Baking Without Butter?

Not just any baking that is...but baking with substitutions to make it healthier. Cleaner. More appealing without the added fats or sugars. At times it cannot be helped. It's a part of the kitchen that includes indulgence and the biggest challenge: Baking Without Butter.
The idea has been formulating in my mind for quite some time, yet the majority of my baking attempts are not quite satisfactory and as a result: haven't made it to this blog in full scale. But it won't be long. I enjoy baking breakfast muffins w/ berries. Oatmeal & Raisin cookies. Banana or zucchini bread...

Generally I much prefer using applesauce in place of butter or sugar or even Greek yogurt. My taste buds however, are not average. Therefore recipes are 'unknowingly' tested on my family and if approved, I know I'm on the right track. Tonight felt like a baking night...and so here's to successfully managing a busy week of work, training, cooking, research, reading, and writing. :)

Southwestern Pizza

Unsure of where I found this recipe but it's been calling my name. Loaded with fresh veggies this week, I knew it was time for this colorful pizza to be tested. Thus early this morning, I made my salsa and returned it to refrigerator until tonight. Then onto the dough: pre-made a 100% whole wheat pizza dough (thin crust recipe), placed it in a bowl, covered with a towel and set it on the counter while I ran off to work. 

Couldn't wait to get home and arrange this delightful dinner. Here's the end result. :) 

Chicken + Avocado Sandwich

There's something about getting worked at 5am in the gym: I can't wait to sink my teeth into good food. Healthy fats. Fulfilling protein.

Here's a sneak peek at todays lunch:
-Rye Bread
-Dijon Mustard
-Lettuce leaf
-Chicken breast (grilled)
-Avocado
-seasoned w/ fresh pepper.

DELISH let me tell you! Totally worth the wait, especially after a lengthy cardio session, followed by ab and leg strength training. Yes, I'm in beast mode. :) Well, mostly it's that new swimsuit I've been eyeing but am waiting to treat myself once I reach my next fitness goal: lose an inch off my waist! 

Sunday Splurge: Starbucks

Sure, we all fall off the wagon at times. But what's important to remember is that treats are ok - so long as you keep in mind one simple key: moderation.

Although I train hard for upcoming athletic events, or even if I'm sticking religiously to my workout calendar, I'm still aware of fat/calories/sugar in sweets and cafe treats.

I enjoy going out with friends or even spending a lazy Sunday afternoon at a neighborhood cafe, tasting my way through an apple pastry while reading (or writing). :) And of course it's no secret I enjoy baking. But I'm always on the lookout how to make things healthier...and how much of a good thing I'm eating. You know what they say: it all goes straight to your hips. ;) (just kidding, of course)