Diabetic Delights: A Confessions of a Foodie Offspring

Enter your email address:

Delivered by FeedBurner

Showing posts with label Italian Lemon Cookies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Italian Lemon Cookies. Show all posts

Thursday, June 12, 2025

Desserts

Just because someone is diabetic doesn't mean that he or she has to forgo Desserts. Check out these diabetic-friendly desserts, including Italian Lemon Cookies and Super Strawberry Fluff. Enjoy!

CHRISTMAS GINGERBREAD MEN COOKIES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 30 servings; Serving Size: 1 (4-inch) gingerbread cookie

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda.

To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipe/christmas-gingerbread-men-cookies.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

1 cup Splenda Brown Sugar Blend

1 large egg

1 large egg yolk

Directions

Mix together flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon and allspice into a medium bowl. Set aside.

Cream butter and Splenda Brown Sugar Blend in a large bowl until smooth. Beat in egg and egg yolk. Stir in dry ingredients and mix until dough forms. Shape dough into a disc, wrap, and refrigerate for 2 hours.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thick on a lightly floured surface. Using a 4-inch cookie cutter, cut dough and place on cookie sheet.

Bake for 15 to 18 minutes. Allow cookies to cool for 2 minutes, then remove from pan and let cool completely on rack.

If you want to decorate with icing, use this sugarfree glaze recipe.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 110; Fat: 5 g; Saturated Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 65 mg; Cholesterol: 25 mg; Protein: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 13 g; Sugars: 7 g

ITALIAN LEMON COOKIES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 27 ServingsServing Size: 2 cookies

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda.

To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/italian-lemon-cookies.

Ingredients

1/2 cup light butter

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

3/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup egg substitute

3 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon grated lemon zest

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup cornmeal

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly oil a cookie sheet and set aside.

Blend together butter, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, and vanilla in a medium sized mixing bowl until butter is softened. Add egg substitute, lemon juice and zest. Mix briefly. Add flour, cornmeal, baking powder and nutmeg. Mix using a hand mixer on low speed (or by hand) until dough is formed. Do not over mix.

Remove dough from bowl and divide in half. Roll each half into a log approx. 1 inch thick in diameter. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze 1-2 hours, allowing dough to chill and become firm.

Remove dough from freezer, unwrap and cut into slices approximately 1/4 inch thick. Place cookies on prepared cookie sheet.

Bake in a preheated 325 degrees F oven 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Notes:

These delicate lemon cookies have excellent flavor and an interesting texture. They are perfect for adding variety to a cookie tray.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Fat: 7 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 55 mg;Cholesterol: 30 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Sugars: 7 g

ALMOND CHEESECAKE BARS

Recipe Yield: Serves: 20Serving Size: 1 bar

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda.

To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/almond-cheesecake-bars.

Ingredients

Crust:

1/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1 1/4 cups graham cracker or vanilla wafer crumbs

1/3 cup light butter, melted

1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds, finely ground

Filling:

12 ounces reduced fat cream cheese

1/2 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

2 large eggs

1/4 cup reduced fat sour cream

2-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 teaspoon almond extract

1/4 cup toasted, sliced almonds

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Spray an 8x8 pan with non-stick cooking spray.

Mix crust ingredients together in a mixing bowl. Mix well. Press into prepared pan. Bake 10-12 minutes or until firm.

Mix cream cheese and Splenda Granulated Sweetener together until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, scraping the sides of the bowl, and mixing well after each addition. Add sour cream and extracts; mix well. Pour over prepared crust.

Bake in preheated oven for 40 to 47 minutes, or until firm.

Top with toasted almonds.

Notes:

Light and creamy cheesecake bars topped with toasted almonds.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 120; Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 3.5 g; Sodium: 105 mg; Cholesterol: 35 mg; Protein: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 8 g; Sugars: 4 g

CHOCOLATE-CHERRY PARFAIT

Recipe Yield: Servings: 6

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chocolate-cherry-parfait.

Ingredients

3 oz Neufchatel cream cheese

2 cup cold skim milk

3 oz package Jell-o sugar-free instant chocolate pudding

1 pound fresh bing cherries, pitted, cut in half

Directions

Blend cream cheese with 1/4 cup skim milk, on low speed of electric mixer, until smooth. Add remaining milk and pudding mix. Mix 1 or 2 minutes until smooth and well blended.

Add to 75% of the fresh cherries to 1/2 cup water, and cook until it boils for 1 minute. Remove from heat, drain well.

Alternately spoon pudding and cherries into parfait dishes, ending with pudding.

Garnish the top of each parfait with the remaining cherries.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 116; Fat: 3.5 g; Sodium: 305 mg; Cholesterol: 14.5 mg; Carbohydrates: 16 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Bread; 1/2 Fruit; 1 Fat

CINNAMON GINGER COOKIES

Makes: 30 Cookies

Source: "The Best Diabetes Cookbook"

Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/25.shtml

Ingredients

1/4 cup brown sugar

3 tablespoon margarine, melted

2 tablespoon molasses

2 tablespoon 2% yogurt

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon ginger

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Pinch nutmeg

1-1/2 teaspoon brown sugar

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a baking sheet with nonstick vegetable spray.

In bowl, combine 1/4 cup brown sugar, margarine, molasses, yogurt and vanilla until well mixed.

Combine flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg; stir into bowl just until combined.

Using teaspoon, form dough into small balls and baking on baking sheet. Press flat with fork; sprinkle with 1-1/2 teaspoon brown sugar. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (2 Cookies): Calories: 76, Carbohydrate: 12 g, Fiber: 0 g, Protein: 1 g, Fat: 2 g, Sodium: 68 mg, Cholesterol: 0 mg; Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Starch, 1/3 Other Carbohydrate, 1/2 Fat

SUPER STRAWBERRY FLUFF

This is from Everyday Diabetic Recipes, and begins, "Here's an easy, low-fat, strawberry dessert recipe that'll taste heavenly, but won't cost you any work at all. Our Super Strawberry Fluff combines two of our favorite fruity flavors to create an easy dessert that'll really satisfy your dessert cravings!"

Prep Time: 5 minutes; Serves: 12

To view this online, go to https://www.everydaydiabeticrecipes.com/Misc-Desserts/Super-Strawberry-Fluff.

Ingredients

1 (0.3-ounce) package sugar-free strawberry gelatin mix

1 (1-ounce) package sugar-free instant vanilla pudding mix

1 cup water

1 (8-ounce) container sugar-free frozen whipped topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, cut into quarters

1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, well drained

1/4 cup mini marshmallows

Directions

In a large bowl, whisk gelatin mix, pudding mix, and water until smooth and thickened. Stir in whipped topping until thoroughly combined.

Fold in strawberries, pineapple, and marshmallows. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes

If you love super strawberry recipes, then check out our collection of Healthy Strawberry Desserts!

Thursday, July 18, 2024

Desserts

Many of us, when first dealing with a diabetes diagnosis (whether ourselves or a loved one) have thought that Desserts are no longer in our food plans.

Fortunately, that's not completely true. There are definitely diabetic-friendly desserts, as today's post proves. Check out the Angel Pecan Cupcakes, the Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake, and the rest of today's yummy desserts. (As usual, moderation is the key here.) Enjoy!

PEANUT BUTTER COOKIE BITES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 24 cookies

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/peanut-butter-cookie-bites.

Ingredients

1/4 cup margarine, softened

1 cup creamy style peanut butter

1/4 cup egg substitute

2 tablespoons honey

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup SPLENDA No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Beat margarine and peanut butter in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer until creamy, approximately 1 minute.

Add egg substitute, honey and vanilla. Beat on high speed for approximately 1-1/2 minutes.

Add SPLENDA Granulated Sweetener and beat on medium speed until well blended, approximately 30 seconds.

Combine flour, baking soda and salt in a small mixing bowl. Slowly add flour mixture to peanut butter mixture, beating on low speed until well-blended, about 1-1/2 minutes. Mixture may be crumbly.

Roll level tablespoons of dough into balls and drop onto a lightly oiled or parchment lined sheet pan, two inches apart. Flatten each ball with a fork, pressing a crisscross pattern into each cookie. Bake 7-9 minutes or until light brown around the edges. Cool on wire rack.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 120; Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 150 mg; Protein: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Sugars: 3 g

MOLASSES COOKIES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 23 servings; Serving size: 3 cookies

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/molasses-cookies.

Ingredients

2 cups whole wheat pastry flour

1-1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

1 pinch Pinch of salt

1/2 cup trans-free margarine

1/4 cup SPLENDA Brown Sugar Blend

1/4 cup dark molasses

1 egg white

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly coat several cookie sheets with non-stick cooking spray. On a sheet of waxed paper, combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and salt. Stir with a fork to blend. Set aside.

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat margarine until smooth. Add SPLENDA Brown Sugar Blend, molasses, and egg white. Mix slowly to incorporate, then beat until smooth. Gradually stir in the reserved flour mixture until well blended. Dough will be soft but not sticky.

Using your palms, roll dough into 3/4-inch balls (1 level teaspoon). Place, separated, on prepared pans. Use the back of a fork to press down on tops of cookies in an X, making a crosshatch pattern.

Bake for 8 minutes, or until edges are set. Let stand on the sheet for 5 minutes, then remove to a rack to cool. Continue until all the dough is baked.

Notes:

This whole grain cookie, with the rich flavor of dark molasses, goes great with a glass of cold milk.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 70; Fat: 3 g; Saturated Fat: 0.5 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 130 mg; Protein: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g; Sugars: 3 g

ITALIAN LEMON COOKIES

These delicate lemon cookies have excellent flavor and an interesting texture. They are perfect for adding variety to a cookie tray.

Yield: 27 Servings

Serving Size: 2 cookies

Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1159.shtml

Ingredients

1/2 cup light butter

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

3/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup egg substitute

3 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon grated lemon zest

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup cornmeal

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly oil a cookie sheet and set aside.

Blend together butter, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, and vanilla in a medium sized mixing bowl until butter is softened. Add egg substitute, lemon juice and zest. Mix briefly.

Add flour, cornmeal, baking powder and nutmeg. Mix using a hand mixer on low speed (or by hand) until dough is formed. Do not over mix.

Remove dough from bowl and divide in half. Roll each half into a log approx. 1 inch thick in diameter. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze 1-2 hours, allowing dough to chill and become firm.

Remove dough from freezer, unwrap and cut into slices approximately 1/4 inch thick. Place cookies on prepared cookie sheet.

Bake in a preheated 325 degrees F oven 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Calories from Fat: 60; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 55 mg; Cholesterol: 30 mg; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g ; Sugars: 7 g ; Carbohydrates: 19 g

CHOCOLATE SWIRL CHEESECAKE

New York-style cheesecake swirled with a rich chocolate mixture. Serve with fresh raspberries.

Yield: 16 servings

View online with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/990.shtml

Ingredients

Crust Ingredients:

1-1/4 cups vanilla wafer crumbs

4 tablespoons stick butter or margarine, melted

2 tablespoons Equal Spoonful or Granulated*

Cheesecake Ingredients:

3 packages (8 ounces each) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened

3/4 cup Equal Spoonful or Granulated**

2 eggs

2 egg whites

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 cup reduced fat sour cream

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 ounce unsweetened chocolate, melted, slightly cooled

1 tablespoon fat-free milk

Chocolate curls (optional)

* May substitute 3 packets Equal sweetener

* May substitute 3 packets Equal sweetener

** May substitute 18 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

For Crust, mix vanilla wafer crumbs, butter and 2 tablespoons Equal. Press onto bottom and 1/2-inch up side of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake in preheated 325F oven 10 minutes. Cool on wire rack while preparing cheesecake.

For Cheesecake, beat cream cheese and 3/4 cup Equal in mixing bowl on medium speed of mixer until smooth and well combined. Mix in eggs, egg whites and cornstarch. Fold in sour cream and vanilla until combined.

Remove 1/2 cup cheesecake batter. Pour remaining batter over baked crust.

Add melted chocolate and fat-free milk to 1/2 cup reserved cheesecake batter; mix well. Place spoonfuls of chocolate mixture on top of cheesecake. Using tip of knife or spatula, gently swirl chocolate batter into cheesecake.

Bake in preheated oven 45 to 50 minutes or until center of cake is almost set. Cool on wire rack. Gently run metal spatula around rim of pan to loosen cake. Let cheesecake cool completely. Cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight before serving. To serve, remove side of pan.

Garnish top of cheesecake with chocolate curls, if desired. Cut cake into wedges.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 164; Protein: 7 g; Fat: 11 g; Sodium: 235 mg; Cholesterol: 57 mg; Carbohydrates: 8 g; Exchanges: 1 milk, 2 fat

CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE

This delicious chocolate cheesecake is not only greatly reduced in fat, but also has 76% less carbohydrates than the traditional recipe. It will become a favorite!

Yield: 16 servings

View online with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/989.shtml

Ingredients

Crust Ingredients:

1/2 cup finely ground almonds

Cheesecake Ingredients:

3 packages (8 ounces each) reduced fat cream cheese, softened

1-1/4 cups Equal Spoonful or Granulated*

2 eggs

2 egg whites

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup reduced fat sour cream

2 teaspoons vanilla

4 ounces (4 squares) semi-sweet chocolate, melted and cooled

Fresh raspberries, optional

Fresh mint, optional

* May substitute 30 packets Equal sweetener.

Directions

For Crust, spray bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Sprinkle almonds over bottom, patting gently onto pan; set aside.

For Cheesecake, beat cream cheese and Equal in mixing bowl on medium speed of mixer until smooth and well combined. Mix in eggs, egg whites and salt. Fold in sour cream and vanilla until combined. Gently mix in chocolate until blended. Pour batter over crust.

Bake in preheated 325F oven 40 to 45 minutes or until center of cake is almost set. Cool on wire rack. Gently run metal spatula around rim of pan to loosen cake. Let cheesecake cool completely. Cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight. To serve, remove side of pan. Garnish top of cheesecake with fresh raspberries and mint, if desired. Cut cake into wedges.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 197; Protein: 7 g; Fat: 16 g; Sodium: 231 mg; Cholesterol: 67 mg; Carbohydrates: 7 g; Exchanges: 1/2 milk, 3 fat

ANGEL PECAN CUPCAKES

Yield: 12 servings

View online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/746.shtml

Source: The Complete Idiot's Guide to Terrific Diabetic Meals

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/76.shtml

Ingredients

2 eggs, separated

1/4 cup hot tap water

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

3/4 cup fructose

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup cake flour

3/4 teaspoon low-salt baking powder

1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

In a medium bowl, with an electric mixer, beat egg yolks, hot water, and vanilla together until very thick and pale.

Slowly beat in 1/2 cup fructose and set aside. In a small bowl, beat egg whites until foamy. Add salt, and continue beating until whites hold soft peaks.

Gradually add remaining 1/4 cup fructose to egg whites, beating until stiff but not dry. Stir 1/3 of whites into yolks, and sift flour and baking powder over egg mixture. Add pecans and remaining whites, and gently fold until blended.

Place 12 paper liners in a 12-cup muffin pan. Spoon batter evenly into cups, and bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into a cupcake comes out clean.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 112; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 27 mg; Cholesterol: 35 mg; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Glycemic Index: 30, Glycemic Load: 6; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch

CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE

Recipe Yield: Servings: 8

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chocolate-cheesecake.

Ingredients

Crust:

3/4 cup graham crackers crumbs

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

2 tablespoons sugar

2 tablespoons canola or olive oil

Filling:

3 large egg whites

1/3 cup sugar

2 cups nonfat ricotta cheese

1/4 cup cocoa

1/3 cup yogurt cheese **

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

** Place plain, nonfat yogurt into cheese cloth or a coffee filter. Place in strainer over a small bowl or cup. Allow to drain 2 to 24 hours, covered and refrigerated, until cheese reached desired consistency. Discard the whey (liquid). Store in covered container in refrigerator.

Directions

Part 1:

Preheat oven TO 350F. Spray 8-inch springform pan with cooking spray. Fill a 13x9x2-inch pan halfway with hot water.

Place in oven on shelf below where chocolate cheesecake will be placed. This will prevent the top of cheesecake from cracking.

In small bowl, combine all crust ingredients. Press onto bottom and part-way up sides of pan. Set aside.

Part 2:

In food processor or blender, combine egg whites, sugar, ricotta, cocoa, yogurt cheese and vanilla; process, scraping sides occasionally, for 1 minute until smooth and thick. Pour into crust.

Bake 30 to 35 minutes until filling is just set (center will jiggle slightly). Turn off oven and leave cake in closed oven 5 minutes longer.

Remove from oven and cool about an hour on wire rack. Cover and refrigerate at least 3 hours before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 176; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 140 m; Protein: 11 g; Carbohydrates: 22 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch; 1/2 skim milk

Thursday, August 31, 2023

Desserts

Many of us, when first dealing with a diabetes diagnosis (whether ourselves or a loved one) have thought that Desserts are no longer in our food plans.

Fortunately, that's not completely true. There are definitely diabetic-friendly desserts, as today's post proves. Check out the Angel Pecan Cupcakes, the Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake, and the rest of today's yummy desserts. (As usual, moderation is the key here.) Enjoy!

PEANUT BUTTER COOKIE BITES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 24 cookies

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/peanut-butter-cookie-bites.

Ingredients

1/4 cup margarine, softened

1 cup creamy style peanut butter

1/4 cup egg substitute

2 tablespoons honey

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup SPLENDA No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Beat margarine and peanut butter in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer until creamy, approximately 1 minute.

Add egg substitute, honey and vanilla. Beat on high speed for approximately 1-1/2 minutes.

Add SPLENDA Granulated Sweetener and beat on medium speed until well blended, approximately 30 seconds.

Combine flour, baking soda and salt in a small mixing bowl. Slowly add flour mixture to peanut butter mixture, beating on low speed until well-blended, about 1-1/2 minutes. Mixture may be crumbly.

Roll level tablespoons of dough into balls and drop onto a lightly oiled or parchment lined sheet pan, two inches apart. Flatten each ball with a fork, pressing a crisscross pattern into each cookie. Bake 7-9 minutes or until light brown around the edges. Cool on wire rack.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 120; Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 150 mg; Protein: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Sugars: 3 g

MOLASSES COOKIES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 23 servings; Serving size: 3 cookies

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/molasses-cookies.

Ingredients

2 cups whole wheat pastry flour

1-1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

1 pinch Pinch of salt

1/2 cup trans-free margarine

1/4 cup SPLENDA Brown Sugar Blend

1/4 cup dark molasses

1 egg white

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly coat several cookie sheets with non-stick cooking spray. On a sheet of waxed paper, combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and salt. Stir with a fork to blend. Set aside.

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat margarine until smooth. Add SPLENDA Brown Sugar Blend, molasses, and egg white. Mix slowly to incorporate, then beat until smooth. Gradually stir in the reserved flour mixture until well blended. Dough will be soft but not sticky.

Using your palms, roll dough into 3/4-inch balls (1 level teaspoon). Place, separated, on prepared pans. Use the back of a fork to press down on tops of cookies in an X, making a crosshatch pattern.

Bake for 8 minutes, or until edges are set. Let stand on the sheet for 5 minutes, then remove to a rack to cool. Continue until all the dough is baked.

Notes:

This whole grain cookie, with the rich flavor of dark molasses, goes great with a glass of cold milk.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 70; Fat: 3 g; Saturated Fat: 0.5 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 130 mg; Protein: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g; Sugars: 3 g

ITALIAN LEMON COOKIES

These delicate lemon cookies have excellent flavor and an interesting texture. They are perfect for adding variety to a cookie tray.

Yield: 27 Servings

Serving Size: 2 cookies

Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1159.shtml

Ingredients

1/2 cup light butter

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

3/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup egg substitute

3 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon grated lemon zest

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup cornmeal

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly oil a cookie sheet and set aside.

Blend together butter, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, and vanilla in a medium sized mixing bowl until butter is softened. Add egg substitute, lemon juice and zest. Mix briefly.

Add flour, cornmeal, baking powder and nutmeg. Mix using a hand mixer on low speed (or by hand) until dough is formed. Do not over mix.

Remove dough from bowl and divide in half. Roll each half into a log approx. 1 inch thick in diameter. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze 1-2 hours, allowing dough to chill and become firm.

Remove dough from freezer, unwrap and cut into slices approximately 1/4 inch thick. Place cookies on prepared cookie sheet.

Bake in a preheated 325 degrees F oven 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Calories from Fat: 60; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 55 mg; Cholesterol: 30 mg; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g ; Sugars: 7 g ; Carbohydrates: 19 g

CHOCOLATE SWIRL CHEESECAKE

New York-style cheesecake swirled with a rich chocolate mixture. Serve with fresh raspberries.

Yield: 16 servings

View online with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/990.shtml

Ingredients

Crust Ingredients:

1-1/4 cups vanilla wafer crumbs

4 tablespoons stick butter or margarine, melted

2 tablespoons Equal Spoonful or Granulated*

Cheesecake Ingredients:

3 packages (8 ounces each) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened

3/4 cup Equal Spoonful or Granulated**

2 eggs

2 egg whites

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 cup reduced fat sour cream

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 ounce unsweetened chocolate, melted, slightly cooled

1 tablespoon fat-free milk

Chocolate curls (optional)

* May substitute 3 packets Equal sweetener

* May substitute 3 packets Equal sweetener

** May substitute 18 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

For Crust, mix vanilla wafer crumbs, butter and 2 tablespoons Equal. Press onto bottom and 1/2-inch up side of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake in preheated 325F oven 10 minutes. Cool on wire rack while preparing cheesecake.

For Cheesecake, beat cream cheese and 3/4 cup Equal in mixing bowl on medium speed of mixer until smooth and well combined. Mix in eggs, egg whites and cornstarch. Fold in sour cream and vanilla until combined.

Remove 1/2 cup cheesecake batter. Pour remaining batter over baked crust.

Add melted chocolate and fat-free milk to 1/2 cup reserved cheesecake batter; mix well. Place spoonfuls of chocolate mixture on top of cheesecake. Using tip of knife or spatula, gently swirl chocolate batter into cheesecake.

Bake in preheated oven 45 to 50 minutes or until center of cake is almost set. Cool on wire rack. Gently run metal spatula around rim of pan to loosen cake. Let cheesecake cool completely. Cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight before serving. To serve, remove side of pan.

Garnish top of cheesecake with chocolate curls, if desired. Cut cake into wedges.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 164; Protein: 7 g; Fat: 11 g; Sodium: 235 mg; Cholesterol: 57 mg; Carbohydrates: 8 g; Exchanges: 1 milk, 2 fat

CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE

This delicious chocolate cheesecake is not only greatly reduced in fat, but also has 76% less carbohydrates than the traditional recipe. It will become a favorite!

Yield: 16 servings

View online with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/989.shtml

Ingredients

Crust Ingredients:

1/2 cup finely ground almonds

Cheesecake Ingredients:

3 packages (8 ounces each) reduced fat cream cheese, softened

1-1/4 cups Equal Spoonful or Granulated*

2 eggs

2 egg whites

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup reduced fat sour cream

2 teaspoons vanilla

4 ounces (4 squares) semi-sweet chocolate, melted and cooled

Fresh raspberries, optional

Fresh mint, optional

* May substitute 30 packets Equal sweetener.

Directions

For Crust, spray bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Sprinkle almonds over bottom, patting gently onto pan; set aside.

For Cheesecake, beat cream cheese and Equal in mixing bowl on medium speed of mixer until smooth and well combined. Mix in eggs, egg whites and salt. Fold in sour cream and vanilla until combined. Gently mix in chocolate until blended. Pour batter over crust.

Bake in preheated 325F oven 40 to 45 minutes or until center of cake is almost set. Cool on wire rack. Gently run metal spatula around rim of pan to loosen cake. Let cheesecake cool completely. Cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight. To serve, remove side of pan. Garnish top of cheesecake with fresh raspberries and mint, if desired. Cut cake into wedges.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 197; Protein: 7 g; Fat: 16 g; Sodium: 231 mg; Cholesterol: 67 mg; Carbohydrates: 7 g; Exchanges: 1/2 milk, 3 fat

ANGEL PECAN CUPCAKES

Yield: 12 servings

View online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/746.shtml

Source: The Complete Idiot's Guide to Terrific Diabetic Meals

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/76.shtml

Ingredients

2 eggs, separated

1/4 cup hot tap water

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

3/4 cup fructose

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup cake flour

3/4 teaspoon low-salt baking powder

1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

In a medium bowl, with an electric mixer, beat egg yolks, hot water, and vanilla together until very thick and pale.

Slowly beat in 1/2 cup fructose and set aside. In a small bowl, beat egg whites until foamy. Add salt, and continue beating until whites hold soft peaks.

Gradually add remaining 1/4 cup fructose to egg whites, beating until stiff but not dry. Stir 1/3 of whites into yolks, and sift flour and baking powder over egg mixture. Add pecans and remaining whites, and gently fold until blended.

Place 12 paper liners in a 12-cup muffin pan. Spoon batter evenly into cups, and bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into a cupcake comes out clean.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 112; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 27 mg; Cholesterol: 35 mg; Carbohydrates: 20 g; Glycemic Index: 30, Glycemic Load: 6; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch

CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE

Recipe Yield: Servings: 8

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chocolate-cheesecake.

Ingredients

Crust:

3/4 cup graham crackers crumbs

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

2 tablespoons sugar

2 tablespoons canola or olive oil

Filling:

3 large egg whites

1/3 cup sugar

2 cups nonfat ricotta cheese

1/4 cup cocoa

1/3 cup yogurt cheese **

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

** Place plain, nonfat yogurt into cheese cloth or a coffee filter. Place in strainer over a small bowl or cup. Allow to drain 2 to 24 hours, covered and refrigerated, until cheese reached desired consistency. Discard the whey (liquid). Store in covered container in refrigerator.

Directions

Part 1:

Preheat oven TO 350F. Spray 8-inch springform pan with cooking spray. Fill a 13x9x2-inch pan halfway with hot water.

Place in oven on shelf below where chocolate cheesecake will be placed. This will prevent the top of cheesecake from cracking.

In small bowl, combine all crust ingredients. Press onto bottom and part-way up sides of pan. Set aside.

Part 2:

In food processor or blender, combine egg whites, sugar, ricotta, cocoa, yogurt cheese and vanilla; process, scraping sides occasionally, for 1 minute until smooth and thick. Pour into crust.

Bake 30 to 35 minutes until filling is just set (center will jiggle slightly). Turn off oven and leave cake in closed oven 5 minutes longer.

Remove from oven and cool about an hour on wire rack. Cover and refrigerate at least 3 hours before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 176; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 140 m; Protein: 11 g; Carbohydrates: 22 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch; 1/2 skim milk

Wednesday, July 19, 2023

Wednesday Recipes

We're half-way through the week. Here are six diabetic-friendly recipes to help you through the day, including Curry Chicken and Old-Fashioned Baked Custard. Enjoy!

ITALIAN LEMON COOKIES

These delicate lemon cookies have excellent flavor and an interesting texture. They are perfect for adding variety to a cookie tray.

Yield: 27 Servings

Serving Size: 2 cookies

Online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1159.shtml

Ingredients

1/2 cup light butter

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

3/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup egg substitute

3 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon grated lemon zest

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup cornmeal

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly oil a cookie sheet and set aside.

Blend together butter, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, and vanilla in a medium sized mixing bowl until butter is softened. Add egg substitute, lemon juice and zest. Mix briefly.

Add flour, cornmeal, baking powder and nutmeg. Mix using a hand mixer on low speed (or by hand) until dough is formed. Do not over mix.

Remove dough from bowl and divide in half. Roll each half into a log approx. 1 inch thick in diameter. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze 1-2 hours, allowing dough to chill and become firm.

Remove dough from freezer, unwrap and cut into slices approximately 1/4 inch thick. Place cookies on prepared cookie sheet.

Bake in a preheated 325 degrees F oven 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Calories from Fat: 60; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 55 mg; Cholesterol: 30 mg; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 19 g

OLD-FASHIONED BAKED CUSTARD

Makes: 3 cups (6 servings)

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/26.shtml

Print Version: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/596.shtml

Ingredients

3 large eggs, slightly beaten, or 3/4 cup egg substitute

2 tablespoons sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 cups fat-free milk

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Pinch of ground cinnamon

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

In a large bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, salt, and nutmeg. Slowly stir in the milk and vanilla.

Pour 1/2 cup of custard into each of six 5-ounce custard cups. Sprinkle with cinnamon.

Set the filled custard cups in a shallow pan. Pour about 1 inch of hot water in the pan around the custard cups.

Bake on the center rack of the oven for 35 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the custard comes out clean. Serve hot, warm, or chilled.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/2 cup): Calories: 82, Fat: 3 g, Cholesterol: 108 mg, Sodium: 171 mg, Carbohydrate: 8 g, Dietary Fiber: 0 mg, Sugars: 8 g, Protein: 6 g; Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 Other Carbohydrate, 1/2 Medium-Fat Meat

HOT AND SOUR SOUP

Yield: 5 servings

Source: Mr. Food Every Day's a Holiday Diabetic Cookbook

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/89.shtml

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/901.shtml

Ingredients

2 cans (14 ounces each) reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1/2 pound firm tofu, cut into small chunks

1/4 pound sliced fresh mushrooms

2 tablespoons light soy sauce

3 tablespoons white vinegar

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 egg, lightly beaten

1 cup fresh bean sprouts

1/2 teaspoon sesame oil

Directions

In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup chicken broth and the cornstarch; mix well and set aside.

In a soup pot, combine the remaining chicken broth, the tofu, mushrooms, soy sauce, vinegar, ginger and pepper; mix well and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low; stir in the cornstarch mixture until thickened.

Slowy stir in the beaten egg to form egg strands.

Add the bean sprouts and simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, stirring occasionally. Add the sesame oil; mix well and serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 89; Protein: 8 g; Fat: 3 g; Sodium: 644 mg; Cholesterol: 43 mg; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 8 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Carbohydrate, 1 Lean Meat

CURRY CHICKEN

Prep Time: 15 Minutes - Cost: $
Servings: 6; 1 serving = 1-1/4 cup - Difficulty Level: 2

Find this recipe at:
http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/68.shtml

Source: Gourmet Inspirations Healthy Cooking

Ingredients

6 single chicken breasts, skinned, boned, washed

3 teaspoons oil

1/2 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, crushed

1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth

1-1/2 cup water

1/2 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon coriander

1/2 teaspoon tumeric

1/8 teaspoon allspice

1/8 teaspoon ginger

Dash dried fennel

Dash ground black pepper

1 teaspoon coconut flavoring

Directions

In a large skillet, saute chicken breasts in 2 teaspoons oil until golden on both sides. Remove chicken from pan.

Saute garlic and onion in remaining oil 5-7 minutes.

Add broth, water, and all of the spices to garlic-onion mixture.

When well blended, return chicken pieces to skillet. Cover and simmer over medium heat for 30 minutes.

Stir in coconut flavoring.

Serve over rice or rice/grain mixture.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 145; Protein: 19 g; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 43 mg; Cholesterol: 52 mg; Carbohydrates: 2 g; Exchanges: 3 Low-Fat meat

ALMOND RICE

Prep Time: 5 Minutes - Cost: $ 
Servings: 6 - Difficulty Level: 1

Find this recipe at:
http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/19.shtml

Ingredients

1 cup brown rice, long-grain, dry

2 cups water

2 tablespoons almonds, slivered

2 tablespoons lemon zest (or Zesto*)

1 cube chicken bouillon

Directions

In a medium size saucepan, bring water and bouillon to a boil. Add rice and cook according to rice instructions on package. Drain if necessary.

Add almonds and lemon zest. Let stand a few minutes then fluff with a fork and serve.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 164; Protein: 2.9 g; Fat: 2.3 g; Sodium: 185 mg; Carbohydrates: 24.4 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch; 1/2 Fat

MIDDLE EASTERN-STYLE CHICKEN

Yield: 10 servings

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/911.shtml

Source: The Diabetes Snack, Munch, Nibble, Nosh Book

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/1.shtm

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, trimmed of all fat and cut into bite-sized pieces

2 cups frozen mixed pepper and onion stir-fry

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 cup fat-free, low-sodium or regular chicken broth

1 (14-1/2 ounce) can low-sodium or regular diced tomato

1/2 cup dark raisins

1 large bay leaf

1-1/2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves

1 teaspoon cumin

1/4 teaspoon allspice

1/8 teaspoon cloves

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Salt to taste (optional)

Directions

In a nonstick skillet coated with nonstick spray coating, cook the chicken pieces over medium heat, turning frequently, until they begin to brown.

Add the onion and pepper mixture, garlic, oil and 1 tablespoon of the broth to the skillet. Stir up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Raise the heat and bring to a boil.

Lower the heat again and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, 2 or 3 minutes, or until the onion is slightly softened. Add the remaining broth, tomato, raisins, bay leaf, thyme, cumin, allspice, cloves, and black pepper.

Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer, uncovered, about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has cooked down slightly. Remove the bay leaf and discard. Add salt to taste (if desired).

Serve at once, or transfer to a casserole, cover, and refrigerate. The chicken will keep for 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 99; Protein: 11 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 106 mg; Cholesterol: 27 mg; Saturated Fat: 0 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Carbohydrate, 1 Lean Meat

Friday, July 7, 2023

Friday Recipes

It's finally Friday. Yay! Here are six yummy diabetic-friendly recipes to help you through the weekend, including Seared Pork Chops with Fresh Basil and Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Baked Beef Empanadas. Enjoy!

PARMESAN CHICKEN TOPPED WITH SPINACH AND ALMONDS

Yield: 4 servings

Source: Hellmann's

To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/parmesan-chicken-topped-with-spinach-and-almonds.

Ingredients

1-1/2 tablespoons Hellmann's or Best Foods Real Mayonnaise

1 cup loosely packed baby spinach leaves, chopped

1 tablespoon chopped almonds

2 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon plain dry bread crumbs

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)

Directions

Preheat oven to 425F.

In medium bowl, combine all ingredients except chicken.

On baking sheet, arrange chicken.

Evenly top with mayonnaise mixture.

Bake 15 minutes or until chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 180; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 140 mg; Cholesterol: 10 mg; Protein: 27 g; Carbohydrates: 2 g

SEARED PORK CHOPS WITH FRESH BASIL AND SUN-DRIED TOMATOES

Recipe Yield: Servings: 4

To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/seared-pork-chops-with-fresh-basil-and-sun-dried-tomatoes.

Ingredients

4 lean center-cut pork chops (1-1/4 to 1-1/2 lbs)

2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes

1/2 tsp salt

1 cup tomato juice

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper sauce (ie: Tabasco)

1/2 cup water

1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Trim and discard excess fat from chops.

In a large frying pan, Sear the chops.

When the chops are browned on the outside, add the juice, water, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Cover tightly and simmer 15 minutes.

Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 10 minutes.

Add 1 tbsp of fresh basil, and continue to cook for 8 minutes. Add remaining basil and cook for 3 more minutes.

To serve, arrange the pork on a plate, and spoon some of the tomatoes and basil over it.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 234; Fat: 13 g; Sodium: 187 mg; Cholesterol: 81 mg; Protein: 23 g; Carbohydrates: 3 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 3 Medium-Fat Meat; 1 Vegetable

TURKEY SLOPPY JOES

Serving size: 1/2 cup

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings

Source: The New Soul Food Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Book Title: The New Soul Food Cookbook for People with Diabetes

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/turkey-sloppy-joes.

Ingredients

2 tsp canola oil

1 cup chopped onions

1 cup chopped green bell pepper

1 lb lean ground turkey breast

1 cup tomato sauce

1 tsp brown sugar

1/2 cup catsup

1 tsp red pepper flakes

2 tsp wine vinegar

1/4 tsp pepper

Ingredients

Heat the oil in a large skillet and sauté the onion and bell pepper until translucent. Add the turkey and cook about 5 minutes. Drain off any fat.

Add the remaining ingredients and mix well. Simmer 15 minutes and serve on buns.

To reduce the sodium content of this recipe, use salt-free tomato sauce.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 239; Fat: 6 g; Sodium: 787 mg; Cholesterol: 68 mg; Protein: 27 g; Carbohydrates: 21 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Starch; 3 Very Lean Meat; 1 Vegetable

TOMATO-ROSEMARY CHICKEN

Recipe Yield: Servings: 12

Source: Family Circle: All-time Favorite Recipes

Book Title: Family Circle: All-time Favorite Recipes

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/tomato-rosemary-chicken.

Ingredients

12 Boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (4 pounds total)

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 tbsp vegetable oil (or olive oil)

2 tbsp butter (or margarine)

5 cloves garlic, chopped

1/4 pound proscuitto, chopped

1/3 cup dry white wine

1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary or 1 tsp dried, crumbled

12 plum tomatoes, diced

1/2 cup chicken broth

Directions

Season both sides of chicken breast halves with salt and pepper. Place flour on a sheet of waxed paper. Turn chicken in flour to coat both sides; shake off any excess and place chicken on another piece of waxed paper.

Heat oven to 375F.

Heat 1 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 6 chicken breast halves and saute until lightly browned, about 3 minutes per side. Place chicken in a 15x10x1-ich jelly-roll pan in a single layer, filling half of pan. Repeat with remaining oil, butter, and chicken.

Bake chicken in heated 375F oven for 20 minutes or until internal temperature registers 170F on an instant-read thermometer.

Meanwhile, add garlic and proscuitto to skillet; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, 3 minutes. Add wine and rosemary; cook 2 minutes, stirring up any browned bits from bottom of skillet.

Add tomatoes and broth. Bring to boiling. Reduce heat; simmer 10 minutes.

Place chicken on a serving platter; pour sauce over top. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 257; Fat: 11 g; Sodium: 377 mg; Cholesterol: 89 mg; Protein: 34 g; Carbohydrates: 5 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 4 Low-Fat Meat; 1 Vegetable

ITALIAN LEMON COOKIES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 27 ServingsServing Size: 2 cookies

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda.

You can view this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/italian-lemon-cookies.

Ingredients

1/2 cup light butter

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

3/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup egg substitute

3 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon grated lemon zest

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup cornmeal

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly oil a cookie sheet and set aside.

Blend together butter, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, and vanilla in a medium sized mixing bowl until butter is softened. Add egg substitute, lemon juice and zest. Mix briefly. Add flour, cornmeal, baking powder and nutmeg. Mix using a hand mixer on low speed (or by hand) until dough is formed. Do not over mix.

Remove dough from bowl and divide in half. Roll each half into a log approx. 1 inch thick in diameter. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze 1-2 hours, allowing dough to chill and become firm.

Remove dough from freezer, unwrap and cut into slices approximately 1/4 inch thick. Place cookies on prepared cookie sheet.

Bake in a preheated 325 degrees F oven 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Notes:

These delicate lemon cookies have excellent flavor and an interesting texture. They are perfect for adding variety to a cookie tray.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Fat: 7 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 55 mg; Cholesterol: 30 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Sugars: 7 g

BAKED BEEF EMPANADAS

Source: Lauras Lean Beef

Recipe Yield: Yield: Makes 20 servings.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/baked-beef-empanadas.

Ingredients

1/2 pound Laura's 92% Lean Ground Beef or 96% Lean Ground Round

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

1/4 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/4 cup canned low-salt yellow corn, drained

1/3 cup salsa

1 tablespoon tomato paste

20 wonton wrappers

Cooking spray

Salsa, low-fat sour cream (optional)

Ingredients

Preheat oven to 400F.

Cook ground beef, onion and next 3 ingredients in a large nonstick skillet 5 minutes or until beef is browned; drain. Add corn and next 2 ingredients and cook until heated through. Remove and let cool.

Working with one wonton wrapper at a time, spoon 1 tablespoon beef mixture into center of each wrapper. Bring 2 opposite corners together and pinch the points to seal, forming a triangle. Place wrappers on a wire rack and repeat procedure with remaining wrappers and beef mixture.

Place empanadas on lightly greased baking sheets and coat lightly with cooking spray. Bake 4 to 6 minutes on each side, turning once or until golden. Serve with salsa and sour cream, if desired.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 85; Fat: 1.5 g; Saturated Fat: .68 g; Fiber: .62 g; Sodium: 157 mg; Cholesterol: 10 mg; Protein: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g

Monday, January 9, 2023

Meatless Monday

It's time for another Meatless Monday. Today's six vegetarian (and diabetic-friendly) recipes include Teriyaki Tofu Kabobs and Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Curried Chickpeas. Enjoy!

CHEESE AND RICE STUFFED PEPPERS

Recipe Yield: Yield: 4 servings

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Book Title: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/cheese-and-rice-stuffed-peppers.

Ingredients

4 medium green bell peppers

2 cups cooked rice

1 cup (4 ounces) shredded reduced-fat Cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F.

Slice off the tops of the peppers. Wash the peppers and remove the cores and seeds. Stand the pepper cups upright in a saucepan containing 1/2 cup boiling water. Cover tightly and allow steam 5 minutes. Remove and drain.

In a large bowl, mix together the rice, cheese parsley, salt, and ground pepper. Divide the mixture and stuff each pepper.

Stand the peppers in a loaf pan or cupcake tins. Bake for about 15 minutes, until the filling is hot and the cheese melts.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 222; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 455 mg; Cholesterol: 15 mg; Protein: 12 g; Carbohydrates: 31 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 Starch, 2 Vegetable, 1 Lean Meat

A-TASTE-OF-CALIFORNIA SLAW

Yield: 8 servings (4 cups)

Source: "The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes"

Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/26.shtml

Ingredients

Slaw:

2 cups (8 ounces) shredded cabbage

2 green onions with green tops, sliced

1/2 cup sliced celery

1/2 cup thinly sliced carrot

2 ounces provolone cheese, cut into thin strips

1 clove garlic, minced

1 small jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced

1/2 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into thin strips

1/8 teaspoon celery seed

Dressing:

One 8 ounce carton plain low-fat yogurt

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper

Directions

Combine the slaw ingredients in a large bowl. In another bow, mix all the ingredients for the dressing; pour over the vegetables and toss. Chill several hours before serving for the flavors to blend.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/2 cup): Calories: 60, Fat: 2 g, Cholesterol: 7 mg, Sodium: 177 mg, Carbohydrate: 6 g, Dietary Fiber: 1 g, Sugars: 4 g, Protein: 4 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Vegetable, 1/2 Fat

WARM MOLE BEAN DIP

Yield: Makes 8 servings.

View recipe: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/706.shtml

Ingredients

1 Tbsp. tomato paste

1 small tomato, seeded and chopped

1/2 cup mild, medium or hot chunky salsa

2 Tbsp. chopped cilantro

1/2 tsp. salt, or to taste

3/4 cup (3 ounces), shredded, reduced-fat Jack cheese

One (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained

2 tsp. canola oil

1/2 cup finely chopped onion

1 small jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped

1 tsp. chili powder

1 tsp. unsweetened cocoa powder

1 tsp. ground cumin

1 tsp. dried oregano

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Coat a 9-inch pie plate with cooking spray and set aside.

In a food processor, whirl beans until pureed but still slightly lumpy. Scoop beans into a mixing bowl and set aside.

In medium skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Saute onion and jalapeno until onion is soft, 5 minutes. Add chili powder, cocoa, cumin, and oregano, and cook, stirring, until fragrant, 1 minute. Mix in tomato paste and cook for 30 seconds. Add contents of the pan to the pureed beans.

Add tomato, salsa, cilantro and salt, to beans and mix to combine all ingredients. Spread bean mixture in an even layer in the prepared pan. Sprinkle cheese over the top.

Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly and beans are heated through, 12 to 15 minutes. Serve immediately, accompanied by a bowl of baked tortilla chips.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 100; Protein: 5 g; Fat: 3.5 g; Sodium: 370 mg; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g

TERIYAKI TOFU KABOBS

Recipe Yield: Yield 4 servingsServing Size: 2 skewers

Source: The Diabetes Food and Nutrition Bible

Book Title: The Diabetes Food and Nutrition Bible

To view this online, go to https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/teriyaki-tofu-kabobs.

Ingredients

8 bamboo skewers

3/4 pound extra firm tofu, drained and cut into 32 cubes

1 red pepper, cut into 16 squares

1 cup canned pineapple chunks, reserve 1/2 cup juice

1 tablespoon lite soy sauce

1 clove garlic

2 teaspoons minced ginger

Directions

Soak skewers in water for 30 minutes to keep them from burning as you cook the skewers.

Meanwhile, put the tofu, red pepper, and pineapple chunks in a plastic bag or container with a lid. Add reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Drain, reserving marinade to baste. Thread the tofu, red pepper, and pineapple on the skewers.

Prepare an outdoor grill or oven broiler with the rack set 6 inches from the heat source. Grill or broil the kabobs about 5 minutes per side, basting with the marinade. Serve with brown rice.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 107; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 147 mg; Protein: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 17 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 Carbohydrate, 1 Very Lean Meat

STUFFED SWEET POTATOES WITH CURRIED CHICKPEAS

From Renew (by United Healthcare).

This begins, “These sweet potatoes — prepared by a smart shortcut in the microwave — are packed with flavor and make a satisfying main dish in a hurry. Low-glycemic foods such as sweet potatoes, chickpeas and kale can help regulate blood glucose levels.”

View this online at https://www.medicare.uhc.com/Healthlineu/health/uhcarticle/hwal-sweet-potato-curried-chickpeas.

Ingredients

4 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed

1 teaspoon olive oil

1 (15-ounce) can unsalted chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon curry powder

2 cups baby kale leaves

1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Yogurt Sauce

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

1 teaspoon olive oil

1 teaspoon lemon juice

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon turmeric or curry powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

Pierce the sweet potatoes several times with a fork, then place them on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high 10-12 minutes, or until tender. In a large pan or skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add chickpeas, salt, pepper and curry powder. Cook 5-6 minutes or until heated through. Add kale to skillet and cook 2-3 minutes or until wilted. In a small bowl, combine yogurt sauce ingredients. Cut open each sweet potato; top with chickpea mixture and yogurt sauce. Garnish with cilantro.

Serves 4. Calories: 239, Total fat: 3g, Saturated fat: 1.2g, Cholesterol: 1.3mg, Sodium: 478mg, Carbs: 45g, Dietary fiber: 10.2g, Sugars: 6g, Protein: 9g

ITALIAN LEMON COOKIES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 27 ServingsServing Size: 2 cookies

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda.

You can view this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/italian-lemon-cookies.

Ingredients

1/2 cup light butter

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

3/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup egg substitute

3 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon grated lemon zest

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup cornmeal

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly oil a cookie sheet and set aside.

Blend together butter, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, and vanilla in a medium sized mixing bowl until butter is softened. Add egg substitute, lemon juice and zest. Mix briefly. Add flour, cornmeal, baking powder and nutmeg. Mix using a hand mixer on low speed (or by hand) until dough is formed. Do not over mix.

Remove dough from bowl and divide in half. Roll each half into a log approx. 1 inch thick in diameter. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze 1-2 hours, allowing dough to chill and become firm.

Remove dough from freezer, unwrap and cut into slices approximately 1/4 inch thick. Place cookies on prepared cookie sheet.

Bake in a preheated 325 degrees F oven 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Notes:

These delicate lemon cookies have excellent flavor and an interesting texture. They are perfect for adding variety to a cookie tray.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Fat: 7 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 55 mg; Cholesterol: 30 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Sugars: 7 g

Wednesday, January 4, 2023

Desserts

I want something snacky!

I think most of us have thought that occasionally. Somehow, Desserts just hit the spot.

Here are six diabetic-friendly desserts to try, including Chocolate Cheesecake and Warm Brownie Wedges with Java Cream. Enjoy!

CHOCOLATE CHERRY TARTS

Recipe Yield: Servings: 24

Source: Cinnamon Hearts

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chocolate-cherry-tarts.

Ingredients

2 (8oz) packages Neufchatel (light) cream cheese, room temp

2/3 cup granulated sugar

2 eggs, room temp

1 tsp vanilla extract

24 Keebler chocolate wafers, 30% reduced fat

1 (21oz) can light cherry pie filling

Directions

Preheat oven to 350F. Line muffin tins with foil and paper cupcake liners.

Beat cream cheese and sugar until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla extract and beat until smooth. Place a chocolate wafer in each cup, spoon on cheese mixture. Bake 18 to 20 minutes; remove from tins and let cool. Top with cherry pie filling. Chill overnight before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 118; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 104 mg; Cholesterol: 24 mg; Carbohydrates: 16 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 bread; 1/2 fruit; 1/2 protein; 1 fat

CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE

Recipe Yield: Servings: 8

Source: Cinnamon Hearts

You can view this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/chocolate-cheesecake.

Ingredients

Crust

3/4 cup graham crackers crumbs

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

2 tablespoons sugar

2 tablespoons canola or olive oil

Filling

3 large egg whites

1/3 cup sugar

2 cups nonfat ricotta cheese

1/4 cup cocoa

1/3 cup yogurt cheese **

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

** Place plain, nonfat yogurt into cheese cloth or a coffee filter. Place in strainer over a small bowl or cup. Allow to drain 2 to 24 hours, covered and refrigerated, until cheese reached desired consistency. Discard the whey (liquid). Store in covered container in refrigerator.

Ingredients

Part 1:

Preheat oven TO 350F. Spray 8-inch springform pan with cooking spray. Fill a 13x9x2-inch pan halfway with hot water.

Place in oven on shelf below where chocolate cheesecake will be placed. This will prevent the top of cheesecake from cracking.

In small bowl, combine all crust ingredients. Press onto bottom and part-way up sides of pan. Set aside.

Part 2:

In food processor or blender, combine egg whites, sugar, ricotta, cocoa, yogurt cheese and vanilla; process, scraping sides occasionally, for 1 minute until smooth and thick. Pour into crust.

Bake 30 to 35 minutes until filling is just set (center will jiggle slightly). Turn off oven and leave cake in closed oven 5 minutes longer.

Remove from oven and cool about an hour on wire rack. Cover and refrigerate at least 3 hours before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 176; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 140 mg; Protein: 11 g; Carbohydrates: 22 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch; 1/2 skim milk

MOLASSES COOKIES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 23 servings; Serving size: 3 cookies

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/molasses-cookies.

Ingredients

2 cups whole wheat pastry flour

1-1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

1 pinch Pinch of salt

1/2 cup trans-free margarine

1/4 cup SPLENDA Brown Sugar Blend

1/4 cup dark molasses

1 egg white

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly coat several cookie sheets with non-stick cooking spray. On a sheet of waxed paper, combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and salt. Stir with a fork to blend. Set aside.

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat margarine until smooth. Add SPLENDA Brown Sugar Blend, molasses, and egg white. Mix slowly to incorporate, then beat until smooth. Gradually stir in the reserved flour mixture until well blended. Dough will be soft but not sticky.

Using your palms, roll dough into 3/4-inch balls (1 level teaspoon). Place, separated, on prepared pans. Use the back of a fork to press down on tops of cookies in an X, making a crosshatch pattern.

Bake for 8 minutes, or until edges are set. Let stand on the sheet for 5 minutes, then remove to a rack to cool. Continue until all the dough is baked.

Notes:

This whole grain cookie, with the rich flavor of dark molasses, goes great with a glass of cold milk.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 70; Fat: 3 g; Saturated Fat: 0.5 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 130 mg; Protein: 1 g; Carbohydrates: 11 g; Sugars: 3 g

PEANUT BUTTER COOKIE BITES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 24 cookies

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/peanut-butter-cookie-bites.

Ingredients

1/4 cup margarine, softened

1 cup creamy style peanut butter

1/4 cup egg substitute

2 tablespoons honey

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup SPLENDA No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Beat margarine and peanut butter in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer until creamy, approximately 1 minute.

Add egg substitute, honey and vanilla. Beat on high speed for approximately 1-1/2 minutes.

Add SPLENDA Granulated Sweetener and beat on medium speed until well blended, approximately 30 seconds.

Combine flour, baking soda and salt in a small mixing bowl. Slowly add flour mixture to peanut butter mixture, beating on low speed until well-blended, about 1-1/2 minutes. Mixture may be crumbly.

Roll level tablespoons of dough into balls and drop onto a lightly oiled or parchment lined sheet pan, two inches apart. Flatten each ball with a fork, pressing a crisscross pattern into each cookie. Bake 7-9 minutes or until light brown around the edges. Cool on wire rack.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 120; Fat: 8 g; Saturated Fat: 1.5 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 150 mg; Protein: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 10 g; Sugars: 3 g

ITALIAN LEMON COOKIES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 27 ServingsServing Size: 2 cookies

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda.

You can view this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/italian-lemon-cookies.

Ingredients

1/2 cup light butter

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

3/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup egg substitute

3 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon grated lemon zest

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup cornmeal

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly oil a cookie sheet and set aside.

Blend together butter, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, and vanilla in a medium sized mixing bowl until butter is softened. Add egg substitute, lemon juice and zest. Mix briefly. Add flour, cornmeal, baking powder and nutmeg. Mix using a hand mixer on low speed (or by hand) until dough is formed. Do not over mix.

Remove dough from bowl and divide in half. Roll each half into a log approx. 1 inch thick in diameter. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze 1-2 hours, allowing dough to chill and become firm.

Remove dough from freezer, unwrap and cut into slices approximately 1/4 inch thick. Place cookies on prepared cookie sheet.

Bake in a preheated 325 degrees F oven 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Notes:

These delicate lemon cookies have excellent flavor and an interesting texture. They are perfect for adding variety to a cookie tray.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Fat: 7 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 55 mg; Cholesterol: 30 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Sugars: 7 g

WARM BROWNIE WEDGES WITH JAVA CREAM

Recipe Yield: Yield 8 servingsServing size 1/8 brownie, 2 tablespoons cream and 1/4 cup berries

Source: The Heart-Smart Diabetes Kitchen: Fresh, Fast and Flavorful Recipes Made with Canola Oil

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/warm-brownie-wedges-with-java-cream.

Ingredients

Wedges

Canola oil cooking spray

2/3 cup all-purpose flour, spooned into measuring cup and leveled

1/3 cup white whole-wheat flour, spooned into measuring cup and leveled

1/2 cup cocoa powder

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1 tablespoon instant coffee granules

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup packed brown sugar substitute blend

1/3 cup canola oil

1/2 cup egg substitute

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Cream

2 tablespoons water

1 teaspoon instant coffee granules

4 ounces fat-free whipped topping

1 cup fresh raspberries

1 cup blackberries or blueberries

Dirctions

Preheat oven to 325F. Coat 9-inch, nonstick springform pan or cake pan with canola oil cooking spray.

Combine flours, cocoa and baking powders, 1 tablespoon coffee granules and salt in medium bowl.

Combine sugar, canola oil, egg substitute and vanilla in another medium bowl; mix well. Add sugar mixture to flour mixture, and stir until just blended. Batter will be very thick. Spoon into bottom of pan; spread evenly by coating the back of a spoon with cooking spray. Bake for 11 minutes or until slightly puffed. (Mixture will not be completely cooked at this point, but it will continue to cook while standing without overcooking and drying out.) Place pan on a wire rack, and let cool for 5 minutes. Remove sides of the pan and gently remove from bottom or leave on bottom and place on a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature. When cooled completely, store in an airtight container at room temperature.

To make cream, combine water with 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules in a medium bowl, and stir until dissolved. Add whipped topping; whisk until a sauce consistency is reached. For thinner sauce, add 1 to 2 tablespoons water or milk. Refrigerate until needed. To serve, cut into wedges, spoon mocha cream on top, and sprinkle with berries.

Notes:

Dense wedges of chewy chocolate are paired with a sweet coffee-flavored cream and fresh berries.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 260; Fat: 10 g; Sodium: 145 mg; Protein: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 36 g

Wednesday, July 7, 2021

Dessert

When one is diagnosed with diabetes, there are sooooo many questions: how will my life change? What meds will I need to be on? Does that include insulin? How does this affect my food choices? Guess that means desserts are out, right?

While it's best to go to your health care provider for answers to most of these questions, one thing you can deal with is the occasional dessert, as today's post deals with. These six yummy desserts are all diabetic-friendly (they're all from Diabetic Gourmet Magazine), and include Bittersweet Chocolate Torte and Italian Lemon Cookies. Just remember: moderation. Enjoy!

NO-BAKE ORANGE CREAM CHEESECAKE

Light fluffy textured cheesecake filled with chopped oranges, reduced-fat cream cheese and ricotta cheese.

Yield: 16 servings

See the recipe here: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/946.shtml

Ingredients

Crust Ingredients:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

3 tablespoons stick butter or margarine, melted

3 tablespoons Equal Spoonful or Granulated*

Cheesecake Ingredients:

1 cup orange juice

1 envelope (1/4 ounce) unflavored gelatin

2 packages (8 ounces each) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened

1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese

3/4 cup Equal Spoonful or Granulated**

1 teaspoon orange extract (optional)

2 cups light whipped topping, thawed, if frozen

1 can (11 ounces) Mandarin oranges, drained, coarsely chopped

Oranges sections (optional)

Whipped topping (optional)

* May substitute 4-1/2 packets Equal sweetener

** May substitute 18 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

For Crust, combine graham cracker crumbs, butter and 3 tablespoons Equal.

Press mixture onto bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

Bake in preheated 350F oven 10 minutes. Cool on wire rack while preparing cheesecake.

For Cheesecake, pour orange juice into small saucepan. Sprinkle gelatin over orange juice and let soften 1 minute.

Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until gelatin dissolves.

Beat cream cheese and ricotta cheese in mixing bowl on medium speed of mixer until smooth. Stir in 3/4 cup Equal and orange extract. Add gelatin mixture to cheese mixture; blend until smooth.

Refrigerate cheese mixture, or place in freezer, 20 to 30 minutes or until mixture is slightly thickened.

Fold in whipped topping and chopped oranges. Spoon over baked crust.

Cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight.

To serve, gently run metal spatula around rim of pan to loosen cake. Remove side of pan. Garnish top of cheesecake with orange sections and whipped topping, if desired. Cut cake into wedges.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 152; Protein: 6 g; Fat: 10 g; Sodium: 158 mg; Cholesterol: 31 mg; Carbohydrates: 11 g; Exchanges: 1/2 milk, 1 starch, 2 fat

BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE TORTE

Recipe Yield: Serves: 12

Source: Equal

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/bittersweet-chocolate-torte

Ingredients

Torte Ingredients:

6 tablespoons stick butter or margarine

4 ounces unsweetened chocolate

1/3 cup fat-free milk

1/3 cup sugar-free apricot preserves or apricot spreadable fruit

2 teaspoons instant coffee crystals

1 egg yolk

1 teaspoon vanilla

1-1/2 cups Equal Spoonful or Granulated*

3 egg whites

1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/8 teaspoon salt

Rich Chocolate Glaze Ingredients:

1 ounce semi-sweet chocolate

1 tablespoon stick butter or margarine

Whipped topping, fresh raspberries, and/or fresh mint (optional)

* May substitute 36 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

For Torte, heat 6 tablespoons butter, 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, milk, preserves and coffee crystals in small saucepan, whisking frequently until chocolate is almost melted.

Remove pan from heat; continue whisking until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth. Whisk in egg yolk and vanilla. Add Equal, whisking until smooth.

Lightly grease bottom of an 8-inch round cake pan and line with parchment or waxed paper. Beat egg whites and cream of tartar to stiff peaks in large bowl. Fold chocolate mixture into egg whites; fold in combined flour and salt. Pour cake batter into pan.

Bake in preheated 350 F oven 20 to 25 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Do not over bake. Carefully loosen side of cake from pan with small sharp knife, which will keep cake from cracking as it cools. Cool cake completely in pan on wire rack. Cover and refrigerate 1 to 2 hours or until chilled.

For Rich Chocolate Glaze, melt 1 ounce semi-sweet chocolate and 1 tablespoon butter in small saucepan, stirring frequently.

Remove cake from pan and place on serving plate. Pour Rich Chocolate Glaze over top of cake, letting it run down sides. Let cake stand about 1 hour or until glaze is set. Garnish top of cake with prepared whipped topping, fresh raspberries and fresh mint, if desired. Cut cake into wedges.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 145; Fat: 12 g; Sodium: 116 mg; Cholesterol: 36 mg; Protein: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 9 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch, 2 fat

PEANUT BUTTER BREAKFAST PUDDING

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/166.shtml

Prep Time: 20 Minutes

Servings: 8 - Difficulty Level: 2

Ingredients

6 slices raisin bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

1-3/4 cup nonfat skim milk

3 whole eggs + 2 egg whites

1/2 cup fat-reduced peanut butter

3 Tbsp dark brown sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp grated orange peel OR 1/4 tsp dried orange peel

Directions

Spray a 9-inch baking pan or dish with nonstick vegetable spray.

Add bread cubes to dish and set aside.

Combine remaining ingredients in blender container and process until smooth.

Pour mixture evenly over bread cubes in baking dish, saturating bread cubes.

Cover and refrigerate overnight.

When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350F degrees.

Remove cover and bake about 35 minutes, or until lightly browned and puffed.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 217; Protein: 11 g; Fat: 9 g; Sodium: 262 mg; Cholesterol: 91 mg; Carbohydrates: 24 g; Exchanges: 1-1/2 Bread/Starch; 1 Lean Meat; 1-1/2 Fats

TROPICAL BANANA-PINEAPPLE PIE

Recipe Yield: Yield: 10 servings

Source: Equal

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Equal.

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/tropical-banana-pineapple-pie.

Ingredients

Pastry for single crust 9-inch pie

2 packages (8 oz. each) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup Equal Spoonful or Granulated*

1 container (8 oz.) light whipped topping, thawed if frozen

1 can (8 oz.) crushed pineapple, well drained

1/4 cup flaked coconut, divided

1/2 teaspoon rum extract

2 medium ripe bananas, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices

1 tablespoon chopped pecans

* May substitute 12 packets Equal sweetener

Directions

Preheat oven to 375F.

Roll pastry on floured surface into circle 1 inch larger than inverted 9-inch pie plate. Ease pastry into plate; trim and flute edge. Pierce side and bottom of pastry with tines of a fork.

Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool completely on wire rack.

Meanwhile, beat cream cheese and Equal in mixing bowl on medium speed of mixer until smooth and well combined. Gradually mix in whipped topping, pineapple, 3 tablespoons coconut and rum extract.

Place half of cream cheese mixture over pie crust. Arrange banana slices in single layer. Top with remaining cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle top of pie with remaining 1 tablespoon coconut and chopped pecans.

Refrigerate 2 to 3 hours before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 272; Fat: 16 g; Sodium: 199 mg; Cholesterol: 29 mg; Protein: 6 g; Carbohydrates: 26 g

Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1/2 fruit, 3 fat

BLUEBERRY CHEESECAKE BARS

Recipe Yield: Serves: 20

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda.

You can view this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/blueberry-cheesecake-bars.

Ingredients

1-1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1/3 cup light butter, melted

12 ounces reduced fat cream cheese, softened

2/3 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

2 large eggs

1/3 cup reduced-fat sour cream

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

3/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

1/4 cup reduced-sugar apricot preserves

1 tablespoon water

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray an eight-inch square pan with vegetable cooking spray. Set aside.

Combine graham cracker crumbs, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, and butter, mixing well. Firmly press mixture evenly in bottom of prepared pan. Bake 5 minutes. Remove from oven; set aside.

Beat cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add Splenda Granulated Sweetener, beating until blended. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add sour cream and vanilla, beating just until blended. Gently stir in blueberries. Pour mixture into prepared pan.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until firm. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack for 30 minutes. Cover and chill 2 hours.

Topping Directions: Combine apricot preserves and water in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until jam melts. Spread over filling; cut into bars.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 100; Fat: 6 g; Saturated Fat: 3.5 g; Sodium: 110 mg; Cholesterol: 40 mg; Protein: 3 g; Carbohydrates: 8 g; Sugars: 3 g

ITALIAN LEMON COOKIES

Recipe Yield: Yield: 27 ServingsServing Size: 2 cookies

Source: Splenda

Recipe and image appear courtesy of Splenda.

You can view this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/italian-lemon-cookies.

Ingredients

1/2 cup light butter

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

3/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup egg substitute

3 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon grated lemon zest

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup cornmeal

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly oil a cookie sheet and set aside.

Blend together butter, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, and vanilla in a medium sized mixing bowl until butter is softened. Add egg substitute, lemon juice and zest. Mix briefly. Add flour, cornmeal, baking powder and nutmeg. Mix using a hand mixer on low speed (or by hand) until dough is formed. Do not over mix.

Remove dough from bowl and divide in half. Roll each half into a log approx. 1 inch thick in diameter. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze 1-2 hours, allowing dough to chill and become firm.

Remove dough from freezer, unwrap and cut into slices approximately 1/4 inch thick. Place cookies on prepared cookie sheet.

Bake in a preheated 325 degrees F oven 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Notes:

These delicate lemon cookies have excellent flavor and an interesting texture. They are perfect for adding variety to a cookie tray.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Fat: 7 g; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Fiber: 1 g; Sodium: 55 mg; Cholesterol: 30 mg; Protein: 2 g; Carbohydrates: 19 g; Sugars: 7 g

Wednesday, March 10, 2021

Cookies

There was a time when I never would have believed that diabetics couldn't have anything snacky, including cookies. But then, a family member was diagnosed with diabetes, and we had to learn a bunch of life-altering stuff.

One of those things we learned was how to eat. This includes an occasional snack, even cookies. (Of course, we're talking moderation.)

That said, here are six cookie recipes to try out, including Hazelnut Macaroons and Peanut Butter Cookies. Enjoy!

ALMOST SHORTBREAD COOKIES

Yield: 2 dozen cookies (24 servings)

Source: The New Family Cookbook for People with Diabetes

Book Info: http://diabeticgourmet.com/book_archive/details/26.shtml

View online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/512.shtml

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 cup corn or canola oil

1 large egg

2 tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a cookie sheet with non-stick pan spray.

Combine all the ingredients and 1/4 cup water in a large bowl to form a soft dough. Refrigerate the dough 1 hour to chill. Roll or pat out 1/4 inch thick on a floured board.

Cut 2-inch rounds and place them 1 inch apart on the prepared cookie sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the edges are a light golden brown. Cool and store in an airtight container.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 90; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 5 g; Sodium: 26 mg; Cholesterol: 9 mg; Carbohydrates: 9 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Starch, 1 Fat

HAZELNUT MACAROONS

Source: 1,001 Delicious Recipes for People with Diabetes

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/294.shtml

Servings: 30 Cookies (1 per serving)

Ingredients

4 egg whites

1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup sugar

1 cup canned sweetened coconut

1/4 cup hazelnuts or pecans, finely chopped

Directions

Beat egg whites, cream of tartar, and salt to soft peaks in medium bowl. Beat in sugar gradually, beating to stiff, shiny peaks. Fold in coconut; fold in hazelnuts.

Drop mixture by tablespoons onto parchment-or aluminum foil-lined cookie sheets. Bake at 300 degrees until cookies begin to brown and feel crisp when touched, 20 to 25 minutes. Cool in pans on wire racks.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 44; Protein: 0.7 g; Fat: 1.4 g; Sodium: 25.6 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 7.6 g; Exchanges: 1/2 Bread/Starch, 1/2 Fat

PEANUT BUTTER COOKIES

Yield: 24 cookies. Serving size: 2 cookies.

Source: Splenda

View online: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/536.shtml

Ingredients

1/4 cup margarine, softened

1 cup creamy style peanut butter

1/4 cup egg substitute

2 tablespoons honey

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup Splenda Granular

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

Heat oven to 350F.

In a large bowl, beat margarine and peanut butter with an electric mixer until creamy, approximately 1 minute.

Add egg substitute, honey and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed for approximately 1-1/2 minutes.

Add Splenda and beat on medium speed until well blended, approximately 30 seconds.

In small bowl, combine flour, baking soda and salt. Slowly add flour mixture to peanut butter mixture, beating on low speed until well blended, about 1 1/2 minutes. Mixture may be crumbly.

Roll level teaspoons of dough into balls and drop onto a lined sheet pan, about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball with a fork, pressing a crisscross pattern into each cookie. Bake 7-9 minutes or until light brown around the edges. Cool on wire rack.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 140; Protein: 3 g; Fat: 11 g; Sodium: 110 mg; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Carbohydrates: 9 g; Exchanges: Starch 1/2; Fat 2

APPLE OATMEAL RAISIN COOKIES

Yield: 4 dozen cookies


Serving size: 1 cookie

Source: Equal

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1254.shtml

Ingredients

1-1/4 cups Equal Spoonful or Granulated *

1 cup unsweetened applesauce **

1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar

6 tablespoons stick butter, softened

1 egg

1/3 cup 2% milk

2 teaspoons vanilla

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1-1/2 cups quick or old-fashioned oats, uncooked

1 cup raisins

*May substitute 30 packets Equal sweetener

** Apple butter may be substituted for the unsweetened applesauce for a slightly spicier version.

Directions

Combine Equal, applesauce, brown sugar, butter, egg, milk and vanilla. Mix with electric mixer until well blended. Stir in combined flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Gradually mix in oats and raisins until well combined.

Drop by tablespoonfuls onto sprayed baking sheets. Bake in preheated 350F oven 10 to 12 minutes or until light golden in color. Remove from baking sheet and cool completely on wire rack.

Store in airtight containers at room temperature.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 63; Protein: 1 g; Fat: 2 g; Sodium: 43 mg; Cholesterol: 8 mg; Carbohydrates: 11 g; Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat

CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

Yield: Makes about 4 dozen cookies

Serving size: 1 cookie

Source: Splenda

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1083.shtml

Ingredients

2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened

1/3 cup Splenda Sugar Blend for Baking

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 large eggs

2 cups (12-ounce package) Nestle Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels

Directions

Preheat oven to 375F.

Combine flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Beat butter, sugar blend, brown sugar and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in morsels. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets.

Bake 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on baking sheets 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 110; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 85 mg; Cholesterol: 15 mg; Carbohydrates: 13 g

ITALIAN LEMON COOKIES

This recipe begins, “These delicate lemon cookies have excellent flavor and an interesting texture. They are perfect for adding variety to a cookie tray.” What do I say? Yum!

Yield: 27 Servings


Serving Size: 2 cookies

Source: Splenda

Find this recipe at: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1159.shtml

Ingredients

1/2 cup light butter

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

3/4 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup egg substitute

3 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon grated lemon zest

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup cornmeal

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly oil a cookie sheet and set aside.

Blend together butter, Splenda Granulated Sweetener, and vanilla in a medium sized mixing bowl until butter is softened. Add egg substitute, lemon juice and zest. Mix briefly. Add flour, cornmeal, baking powder and nutmeg. Mix using a hand mixer on low speed (or by hand) until dough is formed. Do not over mix.

Remove dough from bowl and divide in half. Roll each half into a log approx. 1 inch thick in diameter. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze 1-2 hours, allowing dough to chill and become firm.

Remove dough from freezer, unwrap and cut into slices approximately 1/4 inch thick. Place cookies on prepared cookie sheet.

Bake in a preheated 325 degrees F oven 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 160; Calories from Fat: 60; Protein: 2 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 55 mg; Cholesterol: 30 mg; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 7 g; Carbohydrates: 19 g