Holiday parties, cookies, and cocktails all add up to the average person gaining about 7 pounds during the holiday season.  This year why not pour a “cup of holiday cheer” that is festive but not loaded with empty calories.  Try these special beverage recipes that are alcohol free and can be enjoyed by the whole family!  

Cranberry Royale Bubbly

3/4 Cup Frozen Cranberry Juice Blend Concentrate

1 (24.5 oz) bottle Sparkling Apple Cider, chilled

4 Cups Diet 7-Up®, chilled

1/2 Cup Whole fresh cranberries, washed

1 Medium Orange, washed and sliced

In a medium punch bowl or decorative pitcher, add the frozen cranberry juice concentrate, sparkling apple juice, and diet 7-Up.  Mix well.  Garnish with fresh cranberries and orange slices.  Serve chilled.

Serves: 8

Calories: 120, Carb: 30g, Fat: 0g, Protein: <1g

Mom’s Hot Cocoa

1/2 cup Equal® Spoonful or 12 packets Equal sweetener
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/3 cup water
1/8 teaspoon salt
4 cups reduced-fat milk
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Meijer Mini-Marshmallows (optional)

Stovetop Method:  Mix Equal, cocoa powder, water and salt in a saucepan.  Stir constantly over medium heat until boiling and then stir for another minute.  Stir in the milk, but do not boil.  Remove from heat, add vanilla extract and stir well.  Serve immediately in mugs and top with marshmallows.

Microwave Method:  Mix Equal, cocoa powder, water and salt in a microwave-safe bowl.  Heat on high about 90 seconds, until boiling and then stir for a minute. Add milk and stir.   Add vanilla extract and stir well.  Serve immediately in mugs and top with marshmallows.

Calories: 133, Carb.: 14g, Fat: 5g, Protein: 8g