Although most of us enjoy desserts from time to time, it can be challenging to figure out which desserts you can have when you're diabetic. You don't want your blood sugar to spiral out of control by choosing the wrong thing. Is there anything to avoid altogether? Can you only have tiny portions? What can diabetics eat for dessert? It's easy to get overwhelmed, especially if you've been recently diagnosed.
But as you experiment and try out new diabetic-friendly recipes, you're sure to find some favorites you'll want to make again and again. There are many diabetic-friendly desserts that are easy enough for even beginner cooks to master and taste great.
Desserts and Diabetes
It's fine to include desserts in your diet, according to the American Diabetes Association, as long as your meal is balanced and you don't overindulge. A lot of store-bought desserts, candies, and other sweet items can be alarmingly high in sugar, saturated fat, and refined flour, which can send blood sugar levels soaring. For this reason, it's best to make your own desserts, as you'll know exactly what's going in there.
Any one of the following recipes is sure to satisfy even the sweetest tooth, and they're ideal for anyone who loves dessert, whether diabetic or not. Some of the recipes can be prepared ahead while others should be eaten as soon as they're made. You can also substitute ingredients when making diabetic desserts. Try locally seasonal fruits in fruit-based desserts or swap vanilla for another extract to change up the flavor. Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment in the kitchen - making dessert should be fun!
Sugar and Sweeteners
There are many artificial sweeteners to choose from, for example, so you could replace Splenda with Sweet 'n Low or monk fruit sweetener. Sugar isn't a complete no-no either, but you should enjoy it in moderation. Also, remember you can always adjust the amount of sugar or sweetener in a dessert, according to your palate. Some people prefer their desserts not so sweet. When making your own, you have full control of what goes into the mix and the quantities.
Cheese is an Alternative
Now, if you don't particularly crave sweet foods but you still want another course after dinner, consider a cheese platter. A selection of cheeses with a few crackers and some fig jam is a great way to end a meal for those with more of a savory palate. You can omit the jam to lower the carbs, or try a sugar-free jam.
And now for the desserts!
Enjoying Desserts as a Diabetic: Handy Tips
- Plan dessert ahead: Take into account how many carbs are in your meal, not just in the dessert, balancing everything out. Perhaps have a carb-free or low-carb main dish followed by dessert.
- The occasional treat is fine: No need to feel guilty! You don't have to deprive yourself of sweet foods if you stick to diabetic-friendly desserts.
- Freeze bite-sized desserts for when you crave something sweet: Little Halloween candy-sized bars are nice from the freezer, or you can freeze small portions of homemade desserts if you're making a batch.
- Enjoy fruit: Fruit is of course free from added sugar and it also offers fiber which your body needs. Frozen grapes can be very tasty, or you could freeze banana pieces dipped in melted sugar-free chocolate and grab one (or two!) if a sweet craving hits.
In Conclusion
Being diabetic doesn't mean you can't indulge in delicious desserts. It simply means you should be careful about which desserts to enjoy and be mindful of portion control. So, if you have a sweet tooth and want to finish off your meal with something tasty, try one of the above easy diabetic desserts and you'll definitely have a smile on your face afterwards!
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