There are a few Kelowna establishments that make delicious treats with a healthy twist. These are a few of our favourite spots that make the best healthy cookies, bars, and cakes.

 

And by healthy, we mean a variety of things: nutrient-dense, full of superfoods, refined sugar-free, gluten-free, plant-based, or vegan.

 

In addition to all these awesome qualities, they’re all also incredibly tasty. (If you’re in doubt as to whether “healthy” treats can also taste delicious, then you need to get out there and try these!)

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is a cookie that belongs in the Kelowna Hall of Recipe Fame! Beloved by vegans and omnivores alike, this plant-based cookie is just the thing to fill you up, give you an energy burst, and curb your cravings. They’re wheat free and packed full of oats, seeds, chocolate chips, and raisins. They’re also perfect for dunking in a coffee! One bite of one of these bad boys and you’ll easily see why it’s such a fan favourite. Find them at any Bean Scene location, and also at ChaiBaba! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Glow has turned the west-coast Canadian treat into a vegan, gluten-free, raw food delight! Not only does it look and taste just like a traditional Nanaimo bar, it’s chock full of plant-powered nutrition from coconut, cacao, nuts, dates, and turmeric. They have completely transformed a few wholesome ingredients into the classic Canadian bar, and it’s just the thing to perk up your day. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This granola bar is chewy and decadent like the perfect bar should be, but it’s homemade with healthy ingredients like protein-rich rolled oats (and some chocolate chips for good measure). Your tummy will stay full, and your sweet tooth will be satisfied enough that you might be able to resist one of 350’s amazing donuts! 

 

QB always has incredible gelato, but you might not have known about their incredible dairy-free sorbets! These decadent sorbets are made fresh daily with simple, high-quality ingredients that are made into frozen magic. You won’t believe that their “Holy Cacao” flavour (rich dark chocolate) is dairy free, and their Mixed Berry Sorbet will transport you straight back to summertime. All of their sorbets are vegan too! When you need a guilt-free indulgence, QB is a perfect choice. Find them in the Landmark Buildings on Dayton Street! 

 

 

 

 

 

The Pearson family takes care of your health and happiness with their selection of delicious gluten-free treats. Their family recipes for superfood granola bars, energy bites, and more, are just the thing when you need something sweet or something on the go! You can always taste the love everything is made with. These GF snacks are also an excellent choice of dessert after you polish off one of Pearson’s amazing salads!

 

 

 

 

 

Fezziwigs Café has all kinds of amazing baked goods, but they also offer some healthier options for those of us looking to make the more “nutrient-dense” choice! Their whole wheat cinnamon buns are the perfect example of this: they’re baked with protein-rich whole-wheat flour, but still have that iconic cinnamon flavour and icing glaze. Whole wheat flour has a ton more nutrients than regular white flour, so this is not your average cinnamon bun. It’s one healthy way to enjoy a favourite treat!  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Most cupcake recipes call for plenty of butter, eggs, and milk, but Naked Cafe has perfected their completely vegan organic cupcake! A beautiful sponge cake base, complete with fluffy icing, (and sprinkles!) this is a true treat made from plant-based ingredients. 

 

 

Whether or not your New Year’s Resolution includes eating healthier, these guilt-free sweet treats are fabulous grab-n-go options. It’s always nice to know where you can #TreatYoSelf to something nutritious and delicious!

 

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Kelowna born and raised, Keddy Pavlik of TheTreatLife has been passionate about the local food scene basically since birth. If she's not in the kitchen, you can probably find her at the farmer's market or taking pictures of food. Photo Credit: Jordana Dickson.