The keys to diabetes-friendly dessert recipes are the right balance of nutritious ingredients, plenty of protein, fiber, and natural sweetness to helpcontrol blood sugar spikes.The flavor combinations should be indulgent enough to satisfy you without the need for super-sized portions.Finally, the recipes should be simple—something you can whip up on the spot when your sweet tooth acts up or make a batch of and keep on hand for when a craving hits.2:35How to Make Dark Chocolate Avocado “Pudding”This article offers a list of diabetes-friendly dessert recipes to get you started. Almost all of these recipes contain under 15g carbs per serving, and tweaks needed to make appropriate dessert-sized portions are noted.None of the recipes require an oven—at most, they may need a little boiling and a refrigerator or freezer. Pick your favorite diabetic treats and incorporate them into your nextdiabetes-friendly meal plan.Healthier (More Nutritious) Snacks With Diabetes
The keys to diabetes-friendly dessert recipes are the right balance of nutritious ingredients, plenty of protein, fiber, and natural sweetness to helpcontrol blood sugar spikes.
The flavor combinations should be indulgent enough to satisfy you without the need for super-sized portions.
Finally, the recipes should be simple—something you can whip up on the spot when your sweet tooth acts up or make a batch of and keep on hand for when a craving hits.
2:35How to Make Dark Chocolate Avocado “Pudding”
2:35
How to Make Dark Chocolate Avocado “Pudding”
This article offers a list of diabetes-friendly dessert recipes to get you started. Almost all of these recipes contain under 15g carbs per serving, and tweaks needed to make appropriate dessert-sized portions are noted.
None of the recipes require an oven—at most, they may need a little boiling and a refrigerator or freezer. Pick your favorite diabetic treats and incorporate them into your nextdiabetes-friendly meal plan.
Healthier (More Nutritious) Snacks With Diabetes
1
Peanut Butter Banana Yogurt Parfait
Kaleigh McMordie, MCN, RDN, LD
This diabetic dessert recipe has 250 calories, 15g protein, 31g carbs, 3g fiber, 22g total sugar, and 9g added sugar per parfait. It’s ready in about 5 minutes. Get the recipehere.
This parfait makes a delicious dessert recipe when halved. Split it in two for 125 calories, about 8g protein, 16g carbs, 2g fiber, 11g total sugar, and 5g added sugar.
This recipe is great as is, but if you want to have it warm, just pop it in the microwave for 20 seconds.
Recommended Variations
The cacao nibs are quite satisfying, but if you prefer you can swap them out for a lower-carb topping, like shredded unsweetened coconut or chopped nuts (any kind will do).
2Sugar-Free Panna Cotta RecipeSiraphol Siricharattakul / EyeEm / Getty ImagesThis diabetic dessert recipe offers 335 calories, 2g protein, 4g carbs, 4g total sugar, and 0g added sugar per serving. It’s prepped in 15 minutes and ready after 3 hours of chilling. Get the recipehere.Creamy and sweet, this easy-to-prepare favorite uses a sugar substitute to allow you to enjoy the full flavor. Plan ahead, though, for this dessert since it takes a few hours for it to solidify and be ready to eat.Suggested PairingsReach for a cup of whole strawberries if you’re opting for fruit. You can also whip up a non-dairy version using coconut milk (full fat) or coconut cream.
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Sugar-Free Panna Cotta RecipeSiraphol Siricharattakul / EyeEm / Getty ImagesThis diabetic dessert recipe offers 335 calories, 2g protein, 4g carbs, 4g total sugar, and 0g added sugar per serving. It’s prepped in 15 minutes and ready after 3 hours of chilling. Get the recipehere.Creamy and sweet, this easy-to-prepare favorite uses a sugar substitute to allow you to enjoy the full flavor. Plan ahead, though, for this dessert since it takes a few hours for it to solidify and be ready to eat.Suggested PairingsReach for a cup of whole strawberries if you’re opting for fruit. You can also whip up a non-dairy version using coconut milk (full fat) or coconut cream.
Sugar-Free Panna Cotta Recipe
Siraphol Siricharattakul / EyeEm / Getty Images
This diabetic dessert recipe offers 335 calories, 2g protein, 4g carbs, 4g total sugar, and 0g added sugar per serving. It’s prepped in 15 minutes and ready after 3 hours of chilling. Get the recipehere.
Creamy and sweet, this easy-to-prepare favorite uses a sugar substitute to allow you to enjoy the full flavor. Plan ahead, though, for this dessert since it takes a few hours for it to solidify and be ready to eat.
Suggested Pairings
Reach for a cup of whole strawberries if you’re opting for fruit. You can also whip up a non-dairy version using coconut milk (full fat) or coconut cream.
3Sugar-Free No-Cook Pumpkin PuddingTOHRU MINOWA/a.collectionRF/Getty ImagesThis diabetic dessert recipe has 105 calories, 1g fat, 13g carbs, 2g protein, 2g of fiber, 9g of sugar, and 6g of added sugar for one serving. It makes about 8 servings and takes 5 minutes. Get the recipehere.You might see pumpkins and think autumn, but you can make this tasty pudding recipe any time of year.Pumpkinis an excellent source of fiber and vitamins—especially vitamins A and C. Since this recipe uses canned pumpkin, it’s easy to make. Just make sure you get pure canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.You’ll get plenty of flavor from topping your pudding with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.Recommended VariationsChoosing a sugar-free pudding mix helps keep the sugar in this dessert low, but you can also use sugar substitutes and low-sugar milk alternatives to get it closer to being sugar-free.
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Sugar-Free No-Cook Pumpkin PuddingTOHRU MINOWA/a.collectionRF/Getty ImagesThis diabetic dessert recipe has 105 calories, 1g fat, 13g carbs, 2g protein, 2g of fiber, 9g of sugar, and 6g of added sugar for one serving. It makes about 8 servings and takes 5 minutes. Get the recipehere.You might see pumpkins and think autumn, but you can make this tasty pudding recipe any time of year.Pumpkinis an excellent source of fiber and vitamins—especially vitamins A and C. Since this recipe uses canned pumpkin, it’s easy to make. Just make sure you get pure canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.You’ll get plenty of flavor from topping your pudding with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.Recommended VariationsChoosing a sugar-free pudding mix helps keep the sugar in this dessert low, but you can also use sugar substitutes and low-sugar milk alternatives to get it closer to being sugar-free.
Sugar-Free No-Cook Pumpkin Pudding
TOHRU MINOWA/a.collectionRF/Getty Images
This diabetic dessert recipe has 105 calories, 1g fat, 13g carbs, 2g protein, 2g of fiber, 9g of sugar, and 6g of added sugar for one serving. It makes about 8 servings and takes 5 minutes. Get the recipehere.
You might see pumpkins and think autumn, but you can make this tasty pudding recipe any time of year.
Pumpkinis an excellent source of fiber and vitamins—especially vitamins A and C. Since this recipe uses canned pumpkin, it’s easy to make. Just make sure you get pure canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
You’ll get plenty of flavor from topping your pudding with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
Choosing a sugar-free pudding mix helps keep the sugar in this dessert low, but you can also use sugar substitutes and low-sugar milk alternatives to get it closer to being sugar-free.
4Gluten-Free Cinnamon Lemon Coconut Bliss BallsEA Stewart, MBA, RDNThis diabetic treat recipe has 97 calories, 3g protein, 6g carbs, 1g fiber, 3g total sugar, and 3g added sugar per ball. It’s ready in 8 minutes. Get the recipehere.This is fun finger food for the entire family—especially kids. It’s perfectly portioned, just sweet enough, and is seasoned with cinnamon, whichmay help with blood glucose control.You can whip up a batch of these over the weekend and enjoy up to two balls ready to grab and go as a snack after lunch or as dessert after dinner.
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Gluten-Free Cinnamon Lemon Coconut Bliss BallsEA Stewart, MBA, RDNThis diabetic treat recipe has 97 calories, 3g protein, 6g carbs, 1g fiber, 3g total sugar, and 3g added sugar per ball. It’s ready in 8 minutes. Get the recipehere.This is fun finger food for the entire family—especially kids. It’s perfectly portioned, just sweet enough, and is seasoned with cinnamon, whichmay help with blood glucose control.You can whip up a batch of these over the weekend and enjoy up to two balls ready to grab and go as a snack after lunch or as dessert after dinner.
Gluten-Free Cinnamon Lemon Coconut Bliss Balls
EA Stewart, MBA, RDN
This diabetic treat recipe has 97 calories, 3g protein, 6g carbs, 1g fiber, 3g total sugar, and 3g added sugar per ball. It’s ready in 8 minutes. Get the recipehere.
This is fun finger food for the entire family—especially kids. It’s perfectly portioned, just sweet enough, and is seasoned with cinnamon, whichmay help with blood glucose control.
You can whip up a batch of these over the weekend and enjoy up to two balls ready to grab and go as a snack after lunch or as dessert after dinner.
5Chocolate Chip and Ricotta-Stuffed StrawberriesCheesecake with Blueberries and Three-Berry Sauce.Photo © Sergii Koval/Dreamstime.comThis low-sugar topping recipe has 42 calories, 0g fat, 10g carbs, 4g fiber, 1g protein, and 5g sugars. Get the recipehere.Boost your antioxidants while taking your dessert up a notch or two. Using a sugar substitute and fresh or frozen fruit, this recipe does require you to turn on the stovetop, but it’s for a simple boil that pays off with restaurant-quality taste.
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Chocolate Chip and Ricotta-Stuffed StrawberriesCheesecake with Blueberries and Three-Berry Sauce.Photo © Sergii Koval/Dreamstime.comThis low-sugar topping recipe has 42 calories, 0g fat, 10g carbs, 4g fiber, 1g protein, and 5g sugars. Get the recipehere.Boost your antioxidants while taking your dessert up a notch or two. Using a sugar substitute and fresh or frozen fruit, this recipe does require you to turn on the stovetop, but it’s for a simple boil that pays off with restaurant-quality taste.
Chocolate Chip and Ricotta-Stuffed Strawberries
Cheesecake with Blueberries and Three-Berry Sauce.Photo © Sergii Koval/Dreamstime.com
This low-sugar topping recipe has 42 calories, 0g fat, 10g carbs, 4g fiber, 1g protein, and 5g sugars. Get the recipehere.
Boost your antioxidants while taking your dessert up a notch or two. Using a sugar substitute and fresh or frozen fruit, this recipe does require you to turn on the stovetop, but it’s for a simple boil that pays off with restaurant-quality taste.
6Tropical Mango PopsiclesKaleigh McMordie, MCN, RDN, LDThis diabetes treat recipe offers 63 calories, 1g protein, 8g carbs, 1g fiber, 6g total sugar, and no added sugar per popsicle. The popsicles should chill for 6 hours. Get the recipehere.There’s an entire list of plusses about this dessert: it contains only four ingredients, requires easy two steps, you can prep once and have enough for a week, there is absolutely no added sugar, the popsicles are cool and refreshing, and you can enjoy up to two if you really want to and still stay near 15g carbs.Recommended VariationsThe recipe is also versatile. No coconut milk? Use a different kind of milk. No fresh mangos? Opt for frozen ones.
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Tropical Mango PopsiclesKaleigh McMordie, MCN, RDN, LDThis diabetes treat recipe offers 63 calories, 1g protein, 8g carbs, 1g fiber, 6g total sugar, and no added sugar per popsicle. The popsicles should chill for 6 hours. Get the recipehere.There’s an entire list of plusses about this dessert: it contains only four ingredients, requires easy two steps, you can prep once and have enough for a week, there is absolutely no added sugar, the popsicles are cool and refreshing, and you can enjoy up to two if you really want to and still stay near 15g carbs.Recommended VariationsThe recipe is also versatile. No coconut milk? Use a different kind of milk. No fresh mangos? Opt for frozen ones.
Tropical Mango Popsicles
This diabetes treat recipe offers 63 calories, 1g protein, 8g carbs, 1g fiber, 6g total sugar, and no added sugar per popsicle. The popsicles should chill for 6 hours. Get the recipehere.
There’s an entire list of plusses about this dessert: it contains only four ingredients, requires easy two steps, you can prep once and have enough for a week, there is absolutely no added sugar, the popsicles are cool and refreshing, and you can enjoy up to two if you really want to and still stay near 15g carbs.
The recipe is also versatile. No coconut milk? Use a different kind of milk. No fresh mangos? Opt for frozen ones.
7No Added Sugar EggnogArina Habich / EyeEm / Getty ImagesThis diabetic treat recipe has 155 calories, 9g fat, 6g carbs, 6g protein, 6g sugars, and no added sugar for about 1/2 cup. The recipe makes 12 servings and takes about 15 minutes. Get the recipehere.Eggnog is a seasonal favorite and a classic holiday beverage, but there’s no rule that says you can’t have it at other times of the year, too.If you want a little festive flavor, try making a batch of this eggnog recipe made with stevia (or a no-calorie sweetener of your choice) for a no added sugar treat.While the recipe calls for alcohol, you needn’t include it. Having the eggnog sans rum cuts down the calories. Choosing a dairy milk alternative like almond milk is another way to make the nutrition of this drink more diabetes-friendly.
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No Added Sugar EggnogArina Habich / EyeEm / Getty ImagesThis diabetic treat recipe has 155 calories, 9g fat, 6g carbs, 6g protein, 6g sugars, and no added sugar for about 1/2 cup. The recipe makes 12 servings and takes about 15 minutes. Get the recipehere.Eggnog is a seasonal favorite and a classic holiday beverage, but there’s no rule that says you can’t have it at other times of the year, too.If you want a little festive flavor, try making a batch of this eggnog recipe made with stevia (or a no-calorie sweetener of your choice) for a no added sugar treat.While the recipe calls for alcohol, you needn’t include it. Having the eggnog sans rum cuts down the calories. Choosing a dairy milk alternative like almond milk is another way to make the nutrition of this drink more diabetes-friendly.
No Added Sugar Eggnog
Arina Habich / EyeEm / Getty Images
This diabetic treat recipe has 155 calories, 9g fat, 6g carbs, 6g protein, 6g sugars, and no added sugar for about 1/2 cup. The recipe makes 12 servings and takes about 15 minutes. Get the recipehere.
Eggnog is a seasonal favorite and a classic holiday beverage, but there’s no rule that says you can’t have it at other times of the year, too.
If you want a little festive flavor, try making a batch of this eggnog recipe made with stevia (or a no-calorie sweetener of your choice) for a no added sugar treat.
While the recipe calls for alcohol, you needn’t include it. Having the eggnog sans rum cuts down the calories. Choosing a dairy milk alternative like almond milk is another way to make the nutrition of this drink more diabetes-friendly.
8Low-Carb Chocolate Peanut Butter FudgeKirk Mastin / Getty ImagesThis diabetic dessert recipe has 76 calories, 7g fat, 3g carbs, 3g protein, 1 g of sugar, and no added sugar for one piece of fudge. You can whip up a batch of 36 servings in about 10 minutes. Get the recipehere.Fudge is a classic no-bake recipe, but it is usually high in sugar and carbs. This low-carb, low-sugar version is a more diabetes-friendly, but still delectable, option.While this dessert has no added sugar and is low in real sugar, you can also swap in stevia or another sugar substitute to make it truly sugar-free.
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Low-Carb Chocolate Peanut Butter FudgeKirk Mastin / Getty ImagesThis diabetic dessert recipe has 76 calories, 7g fat, 3g carbs, 3g protein, 1 g of sugar, and no added sugar for one piece of fudge. You can whip up a batch of 36 servings in about 10 minutes. Get the recipehere.Fudge is a classic no-bake recipe, but it is usually high in sugar and carbs. This low-carb, low-sugar version is a more diabetes-friendly, but still delectable, option.While this dessert has no added sugar and is low in real sugar, you can also swap in stevia or another sugar substitute to make it truly sugar-free.
Low-Carb Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
Kirk Mastin / Getty Images
This diabetic dessert recipe has 76 calories, 7g fat, 3g carbs, 3g protein, 1 g of sugar, and no added sugar for one piece of fudge. You can whip up a batch of 36 servings in about 10 minutes. Get the recipehere.
Fudge is a classic no-bake recipe, but it is usually high in sugar and carbs. This low-carb, low-sugar version is a more diabetes-friendly, but still delectable, option.
While this dessert has no added sugar and is low in real sugar, you can also swap in stevia or another sugar substitute to make it truly sugar-free.
9Coconut Golden MilkVerywell/Alexandra ShytsmanThis diabetic dessert drink recipe has 74 calories, 4.5g fat, 10g carbs, 9g sugar, and 3g added sugar per serving. It takes about 20 minutes to make 2 servings. Get the recipehere.There’s nothing like a warm, comforting drink to make you feel cozy and relaxed. If you don’t want to stand over the stove, you can adapt this hot beverage recipe to be microwave-friendly or even enjoy it chilled instead.This makes enough for you and a companion, but one serving of the golden coconut milk drink has just 37 calories, 5g carbs, 4.5 g sugar, and 1.5 g added sugar.Not only is this beverage low in carbs and sugar compared to a latte or hot cocoa, it also has the powerful nutritional benefits of turmeric, black pepper, and ginger.For an added punch of flavor and a little sweetness, top the drink with cinnamon and honey.
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Coconut Golden MilkVerywell/Alexandra ShytsmanThis diabetic dessert drink recipe has 74 calories, 4.5g fat, 10g carbs, 9g sugar, and 3g added sugar per serving. It takes about 20 minutes to make 2 servings. Get the recipehere.There’s nothing like a warm, comforting drink to make you feel cozy and relaxed. If you don’t want to stand over the stove, you can adapt this hot beverage recipe to be microwave-friendly or even enjoy it chilled instead.This makes enough for you and a companion, but one serving of the golden coconut milk drink has just 37 calories, 5g carbs, 4.5 g sugar, and 1.5 g added sugar.Not only is this beverage low in carbs and sugar compared to a latte or hot cocoa, it also has the powerful nutritional benefits of turmeric, black pepper, and ginger.For an added punch of flavor and a little sweetness, top the drink with cinnamon and honey.
Coconut Golden Milk
Verywell/Alexandra Shytsman
This diabetic dessert drink recipe has 74 calories, 4.5g fat, 10g carbs, 9g sugar, and 3g added sugar per serving. It takes about 20 minutes to make 2 servings. Get the recipehere.
There’s nothing like a warm, comforting drink to make you feel cozy and relaxed. If you don’t want to stand over the stove, you can adapt this hot beverage recipe to be microwave-friendly or even enjoy it chilled instead.
This makes enough for you and a companion, but one serving of the golden coconut milk drink has just 37 calories, 5g carbs, 4.5 g sugar, and 1.5 g added sugar.
Not only is this beverage low in carbs and sugar compared to a latte or hot cocoa, it also has the powerful nutritional benefits of turmeric, black pepper, and ginger.
For an added punch of flavor and a little sweetness, top the drink with cinnamon and honey.
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Low Carb Pumpkin Cheesecake Mousse
Rachael Hartley, RD, LD, CDE
This diabetic dessert recipe has 136 calories, 8g protein, 13g carbs, 2g fiber, 8g total sugar, and 5g added sugar per 1/2 cup serving. The mousse is ready within half an hour. Get the recipe here.
Served in perfectly controlled portions, each spoonful of this mousse is decadent, creamy, and an appetizing combination of sweet flavors spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon.
Be sure to stick to the 1/2 cup portion size for a carb and calorie-controlled treat. With 8g protein per serving, it’ll likely be enough to fill you up.
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Chocolate Chia Smoothie
This diabetes treat recipe has 198 calories, 6g protein, 31g carbs, 9g fiber, 11g total sugar, and no added sugar per parfait. It’s ready in about 10 minutes. Get the recipehere.
Chia seeds are often the stars ofdiabetes-friendly dessertssince they offer a nice amount of fiber to help balance out blood sugar spikes. Cinnamon may also help control blood glucose levels.
12Tropical Papaya Yogurt Walnut BoatsStephanie Lang, MS, RDN, CDNThis diabetic dessert recipe offers 184 calories, 9g protein, 21g carbs, 4g fiber, 15g total sugar, and no added sugar per 1/2 papaya. The mousse is ready in 5 minutes. Get the recipehere.The papaya adds natural sweetness that’s nicely balanced with creamy, protein-rich yogurt and textured walnuts. If you have half of the half, you’ll take in slightly under 100 calories, about 5g protein, 11g carbs, 2g fiber, and 8g total sugar. The best part is that you only need five minutes to make it.Recommended VariationsTransform a tropical snack into dessert—just halve the portion size and get creative with the toppings. We recommend a dusting of cinnamon, which may help withblood glucose control, and plant-based omega-3s like walnuts and chia seeds, which offer a nice crunch.
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Tropical Papaya Yogurt Walnut BoatsStephanie Lang, MS, RDN, CDNThis diabetic dessert recipe offers 184 calories, 9g protein, 21g carbs, 4g fiber, 15g total sugar, and no added sugar per 1/2 papaya. The mousse is ready in 5 minutes. Get the recipehere.The papaya adds natural sweetness that’s nicely balanced with creamy, protein-rich yogurt and textured walnuts. If you have half of the half, you’ll take in slightly under 100 calories, about 5g protein, 11g carbs, 2g fiber, and 8g total sugar. The best part is that you only need five minutes to make it.Recommended VariationsTransform a tropical snack into dessert—just halve the portion size and get creative with the toppings. We recommend a dusting of cinnamon, which may help withblood glucose control, and plant-based omega-3s like walnuts and chia seeds, which offer a nice crunch.
Tropical Papaya Yogurt Walnut Boats
Stephanie Lang, MS, RDN, CDN
This diabetic dessert recipe offers 184 calories, 9g protein, 21g carbs, 4g fiber, 15g total sugar, and no added sugar per 1/2 papaya. The mousse is ready in 5 minutes. Get the recipehere.
The papaya adds natural sweetness that’s nicely balanced with creamy, protein-rich yogurt and textured walnuts. If you have half of the half, you’ll take in slightly under 100 calories, about 5g protein, 11g carbs, 2g fiber, and 8g total sugar. The best part is that you only need five minutes to make it.
Transform a tropical snack into dessert—just halve the portion size and get creative with the toppings. We recommend a dusting of cinnamon, which may help withblood glucose control, and plant-based omega-3s like walnuts and chia seeds, which offer a nice crunch.
13Stuffed Dates 2 Ways: A Sweet and Savory SnackStephanie Lang, MS, RDN, CDNThis diabetic treat recipe offers 73 calories, 2g protein, 7g carbs, 1g fiber, 5g total sugar, and no added sugar for each sunflower butter and seed stuffed date. The goat cheese and honey stuffed date offer about 10 calories less and 3g of added sugar. Both are ready in less than 5 minutes. Get the recipeshere.This is another easy-to-make finger food for when a sweet craving hits. There are two versions here—the sunflower butter stuffed date contains no added sugar, and the goat cheese and honey one has about 3g added sugar per date. The other nutrition stats are similar.Recommended VariationsIf you’re making the sunflower butter and seeds version, go for whichever nut or seed butter you prefer. They all provide a satisfying creaminess and similar nutrition benefits.If you’re making the goat cheese and honey stuffed version, you can omit the honey if you prefer. The date itself offers just enough sweetness.Enjoy two of the same kind or one of each for just around 15g carbs.
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Stuffed Dates 2 Ways: A Sweet and Savory SnackStephanie Lang, MS, RDN, CDNThis diabetic treat recipe offers 73 calories, 2g protein, 7g carbs, 1g fiber, 5g total sugar, and no added sugar for each sunflower butter and seed stuffed date. The goat cheese and honey stuffed date offer about 10 calories less and 3g of added sugar. Both are ready in less than 5 minutes. Get the recipeshere.This is another easy-to-make finger food for when a sweet craving hits. There are two versions here—the sunflower butter stuffed date contains no added sugar, and the goat cheese and honey one has about 3g added sugar per date. The other nutrition stats are similar.Recommended VariationsIf you’re making the sunflower butter and seeds version, go for whichever nut or seed butter you prefer. They all provide a satisfying creaminess and similar nutrition benefits.If you’re making the goat cheese and honey stuffed version, you can omit the honey if you prefer. The date itself offers just enough sweetness.Enjoy two of the same kind or one of each for just around 15g carbs.
Stuffed Dates 2 Ways: A Sweet and Savory Snack
This diabetic treat recipe offers 73 calories, 2g protein, 7g carbs, 1g fiber, 5g total sugar, and no added sugar for each sunflower butter and seed stuffed date. The goat cheese and honey stuffed date offer about 10 calories less and 3g of added sugar. Both are ready in less than 5 minutes. Get the recipeshere.
This is another easy-to-make finger food for when a sweet craving hits. There are two versions here—the sunflower butter stuffed date contains no added sugar, and the goat cheese and honey one has about 3g added sugar per date. The other nutrition stats are similar.
If you’re making the sunflower butter and seeds version, go for whichever nut or seed butter you prefer. They all provide a satisfying creaminess and similar nutrition benefits.
If you’re making the goat cheese and honey stuffed version, you can omit the honey if you prefer. The date itself offers just enough sweetness.
Enjoy two of the same kind or one of each for just around 15g carbs.
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Peanut Butter Cup Chia Pudding
This diabetic treat recipe offers 415 calories, 20g protein, 40g carbs, 17g fiber, 20g total sugar, and 6g added sugar for the entire pudding. Prep is under 5 minutes, with chilling recommended overnight. Get the recipehere.
Here is another breakfast option that can double as dessert when split in half, giving you about 208 calories, 10g protein, 20g carbs, 9g fiber, 10g total sugar, and 3g added sugar.
These nutrition stats are still a bit high for a dessert, so try to enjoy this one after a lighter meal. You’re getting plenty of fiber and protein, so you’ll still be quite full, even if your dinner isn’t as filling on its own.
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Apple Cinnamon Popcorn
Kaleigh McMordie
This diabetic treat recipe has 154 calories, 9g fat, 18g carbs, 2g protein, 3g fiber, 5g sugar, and no added sugar for 2 servings. Get the recipehere.
If you want a sweet ‘n salty treat, look no further than apple cinnamon popcorn. A bowl will take about 10 minutes to make and the recipe ensures you’ll have enough to share.
If you stick to a single serving, you’ll have a sweet-salty treat with no added sugar, just 4.5g of sugar, 9g carbs, 77 calories, and a little fiber.
16No Bake Almond Flour CheesecakeJohn Kelly / StockFoodCreative / Getty ImagesThis diabetic treat recipe has 238 calories, 16g fat, 17g carbs, 6g protein, 14g sugar, and 10g added sugar for one slice of cake. The recipe makes about 8 slices of cake and takes 20 minutes. Get the recipehere.If you’re a cheesecake lover, you may worry that you can’t have cheesecake if you have diabetes. While it’s true that classic cheesecakes are high in fat, carbs, and sugar, you can make a version that is more diabetes-friendly.Even though the almond flour makes this recipe lower carb than traditional cheesecake, a whole slice might still be too decadent.If you go for a half-slice instead, you can enjoy a favorite dessert for 119 calories, 8g fat, 8.5g carbs, 3g protein, 7g sugar, and 5g added sugar.Recommended VariationsTo make the dessert lower in carbs, calories, fat, and sugar, skip the toppings and use a sugar substitute like stevia. You can also try making your ownlow-carb whipped cream.
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No Bake Almond Flour CheesecakeJohn Kelly / StockFoodCreative / Getty ImagesThis diabetic treat recipe has 238 calories, 16g fat, 17g carbs, 6g protein, 14g sugar, and 10g added sugar for one slice of cake. The recipe makes about 8 slices of cake and takes 20 minutes. Get the recipehere.If you’re a cheesecake lover, you may worry that you can’t have cheesecake if you have diabetes. While it’s true that classic cheesecakes are high in fat, carbs, and sugar, you can make a version that is more diabetes-friendly.Even though the almond flour makes this recipe lower carb than traditional cheesecake, a whole slice might still be too decadent.If you go for a half-slice instead, you can enjoy a favorite dessert for 119 calories, 8g fat, 8.5g carbs, 3g protein, 7g sugar, and 5g added sugar.Recommended VariationsTo make the dessert lower in carbs, calories, fat, and sugar, skip the toppings and use a sugar substitute like stevia. You can also try making your ownlow-carb whipped cream.
No Bake Almond Flour Cheesecake
John Kelly / StockFoodCreative / Getty Images
This diabetic treat recipe has 238 calories, 16g fat, 17g carbs, 6g protein, 14g sugar, and 10g added sugar for one slice of cake. The recipe makes about 8 slices of cake and takes 20 minutes. Get the recipehere.
If you’re a cheesecake lover, you may worry that you can’t have cheesecake if you have diabetes. While it’s true that classic cheesecakes are high in fat, carbs, and sugar, you can make a version that is more diabetes-friendly.
Even though the almond flour makes this recipe lower carb than traditional cheesecake, a whole slice might still be too decadent.
If you go for a half-slice instead, you can enjoy a favorite dessert for 119 calories, 8g fat, 8.5g carbs, 3g protein, 7g sugar, and 5g added sugar.
To make the dessert lower in carbs, calories, fat, and sugar, skip the toppings and use a sugar substitute like stevia. You can also try making your ownlow-carb whipped cream.
17Greek Yogurt-Covered Frozen GrapesHungry-GirlThis diabetic treat recipe has 70 calories, less than 0.5g total fat, 15.5g carbs, 1g fiber, 3.5g protein, 13g sugars, and no added sugar for 1/4 serving (about 10 grapes). It makes 4 servings and is ready in about 1 hour. Get the recipehere.Naturally sweet grapes are a perfect, pop-able vehicle for the cool, tangy Greek yogurt. Using a fat-free yogurt of your choice keeps this treat low in fat and sugar.You only need a freezer for this recipe, but you will have to practice patience while waiting for your treats to chill.Recommended VariationsIf you want a little extra sweetness, sprinkle on a little no-calorie sweetener like stevia.
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Greek Yogurt-Covered Frozen GrapesHungry-GirlThis diabetic treat recipe has 70 calories, less than 0.5g total fat, 15.5g carbs, 1g fiber, 3.5g protein, 13g sugars, and no added sugar for 1/4 serving (about 10 grapes). It makes 4 servings and is ready in about 1 hour. Get the recipehere.Naturally sweet grapes are a perfect, pop-able vehicle for the cool, tangy Greek yogurt. Using a fat-free yogurt of your choice keeps this treat low in fat and sugar.You only need a freezer for this recipe, but you will have to practice patience while waiting for your treats to chill.Recommended VariationsIf you want a little extra sweetness, sprinkle on a little no-calorie sweetener like stevia.
Greek Yogurt-Covered Frozen Grapes
Hungry-Girl
This diabetic treat recipe has 70 calories, less than 0.5g total fat, 15.5g carbs, 1g fiber, 3.5g protein, 13g sugars, and no added sugar for 1/4 serving (about 10 grapes). It makes 4 servings and is ready in about 1 hour. Get the recipehere.
Naturally sweet grapes are a perfect, pop-able vehicle for the cool, tangy Greek yogurt. Using a fat-free yogurt of your choice keeps this treat low in fat and sugar.
You only need a freezer for this recipe, but you will have to practice patience while waiting for your treats to chill.
If you want a little extra sweetness, sprinkle on a little no-calorie sweetener like stevia.
18Double Chocolate Cheesecake DipHungry-GirlThis diabetic dessert recipe has 72 calories, 4g fat, 7.5g carbs, 1g fiber, 4.5g sugars, and 2.5g protein for about 3 tablespoons. The recipe makes 6 servings and is ready in just 5 minutes. Get the recipehere.This recipe lets you enjoy cheesecake without the carbs, as it’s basically just the filling with no crust.Sugar substitutes, sugar-free chocolate, and unsweetened cocoa powder make this dessert diabetes diet-friendly without sacrificing flavor.The dip pairs well with slices of fresh fruit, but you can also just have a spoonful.
18
Double Chocolate Cheesecake DipHungry-GirlThis diabetic dessert recipe has 72 calories, 4g fat, 7.5g carbs, 1g fiber, 4.5g sugars, and 2.5g protein for about 3 tablespoons. The recipe makes 6 servings and is ready in just 5 minutes. Get the recipehere.This recipe lets you enjoy cheesecake without the carbs, as it’s basically just the filling with no crust.Sugar substitutes, sugar-free chocolate, and unsweetened cocoa powder make this dessert diabetes diet-friendly without sacrificing flavor.The dip pairs well with slices of fresh fruit, but you can also just have a spoonful.
Double Chocolate Cheesecake Dip
This diabetic dessert recipe has 72 calories, 4g fat, 7.5g carbs, 1g fiber, 4.5g sugars, and 2.5g protein for about 3 tablespoons. The recipe makes 6 servings and is ready in just 5 minutes. Get the recipehere.
This recipe lets you enjoy cheesecake without the carbs, as it’s basically just the filling with no crust.
Sugar substitutes, sugar-free chocolate, and unsweetened cocoa powder make this dessert diabetes diet-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
The dip pairs well with slices of fresh fruit, but you can also just have a spoonful.
19Low-Carb Trail MixPlamen PetkovThis diabetes treat recipe has about 117 calories, 8.7 g fat, 8 g carbs, 2.5 g fiber, and 4g sugar per 1/4 cup serving. It makes about 16 servings. Get the recipehere.Trail mix is incredibly versatile and can be a good pick if you have diabetes because you can control exactly what’s in it and in what amounts.To make a mix that’s a sweet treat without added sugar, go with unsweetened coconut and energy-dense nuts like almonds.You can lower the carb content if you don’t add raisins to the mix.
19
Low-Carb Trail MixPlamen PetkovThis diabetes treat recipe has about 117 calories, 8.7 g fat, 8 g carbs, 2.5 g fiber, and 4g sugar per 1/4 cup serving. It makes about 16 servings. Get the recipehere.Trail mix is incredibly versatile and can be a good pick if you have diabetes because you can control exactly what’s in it and in what amounts.To make a mix that’s a sweet treat without added sugar, go with unsweetened coconut and energy-dense nuts like almonds.You can lower the carb content if you don’t add raisins to the mix.
Low-Carb Trail Mix
Plamen Petkov
This diabetes treat recipe has about 117 calories, 8.7 g fat, 8 g carbs, 2.5 g fiber, and 4g sugar per 1/4 cup serving. It makes about 16 servings. Get the recipehere.
Trail mix is incredibly versatile and can be a good pick if you have diabetes because you can control exactly what’s in it and in what amounts.
To make a mix that’s a sweet treat without added sugar, go with unsweetened coconut and energy-dense nuts like almonds.
You can lower the carb content if you don’t add raisins to the mix.
20
Peanut Butter Powder Dip
Verywell / Alexandra Shytsman
This diabetes treat recipe has 90 calories, 3g fat, 10g carbs, 4g fiber, 2g sugar, and 10g protein for 2 tablespoons. Find other ways to use powdered peanut butterhere.
While real peanut butter can be high in saturated fat, salt, and added sugar, the powdered versions are lower in fat and just as versatile. In fact, you might find it easier (or at least less messy) tocook with powdered peanut butter.
Most peanut butter powders are just crushed peanuts. Some products add a little salt or sugar, so be sure to check the labels.
To make a sugar-free peanut butter dip, just mix up the powder with water and a no-calorie sweetener. You can change up the ratio of powder, sugar, and water to find the sweetness and consistency of the dip that you like best.
Summary
If you have diabetes, you might think dessert is off-limits—but that’s far from true. You’ll find plenty of easy diabetes treat recipes out there that incorporate all your favorite flavors.
With adjustments and swaps, you can have classic treats that are diabetes-friendly. There are also some diabetes dessert recipes without artificial sweeteners that are naturally sweetened with fruit.
You can also change diabetes dessert recipes to suit your needs. For example, there are diabetes treats made with stevia and alternative flours and kinds of milk. You can also adjust the portion size of any recipe to lower the carb and sugar content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Candy that has a higher fat or protein content generally has less impact on blood sugar. Chocolate with nuts will raise blood sugar slower than candy without fat or protein. Dark chocolate has an even lower impact on blood sugar than milk chocolate.
Candy labeled “sugar-free” typically contains sugar alcohols that do not raise blood sugar but can cause uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea. It’s best to enjoy them in moderation.
Choose a butter with no salt or abutter substitutemade with olive oil. Enjoying butter or butter alternatives in moderation is best whether you have diabetes or not.
Choosing the Best Butter for Your Diet
2 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Shah SR, Alweis R, Najim NI, et al.Use of dark chocolate for diabetic patients: a review of the literature and current evidence.J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect. 2017;7(4):218-221. doi:10.1080/20009666.2017.1361293Cleveland Clinic.Is sugar-free candy the best choice if you have diabetes?
2 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Shah SR, Alweis R, Najim NI, et al.Use of dark chocolate for diabetic patients: a review of the literature and current evidence.J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect. 2017;7(4):218-221. doi:10.1080/20009666.2017.1361293Cleveland Clinic.Is sugar-free candy the best choice if you have diabetes?
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Shah SR, Alweis R, Najim NI, et al.Use of dark chocolate for diabetic patients: a review of the literature and current evidence.J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect. 2017;7(4):218-221. doi:10.1080/20009666.2017.1361293Cleveland Clinic.Is sugar-free candy the best choice if you have diabetes?
Shah SR, Alweis R, Najim NI, et al.Use of dark chocolate for diabetic patients: a review of the literature and current evidence.J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect. 2017;7(4):218-221. doi:10.1080/20009666.2017.1361293
Cleveland Clinic.Is sugar-free candy the best choice if you have diabetes?
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