Posted by Tastefully Simple on July 14, 2023
Sometimes, we just have a craving for something a little sweet. However, the thought of the empty calories and excess sugar can bring on the guilt. What to do? Happily, there are plenty of ways to make easy, healthy desserts without compromising on taste. Check out these simple yet effective tips and tricks to transform your favorite desserts into guilt-free pleasures.
What are some ways to make easy healthy desserts?
Swap Out Sugar. Make healthy desserts by reducing or replacing refined sugar. Opt for natural alternatives like honey, maple syrup, or dates, which provide sweetness along with additional nutrients.
Go Whole: Give your desserts a nutritional boost by incorporating whole grains. Replace refined flours with whole wheat flour, oats or almond flour to increase fiber content and add a nutty flavor. Bonus: whole grains help stabilize blood sugar levels and keep you feeling satisfied for longer.
Feature Fruits: Add a dose of vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your desserts by incorporating fruits. You can puree fruits like bananas, apples, or avocados to replace some of the fats in recipes. Choose dessert recipes that put fresh fruit front and center, like tarts and fruit “pizza.”
Sub In Healthier Fats: Replace unhealthy fats, such as butter or shortening, with healthier alternatives like avocado, coconut oil, or nut butter. These fats provide essential nutrients and can contribute to a creamy and rich texture in desserts.
Pump Up the Protein: Incorporating protein into your desserts can make them more satisfying and help stabilize blood sugar levels. Use ingredients like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese or protein powder in recipes to increase the protein content.
Make ’Em Mini: Often, just a taste of sweet can satisfy, yet when presented with a large helping, we’re likely to clean our plates. Try making mini versions of your favorite treats. Savor each bite and focus on the flavors, allowing yourself to fully enjoy the experience without overindulging.
What are some easy, healthy dessert recipes?
When opting for lighter, healthier desserts, you can’t go wrong with recipes that showcase the natural sweetness of fresh fruits. Here are 7 light and luscious treats to try:
1. Apple Fries with Peanut Butter Caramel Dip. The wholesome goodness of fresh apple slices is partnered with a luscious dip made with protein-packed peanut butter and rich Creamy Caramel Sauce.
2. Baked Cinnamon Apples. A cozy, nostalgic treat that’s so easy to make! Apples are stuffed with a sweet, buttery mixture of pecans, oats and cinnamon flavor and baked.
3. Dreamy Strawberry Tartlets. Perfect for a special occasion like a bridal shower or tea party, these delightful bitefuls showcase fresh strawberry, kiwi and blueberries with a creamy filling in baked wonton wrappers.
4. Flower Fruit Kabobs with Luscious Fruit Dip. Skip the overpriced fruit bouquets and make your own cheerful arrangement of skewered fresh fruits and a rhubarb-strawberry dip.
5. Fruit Jersey Cake. You don’t have to be a sports fan to love this fruit pizza-style dessert, loaded with your favorite fresh fruits on an almond cookie crust.
6. Lightened Almond Pound Cake Trifle. Applesauce replaces the butter in this lighter version of a luscious and lovely trifle.
7. Pineapple Fries with Caramel Cinnamon Dip. Fresh fruit beats fast food anytime! These crinkle cut “fries” are made for dipping into a creamy caramel and cinnamon-kissed dip.
There’s no need to completely give up on desserts when you can make creative, healthier desserts that are easy and satisfying. By implementing these tips and tricks, you can transform your favorite sweet treats into guilt-free pleasures. Experiment, get creative, and enjoy the satisfaction of indulging in desserts that are both delicious and better for you.
Looking for even more easy and creative healthier desserts? Visit tastefullysimple.com/recipes!