A Low-Calorie Dessert Cookbook for the Conscious Consumer

Last Updated on August 24, 2023 by Our Editors

In today’s world, the importance of sustainable and conscious consumerism cannot be overstated. As the planet grapples with environmental challenges, every choice we make counts. Enter the world of low-calorie desserts – a delightful intersection of health and sustainability. This article delves into the rising trend of these desserts and their positive environmental impact.

Low-Calorie Dessert Recipes

Dive into a world of delightful treats with our collection of low-calorie dessert recipes using sustainable ingredients:

1. Vegan Berry Bliss Smoothie Bowl

Credits: willfrolicforfood

Time Taken: 10 minutes

Calorie Count: 180 calories

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
• 1/2 banana
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• Toppings: coconut flakes, cacao nibs, sliced almonds

Preparation:

• In a blender, combine the mixed berries, banana, almond milk, and chia seeds. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.
• Pour the mixture into a bowl.
• Garnish with coconut flakes, cacao nibs, and sliced almonds for added texture and flavor.

This smoothie bowl is a powerhouse of antioxidants from the berries and omega-3 fatty acids from the chia seeds. The banana adds natural sweetness, making it a delightful morning treat or a refreshing afternoon snack.

2. Organic Sweetener-Stevia Lemon Sorbet

Credits: sugarfreelondoner

Time Taken: 4 hours (including freezing time)

Calorie Count: 150 calories

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup water
• 3 tbsp stevia

Preparation:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, water, and stevia. Stir until the stevia is fully dissolved.
• Transfer the mixture to an ice cream maker and churn as per the manufacturer’s instructions until you achieve a sorbet consistency.
• Transfer the churned mixture to a container and let it freeze for about 3 hours to set.

This lemon sorbet is a perfect palate cleanser. The tanginess of the lemon combined with the calorie-free sweetness of stevia makes it a refreshing treat, especially during the hot summer months.

3. Fair-Trade Chocolate Avocado Mousse

Credits: aseasyasapplepie

Time Taken: 15 minutes

Calorie Count: 190 calories

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 tbsp fair-trade cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Preparation:

• Scoop out the flesh of the ripe avocado and place it in a food processor.
• Add the fair-trade cocoa powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the processor.
• Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no avocado chunks left.
• Transfer the mousse to individual serving dishes and refrigerate for about an hour before serving.

This mousse is a delightful fusion of the creaminess of avocados and the rich flavor of cocoa. The maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness, making it a perfect dessert for those looking for a healthier chocolate treat.

4. Coconut Chia Seed Pudding

Credits: thebigmansworld

Time Taken: 4 hours (including chilling time)

Calorie Count: 180 calories

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 tbsp honey
• Fresh berries for topping

Preparation:

• In a bowl, mix together the chia seeds, coconut milk, and honey.
• Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for about 4 hours or overnight. The chia seeds will absorb the coconut milk and expand, giving the pudding its unique texture.
• Before serving, top the pudding with fresh berries for added flavor and a burst of color.

This tropical pudding is both creamy from the coconut milk and crunchy from the chia seeds. It’s a delightful dessert that’s not only tasty but also packed with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.

5. Vegan Cinnamon Apple Crisps

Credits: onegreenplanet

Time Taken: 2 hours (including baking time)

Calorie Count: 160 calories

Ingredients:

• 2 large apples, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp stevia

Preparation:

• Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C).
• In a large bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with cinnamon and stevia until they’re well-coated.
• Arrange the apple slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, turning the slices halfway through to ensure even baking.

These apple crisps are a perfect snack for those looking for a sweet treat without the added sugar. The natural sweetness of the apples, combined with the warmth of cinnamon, makes it a delightful snack that’s also rich in dietary fiber.

6. Vegan Matcha Energy Balls

Credits: minimalistbaker

Time Taken: 20 minutes

Calorie Count: 180 calories for 2 balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dates, pitted
• 1/2 cup almonds
• 1 tbsp matcha powder
• 1 tbsp coconut oil

Preparation:

• In a food processor, combine the dates, almonds, matcha powder, and coconut oil.
• Process until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency.
• Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls and place them on a tray.
• Refrigerate the balls for about an hour to set.

These energy balls are a perfect pick-me-up snack for those busy days. The natural sweetness of the dates combined with the antioxidants from the matcha and the crunchiness of the almonds makes it a delicious and healthy treat.

7. Vegan Pineapple Coconut Ice Cream

Credits: adashofmegnut

Time Taken: 4 hours (including freezing time)

Calorie Count: 200 calories

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pineapple chunks
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp stevia

Preparation:

• In a blender, combine the pineapple chunks, coconut milk, and stevia.
• Blend until smooth.
• Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Once churned, transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze for about 3 hours.

This tropical ice cream is a refreshing treat that’s dairy-free and naturally sweetened. The pineapple adds a tangy flavor, while the coconut milk gives it a creamy texture.

8. Vegan Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Credits: cleangreensimple

Time Taken: 30 minutes

Calorie Count: 190 calories for 5 strawberries

Ingredients:

• 10 strawberries
• 1/2 cup fair-trade dark chocolate
• 1 tbsp coconut oil

Preparation:

• In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the fair-trade dark chocolate and coconut oil together.
• Once melted, dip each strawberry into the chocolate, ensuring it’s well-coated.
• Place the dipped strawberries on a tray lined with parchment paper.
• Refrigerate the strawberries for about 20 minutes or until the chocolate has set.

A classic dessert with a twist, these strawberries are not only delicious but also ethically sourced. The combination of the juicy strawberries and the rich dark chocolate is a match made in heaven.

9. Vegan Almond Joy Bites

Credits: tasty-yummies

Time Taken: 20 minutes

Calorie Count: 180 calories for 2 bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup almonds
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/2 cup fair-trade dark chocolate

Preparation:

• In a bowl, mix together the shredded coconut, almonds, and maple syrup.
• Shape the mixture into small balls.
• Melt the fair-trade dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Dip each ball into the melted chocolate and place them on a tray lined with parchment paper.
• Refrigerate the bites for about an hour to set.

These bites are a delightful fusion of coconut, almonds, and chocolate. They’re a perfect treat for those looking for a sweet snack that’s also ethically sourced.

10. Vegan Mango Sorbet

Credits: thepetitecook

Time Taken: 4 hours (including freezing time)

Calorie Count: 150 calories

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp stevia

Preparation:

• In a blender, combine the ripe mangoes, lemon juice, and stevia.
• Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.
• Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Once churned, transfer the sorbet to a container and freeze it for about 3 hours.

This mango sorbet is a fruity and refreshing treat that’s perfect for the summer. The natural sweetness of the mangoes combined with the tanginess of the lemon juice makes it a delightful dessert.

Tips for Storing and Enjoying Your Low-Calorie Desserts

To savor the true essence of your low-calorie desserts, it’s crucial to store them correctly. Keeping freshness intact involves understanding the unique needs of each dessert, ensuring they retain their delightful flavor and texture. For instance, moisture-sensitive treats might require airtight containers, while others might thrive in the cool confines of a refrigerator. But once you’re ready to indulge, consider the art of pairing.

Complementing your dessert with the right beverage or side can elevate the entire experience, be it a sparkling wine with a fruity sorbet or a robust coffee with a chocolate mousse. And finally, never underestimate the power of presentation. A little effort in plating and garnishing can transform your dessert from a simple treat to a gourmet experience, making each bite a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Benefits of Low-Calorie Desserts

Embracing low-calorie desserts isn’t just about personal health; it’s a holistic approach that benefits both the individual and the environment. Opting for “less” in terms of sugar and calories often translates to “more” when it comes to overall well-being, as reducing sugar intake can lead to numerous health advantages, from better weight management to decreased risk of chronic diseases.

Moreover, by choosing sustainable ingredients, consumers are making eco-friendly choices that have a ripple effect. Sustainable ingredients often have a lower carbon footprint, promote biodiversity, and reduce the strain on our planet’s resources, making every bite not just healthier for the body but also kinder to the Earth.

Conclusion

Choosing low-calorie, sustainable desserts is more than a dietary choice; it’s a statement. It speaks of a commitment to one’s health and the health of the planet. As we indulge in low-impact sweet treats, we also pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future. So, the next time you reach for a dessert, think of the broader impact and make a conscious choice.

If you’re loving our Low-Calorie Dessert Cookbook, dive deeper into our food blogs for more vegan and sustainable recipe delights. Explore now!