Rethink Dessert: Wise Choices for a Healthy Diet

Do cakes, cookies and ice cream stymie your eat-better resolutions? These wise dessert choices will keep your healthy diet on track while satisfying your sweet tooth.

Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate is a healthy after-dinner treat—if you choose the right elements. In a large, microwave safe mug, combine 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk, 1 tablespoon plain cocoa powder, a small handful of dark or semisweet chocolate chips and a sweetener of your choice, such as 1 tablespoon raw cane sugar or agave. Microwave on high, stirring every 30 seconds until well combined and hot.

All-Fruit Ice Pop

An all-fruit ice pop, typically made with an assortment of puréed fruits, such as strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and more, is a sweet treat that offers ample vitamins, minerals and even fiber. Look for a brand that contains no added sugar or high-fructose corn syrup.

Roasted Fruit

To intensify their flavor, roast fruits, such as apples, pears or plums. Place halved and pitted fruit on a baking sheet, and roast in a 350-degree oven for 20 to 30 minutes, until fragrant and golden. Before serving, sprinkle julienned fresh basil over fruit for an herbaceous punch.

Yogurt

Using a fork, dip fresh blueberries, mango slices, banana disks or grapes in vanilla yogurt; roll in shredded coconut or minced nuts if you like. Arrange on a parchment-lined sheet pan. Place the pan in the freezer for one hour, and nosh away.

Dark Chocolate

Melt dark chocolate chips over a double boiler and dip dried figs, dried apricot slices or pretzel sticks into the warm chocolate; sprinkle with crushed pistachios, if desired. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.