We have some excellent news for health-conscious dessert lovers! You no longer have to say ‘no’ to ending your meals with something sweet, as there are plenty of mouthwatering guilt-free dessert options available; and we’re going to give you 19 of them!
With the help of some health experts and nutritionists, we want to share some of our favorite low-calorie desserts that will allow you to treat yourself with something sweet without compromising on health or derailing your weight loss and fitness goals. In fact, many of these dessert options also come with added nutrition benefits. Seems almost too good to be true, but we promise, it isn’t!
From dark chocolate that is full of antioxidants to avocado chocolate mousse that is packed with creamy and healthy fats, take a look at 19 expert-approved sweet treats that prove that you can enjoy dessert without the guilt below…
1. Berries With Sugar-Free Yogurt
If you're craving something sweet but don’t want to overload on sugar, sugar-free yogurt with berries might just be the way to go!
"This is a classic dessert for people on weight loss or managing blood glucose issues," says dietitian Catherine Gervacio. Berries are rich in fiber and antioxidants, making them a nutritious and low-GI option. "Sugar-free yogurt is rich in protein and probiotics, which aids in blood sugar levels," Gervacio adds.
2. Dark Chocolate
High-quality dark chocolate is lower in sugar than milk or white chocolate; and it's packed with antioxidants, which is why it's firmly earned its place on this list. With high cocoa content, it can even improve mood and help curb cravings.
"Dark chocolate contains fiber and healthy fats, which contribute to a feeling of fullness and satisfaction, preventing overeating," explains Joanna Wen, certified weight loss coach and founder of Spices & Greens. The slight bitterness also helps satisfy sweet cravings with smaller portions, reducing the risk of overindulgence.
3. Avocado Chocolate Mousse
Avocado chocolate mousse is a creamy and indulgent treat packed with healthy fats, so we will never feel guilty for eating it after dinner.
Avocados contain monounsaturated fats that support heart health and help control appetite, with Dr. Walker from Clarity Hyperbarics saying: "Avocados offer healthy fats that contribute to a feeling of fullness, reducing the likelihood of overindulgence in other calorie-dense sweets." With dark chocolate’s antioxidants, this mousse is a win-win.
4. Coconut Chia Pudding
Chia seeds are nutrient-rich and low in calories, packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats. These properties help promote fullness and reduce calorie intake.
"Coconut chia pudding is considered a guilt-free dessert because it is made with wholesome ingredients that are low in sugar and contain healthy fats and fiber," explains nutritionist Mary Sabat. "Coconut milk is also a great source of healthy fats, which can help keep you feeling full for longer," she adds.
5. Strawberry Gelatin
Unlike sugar-loaded treats, strawberry gelatin is typically made with artificial sweeteners or minimal added sugars, making it a low-calorie delight.
"This combination provides a refreshing, low-calorie snack with a touch of natural sweetness from the strawberries," says Gervacio. She suggests making it with sugar-free gelatin and fresh strawberries for a light and delicious treat.
6. Frozen Grapes
Frozen grapes are a simple yet satisfying way to curb sweet cravings without added sugars. Their frozen texture slows down eating, making them an excellent post-dinner dessert or snack in-between meals for a little pick-me-up.
"Frozen grapes are beneficial for weight loss due to their low calorie and high water content," explains Michelle Saari, MSc, RD from eHealth project "The freezing process adds an advantage – it slows down your eating pace, giving your body time to register fullness." Good to know!
7. Sweet Potato Pie With Whole Grain Crust
"Sweet potatoes are nutrient-rich, particularly in vitamins A, C, and potassium," says Gervacio. "Their fiber content can contribute to the feeling of fullness, reducing the chances of overeating."
Interestingly, sweet potato pie can be made even healthier by using whole wheat flour for the crust, and non-fat milk and natural sweeteners for the filling. We think this is going to be your new favorite dessert!
8. Almond Butter Stuffed Dates
This dessert or guilt-free sweet treat for any part of the day pairs the natural sweetness of dates with the creamy richness of almond butter, and we are obsessed!
"Dates are rich in fiber, promoting digestion and prolonging satiety, while almond butter provides protein and healthy fats, essential for maintaining fullness and preventing overeating," says Saari.
9. Baked Apples
Baked apples contain natural sweetness, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a perfect guilt-free dessert choice.
"Baked apples are an excellent weight loss-friendly dessert," says Saari. "Apples are naturally high in fiber and water, which contribute to a feeling of fullness. When baked, their natural sugars are enhanced, providing a sweet taste without added sugars."
10. Frozen Fruit Popsicles
These refreshing treats satisfy sweet cravings without containing excess sugars or unhealthy fats. Plus, they’re naturally low in calories and packed with vitamins and fiber, making them a no-brainer to have after dinner.
"When made with whole, real fruits, they contribute to a balanced and nutritious eating plan, making them a smart choice for those looking to lose weight," says nutritionist Lisa Richards.
11. Pumpkin Spice Chia Pudding
This fall-inspired dessert can be eaten all year round if we’re being honest. It's a filling, fiber-rich treat that combines chia seeds and pumpkin puree, and it gets the nutritionist seal of approval too!
"The fiber in chia seeds promotes satiety, preventing overeating, while the omega-3s can help reduce inflammation and potentially combat weight gain," explains Rahul Malpe, certified nutritionist.
12. Protein Cookie Skillet
A high-protein cookie skillet is a delicious way to curb cravings while staying on track with your weight loss and/or health goals.
Using protein powder, oat flour, and nut butters, you can create a healthier alternative to traditional cookies. This makes for a satisfying, high-protein dessert, or a treat to have in-between meals that keeps hunger at bay.
13. Fro-Yo Cups
Homemade frozen yogurt cups are a convenient, customizable dessert option that keeps calories in check.
"My family's go-to 'healthier' dessert is homemade frozen yogurt," shares dietitian Jennifer Bowers, PhD, RD. "Our favorites include Dreamsicle with orange juice concentrate, fresh strawberry with real vanilla bean, and peanut butter with dark chocolate chips."
14. Protein Rice Krispies
A protein-rich take on Rice Krispies (such as this recipe here) offers a satisfying crunch with added nutrition. The high protein content helps with satiety and muscle maintenance, making it a smart, waistline-friendly treat.
15. Smoothie Bowls
There are so many variations, but our favorite combination to have as a dessert includes fruits, nuts, and seeds for the added fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients.
To avoid excess calories, it's important to watch portion sizes and high-calorie toppings. We recommend adding protein (our favorite is a tablespoon of peanut butter!) to make it a more balanced and satisfying treat.
16. Protein Bars
Protein bars tick so many boxes! They're great to snack on between meals, especially when you're on the go, and they're also great to have after dinner as a guilt-free dessert option.
"Protein bars are a great option if you're looking for something sweet that still lines up with your health goals!" says dietitian Alyssa Pacheco.
17. Baked Or Air Fried Churro Balls
Baked or air-fried churro balls offer a healthier spin on the classic deep-fried treat, and we're quite obsessed with them!
Made with whole grains and natural sweeteners, they contain fiber alongside the comforting flavor of cinnamon, helping curb cravings. Cinnamon, an antioxidant, has its own health benefits too, as it can reduce inflammation and control blood glucose levels, among so many other things.
18. Fruit Salad
Fruit salad is a naturally sweet and nutrient-dense dessert that satisfies cravings without refined sugars.
"Fruits are high in fiber, which helps to reduce excessive eating by promoting feelings of fullness," says nutritionist Krutika Nanavati.
19. Mad Minis Ice Cream Sandwiches
Mad Minis are a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream sandwiches, with just 60 calories per mini treat.
Made with rBST-free whole milk, real cream, and dark cocoa, they offer great taste without high fructose corn syrup or excessive calories. It's a yes from us!
