3 Keto Desserts That Will Crush Your Sugar Cravings

A big question people often ask before starting the ketogenic diet is “But what about dessert?!” It’s true — sugar is mostly off-limits if you’re trying to stay in ketosis, your body’s fat-burning state. But with a little creativity, dessert is still a possibility. There are plenty of keto-friendly ingredients that can keep your sugar cravings at bay like butter, coconut oil, grain-free flours, and dark chocolate. Here are three recipes to get you started. 

The ketogenic, or keto, diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that has been gaining popularity in recent years as a way to lose weight and improve overall health. One of the challenges of following a keto diet is finding satisfying, tasty desserts that fit within the strict dietary guidelines. Fortunately, there are many delicious keto-friendly dessert options to choose from.

One of the key components of a keto diet is limiting carbohydrate intake. This means that traditional sugary desserts, like cookies, cake, and ice cream, are off-limits. Instead, keto desserts often rely on alternative sweeteners, such as stevia or monk fruit, to provide a sweet taste without the added carbs.

One popular option for keto-friendly desserts is to make treats using nut flours, such as almond or coconut flour, in place of wheat flour. These flours are naturally low in carbs and provide a satisfying, nutty flavor. For example, you can make keto-friendly cookies by mixing almond flour, butter, and a low-carb sweetener, such as stevia or monk fruit. You can also use nut flours to make keto-friendly cakes and other baked goods.

Another option for keto desserts is to make treats using avocado or coconut oil as the base. Avocados and coconuts are naturally low in carbs and provide a creamy, rich texture that is perfect for making desserts. For example, you can make a delicious keto chocolate mousse by blending avocado, cocoa powder, and a low-carb sweetener. You can also use coconut oil to make keto-friendly ice cream or frozen treats.

Strawberry Cheesecake Bites

These no-bake bites are the perfect treat for a hot summer day. Combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, ½ cup heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and a small amount of your favorite keto-approved sweetener with ½ cup chopped strawberries. Fill lined mini cupcake tins with the mixture and chill in the fridge until it’s set and ready to serve. (Adapted from Recipe4Living)

Coconut Macaroons

A cult-favorite at New York bakeries, coconut macaroons were practically made for the keto diet. Our recipe calls for 4 whipped egg whites beaten with ½ cup keto-approved sweetener until stiff peaks are formed. Mix in 3 cups of unsweetened shredded coconut and a dash of vanilla extract. Scoop onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 300∘F for 10 minutes, then turn down the temperature to 265∘F and bake for another 20 minutes. After allowing to cool, dip in melted sugar-free dark chocolate mixed with coconut oil to add even more decadence. (Adapted from Keto Diet App)

Avocado Brownies

Just like cauliflower can transform pizza, avocados can transform brownies! In a food processor or blender, combine 2 large eggs; the flesh of 1 medium avocado; ¼ cup coconut oil; 4 tablespoons unsweetened, smooth almond butter; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ to 1/3 cup keto-approved sweetener (use less for more chocolate flavor); 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tablespoon instant coffee or espresso powder; and ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract. Blend until smooth, and transfer to a small lined baking dish. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes at 350∘F, or until a toothpick in the center comes out mostly dry. Let it cool in the pan before serving. (Adapted from The Castaway Kitchen)