Reworked article: For many individuals, desserts hold a special place in their hearts, often serving as the highlight of a meal. Particularly for those with a sweet tooth, concluding a delightful feast with a satisfying and sweet treat can be the perfect finale. However, indulging in desserts can sometimes leave us feeling drained and sluggish due to the inevitable sugar crash. Additionally, numerous pre-packaged desserts available in grocery stores are laden with empty calories and unhealthy fats. Nonetheless, there are healthier dessert alternatives that can be found on store shelves.
Certain desserts lack nutritional value and contain excessive amounts of added sugars and saturated fats, leading to undesirable side effects. Fortunately, there are commendable choices available in grocery stores that not only satisfy your cravings for delicious flavors but also meet the requirements of a healthy lifestyle.
Selecting a Healthier Dessert: A Guide
The definition of a healthy dessert can vary from person to person. For individuals managing diabetes, minimizing added sugar intake is crucial. Meanwhile, those prioritizing gut health should seek desserts rich in prebiotic fiber.
To make informed choices when shopping for store-bought desserts, consider the following criteria:
- Keep added sugar content low: Desserts exceeding 8 grams of sugar may not align with a healthy diet.
- Limit saturated fat: Avoid options with excessive saturated fat quantities.
- Seek natural ingredients: Opt for desserts that steer clear of artificial colors and flavors.
- Look for added benefits: Prioritize desserts containing prebiotics, probiotics, or both to support gut health.
Ultimately, the taste of the dessert is paramount. If a dessert fails to provide an enjoyable experience, it may not be worth indulging in.
Explore the Finest Healthy Desserts Available in Grocery Stores
1) Halo Top Chocolate Ice Cream Cake
Satisfy your chocolate cravings with the delectable Halo Top Chocolate Ice Cream Cake. This dessert is a chocolate lover's dream come true. Each serving, which amounts to ⅔ cup, contains just 120 calories, 3.5 grams of fat (2 grams of saturated fat), and 100 mg of sodium. It offers a balanced nutritional profile with 23 grams of carbs, including 6 grams of fiber and 10 grams of sugar. Additionally, it provides a protein boost with 6 grams per serving.
Halo Top's Chocolate Ice Cream Cake is a lower-calorie and lower-sugar option, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a lighter treat. Whether it's dessert time, snack time, or a special celebration, this delightful ice cream satisfies your chocolate cravings. It features a harmonious blend of rich white icing, creamy chocolate ice cream, and the nostalgic flavor of a classic ice cream cake. Halo Top Chocolate Ice Cream Cake is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a guilt-free yet indulgent dessert that ticks all the boxes.
2) That's it Dark Chocolate Fig Truffles
Indulge guilt-free with That's it Dark Chocolate Fig Truffles. These delectable plant-based bites contain only two ingredients: organic figs and organic dark chocolate. With just 70 calories per serving (3 truffles), 1 gram of fat (1 gram of saturated fat), and no sodium, you can enjoy a sweet fix without sacrificing nutritional value. These truffles are loaded with 4 grams of fiber and only 1 gram of added sugars per truffle, making them a satisfying and wholesome snack.
3) KIND Soft Baked Squares
KIND Soft Baked Squares offer a delightful blend of sweetness and nutrition. Each bar, with 180 calories, contains 12 grams of fat (2 grams of saturated fat), and 140 mg of sodium. Made with almond flour and featuring 14 or more finely ground almonds per square, these gluten-free bars provide added nutritional value. With 5 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber per square, they keep you satiated and energized throughout the day.
4) Next by Nature Dark Chocolate Cashews
Next by Nature Dark Chocolate Cashews offer a satisfying combination of flavors and health benefits. With 200 calories per serving (12 pieces), these cashews are packed with monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids that can help lower the risk of heart disease. They also provide magnesium for muscle and nerve health. Coated in dark chocolate, they offer a sweet treat with 4 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber to keep you feeling full.
5) Endangered Species Chocolate, Orange 60% Dark Chocolate
Endangered Species Orange 60% Dark Chocolate is a delightful option packed with essential nutrients. Each serving (1 oz.) contains 160 calories, 11 grams of fat (6 grams of saturated fat), and no sodium. Dark chocolate is known for its antioxidants and magnesium content. In addition to its nutritional value, every Endangered Species bar supports a different charitable cause. By enjoying this chocolate, you contribute to the preservation of endangered coral reefs.
6) Zespri SunGold Kiwis
Zespri SunGold Kiwis are a delicious treat with a host of nutritional benefits. These golden kiwifruits have smooth hairless skin and juicy yellow flesh. Each serving of 2 kiwis contains only 100 calories, with no fat or saturated fat. They are sodium-free and provide 26 grams of carbs, including 2 grams of fiber and 20 grams of natural sugar. Additionally, these kiwis offer 2 grams of protein.
Packed with more than 20 vitamins and minerals, Zespri SunGold Kiwis provide a complete package of feel-good nutrition. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, potassium, folate, vitamin E, and antioxidants. In fact, just one kiwifruit can meet more than 100% of your daily vitamin C needs.
7) Brookside Dark Chocolate Covered Pomegranate
Indulge in the heavenly combination of dark chocolate and pomegranate with Brookside Dark Chocolate Covered Pomegranates. Each serving of 12 pieces contains 120 calories and 5 grams of fat (3 grams of saturated fat). With 1 gram of fiber and 18 grams of sugar, these delectable treats offer a burst of flavor and the nutritional benefits of pomegranates, known for their antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
8) Sheila G's Chocolate Chip Brownie Brittle
Sheila G's Chocolate Chip Brownie Brittle is a delightful snack that helps with portion control. With just 120 calories per pack, these crispy, indulgent treats contain 4.5 grams of fat (2.5 grams of saturated fat). They provide 1 gram of fiber and 14 grams of sugar. By portioning out your sweets, you can satisfy your cravings without overindulging and feeling uncomfortable.
9) Soley Organic Mango & Orange Whole Fruit Gummies
Soley Organic Mango & Orange Whole Fruit Gummies offer a fruity and guilt-free snacking experience. Made from only three ingredients—organic mango, orange extract, and ascorbic acid (vitamin C)—these gummies provide a chewy texture and natural flavors. Each pouch contains 70 calories, 0 grams of fat, and no saturated fat. They offer 14 grams of carbs, including 1 gram of fiber and 7 grams of sugar. In addition, they contribute 4% of your daily potassium and a remarkable 360% of your daily vitamin C intake.
10) OLIPOP Classic Root Beer
OLIPOP Classic Root Beer is a delightful beverage that combines the taste of nostalgia with nutritional benefits. With just 35 calories per can and no fat or saturated fat, it's a guilt-free choice. It contains 25 mg of sodium, 16 grams of carbs, and 2 grams of sugar. What sets it apart is the impressive 9 grams of prebiotic fiber, making it a gut-friendly option. OLIPOP Classic Root Beer is free from artificial colors and flavors, allowing you to enjoy the delicious taste while making a healthier choice.
11) Dole Whip Frozen Treat
Experience the delightful Dole Whip Frozen Treat, a guilt-free frozen dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Each serving of this delectable treat contains just 110 calories and 5 grams of fat (4.5 grams of saturated fat). With no sodium, it's a refreshing option for those watching their sodium intake. The dessert provides 13 grams of carbs, including 1 gram of fiber and 11 grams of natural sugar. Additionally, it offers 1 gram of protein.
What makes Dole Whip Frozen Treat special is its use of real fruit and sweetening with honey. It contains no artificial ingredients, ensuring a naturally delicious experience. You can choose from three mouthwatering flavors: pineapple, mango, and strawberry.