20 Diabetes-Friendly Desserts That Everyone Will Love (2024)

It's a common misconception that people with diabetes can't eat dessert. No matter if you have Type 1, a chronic condition in which the body produces little to no insulin, or Type 2, when the body resists the effects of insulin or doesn't produce enough, diabetics can eat anything they want, so long as they do so in moderation. This is key, since carbohydrates, like starches and sugars, are the main contributor to glucose response; it's important to be mindful about what you're consuming, especially for dessert.

It's also important to understand what diabetes really is in order to manage it properly (and eat the things that make you happy). "Diabetes is a result of inadequate insulin and is not caused by too much sugar," says Amanda Kirpitch, nutrition and diabetes educator and owner and founder of Nutrition Perspective. "Diabetes-friendly foods are choices that taste good and [provide nutrition] without the frustration that comes with an unexpected glucose response."

All types of dessert foods can be incorporated into diets for people with diabetes. "Combining carbohydrates with protein and fat, as well as choosing higher fiber carbohydrate sources, can produce a more modest rise in glucose that is easier to match to the body's natural insulin or medications," says Kirptich. When it comes to dessert, she suggests adding nut butters or higher fat dairy to balance out a quicker rising refined carbohydrate choice—or choose natural sugars that are easier on the body.

When in doubt, a go-to way to have better blood sugars and still eat dessert is to monitor your portion sizes. Both Kirpitch and Ileana Vargas, MD, MS, the assistant professor of pediatrics pediatric endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism at Columbia University Medical Center, recommend splitting a dessert with a friend. That way, you can still eat what you're craving, but limit the carbohydrate intake.

Another option is to choose a dessert that won't spike your blood sugar (or is safe to eat mindfully or in moderation). Our collection of diabetes-friendly desserts includes cheesecake, chocolate pudding, custard pie with fresh fruit, and cookies. All these recipes combine fiber, fats, carbohydrates, and other nutritious components.