You have braces, and you’re probably wondering what to eat this holiday season. You can’t have chewy candy, popcorn or other delicious but braces-unfriendly foods. But fear not! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists have a delicious recipe that will satisfy both your sugar craving and hunger when the weather gets cold. If you have any questions about what you can eat this holiday season, feel free to contact Smiles at Southcenter!

Fudgy Cocoa Bites

Ingredients

1 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
2 Tablespoons water
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup cocoa
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon baking powder

Directions

Using cocoa powder instead of melted baking chocolate is one of the secrets to baking soft cookies (another is using shortening instead of margarine or butter). If you’re looking for a change from brownies, this is a great melt-in-your-mouth alternative.In a large bowl, combine shortening, sugar, water, and vanilla, using an electric mixer and beating until smooth. Add eggs and mix until blended. Mix flour, cocoa, salt, and baking powder slowly into shortening mixture, using low then medium speed.

Drop by tablespoons onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake 9 minutes at 375 degrees. Makes about three dozen. Store in a covered container to keep the softness.