Living with diabetes can make it difficult to enjoy most holiday foods and gourmet treats. High sugar items can wreak havoc on a diabetic’s blood sugar levels, and since diabetics need to be especially careful with the sugar and carbohydrate content of each meal, many miss out on the best part of the meal-dessert! If you’re diabetic, or are cooking for someone who has diabetes, there are a few ways to create tasty and satisfying desserts without the added sugar. Some diabetics use Splenda, Stevia, or other alternative sweeteners to make variations of classic desserts, while others enjoy very tiny portions of the classic just for a taste. Whatever your strategy may be, here are eight great holiday desserts that are perfect for diabetic lifestyles:
Espresso Cream Roll for Diabetics
This recipe is easier than it looks, a dessert that’s similar to the classic French Bouche de Noel. It’s made with a mixture of granulated sugar and artificial sweetener; although this version uses Sweet ‘N Low in the filling and cake, Splenda works just as well and is a little more healthier too. It’s also low in fat, so you can finally enjoy a chocolate treat without the guilt!
Cranberry Apple Dessert Risotto for Diabetics
This delicious combination of dried cranberries, golden delicious apples, and Arborio rice is made with Splenda brown sugar. It’s simple to make and can be whipped together in just under 30 minutes. It’s another lowfat recipe that will save you those extra holiday pounds.
Classic Fruitcake for Diabetics
Before you jump to conclusions as to the fate of this fruitcake, rest assured that it actually tastes quite good! This fruitcake recipe makes use of currants, dates, dried figs and dried apricots. There’s no need for any sugar or artificial sweeteners at all, making it a healthy addition to the holiday table.
Shortbread Cookies for Diabetics
When you need something to dip into your cup of tea, shortbread cookies are the perfect match. These cookies are made with Equal, but you can substitute granulated Splenda for a healthier choice. They’re not a low-fat addition to the cookie tray, but will definitely take care of your craving for buttery cookies!
Classic Apple Pie for Diabetics
This apple pie recipe is made with crisp, tart apples and just four other ingredients if you pick up a pre-made crust. Use Splenda instead of Sweet ‘n Low for a tasty treat that is perfect with a scoop of sugar-free vanilla ice cream!
Gingerbread Cupcakes for Diabetics
Don’t just settle for gingerbread cookies this season; gingerbread cupcakes are a fresh spin on classic gingerbread cake and bread, and this recipe makes use of unsweetened applesauce, molasses, and egg substitutes for a flavorful and moist cake. Use Splenda brown sugar in the recipe for a delicious, low fat cupcake the whole family will enjoy!
Traditional Hermit Cookies for Diabetics
The Hermit cookie is a holiday tradition in many countries, a simple brown sugar cookie made with raisins, walnuts, and holiday spices. These addictive cookies are diabetic-friendly with a simple Splenda brown sugar substitute.
Pecan Pie for Diabetics
There’s no need to skip this decadent dessert that’s usually made with sugary corn syrup and molasses. The diabetic version is made with plain gelatin, unsweetened applesauce, apple juice concentrate, and granular fructose instead. It tastes almost as good as the real-sugar varieties, and can be served alone or with low-sugar whipped cream!
From Gingerbread Cupcakes to a classic Fruitcake, diabetics don’t have to skip dessert and miss out on holiday indulgences. Try any of these great recipes for your holiday table this year, and celebrate the season without worrying about your health!
