The parade of pink that culminates on Valentine’s Day is everywhere right now, from frosted cupcakes to candied hearts. I’m in with both feet when it comes to all things pink, but not so fond of the artificial food dye that gives most treats their rosy hue. Is it the end of world that your kid might ingest red dye 40 on Valentine’s Day? Probably not (though research suggests some not-so-nice side effects). And who needs it when you can turn your treats pleasingly pink the natural way.
I developed a whole line up of Valentine’s Day recipes for Parents Magazine made without a drop of artificial food dye. You can find it on news stands now or you can log into parents.com and access the recipes for free. Simply click the recipe name below each image.
Raspberry-Gingersnap Cheesecake Bars
These no-bake cheesecake bars were a hug hit in our house, thanks in part to a crazy-good gingersnap crust.
Be Mine Fro-Yo Bark
Pretty wholesome as far as treats are concerned, this bark is made using Greek yogurt and topped with
freeze-dried strawberries, coconut, and mini chocolate chips. Fun and easy to make.
Sweetheart Raspberry Tarts
Filled with jam and iced with a raspberry-colored frosting, these make a fun kids-in-the-kitchen Valentine’s Day craft.
Cupid’s Cloud Parfait
The “cloud” in this parfait comes from a combination of whipped cream and creme fraîche that crowns a pile of fresh strawberries.
