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3 Healthy Holiday Desserts That Taste Good Too

December 05, 2025

Holiday desserts tend to be some of the richest dishes on the table. And as delicious as they are, they can feel a little heavy after a big meal.

If you’re looking for something sweet that still fits the season, lighter options can be surprisingly satisfying.

“Using whole ingredients like pears, apples and pumpkin gives you the warm, seasonal flavors people love while also adding fiber, vitamins and natural sweetness,” says Samantha Oldman, RD, with Hartford HealthCare Medical Group. “You can keep dessert feeling festive without relying on heavy cream or large amounts of sugar.”

These healthy holiday desserts use whole ingredients to deliver seasonal flavor without the heaviness. Here are three desserts that do exactly that.

1. Pumpkin pie chia pudding

All the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie — but lighter, creamier and completely no-bake. Pumpkin purée and warming spices mimic the classic holiday taste, while chia seeds give it a naturally thick, pudding-like texture.

“Chia seeds bring fiber, plant-based omega-3s and protein that help make dessert feel balanced,” Oldman says. “And pumpkin adds antioxidants and natural sweetness without relying on added sugar.”

It’s simple to prep ahead and perfect for when you want something sweet after a big holiday meal.

> Get the recipe: Pumpkin Pie Chia Pudding

2. Baked stuffed apples

Think apple pie, but without the crust, it’s warm, spiced and filled with a lightly sweet mixture of oats, nuts and raisins. As the apples bake, they soften into a tender, spoon-ready dessert that feels nostalgic and comforting.

“Apples are full of fiber and antioxidants and pairing them with oats and nuts adds even more nutrients,” Oldman explains. “You get that classic holiday flavor with ingredients that support fullness and balance.”

It’s a cozy, aromatic dessert that makes the whole kitchen smell like the holidays.

> Get the recipe: Baked Stuffed Apples

3. Pear tortilla tart

This elegant tart looks impressive but comes together in minutes. Thin-sliced pears bake until tender on a crisp whole-wheat tortilla, with cinnamon, a touch of sugar and optional apricot glaze bringing all the festive flavor.

“Pears provide natural sweetness and fiber, and using a whole-grain tortilla instead of pastry keeps things lighter while still giving you that crisp texture,” says Oldman.

It’s one of those light holiday desserts that feels special without being heavy.

> Get the recipe: Peart Tortilla Tart