This post has been updated since it was originally published on 06/16/2018 with more expert insight.
The occasional yummy dessert, enjoyed in moderation, makes meals 100 times more delightful. But if you’re trying to lose weight or have healthy eating goals, you may not be so quick to order that chocolate cake.
You can still enjoy desserts that won’t cause weight gain, according to nutritionists. These six treats will satisfy for your sweet tooth without adding tons of sugar or calories to your diet, and some even have amazing nutritional benefits:
Natural Popsicles
Popsicles are a fun, fruity reminder of childhood for many of us, and they're the perfect frozen alternative for anyone who wants to avoid ice-cream or dairy. But be careful: some store-bought popsicles pack in added sugar that raises your blood sugar levels or can contain artificial colors and flavors.
Play it safe by whipping up homemade popsicles with ingredients like strawberries, peach, dark chocolate, and watermelon. They're super easy to make and you'll benefit from additional vitamins and minerals.
Dark Chocolate Mousse
This recipe for dark chocolate mousse has it all: including plenty of antioxidants from dark chocolate with a cacao content of 70 percent or more and no dairy. The addition of coconut milk, raw honey, and a touch of vanilla sweetens bitter dark chocolate, but each provides its own health benefits.
"Antioxidants include vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals — helpful plant compounds," according to Dr. Axe. "One of dark chocolate’s most impressive attributes is its high antioxidant content, which is why it made my list of top 10 high-antioxidant foods."
Frozen Grapes
Like dark chocolate, grapes contain a wealth of antioxidants called polyphenols that attack free radicals to protect cells. They can also prevent heart disease, lower blood pressure, and stabilize blood sugar levels, which helps you maintain a healthy weight.
For a real treat, place red grapes in the freezer for a few hours prior to enjoying them.
Chia Seed Pudding
This basic chia seed pudding has just five healthy ingredients: chia seeds, unsweetened coconut milk, vanilla extract, honey, and berries — but its nutritional benefits are off the charts. Chia seeds are filled with antioxidants, good fat, and fiber — and filling up on fiber will keep you fuller for longer and prevent you from snacking on sugar-laden foods.
Avocado Brownies
This ingenious fusion of indulgence and nutrition has made avocado brownies a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a guilt-free dessert that's both delicious and nourishing. The avocado adds a velvety richness, making the brownies moist and fudgy while also infusing them with a subtle earthy undertone. Nutritionist and personal trainer Mary Sabat states that avocado brownies contain lots of healthy fats, "which are a great source of energy."
Coconut Flour Banana Bread
Coconut flour banana bread is a nutritious and delicious alternative to traditional banana bread, often favored by those seeking a healthier lifestyle or aiming for weight loss. Unlike regular banana bread made with all-purpose flour, coconut flour banana bread is gluten-free and significantly lower in carbohydrates, making it a suitable choice for individuals looking to manage their calorie intake and reduce carb consumption. Sabat recommends banana bread made with coconut flour as a weight-loss-friendly, gluten-free dessert.
Ingredients:
¾ cup coconut flour
4 ripe bananas, mashed
4 large eggs
¼ cup coconut oil, melted
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Recipe:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, eggs, melted coconut oil, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until well combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for about 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the banana bread to cool before slicing.
