Eleve Update: Making a Yummy Snack a Little Better

I’ve learned through the Vitality Program at Eleve that there is almost always a healthier alternative—you just have to be willing to experiment a little. Over the past few months, I’ve discovered some great substitutes for foods I used to make all the time… and honestly, I don’t miss the originals nearly as much as I thought I would.

So when I was asked to make puppy chow (or, as I’ve always called it, muddy buddies) for the South Wood County Turners gymnastics meet, I figured it was the perfect chance to try a lower-sugar version. Before bringing it to a crowd of hungry gymnasts, I made a test batch at home this weekend.

Low-Sugar Puppy Chow Recipe

Ingredients:

• 5 cups Rice Chex

• ½ cup Lily’s dark chocolate chips

• ½ cup creamy no-sugar-added peanut butter

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• Pinch of salt

• 1½ cups powdered monkfruit sweetener

Directions:

1. Melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter together on the stovetop or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring until smooth.

2. Place 3 cups of Rice Chex in a large bowl with a lid. Fold in half of the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture.

3. Add the remaining 2 cups of Chex, pour the rest of the chocolate mixture over the top, then add the vanilla and a pinch of salt. Gently fold until all the cereal is coated.

4. Add the powdered monkfruit sweetener, put the lid on the bowl, and shake until evenly covered.

The Verdict

It turned out really good—sweet, chocolatey, and very close to the full-sugar version I grew up with.

One interesting note: monkfruit has a slightly cool feeling on your tongue, which is a little unexpected at first. But once you know it’s coming, it’s easy to overlook—especially considering how much sugar this swap saves.

All in all, I’d call this experiment a win. It’s proof that making healthier choices doesn’t mean giving up the treats you love… it just means finding a smarter way to make them.

Eleve has an awesome Clinical Nutritionist on staff named Kirsten who is a great resource for finding these healthier swaps for foods you love. Healthy swaps can help you live healthier longer. Set up your appointment today, 715-847-0000.