Our head chef shares his favourite easter recipe for over 50s

Dining Services Manager from Wesley Mission Queensland, Russel Kearney is passionate about providing healthy and nutritious food for our Aged Care community across Southeast Queensland. His team is responsible for producing thousands of nutritious meals per week to feed our hungry aged care residents (read more about our aged care dining services)!

WMQ's Dining Services has a dedicated special kitchen that produces gluten-free, lactose-free, vegetarian and vegan meals.

One of our key focuses on what we do is every mouthful counts. High protein, high fat diet is critical to someone who's in residential aged care, so we try and make sure we get as much nutritional value into a resident's diet as possible. I always put in my mind I'm looking after my grandmother. I want it [the food] to be absolutely the best it can be.

– Russel, Head Chef and Dining Services Manager at WMQ.

Easter recipes for seniors

As we approach Easter, we've curated three delightful recipes tailored for those aged 50 and above. On the top of the list is the Chocolate Avocado Mousse, created by Russel. His favourite Easter dessert, designed with both taste and nutrition in mind, promises a flavourful and enjoyable celebration.

Join us in savouring the festive spirit with these specially adapted recipes crafted for the discerning palates of our more seasoned loved ones.

Chocolate Avocado Mousse

By WMQ's head chef Russell Kearney

Download the recipe (PDF 243KB)

Russell’s favourite Easter recipe has a lovely soft texture that everyone can enjoy. Being made on avocados means this dessert provides a variety of key nutrients, including fibre and healthy fats, which we particularly need in our diet as we get older.

Avocado also contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds and may help reduce heart disease risk.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados
• 4 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 4 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Strawberries

Method

1. With a food processor or blender, combine all the ingredients together and blend until its smooth. Alternatively, you can use electric hand beaters to combine the ingredients together.
2. Divide the mixture across four small bowls.
3. Chill in fridge for at least an hour.
4. Serve with added fresh strawberries.
5. Decorate as you wish.

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Healthy Easter Dark Chocolate and Nut Clusters

Download the recipe (PDF 240KB)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
• 1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pistachios), chopped
• 1/4 cup dried fruits (such as cranberries or apricots), finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional for added nutritional benefits)
• A pinch of sea salt (optional)

Method:

1. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate chips until smooth.
2. Prepare the Nut Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped nuts, dried fruits, chia seeds, and a pinch of sea salt.
3. Combine Chocolate and Nut Mixture: Pour the melted chocolate over the nut mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are well-coated.
4. Form Clusters: Spoon small clusters of the mixture onto a parchment-lined tray. Ensure there's enough space between each cluster.
5. Decorate your clusters: You can use mini eggs, M&Ms, sprinkles, easter cake toppers, chocolate bunnies or even chocolate birds for a cute bird nest cluster.
6. Chill: Place the tray in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set.
7. Serve: Once set, remove the clusters from the refrigerator. Serve and enjoy in moderation!

Note:

• Dark chocolate is chosen for its potential health benefits, including antioxidants. Ensure it is suitable for any dietary restrictions your senior may have.
• The inclusion of nuts provides healthy fats and protein. Adjust the nut and fruit combination based on preferences and dietary needs.
• Chia seeds can be added for an extra nutritional boost, but they are optional.

Always consider individual dietary restrictions, and consult with a healthcare professional if needed before introducing new ingredients.

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Healthy Hot Cross Buns for Seniors

Download the recipe (PDF 420KB)

Ingredients:

For the Buns:

• 3 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup oats (old-fashioned or quick oats)
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar or sweetener of choice
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups warm low-fat milk or plant-based milk
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
• 1 large egg or egg substitute (for egg wash)
• Zest of 1 orange (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins or currants

For the Cross:

• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 4-5 tablespoons water

For the Glaze:

• 2 tablespoons apricot jam (or other fruit preserves)
• 1 tablespoon hot water

Method:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, oats, ground flaxseed, coconut sugar, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Make the Dough: Add the warm milk, melted coconut oil, and beaten egg to the dry ingredients. Mix well until a soft dough forms. If using, add orange zest and raisins or currants.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Buns: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a bun and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
6. Second Rise: Cover the buns with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
7. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 190°C.
8. Prepare the Cross Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the whole wheat flour with enough water to create a thick paste. Transfer the paste to a piping bag or a plastic sandwich bag with the corner snipped off. Pipe a cross onto each bun.
9. Bake: Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Prepare the Glaze: While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze by heating the apricot jam and hot water in a small saucepan. Strain to remove any fruit pieces.
11. Glaze the Buns: Once the buns are out of the oven, brush them with the warm apricot glaze for a shiny finish.
12. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the buns to cool on a wire rack before serving.

These healthier hot cross buns provide whole grains, fibre, and reduced sugar, making them a more nutritious option for seniors. Always consider individual dietary restrictions and preferences when preparing recipes for specific groups.

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Why are these recipes good for seniors?

This healthy recipes are designed with seniors' nutritional needs in mind, offering several benefits:

• Whole grains (wheat flour and oats)

It provides essential fibre, important for digestive health and for managing cholesterol levels.

• Nutrient-rich ingredients (ground flaxseed and raisins or currants)

Ground flaxseed’s omega-3 is important for heart health. Raisins or currants are natural sweeteners and offer small amounts of vitamins and minerals.

• Reduced sugar content (coconut sugar)

Coconut sugar has a lower glycaemic index compared to refined sugar. It can help manage blood sugar levels, an important consideration for seniors.

Sugar alternative: monk fruit sugar (preferably the gold variation) has no calories, less of a bitter aftertaste than stevia, and a glycaemic index score of zero.

• Healthy fats (from coconut oil and avocado)

These fats are essential for nutrient absorption and can contribute to overall well-being.

• Orange zest

It not only enhances flavour, but also adds a burst of vitamin C (important for immune function).

• Egg modification

It makes the recipe adaptable for seniors who may need to manage cholesterol intake.

• Simple apricot glaze

It provides a touch of sweetness without excessive added sugar. Apricot jam brings a small amount of vitamins and antioxidants.

• Portion control

The recipe yields 12 buns, allowing for portion control. Smaller, more frequent meals can be beneficial for seniors, helping to maintain energy levels throughout the day.

• Moderation of spices (cinnamon and nutmeg)

It adds flavour without being overwhelming. It caters to potential sensitivities or preferences.

These recipes aim to provide a tasty and nutritious option for seniors, considering factors such as fibre, reduced sugar, healthy fats, and adaptability to various dietary needs. As with any dietary changes, it's advisable for seniors to consult with healthcare professionals or nutritionists to ensure the recipe aligns with their specific health requirements.

To learn more about the types of food we provide at our Aged Care homes, visit our Food and Dining webpage.

If you want to share a recipe, use the social media share buttons, or tag @wesleymissionqueensland in a social post.

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