You're in the mood for toast, but a tablespoon of butter just isn't going to do it this morning... or any morning. That's because a tablespoon of butter will set you back 102 calories and 11.5 grams of fat (7.3 grams saturated fat). Not such a great to start the morning off light is it? There are some healthier alternatives that will help you in your quest to spread yourself thin. Instead of traditional butter, enjoy apple butter. A tablespoon of has just 33 calories, 0 grams of fat and 7 grams of sugar. In most cases, opt for no sugar added brands if you can find them. Apple butter makes a delicious spread on a piece of whole-wheat toast or a whole-wheat English muffin. You can also use apple butter to lower calorie and fat counts when you're baking. For example, apple butter can also be used a shortening substitute in baking to replace up to 3/4 of high-fat shortenings.
If the apple butter is sweetened, you can reduce the amount of sugar you use in a recipe. It works great in muffins, cake and breads where the apple butter adds rich taste without the extra fat. Another alternative is to use apple butter on sandwiches in place of mayonnaise. Some people even use it mixed together with spicy mustard. For your main meal, apple butter can be used as a glaze on ham, pork or turkey. Mix it with soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Throw in some garlic or onion and then baste your main meat with the creative concoction.