Welcome to the last day of RED foods in my Eat the Rainbow Challenge! Today, we’re diving into the health benefits of red-hued ingredients like beets and apples, and wrapping up with a sweet, guilt-free treat: Red Velvet Beet Cake Bars. These bars are a deliciously sneaky way to enjoy the benefits of red foods, with beets so well-hidden even beet-hating folks can’t detect them! Plus, get ready for what’s next—orange foods are up tomorrow as we continue the rainbow journey
Red foods like beets and apples are nutritional powerhouses. Beets are packed with antioxidants (hello, betalains!), which help fight inflammation and protect your heart. They’re also rich in folate, manganese, and nitrates, which can boost stamina and lower blood pressure. Apples, like the red variety used in our applesauce, add fiber, vitamin C and a touch of natural sweetness. Together, these red superstars make your body sing while satisfying your sweet tooth.
These Red Velvet Beet Cake Bars are a showstopper for Day 3. They’re refined sugar-free, clock in at just 215 calories per serving, and pack 10 grams of protein per piece. The finely grated raw beet blends seamlessly into the batter, keeping the bars moist and vibrant without a hint of earthy flavor—perfect for beet skeptics! Paired with applesauce, you’re sneaking in TWO red foods. The result? A rich, chocolatey treat with a stunning red hue (especially if you use raw cacao) and no artificial food dyes.
My toddler devoured these, and they’re a hit with the whole family. Topped with a creamy, protein-packed frosting and a sprinkle of beet powder or crushed freeze-dried raspberries, these bars are as pretty as they are delicious. Store them in the fridge for 4-5 days or freeze (without frosting) for up to 3 months.
These refined sugar-free Red Velvet Beet Cake Bars are a vibrant, healthy treat at 215 calories and 10 grams of protein per serving. Finely grated raw beets blend seamlessly, adding moisture and a rich red hue without earthy flavor, paired with gala applesauce for a double dose of red foods. With raw cacao, they deliver a chocolatey taste and stunning color, free of artificial dyes—perfect for beet skeptics!
-Beet Haters Beware: The beet is completely undetectable, thanks to fine grating and the rich cocoa flavor.- Frosting Swap: Prefer a classic vibe? Sub cream cheese frosting for a decadent twist.- Make It Pop: Raw cacao enhances the red color for a vibrant, natural look.- Kid-Approved: My toddler couldn’t get enough, and it’s a fun way to sneak in veggies!