Easter is a time for bright baskets, egg hunts, and lots of treats and sweets. But while those colorful treats may look yummy, some contain artificial food dyes like Red Dye No. 3 which has been linked to potential health problems. This year, the health risks posed by artificial food dyes have many people making their own healthy recipes for dye-free Easter treats.
Parents and health-conscious shoppers concerned about red dye in Easter candy should take a closer look at candy food labels to avoid dyes that may cause issues such as hyperactivity in kids or allergic reactions. Early this year, the FDA proposed a ban on Red Dye No. 3, but it can still be added to some foods until January 2027. Artificial colors like Red dye No. 40, which may also have negative health effects, is currently widely used in candy, cookies, frosting, and other foods.
The good news is you can find plenty of dye-free Easter candy options in the store. Better yet, you can always make your own healthy Easter treats. We did! Our registered dietitians and professional chefs have gotten together to create some healthy Easter recipes and sweet treats without artificial dyes that you can feel good about sharing with your family and friends. From healthy desserts and cookie recipes to frozen desserts and chocolate treats, these 10 healthy recipes for dye-free Easter treats will satisfy every sweet tooth.
These delightful treats are perfect for Easter and all year round. They have no artificial food dyes nor harmful ingredients, and are healthier alternatives to store-bought goodies so they fit into a heart-healthy diet. Many of these Easter recipes make delicious diabetic-friendly desserts, too.
These charming, egg-shaped Linzer cookies feature a zesty lemon curd nestled between two nutty, shortbread-inspired cookies. Each crumbly and delightful bite gets you in the spirit of the Easter holiday without harmful artificial dyes.
Light as air and sweetly nostalgic, these melt-in-your-mouth meringue cookies are diabetic-friendly and can be customized with natural add-ins like dark chocolate chips or nuts instead of food coloring, making them a versatile treat for any occasion.
Brighten your day with these light and sweet lemon yogurt cookies, combining simple pantry ingredients to create a perfectly citrusy, low-sugar dessert without any artificial additives. These Easter cookies taste like a burst of springtime freshness, making them ideal for Easter brunch.
Celebrate the Easter holiday with this vibrant, pastel-layered smoothie that blends strawberries, bananas, and blueberries with creamy Greek yogurt and oat milk to create a fruity and refreshing treat that’s free from artificial ingredients.
Indulge in rich chocolate truffles rolled in wholesome ingredients like chia seeds and ground pistachios. Although everyone will savor their chocolate candy taste, you can feel good knowing you made them from natural ingredients and protein, resulting in a treat that's as nourishing as it is scrumptious.
Experience a taste of the tropics while enjoying the holiday spirit with these no-bake key lime bars. They combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a tangy coconut-lime filling for a refreshing, diabetic-friendly dessert that’s slightly tart and slightly sweet with not an artificial ingredient in sight.
These adorable yogurt-based mini cheesecake cupcakes are baked to perfection and topped with fresh fruit for a festive and colorful touch. They’re a creamy and satisfying treat that's heart-healthy, gluten-free, and naturally delicious.
These bite-sized tartlets combine crisp phyllo shells with a tangy lemon curd filling, sweet raspberry jam, and a light whipped topping for a perfectly balanced treat. With no artificial food dyes and only 32 calories, they make a refreshingly light dessert for Easter or any time of year.
Enjoy the vibrant hue and sweet flavor of these purple sweet potato bites, offering a soft, velvety texture reminiscent of no-bake cookie dough. They’re a fun Easter treat that gets its fun color naturally and they can also be enjoyed anytime as a healthy dessert or on-the-go snack.
Delicately sweet and smooth, these no-bake cream cheese tarts are made with cottage cheese and topped with fresh berries. They provide a light and refreshing dessert that's diabetic-friendly, low calorie, and free from artificial additives.
Each of these Easter recipes offers a delicious and healthier treat to enjoy any time of the year, with no artificial food dyes nor harmful ingredients.
Looking for more family Easter recipes? Check out these heart healthy Easter brunch ideas.
