Tis’ the season for candy canes!! Whether you attached them to Holiday cards, hung them on the tree, or bought a box to snack on, I’m sure you have a bunch left over. Wondering what to do with all the extras? Were you thinking of throwing them out? Hold your horses! I’m going to help you make the most out of these holiday candies! The sweet, distinct taste of this peppermint candy adds awesome flavor to many dessert-like treats; all it takes is a little creativity. I’m going to prove that to you: “Alli’s Slim Pickins!” 100% Taste, 0% Guilt

Today I’m bringing you two simple short recipes utilizing candy canes to add a little twist to hot cocoa and create a delicious seasonal ice cream treat. It’s all here for you and ready to go. Each Alli’s Slim Pickins recipe provides detailed ingredients, nutritional information, and step-by-step instructions on how to prepare each mouth-watering meal! You ready? I am! Let’s make it happen! Happy Holidays!!

“Peppermint Stick” Ice Cream

Ingredients:

2 cups low fat, sugar free vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
2 scoops vanilla protein powder
1 candy cane, crushed into fine pieces

How to Prepare

Put all ingredients into a large bowl and mix together well with a spatula. Transfer to a freezer safe bowl and cover tightly with cling wrap or use a Tupperware with a tight-fitting lid and put in the freezer to harden for approximately 20 minutes (the longer you leave in the freezer, the harder it will get so judge according to your preference). Scoop out and enjoy! Yum.

NUTRITION DATA

Per serving (serves 4): 162 calories, 15 grams protein, 16 grams carbohydrates, 4.5 grams fat

Hot Mint Cocoa

Ingredients:

2 packets sugar free hot cocoa (we don’t need to add any more sugar; the candy cane has enough!)
1 candy cane

How to Prepare

Prepare the hot cocoa according to the package directions in one extra large mug (yes, one mug – treat yourself!) Stir with an unwrapped candy cane and let sit for about 3 minutes to let the flavor of the candy cane penetrate the cocoa. As you drink, continue to stir with the candy cane for added flavor. When the hot cocoa is gone – eat the remaining candy cane (if not, the nutritionals below will be higher than what you’ve actually consumed). Yum!

NUTRITION DATA

Per serving (serves 1): 170 calories, 4 grams protein, 34 grams carbohydrates, 2 grams fat

Editor’s Note: If you have any specific requests or would like to share your feedback on the above recipes, please e-mail Allison Frahn at AliFrahn@yahoo.com.

Check out more of Alli”s recipes at: www.AllisonFrahn.com and www.AllisSlimPickins.com