Indulge in sweet treats that are as good for you as they taste! Fruit-based desserts are a great way to satisfy your cravings while also nourishing your body. From classic combinations like strawberries and bananas, to unique pairings like avocados and raspberries, we’ve got 20 delicious and nutritious fruit dessert recipes that will become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of healthy desserts, where fruits are the stars of the show. You’ll discover easy-to-make treats that use natural sweeteners, wholesome ingredients, and clever flavor combinations to create mouthwatering masterpieces. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a special dessert to impress your friends, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 scrumptious fruit-based desserts.
Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Walnuts
This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of apples, enhanced by the warmth of cinnamon and crunch of walnuts. Perfect as a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples (any variety)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Core the apples, leaving the bottom intact.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
4. Stuff each apple with the cinnamon mixture, dividing it evenly among the apples.
5. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the filling in each apple.
6. Place the apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chia Seed Pudding with Mixed Berries
This recipe combines the nutritional benefits of chia seeds with the natural sweetness of mixed berries, creating a delicious and nutritious pudding that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– Toppings: sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Stir well to combine.
2. Add honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract if using. Mix until well combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and form a gel-like texture.
4. Just before serving, gently stir in mixed berries.
5. Serve chilled, topped with your choice of sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or fresh mint leaves (if using).
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Grilled Peaches with Honey and Greek Yogurt
Elevate your summer snacks with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the sweetness of peaches, the warmth of honey, and the creaminess of Greek yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 2 tbsp pure honey
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and cinnamon (if using).
3. Brush both sides of the peach slices with the honey mixture.
4. Place the peaches on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they develop nice grill marks and caramelized edges.
5. Once the peaches are grilled to your liking, transfer them to a serving dish or plate.
6. Top each peach wedge with a dollop of Greek yogurt.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Strawberry Banana Nice Cream
This refreshing dessert combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the tanginess of fresh strawberries, all blended into a creamy and guilt-free treat. Perfect for hot summer days or as a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the sliced strawberries, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Transfer the nice cream to a bowl and serve immediately. You can also freeze it for up to 3 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-bake, instant dessert.
Avocado Chocolate Mousse with Raspberries
This unique dessert combines the creamy richness of avocado with the deep flavor of dark chocolate and the sweetness of raspberries. The result is a light, airy mousse that’s surprisingly healthier than traditional desserts.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
4. Add the sugar and salt to the blended avocado and mix until combined.
5. Fold the melted chocolate into the avocado mixture until well combined.
6. Gently fold in the whipped cream until no white streaks remain.
7. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Top with fresh raspberries.
Cooking Time: None, as this dessert is chilled before serving. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld together.
Fruit Salad with Lime and Mint Dressing
This vibrant fruit salad combines the sweetness of seasonal fruits with a refreshing twist, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick and easy breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed fresh fruits (strawberries, blueberries, grapes, pineapple, kiwi)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the fresh fruits into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, mint leaves, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the fruit and toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for a morning pick-me-up or a light snack.
Blueberry Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of blueberries with the wholesome goodness of rolled oats, perfect for a snack or dessert. With a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, these treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined. Fold in blueberries.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pineapple Coconut Chia Bites
Pineapple Coconut Chia Bites: A Deliciously Healthy Snack
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick energy boost or as a nutritious snack on-the-go. With the combination of pineapple, coconut, and chia seeds, you’ll be getting a dose of vitamin C, fiber, and omega-3s.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1/2 cup mashed ripe pineapple
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine oats, coconut, and chia seeds.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together pineapple, honey, and coconut oil until well combined.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
4. Scoop the dough into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter).
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These bites are best served chilled or at room temperature.
Kiwi and Mango Sorbet
A refreshing and light dessert perfect for warm weather, this kiwi and mango sorbet combines the sweetness of tropical fruit with a hint of tanginess from the kiwi.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 kiwi, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– Optional: a few sprigs of fresh mint for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the mango, kiwi, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the water and blend until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once the sorbet has finished churning, transfer it to an airtight container and place in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on the speed of your ice cream maker)
Tips:
– For a more intense mango flavor, use only 1 kiwi.
– Experiment with different types of sugar or sweeteners if you prefer.
– Serve chilled and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Apple and Pear Crumble with Almond Flour
This crumble recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples and pears with the nutty flavor of almond flour, creating a deliciously wholesome dessert perfect for cozy fall nights.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1-2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples and pears.
3. Mix in granulated sugar, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together almond flour and melted butter until well combined.
6. Spread the crumble mixture evenly over the fruit.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Watermelon Popsicles with Lime Zest
Beat the heat with these refreshing watermelon popsicles infused with a hint of lime zest. Perfect for hot summer days, these popsicles are a healthy and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cubed seedless watermelon
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon grated lime zest
– 8-10 popsicle sticks
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree the watermelon until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the sugar and lime juice until dissolved.
3. Add the lime zest to the sugar mixture and stir well.
4. Pour the sugar mixture into the blended watermelon and stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds or small cups.
6. Insert a popsicle stick into each mold.
7. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
8. Enjoy your refreshing watermelon popsicles with lime zest!
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Banana Dark Chocolate Energy Balls
A healthy and delicious treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of dark chocolate, perfect for a quick energy boost.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth.
2. Add the rolled oats, chopped dark chocolate, and honey to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Use your hands or a spoon to shape the mixture into small energy balls, about 1-inch in diameter. You should end up with around 6-8 balls.
4. Place the energy balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None, as these are no-bake energy balls!
Roasted Figs with Honey and Pistachios
Roasted Figs with Honey and Pistachios: A Sweet and Nutty Delight
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of figs with the richness of honey and the crunch of pistachios, creating a perfect dessert or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh or dried figs
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the figs and pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. In a bowl, mix together the honey and salt.
4. Add the figs to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the honey mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the figs in a single layer.
6. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the figs.
7. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the figs are tender and caramelized.
8. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mixed Berry Parfait with Granola
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this colorful and delicious mixed berry parfait, topped with crunchy granola and a dollop of creamy yogurt. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the mixed berries.
2. In a separate bowl, layer the vanilla yogurt and honey in a parfait glass or tall clear cup.
3. Add the mixed berry mixture on top of the yogurt layer.
4. Sprinkle the granola over the berries.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Peach and Blackberry Cobbler with Coconut Topping
A sweet and tangy twist on the classic cobbler, this recipe combines juicy peaches and blackberries with a crunchy coconut topping. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed peaches and blackberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup coconut flakes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches and blackberries, sugar, flour, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the fruit to release its juice.
3. Pour melted butter over the fruit mixture and stir until combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, mix coconut flakes and heavy cream until well combined.
6. Spread the coconut topping evenly over the fruit mixture.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pomegranate and Orange Dark Chocolate Bark
Elevate your snacking game with this sweet and tangy dark chocolate bark, infused with the flavors of pomegranate and orange. Perfect for a quick treat or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (120g) dried pomegranate arils
– 1/4 cup (30g) candied orange peel, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) orange liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the pomegranate arils and candied orange peel.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. If using orange liqueur, drizzle it over the top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until set.
7. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: None required!
Stuffed Dates with Almond Butter and Coconut
Elevate your snacking game with this effortless recipe that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the richness of almond butter and the crunch of coconut. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 pitted Medjool dates
– 2 tbsp creamy almond butter
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Cut a slit down the center of each date, being careful not to cut all the way through.
2. In a small bowl, mix together almond butter and salt until well combined.
3. Stuff each date with about 1/2 tsp of the almond butter mixture.
4. Sprinkle shredded coconut over the top of each date.
5. If desired, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Raspberry Chia Jam Thumbprint Cookies
These sweet treats are perfect for a quick dessert or snack. The combination of tart raspberries and nutty chia seeds creates a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup raspberry chia jam (see note)
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add raspberry chia jam, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
10. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Note: To make raspberry chia jam, mix 1/4 cup chia seeds with 1/2 cup fresh raspberries and 1 tbsp honey. Let sit for at least 30 minutes to allow chia seeds to absorb the flavors.
Baked Pears with Cardamom and Walnuts
These sweet and fragrant pears are perfect as a dessert or snack. The combination of tender fruit, crunchy nuts, and warm spices will delight your senses.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and halved
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sugar, melted butter, cardamom, and salt.
3. Arrange pear halves in a baking dish, leaving some space between each pear.
4. Pour the sugar mixture evenly over the pears.
5. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the pears.
6. Drizzle with honey.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pears are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grape and Yogurt Freezer Pops
Cool down with a sweet and tangy treat! These grape and yogurt freezer pops are perfect for hot summer days or as a healthy snack for kids.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain whole milk yogurt
– 1/2 cup purple grapes, halved
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– 10-12 ice pop molds
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine yogurt and honey (if using). Blend until smooth.
2. Add the grapes to the blender and blend until they’re fully incorporated into the yogurt mixture.
3. Pour the mixture into ice pop molds, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top for expansion.
4. Insert popsicle sticks or handles into each mold.
5. Place the molds in the freezer and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None! Just let them freeze.
Enjoy your grape and yogurt freezer pops as a quick and easy treat any time of the year!
Summary
Discover 20 delicious and nutritious fruit dessert recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth while being gentle on your diet. From baked apples with cinnamon and walnuts to strawberry banana nice cream, these healthy treats are perfect for hot summer days or cozy nights in. Indulge in chia seed pudding with mixed berries, grilled peaches with honey and Greek yogurt, or blueberry oatmeal cookies. These mouthwatering recipes showcase the versatility of fruit in desserts and will leave you wanting more.