Use Whole-Wheat Flour
Most recipes call for all-purpose flour, which is more refined. Whole-wheat flour is a little coarser but contains more fiber – an ingredient that is known to lower your LDL cholesterol levels. There are many types of wheat flour, so if whole wheat flour gets boring, you can use other types of flour that are higher in fiber, such as spelt flour or graham flour.
Use Fruit
Fruit is naturally sweet and is also a high-fiber food. Whether you are baking a cake or making a filling, adding fruit to it will make the food sweeter, tasty, and add a little more fiber to your diet. Just make sure you are using fresh fruit – not canned or dried - which can heap on the refined sugar and calories. So whether you like baked apples, citrus fruits, or fresh berries, adding your favorite fruits will make your next baked favorites sweeter - and healthier.
Consider Dark Chocolate – in Moderation
Dark chocolate is higher in antioxidant content in comparison to milk chocolate, making it a healthier option to satisfy your chocolate craving. Additionally, some studies have shown that dark chocolate is cholesterol-friendly. Dark chocolate can be used as a light drizzle in your favorite low-fat desserts or in other baked treats.
To get the antioxidant benefit in dark chocolate, be sure to select dark chocolates that contain at least 70% cocoa or higher.
Healthy Ways to Use Dark Chocolate