Muffins; a jar of apple butter; bottle of pure maple syrup; fresh oranges or clementines; and package of exotic coffee.

Dark Chocolate Pretzel Clusters: Chocolate is one of the first things that come to my mind when I think of indulgences. For a decadent, homemade chocolate treat, try my Dark Chocolate Pretzel Cluster. They look gorgeous packed in a little gift box.

Click here for Ellie Krieger’s Pumpkin Bread with Cranberries recipe.

Purchase the digital edition for your iPad, Nook, or Android tablet:

To purchase a subscription to the print edition of The Saturday Evening Post: