Who doesn’t love a sweet treat after a meal? But when you’re trying to keep an eye on your calories, indulging in dessert can sometimes feel like a challenge. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best low-calorie dessert recipes that allow you to satisfy your cravings without compromising on your goals. These treats are just as delicious as their calorie-laden counterparts, but with far fewer calories, making them a perfect addition to your healthy lifestyle.
Finding and saving low-calorie dessert recipes? ReciMe makes it easy to build your own collection of guilt-free sweets. Whether it’s a light frozen yogurt, baked fruit, or a no-sugar-added mousse from Instagram or Pinterest, save everything to one place. ReciMe helps you organize your dessert ideas, plan them into your week, and automatically generate a grocery list with the ingredients you need. Download ReciMe and treat yourself – without the extra calories.
1. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
Chocolate-dipped strawberries offer a simple, low-calorie dessert that combines fresh strawberries with the richness of dark chocolate. This treat is easy to prepare and perfect for those who want something sweet without the excess calories. You can also add a drizzle of white or milk chocolate to enhance the flavor without adding too many extra calories.
Using fresh strawberries helps keep this dessert light, while dark chocolate adds a satisfying richness. It’s a quick and easy option for a dessert or snack that doesn’t compromise on taste. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to indulge in a simple, low-calorie treat.
Key Highlights:
- Quick and simple to make
- Low in calories with dark chocolate
- Customizable with different types of chocolate
- Gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly
Who It’s Best For:
- Those looking for a low-calorie dessert
- Anyone who enjoys fruit and chocolate
- People following gluten-free or vegetarian diets
2. Dark Chocolate Orange Creams
Dark chocolate orange creams combine the rich, indulgent flavor of dark chocolate with the refreshing tang of orange, creating a light, low-calorie dessert. This treat is easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients like dark chocolate, double cream, and orange segments.
This dessert is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Dark chocolate is known for its heart-healthy flavonoids, and the orange adds a boost of vitamin C. By using low-fat yogurt, this dessert keeps the calories low while still delivering a satisfying, creamy texture. It’s a perfect choice for anyone looking for a quick, guilt-free sweet treat.
Key Highlights:
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Low calorie, with heart-healthy dark chocolate
- Includes vitamin C from orange
- Gluten-free and nut-free
Who It’s Best For:
- Those seeking a light, low-calorie dessert
- People who enjoy the combination of chocolate and citrus
- Individuals following gluten-free or vegan diets
- Anyone looking for a simple, no-bake treat
3. Raspberry Sorbet
Raspberry sorbet is a refreshing, low-calorie dessert that combines the bright, tangy flavor of fresh raspberries with the sweetness of sugar. This simple yet delicious treat only requires three ingredients – sugar, raspberries, and lemon juice making it both easy to prepare and perfect for a healthy dessert option. The texture is light and smooth, offering a cool, satisfying finish to any meal, especially during the warmer months.
This sorbet is a great option for those looking for a dairy-free, egg-free, and vegan-friendly treat. It’s not only low in calories but also packed with vitamin C from the raspberries and lemon. The process involves freezing the mixture, ensuring that the sorbet has a perfectly smooth consistency. It’s an ideal dessert for anyone who wants a simple yet indulgent treat without the added calories.
Key Highlights:
- Simple to prepare with just three ingredients
- Dairy-free, egg-free, and vegan-friendly
- Low in calories and packed with vitamin C
- Can be stored in the freezer for up to a month
- Refreshing and light dessert for warm weather
Who It’s Best For:
- Those looking for a refreshing, low-calorie dessert
- People following vegan, dairy-free, or egg-free diets
- Anyone who loves fruit-based desserts
- Ideal for hot summer days or as a side with chocolate desserts
4. Cinnamon Stewed Apple
Cinnamon stewed apples are a warm, comforting dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with the aromatic flavor of cinnamon. This dish is easy to prepare and light on calories, making it a perfect option for a satisfying, yet healthy, treat. The soft, stewed apples pair wonderfully with fat-free yogurt and a drizzle of maple syrup, creating a delightful balance of textures and flavors.
This dessert is also versatile, as it can be served on its own or paired with other dishes. You can enjoy it chilled or warm, depending on your preference. The recipe is gluten-free and vegetarian, and it can also be easily adjusted for those with different dietary preferences. It’s a great option for a light dessert that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Key Highlights:
- Simple and quick to prepare
- Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian
- Can be served warm or chilled
- Pairs well with yogurt or maple syrup for extra flavor
- Low-calorie, comforting dessert
Who It’s Best For:
- Those looking for a light and comforting dessert
- People following gluten-free or vegetarian diets
- Anyone who enjoys cinnamon and fruit-based desserts
- Ideal for those wanting a quick, healthy dessert option
5. Strawberry & Mint Granita
Strawberry & mint granita is a refreshing, light frozen dessert perfect for hot days or as a palate cleanser after a meal. Made with fresh strawberries, mint leaves, and a simple sugar syrup, this slushy treat offers a sweet, fruity flavor with a hint of mint. It’s easy to prepare and requires just a few ingredients, making it a great option for anyone looking for a light dessert with minimal effort.
This granita is naturally gluten-free and can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for parties or family gatherings. The combination of strawberries and mint creates a vibrant, crisp flavor that’s both cooling and satisfying. As the granita freezes, it develops a crystallized texture that’s fun to scoop and enjoy.
Key Highlights:
- Simple to prepare with just a few ingredients
- Naturally gluten-free
- Refreshing and light, ideal for warm weather
- Can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer
- Offers a unique flavor combination of strawberry and mint
Who It’s Best For:
- Those looking for a light, refreshing dessert
- People following gluten-free diets
- Ideal for hot summer days or as a meal cleanser
- Anyone who enjoys fruity, slushy desserts
6. Fruity Milk Jellies
Fruity milk jellies are a colorful and playful dessert that combines the creamy texture of milk with the vibrant flavors of various fruits. This dessert consists of layered fruit-flavored jellies, each with a distinct color and taste, making it both visually appealing and delicious. The use of fresh fruits such as peaches, raspberries, blackberries, and mango adds natural sweetness and a refreshing burst of flavor to each layer.
While this dessert requires a bit more time and effort to prepare due to the layering process, it can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for summer parties or gatherings. These fruity milk jellies are gluten-free and versatile, and you can adjust the fruits used depending on what you have available. Serve with a scoop of ice cream for an added indulgence or enjoy it on its own for a lighter treat.
Key Highlights:
- Layered dessert with different fruit flavors
- Requires some preparation time but can be made ahead
- Naturally gluten-free
- Can be served with ice cream for extra richness
- Versatile with fruit choices (avoid pineapple, papaya, and kiwi)
Who It’s Best For:
- Those looking for a fun, colorful dessert
- People following gluten-free diets
- Anyone who enjoys creamy, fruity treats
- Ideal for summer gatherings or parties
7. Star Anise Meringues with Mango Coulis & Raspberries
Star anise meringues are light and crunchy with a subtle spice, topped with mango coulis and fresh raspberries. The meringues are made by whipping egg whites with sugar and star anise, then baking until crisp. The mango coulis adds a smooth, fruity layer, while the raspberries give a fresh, tangy contrast.
This dessert requires some time, especially for the meringues to cool properly, but the result is a simple yet elegant treat. It’s ideal for a special meal, providing a balance of sweetness, spice, and fruit without being heavy.
Key Highlights:
- Light, crisp meringues with star anise flavor
- Topped with mango coulis and fresh raspberries
- Can be made ahead (meringues last up to two weeks in an airtight container)
- Ideal for dinner parties or special occasions
Who It’s Best For:
- People who enjoy fruity and spiced desserts
- Those looking for a light dessert after a meal
- Ideal for special occasions or gatherings
8. Individual Summer Puddings
Individual summer puddings are a light, fruity dessert made with a mix of fresh or frozen berries, including raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries, set in slices of bread. The bread absorbs the juices from the fruit, creating a rich, deep flavor that pairs perfectly with the freshness of the berries. The pudding is chilled for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to fully soak up the juices.
This dessert is simple to make and ideal for summer. It’s naturally low in fat and offers a refreshing, fruity treat. Served with a dollop of whipped cream, these individual puddings are a great way to end a meal, especially for those looking for a lighter, refreshing option.
Key Highlights:
- Made with a variety of fresh berries
- Low-fat and simple to prepare
- Can be made ahead and chilled for a few hours
- Ideal for a light, refreshing summer dessert
- Served with whipped cream for added richness
Who It’s Best For:
- People looking for a light, refreshing dessert
- Those who enjoy fruit-based treats
- Ideal for summer gatherings or as a dinner party dessert
- Anyone looking for a low-fat, easy-to-make option
9. Strawberries with Lime & Long Pepper Syrup
Strawberries with lime and long pepper syrup is a simple, refreshing dessert with a surprising twist. The syrup, made from lime zest, lime juice, golden caster sugar, and the unique heat of long peppercorns, brings a zesty, slightly spicy kick to the sweetness of the strawberries. This quick and easy dish can be made in just 10 minutes, making it a great option for a light, flavorful treat.
The syrup softens the strawberries, infusing them with a citrusy and peppery flavor that’s further complemented by a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream. This dessert is ideal for those looking for something a little different, with a balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy elements.
Key Highlights:
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 10 minutes
- Light, refreshing, and slightly spicy with long pepper
- Perfect for summer or as a light, fruity dessert
- Can be served with ice cream for added creaminess
- Simple ingredients that elevate the strawberries
Who It’s Best For:
- Those looking for a refreshing fruit-based dessert
- People who enjoy a balance of sweet and spicy flavors
- Ideal for summer gatherings or as a light after-meal treat
- Anyone looking for a quick and simple dessert option
10. Effortless Raspberry Iced Mousse
Effortless raspberry iced mousse is a quick, light, and refreshing dessert made with simple ingredients: quark, icing sugar, lemon juice, and frozen raspberries. The mousse comes together in just 5 minutes of prep time, making it a great option for a last-minute treat. The tangy flavor of the raspberries combined with the creamy texture of the quark creates a balanced, refreshing dessert that’s perfect for warm weather.
This mousse is not only easy to make but also relatively low in calories, making it a healthier alternative to traditional mousses. The use of frozen raspberries adds a cool element to the mousse, creating a satisfying frozen dessert without needing a lot of time or effort.
Key Highlights:
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 5 minutes
- Light and refreshing with a tangy raspberry flavor
- Made with low-fat quark for a creamy, healthy option
- Can be served immediately or chilled for a more solid texture
- Simple ingredients with no cooking required
Who It’s Best For:
- Those looking for a quick and healthy dessert
- Anyone who enjoys fruity, tangy flavors
- Ideal for summer gatherings or casual dinner parties
- Perfect for those looking for a light, low-calorie treat
11. Chocolate & Berry Mousse Pots
Chocolate and berry mousse pots are a light yet indulgent dessert that combines rich dark chocolate, tangy yogurt, and fresh berries for a balanced, flavorful treat. This mousse is easy to prepare in just 15 minutes, with minimal cooking involved, making it a perfect option for a quick dessert. The dark chocolate adds a rich, deep flavor, while the yogurt provides a creamy, lighter texture.
The mousse is topped with fresh berries, such as blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of both, adding a fruity contrast that balances the richness of the mousse. This dessert is a great choice for anyone looking for something satisfying yet healthier, thanks to its use of yogurt and dark chocolate.
Key Highlights:
- Quick and easy to prepare in 15 minutes
- Light and creamy with a rich chocolate flavor
- Served with fresh berries for added freshness
- Made with low-fat yogurt for a lighter option
- No heavy ingredients, making it a balanced dessert
Who It’s Best For:
- People who want a light yet indulgent dessert
- Anyone who enjoys the combination of chocolate and fresh berries
- Those looking for a quick, healthy dessert option
- Perfect for casual gatherings or dinner parties
12. Sticky Apple Cups
Sticky apple cups are a simple, microwave-friendly dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the richness of dried fruits like dates and prunes. These apples are hollowed out, filled with a sweet spiced mixture, and cooked quickly in the microwave, making them perfect for a last-minute treat. The addition of orange juice and muscovado sugar enhances the natural flavors of the apples, while the yogurt or fromage frais provides a creamy contrast when serving.
The recipe is incredibly easy to make, and the apples soften to a tender texture while the filling becomes sticky and flavorful. It’s a great option for a quick, comforting dessert, especially during colder months.
Key Highlights:
- Quick and easy to make in just 20 minutes
- Uses simple ingredients like apples, dried dates, and prunes
- Can be customized with different dried fruits and spices
- Serve with Greek yogurt or fromage frais for added creaminess
- Perfect for a warming, last-minute dessert
Who It’s Best For:
- Those looking for a simple, fruit-based dessert
- People who enjoy quick and easy recipes
- Ideal for last-minute or wintertime desserts
- Anyone looking for a low-fat, satisfying treat
13. Mango & Passion Fruit Roulade
Mango and passion fruit roulade is a light, fruity dessert with a delicate sponge filled with a refreshing yogurt and fruit mixture. The sponge, made from eggs, sugar, and flour, is low in fat, making it a lighter option for dessert. The filling, made with yogurt, passion fruit pulp, and mango, is smooth, creamy, and perfectly complemented by the tangy sweetness of the fruit.
This roulade is easy to prepare and perfect for summer, offering a burst of tropical flavor. The sponge can be made ahead and frozen, while the filling comes together quickly, making it a convenient yet impressive dessert for dinner parties or special occasions.
Key Highlights:
- Light and airy sponge filled with a creamy fruit filling
- Made with yogurt instead of cream for a lighter option
- Perfect for summer with tropical flavors of mango and passion fruit
- Can be made ahead and frozen (sponge only)
- Quick and easy to prepare, ready in about 20 minutes
Who It’s Best For:
- Those looking for a lighter, fruit-filled dessert
- People who enjoy tropical flavors like mango and passion fruit
- Ideal for summer gatherings or special occasions
- Anyone who wants a quick and impressive dessert
14. Stewed Rhubarb
Stewed rhubarb is a simple, yet elegant dessert that enhances the natural tartness of rhubarb with the bright flavors of orange zest and juice. This recipe is quick to make, requiring just 10 minutes of cooking time, and is perfect for pairing with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or a scoop of yogurt.
The recipe is flexible, and you can easily adjust the sugar level to suit your taste, making it a great option for those who prefer a less sweet treat. The addition of orange juice adds a refreshing citrus element, and for an extra indulgence, you can turn the leftover syrup into a rich topping for ice cream.
Key Highlights:
- Quick and easy to prepare in 15 minutes
- Versatile – serve with ice cream, yogurt, or on its own
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference by reducing sugar
- Ideal for showcasing the vibrant flavors of fresh rhubarb
- Can be transformed into syrup for a richer dessert topping
Who It’s Best For:
- People who enjoy simple, fruit-based desserts
- Those looking for a light dessert with natural sweetness
- Ideal for those who prefer less sugar in their desserts
- Great for a quick, flavorful treat or as a topping for other dishes
15. Raspberry Tea Ice Lollies
Raspberry tea ice lollies are a refreshing, low-calorie treat perfect for summer. Made with raspberry tea, fresh raspberries, lime juice, and a touch of maple syrup, these lollies are not only vegan and gluten-free but also light and naturally sweet. The raspberry tea, infused with a floral hint from hibiscus, adds a unique flavor that pairs well with the tartness of lime and the sweetness of the berries.
These lollies are easy to prepare, requiring just 10 minutes of prep time and a few hours to freeze. They’re a great option for a healthy dessert or a cool snack on a hot day.
Key Highlights:
- Quick and easy to make in 10 minutes
- Low-calorie and vegan-friendly
- Infused with raspberry tea for a floral flavor
- Can be made ahead and stored in the freezer
- Perfect for summer refreshment
Who It’s Best For:
- Anyone looking for a low-calorie, refreshing treat
- People following vegan or gluten-free diets
- Ideal for hot summer days or as a healthy dessert option
- Those who enjoy fruity, tea-infused flavors
Conclusion
When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth without overdoing it on the calories, there are plenty of options to choose from. From refreshing fruit-based lollies to light yet indulgent treats like low-calorie cheesecakes and sorbets, you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to keep things healthier. The key is finding ingredients that give you that satisfying sweetness while still being kind to your waistline. Plus, many of these recipes are easy to make, so you can whip them up in no time and enjoy a guilt-free treat whenever the craving hits.
So go ahead, treat yourself to something sweet whether it’s a fruity sorbet or a rich, creamy dessert you’ve got plenty of tasty low-calorie options to satisfy your cravings without the guilt. Happy cooking!