As the chill sets in, the thought of getting cozy indoors is quite appealing. Often, this involves indulging in our favorite comfort foods. January presents a bounty of National Food Days to cherish. Let’s explore some affordable, delightful winter snacks celebrated in January.
FRUITS
January honors a variety of fruits. Many of these are enjoyed coated in chocolate, aligning perfectly with our instinct to hibernate and cheer ourselves up. However, the nutritional benefits of these fruits are not undermined.
JANUARY 3RD – CHOCOLATE COVERED CHERRY DAY
Chocolate enveloped cherries may not top the list of healthy snacks, but they undoubtedly are delightful. Variations exist in terms of chocolate type and cherry presentation. I particularly enjoy Cella’s Dark Chocolate Covered Cherries offering health benefits such as fiber, flavonoids, antioxidants, and magnesium from its dark chocolate component. These treats can differ in cost based on the version you opt for; however, a decent sized box typically sets you back around $10 -$11.
JANUARY 9TH – APRICOT DAY
Apricots are an excellent, fuss-free snack. Dried apricots are readily available, with brand like Made in Nature offering organic, unsweetened options. If you wish to enhance their sweetness, consider trying Dark Chocolate Covered apricots. Prices for a bag of dried apricots usually start from $3.49, making them an inexpensive, pleasing snack.
SWEETS
Come winter, and our cravings for sweetness soar. Thankfully, January celebrates several luscious winter treats.
JANUARY 8TH – ENGLISH TOFFEE DAY
English toffee, what with its distinctive use of brown sugar, is a cherished treat, perfect for the coziness of winter. I’ve gifted homemade toffee for several years. If homemade isn’t your preference, good quality store-bought English toffee too can be had for around $12.
JANUARY 15TH – STRAWBERRY ICE CREAM DAY
Strawberry ice cream, my personal favorite, gets its special day in January. While ice cream won’t exactly replenish your nutrients, the deliciousness of strawberry ice cream is indisputable.
JANUARY 27TH – CHOCOLATE CAKE DAY
Although not my cup of tea as I find them too sweet, chocolate cakes are undeniably family favourites. From lava cakes to gluten-free varieties, choices are versatile and typically easy on the pocket.
SAVORY
For those who favour savoury snacks, these are some wonderful options to choose from.
JANUARY 19TH – POPCORN DAY
Popcorn is a versatile and inexpensive snack, especially when homemade. My version involves organic popping corn seasoned with butter and pink Himalayan sea salt. Of course, store-bought variants such as Boom Chickapop are enjoyable too.
JANUARY 21ST – GRANOLA BAR DAY
Granola bars present a range of options, from fruit-filled to protein powder-based. One healthy option to consider would be Larabars, owing to their minimal ingredients.
JANUARY 30TH – CROISSANT DAY
Croissants are a universal delight, and January devotes a day to celebrate them. While the freshest (and often priciest) ones come from bakeries, grocery stores or home baking provide cost-effective alternatives.
In essence, winter presents numerous opportunities for culinary indulgence, whether you lean towards fruits, sweets, or savoury options. Celebrate the best of food this January while staying within budget with a list that includes:
Chocolate covered cherries
English toffee
Apricots
Strawberry ice cream
Popcorn
Granola bars
Chocolate cake
Croissants
Explore, enjoy, and find the comfort foods that best complement your palate and pocket this winter season.
What are some of your preferred winter snacks that are budget-friendly?
