Festive Holiday Delights
Cranberry Orange Mocktail and Gingerbread Protein Balls
How about some vibrant, non-alcoholic cheer and cozy spiced treats? These are perfect to elevate your holiday gatherings!
Hello Stability Nutrition Friends,
Happy Thursday!
As the holidays zoom into full swing and Christmas sneaks up faster than ever, I wanted to share a couple of my favorite quick recipes to keep things fun and nourishing amid the bustle. Time feels like it's in overdrive this season, doesn't it? Between shopping, holiday parties, and wrapping up the year, it's easy to let self-care slide.
With these simple ideas, a refreshing Cranberry Orange Mocktail and delicious Gingerbread Protein Balls, you can whip up something delicious in no time that fuels you up, and brightens those dark days!
Both recipes are easy, tasty, and packed with feel-good ingredients to keep your energy balanced and your busy days nourished. Whether you're hosting friends or just treating yourself, these will add a little sparkle to your day without any fuss. Let's dive in and make this holiday season a bit brighter!
First up is my festive and fun Cranberry Orange Mocktail. This one is my most favorite to date! It hits all the marks: a little tart, a little sweet, with a tiny hint of spice, and so many beautiful layers of flavors. The best part is you can enjoy this beautiful drink at home, at a party, share it with friends, and not have any hangover. It's fresh, festive, and ultra delicious!
Why You'll Love This Mocktail:
🍊 It's fun, festive, and healthy!
🍊 It’s bursting with antioxidants from cranberries and loaded with vitamin C, for that immune boost we all need this time of year.
🍊 It’s easy to make ahead or scale up for a crowd, no bartending skills required!
The Best Cranberry Orange Mocktail
A sparkling, tart-sweet sipper with festive cranberry flair and light spice. Non-alcoholic holiday cheer in every sip!
Author: Elisa | Stability Nutrition
Yield: 1 serving
Ingredients:
3 oz unsweetened cranberry juice
1 oz fresh squeezed orange juice (save the zest!)
1 teaspoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon cinnamon pear balsamic vinegar (or really good aged balsamic vinegar)
1-2 droppers Apothékary’s Wine Down (optional but so yummy!)
Strip of orange zest
Plain sparkling water
Garnish: Stick with sugared cranberries
Instructions:
In a pretty cocktail glass, add a couple ice cubes, the cranberry juice, fresh squeezed orange juice, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and optional Apothékary’s Wine Down herbal drops. Stir gently to mix well.
Give your orange zest strip a twist over your glass to release its oils, then rub the the rim of your serving glass with the peel. Drop it into your juice blend.
Top with plain sparkling water to your preferred level of fizz. About 4 to 6 oz works great! Give another gentle stir.
Garnish with a stick of sugared cranberries for an extra holiday sparkle. Stir gently and enjoy right away!
Notes:
Feel free to multiply the recipe for a pitcher to serve a crowd.
If you can't find cinnamon pear balsamic, a high-quality aged balsamic adds a subtle depth that mimics mulled wine vibes.
Now, for a cozy snack to pair perfectly with that mocktail, let's talk about my Gingerbread Protein Balls.
These little gems are loaded with all those warm holiday spices: ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves! They taste just like gingerbread cookies straight from the oven. They're soft, a bit nutty, and have that delicious rich depth from blackstrap molasses. One bite will have you craving more!
Don’t be fooled though, they're a healthy twist, way lower in sugar than actual cookies but every bit as delicious! They are perfect for quick energy, super handy on the go, and make a great fridge staple for busy days.
Plus, they would be such a fun gift for a friend! Wrapped up cute in a jar or tin. I don't know about you, but I'd be thrilled to get protein balls instead of cookies! 😂 Maybe it's a nutritionist thing, but honestly, it's the truth.
Why You'll Love these Gingerbread Protein Balls:
🤎 Nutrient-dense for quick energy and great on the go!
🤎 Taste like a classic holiday cookie but healthier, with anti-inflammatory spices that support digestion and steady blood sugar.
🤎 Ideal for meal prep: make a batch and you're set!
Gingerbread Protein Balls
These gingerbread protein balls taste just like chewy ginger snap cookies! They are loaded with warm spices, and are a great treat on the go!
Author: Elisa | Stability Nutrition
Yield: 12-15 balls
Ingredients:
1 cup rolled oats
1/3 cup plant-based vanilla protein powder (I used OWYN’s)
1/4 cup chopped pecans
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Pinch of sea salt
1/2 cup runny almond butter (if you don’t have runny nut butter you’ll need to use more almond milk)
3 tablespoons blackstrap molasses
3 tablespoons almond milk (plus more if needed)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: Sugar for rolling
Instructions:
In a food processor, combine the oats, protein powder, pecans, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Blend until evenly mixed and all the nuts are in very small pieces.
Add the almond butter, molasses, and vanilla. Pulse until it forms a sticky dough. If too dry, add a splash of almond milk 1 tsp at a time.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls with your hands.
Optional: Roll in sugar for a festive coating.
Chill on a parchment-lined plate in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge up to 1 week, or freeze for up to three months.
Notes:
Swap pecans for raw cashews or walnuts if you prefer.
These would be fun with added chocolate chips, or candied ginger for an even more indulgent treat.
I hope you enjoy these recipes as much as I do! They've been bringing a little extra sparkle to my busy days, and I think they'll do the same for you!
Whether it's sipping that bright mocktail during a quiet moment, or grabbing a protein ball when you're on the run. Give them a try this week, and if you make either (or both!), tag me on Instagram with #stabilitynutrition. I can’t wait to see your creations!
In good health and happiness,
Elisa
If the season has you thinking about starting the new year with more energy and better habits, I'm here to help!
My programs are all about sustainable habit changes that feel good, and actually stick. The programs are designed to help you get leaner, increase your energy, and embrace a healthier lifestyle with confidence.
Curious about how my programs can help you on your journey? Let's talk! I offer a free, no-obligation consultation to explore how we can work together to achieve your health and wellness goals.
Ready to get started? Learn more and schedule your free consultation today at: https://stabilitynutrition.com/contact-us
I look forward to connecting with you and supporting you on your journey to lasting health!
Social
Follow me on Instagram , Facebook and Pinterest , or Subscribe for weekly recipes delivered straight to your inbox!
I look forward to sharing delicious recipes and wellness tips to help you on your journey to a healthier, happier you!