The Wellness Issue
Reflection and Renewal
Dear Readers,
As we embrace this season of reflection and renewal, I find myself inspired by the incredible stories of transformation and community woven throughout this issue. From fitness journeys that redefine strength and resilience to mindful practices that bring us closer to peace and balance, it’s a celebration of how we, as individuals and as a com munity, continue to evolve.
It’s a reminder that wellness isn’t just about physical health but also about finding spaces that nurture our spirits and bring us closer to one another. Fort Collins thrives because of places like Yoga Pod, F45, Layman Lewis and the passionate individuals behind them.
In this issue, you’ll also find features that highlight the vibrant lifestyle of our community, from culinary explorations to creative entrepreneurs shaping the local landscape. These stories are a testament to the innovation, resilience, and heart that define Fort Collins—a place where everyone is encouraged to grow and flourish.
As the publisher, I am endlessly grateful for the opportunity to share these stories with you. It is our privilege to spotlight the extraordinary people and places that make this community feel like home. With each page, I hope you feel inspired to explore, connect, and embrace all that Fort Collins has to offer.
Thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey. Together, we continue to celebrate the lifestyle we love, one story at a time.
Warmly,
JAHNA & JASON EICHEL, PUBLISHERS
January 2025
PUBLISHERS
Jahna Eichel | jahna.eichel@citylifestyle.com
Jason Eichel | Jason.Eichel@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Morgan Henderson
morgan.henderson@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
The Creative Agency | hello@thecreativeagencyco.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
The Creative Agency | hello@thecreativeagencyco.com
STAFF WRITER
The Creative Agency | hello@thecreativeagencyco.com
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell Learn
Proverbs 3:5-6
Mummy Mountain
Palisade Mountain
McHenry's Peak
Mount Meeker
Longs Peak
Estes Park
Horsetooth Mountain
Terra Tomah Mountain
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: Hutch Design + Build relocated to 144 N College Ave in Old Town Fort Collins, marking the grand opening of Hutch Home Co, a home decor and furniture store. The celebration featured store tours, promotions, and a chance to meet the team, showcasing timeless, quality pieces for Northern Colorado homes.
Beyond The Mat
Yoga Pod: Where mind, body, and spirit unite
Strength:
In the heart of Fort Collins lies a sanctuary where the mind, body, and spirit unite. Yoga Pod isn’t just a place to stretch or sweat—it’s a vibrant hub for transformation, wellness, and community.
Guided by Owner Maj-Lis Delgado and Studio Manager Jana Stratton, Yoga Pod Fort Collins has carved out a unique space in the local fitness landscape, offering a range of classes and a deeply rooted commitment to its members and the wider community.
At its core, Yoga Pod is about connection. The studio’s philosophy centers on creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels seen and empowered. This mission resonates deeply with Maj-Lis, whose personal journey with yoga inspired her to open Yoga Pod. “The gift of yoga has been so powerful in my own life,” she explains. “It transformed my body, taught me how to breathe freely, and gave me mental clarity. I felt called to share that gift with others.”
For Maj-Lis, Yoga Pod isn’t just a business—it’s a purpose. “My strategy has always been to hire the best people, remove obstacles for them, and create joy in their lives so they feel free to be the best version of themselves.”
At Yoga Pod, every detail matters. The studio strives to deliver what Jana calls a “seven-star experience,” ensuring every member feels valued and cared for. From the warm greeting at the door to impeccably clean facilities and thoughtfully designed classes, the team goes above and beyond to create an exceptional environment. “Our teachers are so caring and supportive,” says Jana. “We believe it’s all of these qualities—and many more intangible ones—that have created this amazing community.”
“Our goal is to meet students where they are,” explains Maj-Lis. “Whether it’s your first time on the mat or your thousandth, we are here to support and guide you.”
Yoga Pod’s offerings are divided into four categories: Breath, Strength, Sweat, and Restore. Each is designed to cater to different goals and needs, ensuring a well-rounded approach to wellness.
BREATH
These vinyasa-based classes, such as podFLOW and podBASICS, focus on the connection between movement and breath, creating a moving meditation. Heated options, like podFLOW 2 and 3, add an extra challenge with added humidity. Foundational poses like Sun Salutations and Warrior II help build focus and strength while maintaining fluidity.
• Why choose Breath? Ideal for those seeking mental clarity, stress relief, or a flowing, meditative practice.
• At-home tip: Begin your day with 5-10 rounds of Sun Salutations, focusing on syncing your breath with movement.
STRENGTH
Strength classes, such as podFIT, combine fullbody interval training with weights to build physical power. These upbeat, high-energy sessions are perfect for balancing a traditional yoga practice with functional fitness.
• Why choose Strength? Great for building muscle, improving endurance, and enhancing overall fitness.
• At-home tip: Incorporate weighted squats, planks, and lunges into your routine using household items like water bottles.
“The gift of yoga has been so powerful in my own life,” she explains.
“It transformed my body, taught me how to breathe freely, and gave me mental clarity. I felt called to share that gift with others.” - Maj-Lis
SWEAT
The podHOT classes offer the ultimate sweat session, following the traditional 26 & 2 hot yoga sequence. Set in a heated room at 105 degrees with 60% humidity, these classes are accessible to all levels and focus on building strength and flexibility.
• Why choose Sweat? Perfect for those looking to detox, improve flexibility, and challenge their endurance.
• At-home tip: Practice poses like Standing Bow and Camel in a warm space to simulate the benefits of hot yoga.
RESTORE
Yin yoga classes, part of the Restore category, emphasize slowing down and increasing joint mobility through long-held poses like Butterfly and Child’s Pose. These classes are perfect for recovery and relaxation.
• Why choose Restore? Ideal for stress relief, injury recovery, and improving flexibility.
• At-home tip: Spend a few minutes in relaxing poses like Legs-Up-The-Wall before bed to release tension.
One of Yoga Pod’s defining features is its commitment to accessibility. The studio offers classes for all levels and goals, from fitness and flexibility to mental well-being. “We try to help students design their yoga journey based on their goals, whether they’re physical, mental, or spiritual,” says Jana.
The teachers, described by Maj-Lis as “the best in the country,” are empowered to teach from their hearts while maintaining the structure necessary for student growth. This balance ensures a practice that is both sustainable and transformative.
For Maj-Lis and Jana, the rewards of running Yoga Pod are immeasurable. “We feel very grateful to be a place in Fort Collins where people come to feel good and take care of themselves,” says Jana.
Maj-Lis recalls one particularly touching moment at the studio’s 5-year anniversary party, when a student gifted her his 5-year AA chip. “He told me it was Yoga Pod that helped him stay sober through tough times,” she shares. “Stories like that fuel me, even during moments of overwhelm.”
Yoga Pod’s impact extends well beyond the studio. It’s a place where people connect, grow, and transform—not just physically, but emotionally and mentally.
“We’re not just a yoga studio,” says Maj-Lis.
“We’re a community where people come to connect with themselves and others in a meaningful way.”
Whether you’re seeking an intense workout, deep relaxation, or a supportive community, Yoga Pod Fort Collins offers a welcoming space to begin—or continue— your journey. As Maj-Lis puts it, “Yoga is for everyone, and we’re here to meet you wherever you are.”
THE "DOCTOR" IS IN
Why Working with a Retirement Planner Is Like Visiting Your Favorite Doctor
Planning for retirement can feel intimidating—like a giant jigsaw puzzle where the pieces keep moving. But just like you wouldn’t diagnose a health condition on WebMD (hopefully!), retirement planning is much smoother and more effective when you enlist the help of a professional. Enter the retirement planner, your financial equivalent of a trusted doctor, here to guide you toward a healthy financial future.
Before you roll your eyes and picture waiting-room boredom, hear me out: working with a retirement planner can be as refreshing and reassuring as leaving a check-up with a clean bill of health. Let’s explore why this comparison works (and why it’s great for your overall wellness).
STEP 1: THE DIAGNOSIS
When you visit a doctor, the first thing they do is ask questions to assess your health—your lifestyle, habits, history, and goals. A retirement planner does the same thing, but instead of checking your pulse, they’ll check your finances.
Think of it as a financial wellness check-up. They’ll ask about your current savings, spending habits, investment strategies, and future dreams. Do you want to travel? Relocate? Help fund a grandchild’s education? All of these "symptoms" help them craft a diagnosis: the state of your financial health.
Here’s the best part—there’s no judgment. Just like a doctor isn’t going to scold you for skipping the gym (okay, maybe a little), a good retirement planner focuses on solutions, not guilt trips. If your financial habits need some TLC, they’ll prescribe a plan to get you back on track.
STEP 2: PERSONALIZED TREATMENT
Doctors don’t hand out the same prescription to everyone, and neither do retirement planners.
Your retirement goals and financial situation are unique, so your planner tailors their advice to your needs.
Let’s say your financial “symptoms” include a savings account that’s been neglected or an investment portfolio that could use a boost. A planner will provide a treatment plan—specific, actionable steps like adjusting your savings rate, diversifying your investments, or optimizing tax strategies.
They’re not just throwing advice at you randomly. Every suggestion is based on their expert knowledge of financial “medicine,” designed to keep your retirement as healthy as possible.
STEP 3: PREVENTATIVE CARE
The best doctors don’t just treat what’s wrong; they help you prevent future problems. Retirement planners do the same. They’ll help you anticipate potential challenges, like healthcare costs, inflation, or market fluctuations, so you can address them before they become financial emergencies. Think of it as getting a flu shot for your money—small proactive steps now save you from bigger problems later.
CONTINUED >
THEY’LL
WINS,
CELEBRATE YOUR
CHEER
YOU ON AS YOU HIT MILESTONES, AND NEVER MAKE YOU FEEL SILLY FOR ASKING QUESTIONS. THEY’RE LIKE A DOCTOR WITH A GREAT BEDSIDE MANNER—EXCEPT INSTEAD OF HANDING OUT LOLLIPOPS, THEY’RE HELPING YOU SECURE THE LIFE YOU’VE ALWAYS WANTED.
They’ll also make sure you have financial safety nets in place, like emergency funds or long-term care insurance. This preparation isn’t just smart; it’s the financial equivalent of eating your vegetables and taking your vitamins.
STEP 4: REGULAR CHECK-UPS
A one-and-done visit to a doctor doesn’t cut it, and the same goes for your retirement planner. Life changes—whether it’s a new job, a surprise inheritance, or a shift in the economy—mean your financial health needs regular monitoring. Scheduling annual “checkups” with your planner keeps your retirement goals on track. They’ll review your progress, tweak strategies as needed, and keep you updated on new tools or opportunities that might benefit you.
These sessions are like having a personal trainer for your money—encouraging, supportive, and always pushing you toward peak performance.
STEP 5: THE PEACE OF MIND PRESCRIPTION
Let’s be honest: nothing feels better than walking out of a doctor’s office knowing you’re healthy and everything is under control. The same sense of relief and confidence comes from working with a retirement planner. Instead of stressing over whether you’re saving enough or worrying about running out of money, you can relax knowing that a professional has your back. They’ve done the calculations, double-checked the numbers, and created a roadmap that leads to the retirement of your dreams. This peace of mind isn’t just good for your wallet—it’s good for your overall wellness. Stress about finances is a leading cause of anxiety and even physical health issues. By taking care of your financial health now, you’re also investing in your emotional and physical well-being.
DOCTORS AND PLANNERS: YOUR DREAM TEAM
One final thought: just as you wouldn’t rely on one doctor to handle all your health needs (your dermatologist probably isn’t performing your heart surgery), a retirement planner is part of a larger team.
A good planner might recommend working with other professionals, like tax advisors, estate planners, or insurance specialists, to make sure all aspects of your financial health are covered. Think of it as assembling a dream team for your money, each expert focused on a specific aspect of your financial wellness.
WHY YOU’LL ACTUALLY ENJOY THIS “APPOINTMENT”
If the word “planner” makes you think of someone speaking in finance jargon while you nod politely, think again. A great retirement planner is more like a friendly guide, breaking things down into plain language and maybe even cracking a joke or two to put you at ease. They’ll celebrate your wins, cheer you on as you hit milestones, and never make you feel silly for asking questions. In short, they’re like a doctor with a great bedside manner—except instead of handing out lollipops, they’re helping you secure the life you’ve always wanted. So, take a deep breath, schedule that “appointment,” and let Layman Lewis Financial Group help you build a retirement that’s healthy, happy, and golden. After all, the only thing better than retiring is retiring well.
SO, TAKE A DEEP BREATH, SCHEDULE THAT “APPOINTMENT,” AND LET LAYMAN LEWIS FINANCIAL GROUP HELP YOU BUILD A RETIREMENT
FORT COLLINS
REDEFINING FITNESS AND COMMUNITY
In Fort Collins, fitness studios are often as varied as the people they serve. F45 Training stands out as a beacon of innovation, inclusivity, and transformation. At its helm is Dave Snyder, a man whose passion for fitness and community shines as brightly as the studio’s vibrant atmosphere. Snyder’s journey from exploring fitness franchise opportunities across the country to establishing F45 in Fort Collins is a testament to his dedication to helping others achieve their best selves.
What makes F45 different from other fitness franchises? For Snyder, it was love at first sight.
“What I liked most, and what still holds true today, is the open concept,” Snyder shares. “The only permanent structures are the TVs on the wall and the pull-up stations. Everything else is portable and moveable. Our workouts change daily, and the adaptability is second to none.”
This versatility allows F45 to deliver dynamic, ever-evolving workouts that keep members engaged while accommodating various fitness levels and goals. Snyder’s studio is a space where innovation meets practicality, and the results speak for themselves.
At its core, F45 Fort Collins is more than a gym—it’s a community. Their mission statement encapsulates this ethos.
“At F45 Fort Collins, everyone is welcome, and diversity is celebrated. We empower our members to take control of their health, reduce the impact of life’s challenges, and increase longevity through community and growth.”
Snyder’s approach fosters an environment where people of all backgrounds and fitness levels feel empowered to embark on their wellness journey. The focus isn’t just on physical transformations but also on building connections and improving overall quality of life.
FROM EXPECTANT MOTHERS STAYING ACTIVE DURING PREGNANCY TO ATHLETES CRUSHING PERSONAL RECORDS, F45 FORT COLLINS IS A SPACE WHERE PEOPLE ACHIEVE REMARKABLE MILESTONES.
Snyder’s commitment to community extends far beyond the studio walls. F45 Fort Collins partners with organizations like Realities for Children, which supports at-risk youth in Northern Colorado, and Health4Heroes, dedicated to empowering veterans and first responders to take command of their health. These partnerships reflect Snyder’s dedication to giving back and fostering positive change.
Within the studio, Snyder organizes meet-ups that bring members together outside of workouts, such as brewery boot camps, hikes at Horsetooth Reservoir, snowshoe adventures, and participation in local 5K events. These activities create
a sense of camaraderie among members, proving that F45 is as much about building relationships as it is about fitness.
Ask Snyder about the most rewarding part of owning F45 Fort Collins, and his answer is simple yet profound: witnessing the healthy transformations of his members.
“It goes well beyond looking good,” Snyder explains. “We’ve had people like Darin Lickfeldt, who came to us as a Type 2 diabetic on a lot of insulin. Now, he doesn’t take any insulin, and his health benefits extend to all aspects of his life.”
From expectant mothers staying active during pregnancy to athletes
crushing personal records, F45 Fort Collins is a space where people achieve remarkable milestones.
F45’s reputation for innovation doesn’t stop at its adaptable workout spaces. The franchise integrates cutting-edge technology, from heart rate monitors that track calorie burn to a robust app that goes beyond class bookings. Members can monitor their progress, create shopping lists, track challenges, and more, ensuring they stay on top of their fitness journey both in and out of the studio.
For Snyder, F45’s appeal lies in its accessibility. “F45 is truly for everyone,” he emphasizes. “It’s you versus you, and our nationally certified coaches can modify any exercise to meet you where you are in your fitness journey.”
Snyder’s parting words capture the essence of what makes F45 Fort Collins exceptional: “We are truly team training, life changing.”
Under Snyder’s leadership, F45 Fort Collins isn’t just a gym—it’s a community, a movement, and a place where lives are transformed every day. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or a newcomer looking to make a change, Snyder’s studio offers a space to grow, connect, and thrive.
MIXING HEALTH AND FLAVOR
A Delicious Mocktail to Savor Without the Alcohol.
ARTICLE
BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL
INGREDIENTS
ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP
• 1 cup cane sugar
• 1 cup water
• 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL
• 5 tablespoons pear juice
• 1 tablespoon rosemary simple syrup
• 1 teaspoon lemon or lime juice
• sparkling water to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
HOW TO MAKE ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP
Combine sugar and water in a pot and cook over medium heat. Cook until sugar is completely dissolved. Turn off heat and toss in rosemary sprigs. Cool Completely.
HOW TO MAKE ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL
Pour pear juice, rosemary simple syrup, lemon juice, and sparkling water into a glass. Add ice and garnish if desired.
INGREDIENTS
THYME SIMPLE SYRUP
• 1 cup cane sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/3 cup fresh thyme
GRAPEFRUIT THYME MOCKTAIL
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice
• 1/3 cup thyme syrup
• Ice
INSTRUCTIONS
HOW TO MAKE SIMPLE SYRUP:
Combine water and sugar in a pot. Bring to a boil and then simmer for a few minutes. Remove from the heat and add fresh thyme and steep.
HOW TO MAKE GRAPEFRUIT THYME MOCKTAIL
Rim glass with sugar if desired. Fill glass with ice. Add 3 tablespoons thyme syrup to each glass and fill up with 1/2 cup grapefruit juice and approximately 1 cup sparkling water. Garnish.
GRAPEFRUIT THYME MOCKTAIL WIZARDLY BUTTER BEER
INGREDIENTS
BUTTER BEER
• 2 liters of creme soda
• 2 tablespoons butter extract
• 2 teaspoons rum extract
CREME TOPPING
• 7 ounce container of marshmallow creme or fluff
• 1 1/2 cups whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon rum extract
INSTRUCTIONS
Add the rum extract and butter extract to the 2 liters of cream soda. Close lid and gently mix. Prepare the topping by combining the marshmallow creme, whipping cream and rum extract. Beat on high for a few minutes until peaks appear. Add a few tablespoons of whipped topping to the bottom of glass. Pour cream soda over topping. Enjoy!
INGREDIENTS
• 3 cups milk of choice
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• cinnamon to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
Pour milk, sugar, vanilla and spices into a shaker and shake vigorously until blended and foamy. Pour into a glass and garnish if desired.
the BENEFITS OF PLANT-BASED EATING
ARTICLE BY CLAUDIA MARTIN AYOADE
BY
JANIE JONES
Most people think a plant-based diet is strictly for those vegan and vegetarian types, but there is no debating the overwhelming evidence showing the benefits of improved health for those who make that diet choice. Plant-based eating is more of a lifestyle than a diet. You are simply eating more foods that are closer to their harvested state with minimal processing.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Meatless diets have been shown to improve health outcomes by lowering the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, inflammation, and some cancers. It also improves gut health because of added fiber to your diet.
A plant-based diet still allows to you consume the carbohydrates, protein, fats, minerals and vitamins that are necessary for good health, with the added benefits of being higher in fiber and phytonutrients.
You do not have to give up meat entirely and there are labels to identify where you fall in your plant eating journey. Do what is comfortable for you so you will stick with it.
You can choose to be a flexitarian which mean you occasionally eat meat but you choose plants as the primary foods you eat. You have some flexibility with your diet. If you choose to be a vegetarian, then you do not eat meats but you still eat eggs and dairy products as opposed to being a vegan who eats no animal products.
There is also another reason to add more fruits and vegetables to your daily food intake; It is better for the environment. The industries that produce our dairy and meats is said to account for a third of the world’s water usage in addition to producing greenhouse gas emissions. Eat your greens and save the planet!
TIPS TO GET STARTED ON YOUR PLANT-BASED JOURNEY:
1. Make small changes to test your comfort level when reducing meat intake. There is a risk of being overwhelmed if you suddenly stop eating meat altogether, and it will be harder stick to your choice long term. Increase consumption of plant foods you already like.
2. A plant-based diet does not mean boring! You can create a variety of dishes, including ethnic meals that are meat free and delicious. This is a great time to try new spices to add a punch to your vegetables and add green leafy vegetables to your smoothies.
3. Use the whole plant because there are nutrients in every part of the plant, including the stems and leaves. Use the leaves from celery, radishes, beets and carrots and use the stems from spinach. Don’t throw away vital nutrients like potassium, vitamin C and fiber. You are also reducing waste.
4. Eat the rainbow! Choose different colored fruits and vegetables to get a variety of nutrients. The color of plant-based foods is often an indicator of the vitamins and minerals they contain. So, more colors mean more nutrients. Example: Orange foods contain beta carotene, the precursor for vitamin A.
5. If you do not eat animal products, you will need to take a B12 and possibly an iron supplement. Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin available only in animal products. Low B12 can cause anemia and damage to the nervous system. Some vegan foods are fortified with vitamin B12.
6. A meat-free diet does not automatically mean healthy if you replace the meat with highly processed junk food and meat substitutes. You need to eat fresh quality fruits, vegetables and grains to get the health benefits that can add years to your life.
Claudia Martin-Ayoade, is a registered dietitian, writer and public speaker who is passionate about educating people on nutrition and addressing food insecurity. AgeSmartNutrition.com
smart SWEETS
The beginning of the year is packed with inspiration and motivation to get back on track after a sweet-filled holiday season. It can feel extreme, and it also can be depleting to cut oneself off from everything indulgent after weeks of eating favorite sweet and savory recipes. For sugar lovers who believe going cold-turkey feels intimidating or overwhelming, nutrition-packed desserts are a great way to stick to healthy food goals without the guilt.
Nutrient-Rich Dessert To The Rescue
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
This recipe is a classic favorite. If you cut the bars into 16 pieces, they are around 270 calories each. They are very filling, packed with healthy goodies and taste, oh so delicious. If you can’t finish them yourself (it makes a lot!), bring samples along to your next workout class to share the love. Your accountability group will be asking you for the recipe! These come in handy for a quick breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon snack. You’ll want to taste these out of the oven once they cool a bit... simply scrumptious.
Combine:
• 1 cup wheat flour
• 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
• 2 cups oats
• 2/3 cup of your choice of chopped nuts
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2/3 cup raisins
• Optional: chocolate chips as desired
• Optional: add additional seeds or nuts on hand such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc.
Notes: Boil quinoa at a 2:1 water to rice ratio. For estimating, 1/3 cup of uncooked quinoa yields 1 cup cooked quinoa.
Add this mixture slowly to combine:
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 banana
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, or until when the edges get golden brown. Bake in a 9x13-inch glass dish. After they cool, slice and enjoy. Keep them covered to maintain freshness.
Quinoa BREAKFAST Bars
Frozen PEANUT BUTTER Bites
Danger ahead: this snack is amazing. It’s the easiest of the bunch and also satisfies a sweet tooth craving. This can be whipped together in just 5 minutes and makes just a small amount. Feel free to take creative liberty here with your amounts, but if you make it to this recipe, they are around 90 calories per bite.
1. Cut a banana into 8-10 small slices, around 1/2 inch each.
2. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of peanut butter (or your choice of nut butter) on each banana slice.
3. Drizzle a small amount of melted chocolate chips or caramel over each bite.
4. Freeze for 15-20 minutes and enjoy!
Pro tip: A dash of sea salt flakes on top of these can be *chef’s kiss.*
These are great to keep on hand in the freezer all weeklong. Once they set, add them to a closed container to keep the bananas from browning.
Late night snack cravings are real! When finding yourself rooting through the cabinets for a sweet fix, these protein cookie dough bites are a great way to curb temptation. This recipe yields around 20 small bites, which can be cut into small squares or rolled into dough balls. Each bite is around 105 calories. If you find the dough is a little too dry, add a dash of milk as needed.
Ingredients
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (or alternate nut or sunflower butter)
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Chocolate chips as desired
Pro tip: Use mini chocolate chips and for a dash of savory add sea salt flakes on top. Once combined, store the bites in the refrigerator in a covered container to keep them moist.
Protein COOKIE DOUGH Bites
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