I've always been one of those people that needs something sweet after dinner. It doesn't need to be fancy, just something to satisfy my sweet tooth and stop it from nagging me. But — especially around the holidays — sticking to just a small, sweet snack is tricky, what with all the leftover pumpkin pie, and apple pie, and pecan pie, and brownies, and … well, you get it.
But let's be honest: anything that seriously satisfies our sweet tooth isn't going to be the epitome of a healthy meal. But in addition to living a healthy lifestyle, we here at Greatist believe in moderation, too. Though all of these snacks contain (gasp!) sugar, we aimed to find lower-sugar options that offer something beneficial, whether it be a sneaky superfood (like strawberries and grapes) or additional nutrients like fiber or protein. So here are 33 less guilty ways to indulge any sweet tooth.
1. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry
Combat chocolate's not-so-healthy side by using it as a semi-sweet jacket on superfoods, likestrawberries! Dip and let set in the refrigerator until the chocolate coating has hardened.
2. Hot Chocolate
Skim (or soy) milk can make a healthful base to this slightly sweet drink — just don't overdo it on the chocolate syrup.
3. Choco-Nut Popcorn
Pop a small bag of natural popcorn and top with 1 tablespoon melted peanut butter and a dusting of cocoa powder. Crunchy and the perfect amount of sweetness! Not sweet enough? Try swapping peanut butter for Nutella.
4. Peanut Butter and Chocolate Pretzels
A little salty sweet combo can cure those sugary cravings. Microwave 1 square of dark chocolate and 1 teaspoon natural peanut butter until melted, and dip 1 large or 10 mini pretzel rods.
5. Pudding
Chocolate, vanilla, pistachio — take whichever flavor you like most and whip some up with skim milk. Enjoy ½ cup without any guilt! Top with some fresh berries for added fiber.
6. Frozen Chocolate Banana
This is the perfect frozen sweet treat with some extra nutritional punch! Bananas are a great source of vitamins C and B6, and are also packed with fiber and potassium. Peel a banana, cut into two equal halves, and freeze. Once solid, take out and roll in melted dark chocolate. While the chocolate's still melty, roll in whichever crunchy topping you like — sprinkles, nuts, and granola all work well! Return to the freezer until the chocolate is set (at least an hour). Enjoy!
7. Smoothie
It's easy to find an easy, healthy smoothie recipe for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. In fact, here are 54 healthy smoothie recipes sweet enough to fill any of those cravings.
8. Yogurt Parfait
Top 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla) with your choice of toppings: crumbled graham crackers or granola, nuts, and fruit are all healthy choices. Add some shaved chocolate if you must!
9. Fresh Fruit
Can't get more simple than this. Any piece of fresh fruit should offer enough natural sugar to fill those cravings. Plus, it's definitely the healthiest choice and you get added nutrients and fiber!
10. Dark Chocolate
Sorry, friends — not any old chocolate bar will send you to healthful heaven. But dark chocolate(think more than 70 percent cacao), which lacks all the added fat and sugar of classic milk chocolate, can actually be a healthy treat in moderation. Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants and can even help regulate levels of the stress hormone, cortisol.
11. Chocolate Milk
Not only is chocolate milk a great way to fit a hint of sweetness into your day, research shows it's actually an effective post-workout recovery drink, too!
12. PB&J
We'll admit it: A good portion of the Greatist office is addicted to peanut butter and jelly. Half of a classic sandwich on whole wheat bread (grape, strawberry, or whatever type of jelly you like) provides an excellent amount of sweetness with a little dose of protein and fiber to boot.
13. All-Fruit Popsicle
There's no added sugar in these sweet and cool treats. Simply puree watermelon chunks and some lime juice, freeze, and enjoy. If it's not watermelon season, try any other juicy fruit: Pears, peaches, or berries with a touch of apple juice for base will all make great pops.
14. Cafe Mocha
This is the perfect way to get a kick of caffeine and a serving of dark chocolate all at once. Opt for low-fat milk and stick to a small size to keep the calorie count low.
For all 33 healthier sweet alternatives, go to Greatist.com.
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