As you gear up for your little one, you’re probably focused on what you should and shouldn’t be eating. You might be surprised to know that there are a lot of delicious and healthy desserts you can indulge in while pregnant.
We’ve got the scoop on some of the best healthy desserts for pregnancy. From sweet treats that are low in sugar, to options that are full of healthy fats and protein, we’ve got something for every craving. So go ahead and indulge—you deserve it!
Trying to eat a healthy pregnancy diet can be tough at times! While you are here make sure to check out our collection of healthy pregnancy recipes for every trimester and get your free pregnancy food list printable.
These desserts would be great to serve for a baby shower or gender reveal too!
Now scroll on for some of the best desserts for pregnancy!
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Pregnancy Desserts
You’re probably wondering what kind of desserts you can still enjoy while pregnant.
Don’t worry, mama! There are plenty of delicious, healthy pregnancy baking recipes that you can indulge.
The key is to just be sure to avoid anything that’s high in sugar, fat or artificial ingredients.
Some of the most common healthy pregnancy desserts include fresh fruit, yogurt, homemade baked goods and pregnancy smoothies. These treats are not only nutritious, but they’re also satisfying and taste great.
It’s ok to indulge—just be sure to do it the healthy way!
Learn more about the best foods to eat while pregnant and get your free printable below.
What are some safe desserts during pregnancy?
You might be surprised to know that you can safely eat many sweets while pregnant. In fact, there are a lot of healthy dessert options out there that will help satisfy your sweet tooth without harming your baby, or putting you at risk for blood sugar spikes.
Here are a few of the healthier options:
- Fresh fruit – sliced fruit, or a fruit salad is a delicious and healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Bonus points for adding some yogurt, or nuts for extra protein.
- Dark chocolate – Quality dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants and can be a healthy way to indulge your sweet tooth. Look for brands with at least 70% cocoa solids.
- Frozen yogurt – A classic indulgence that’s pregnancy-friendly! Just make sure to choose a brand without added a ton of sugar or artificial flavors.
- Homemade baked goods – There’s nothing like the smell of freshly baked cookies, cakes and muffins. Homemade can be healthier than store-bought varieties. Try swapping some of the white flour for whole wheat pastry flour, or gluten free flour, and use honey or maple syrup instead of white sugar. And if you are hosting a baby shower these DIY baby shower cupcakes are good homemade options.
What Sweets should you avoid during pregnancy?
You should avoid any sweets that are high in sugar content, or contain artificial sweeteners. Most store bought cakes, cookies, candy bars, and other sweet treats are off-limits, as they can contain loads of sugar and additives that are not good for your baby.
Instead, try to opt for healthier dessert options. These choices will give you the sweetness you crave without all of the unhealthy extras.
No worries, we’ve got lots of pregnancy friendly desserts below that you can make yourself.
How much sugar is alright in pregnancy?
Now that you know which healthy desserts are safe to eat during pregnancy, the next question is, how much sugar is ok while pregnant?
While it’s true that sugar can be a beneficial part of a balanced diet, it’s important to keep your sugar intake in check. This can help make it easier to avoid gestational diabetes and pass the glucose test while pregnant.
The recommended amount of added sugar for pregnant women is no more than 25 grams per day.
Fortunately, there are ways to enjoy sweet treats without going overboard on added sugars.
Not only are these options healthier than traditional desserts, but they can also be just as delicious!
Tips for Healthy Pregnancy Desserts
Eating treats while pregnant doesn’t need to be a guilty pleasure. If you’re craving something sweet, there are plenty of healthy dessert recipes out there that you can enjoy without compromising your health or your baby’s.
Here are a few tips to help you enjoy delicious desserts while pregnant and still stay healthy:
- Make your own homemade pregnancy desserts that way you can control ingredients.
- Look for recipes made with whole ingredients like natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup or dates. These ingredients are not only healthier than refined sugar but are often easier to digest too.
- Try substituting some of the sugar for fruits like bananas or applesauce which provide sweetness without the refined sugar.
- If you can’t substitute the sugar, a good rule is to reduce the amount of refined sugar called for in a recipe by at least half.
- If baking then swap some of the fat for fruit puree or applesauce as these will help keep moisture in the dessert without adding extra fat.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a delicious, guilt-free treat during pregnancy and still give your body the nourishment it needs.
Healthy Pregnancy Dessert Recipes
Here's our list of the best healthy desserts for pregnancy that include nutritious foods, clean ingredients and are low in sugar.
Easy Healthy Fudge Recipe
A simple 5 ingredient healthy vegan fudge that can be made in one bowl. Uses coconut oil so that you can get lots of omega 3's in and satisfy cravings at the same time.
Raw Hemp Seed Brownies
With dates, hemp seeds, chocolate and walnuts this decant dessert is so easy and satisfying. No added sugar, all the sweetness comes from the dates which are great for preparing the body for labor.
No Bake Date Ball Recipe for Pregnancy
These pregnancy energy balls make a great treat or snack that you can eat without guilt. A nice balance of sweet date fruit and nuts, this one is sure to satisfy.
Did you know that eating date fruit has special benefits during pregnancy? Learn more about date fruit during pregnancy here, plus get more recipes!
PISTACHIO & FETA STUFFED STRAWBERRIES
A simple 3 ingredient recipe with all good for you ingredients. It's a fun way to dress your strawberries.
Awesome Gluten-Free Pear Crisp
Love this crisp made with fresh pears and maple syrup instead of refined sugar. It's also gluten free and vegan!
Mango Lassi
A divinely creamy dessert that is a great substitute for ice cream. This recipe uses cottage cheese for more protein.
Healthy Lemon Bars
Healthy Lemon Bars are the perfect healthy lemon dessert. Paleo, gluten free, and made with no sugar- they’re delicious and easy to make!
Healthy Persimmon Dessert
This simple yet decadent dessert only takes 10 minutes and loaded with nutrition for pregnant moms while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
No Bake Date Bars - Vegan, Gluten Free & Healthy Recipe
These healthy no bake date bars are great for breakfast and as a snack! Make with only whole ingredients and all you need is a blender!
Hey! You might like this pregnancy date smoothie recipe!
Almond Flour Shortbread Cookies
These super easy almond flour shortbread cookies only require 3 ingredients! They are healthy, vegan, gluten-free, paleo, keto and can be made oil-free. Love this healthy dessert option!
Fudgy Vegan Peanut Butter Chickpea Blondies
It's hard to believe this desserts is good for you, but it is! Who knew chickpeas could turn into your new craving pleaser!
Low Carb Cheesecake Recipe
Just because you're pregnant doesn't mean you can't have some cake! Give this low carb cheesecake with no refined sugar a try!
Best Chocolate Fudge Recipe
Fudge made with date fruit and tahini for a healthy treat with lots of benefits.
Mango Chia Pudding
Chia pudding is a great healthy pregnancy dessert option. This recipe topped with mango and coconut is so tasty and easy, you have to give it a try.
Melted Apricots with Fresh Raspberries
A no sugar added, all fruit dessert that has a bit of crunch from pistachios. This one you'll make over and over again!
Grape Slushies
Quick and cooling sweet treat that's great for pregnant Mamas.
Brownie Batter Hummus
OMG is this healthy brownie batter a must try pregnancy dessert. So yummy and nourishing!
Healthy Chocolate Mousse with Chia & Avocado
This velvety smooth mousse hits the spot for taming pregnancy cravings. The great part is that is good for you so you can eat as much as you want!
Check out these healthy pregnancy snacks while you are here!
Raw Avocado Banana Cake
You can't go wrong with this delicious combination of avocado and banana. It's kinda like cheesecake without the dairy!
Stewed Pears
This all fruit dessert is so easy! It's a nice way to satisfy sweet tooth without any added sugar! Makes a great topping for cottage cheese or Greek yogurt.
Vegan No-bake Peanut Butter Pies
These mini peanut butter pies are so darn good. Love how she uses dates for crust and all you need is a food processor!
RAGI MANNI - Finger Millet Custard
For our pregnant Mamas in India, this one comes highly recommended.
Brownie Batter Chia Seed Pudding
This chocolatey chia seed deliciousness makes a great no guilt treat. Make a bunch and stash in the fridge for late night indulging.
More make ahead healthy freezer snacks - great for postpartum meal prep!
Mango Whipped Cottage Cheese
A protein packed sweet treat that comes together in a snap.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Stuffed Dates
Just one more super yummy way to eat date fruit during pregnancy! This one's a must try too!
It is possible to satisfy your sweet cravings without worrying about harming your health, or your baby’s, as long as you choose a healthy dessert option like the ones here.
Enjoy your pregnancy and treat yourself well. You deserve it!
Getting ready for breastfeeding? Check out these lactation desserts too!
More on Healthy Pregnancy
Wanting to have the healthiest pregnancy possible? Here are our best resources to help!
Guide to Healthy Pregnancy (from Mama of 5)
Pregnancy Dinner Ideas – go-to list of healthy, easy options
Healthy Pregnancy Drinks – ideas besides water that offer health benefits
Instant Pot Pregnancy Recipes – healthy instant pot recipes that are quick and have the best foods for pregnancy
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