Yes, You Should Have Dessert – The Sweet Side of a Balanced Diet

When that sweet tooth hits, it’s easy to reach for cookies, candy or ice cream. But what if your dessert could satisfy cravings and offer nourishing qualities at the same time? When identifying healthier dessert options, think ingredients like fiber-rich fruits, protein-packed nuts or butters and natural sweeteners like dates over ultra-processed options.

Most of these recipes are surprisingly simple, often requiring just a handful of ingredients. These recipes lean on whole-food ingredients and natural sweetness with creative twists:

Dark Chocolate-covered Filled Dates

This frozen combination of minimally processed ingredients mimics the flavor and texture of popular candy bars. Hazelnuts and cashew butter provide healthy fats, while dark chocolate brings a slew of antioxidants to the table. Simply fill dates with nut butter, dip or drizzle with melted dark chocolate, cover with nuts and freeze. Cashew butter can be substituted with peanut, almond or other nut or seed butters. Likewise, different chopped nuts can be used for toppings.

Fruit Shaved Ice

Fruit shaved ice is a lighter, antioxidant-rich, naturally sweet alternative to shaved ice or sorbet. This shaved frozen treat relies on the natural sweetness of ripe fruit. Strawberries are loaded with vitamin C, fiber and phytonutrients that support heart health and reduce inflammation. Kiwis, mangoes and peaches also work beautifully. After a simple prep of freezing the fruit, it comes together in less than 5 minutes by simply grating and adding toppings.

Grilled Fruit

Fruits that are firm — not overripe — taste great on the grill. When fruit meets the flame, its sweet component allows for caramelization that produces complex flavors. If you don’t have a grill or weather isn’t permitting, try air-frying the fruit at 390 degrees F for 5 to 10 minutes or until caramelized.

Focusing on prevention like healthy eating and exercise can lead to lower health care costs and more affordable insurance for all. Learn about Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s (BCBSM) commitment to affordability here.

Shanthi Appelo is a registered dietitian and health and wellness spokesperson at BCBSM. For more health and wellness information, visit ahealthiermichigan.org.