Updated April 30th, 2024 at 08:18 IST

Replace High Sugar Desserts With These Healthy Alternatives For Guilt-free Indulgence

With these healthy and low-calorie options, indulging in dessert can be a delicious and wholesome experience.

Chia seed pudding | Image:Unsplash
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Lowering sugar intake is as difficult as it can turn out to be productive. While circling back to a single ingredient like sugar is not the best way to lose weight and moderation is the call of the time, when you have healthy alternatives that do not burden your calorie count, you should absolutely reach for them. Here are healthier alternatives to high sugar desserts that you can try.

Fruit-based desserts

Adding fresh fruits in desserts adds natural sweetness along with essential vitamins and fibre. Try making fruit salads, fruit kebabs, or grilled fruit skewers for a refreshing and nutritious treat. You can also blend frozen fruits into smoothie bowls or make homemade fruit sorbets with minimal added sugar.

Fruit salad | Image: Unsplash

Greek yogurt parfaits

Swap traditional high-sugar desserts for Greek yogurt parfaits layered with fresh berries, nuts, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Greek yogurt is rich in protein and probiotics, making it a nutritious alternative to ice cream or pudding. Customise your parfait with your favourite toppings for a satisfying and guilt-free dessert option.

Dark chocolate treats

Dark chocolate contains less sugar than milk chocolate and is packed with antioxidants that offer various health benefits. Indulge in a square or two of high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) to satisfy your sweet cravings. You can also mix dark chocolate chips in homemade trail mix or sprinkle them over Greek yogurt for a decadent and wholesome dessert.

Dark chocolate | Image: Unsplash

Baked goods with alternative sweeteners

Explore baking recipes that use alternative sweeteners like stevia, monk fruit, or coconut sugar instead of refined sugar. These natural sweeteners provide sweetness with fewer calories and a lower glycemic index. Experiment with healthier versions of cookies, muffins, and cakes using whole grain flours and wholesome ingredients for guilt-free indulgence.

Chia seed pudding

Chia seeds are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and protein. Combine chia seeds with your choice of milk (such as almond, coconut, or soy milk) and a natural sweetener like agave syrup or vanilla extract. Let the mixture sit in the refrigerator overnight to create a creamy and satisfying pudding. Top with fresh fruit, nuts, or shredded coconut for added flavour and texture.

Frozen banana treats

Frozen bananas make a delicious and healthy alternative to ice cream. Simply peel ripe bananas, slice them into coins, and freeze them until firm.

Banana treat | Image: Unsplash

Blend the frozen banana slices in a food processor until creamy and smooth, resembling the texture of soft-serve ice cream. Add cocoa powder, nut butter, or cinnamon for extra flavour variations, and enjoy a guilt-free frozen treat.

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Published April 30th, 2024 at 08:18 IST