Healthy Holidays: 5 Low-Calorie Thanksgiving Desserts We Love

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and deliciously rich food. But before you slip into a food coma, try ending your meal with these sweet and healthy treats. Inspired by the flavors of Latin culture, turn those classic Thanksgiving desserts into something different this holiday season — without the guilt!

Perhaps one of the most classic of Latin desserts, flan de leche (flan) can easily be made into any variety of flavors.

Though it originated in Spain, this creamy milk and egg based custard has become popular in Mexico and many regions of the U.S., as well. 

Instead of pumpkin pie for dessert, try this simple Pumpkin Flan. At only 100 calories per serving, these individual portions will satisfy that craving for something sweet after a savory meal. [pagebreak]

Another dessert staple, tres leches cake, is a Latin American creation made using three kinds of milk. Light and spongy, yet moist, this dessert is considered perfect for any occasion. 

Add some sweet potato, like in this Tres Leches Cake with Sweet Potato, to the cake batter for added autumn flair, and a natural sweetener.

Everyone loves finger foods, especially kids. 

Whole-Wheat Plantain Empanadas with Chocolate Chili Dipping Sauce are the perfect grab from a table packed with sticky, heavy offerings. Laced with plantains, the empanadas in this recipe taste like banana bread, so try dipping them in a chocolate chili sauce for that wonderful banana-chocolate combo that usually sets dessert lovers’ hearts soaring. [pagebreak]

The most popular fruit of the fall season is the apple. Apple pies, apple turnovers, apple crumbles — you name it, it’s being served on someone’s holiday menu. 

All are delicious on their own, but what if you added some Latin fruit to the mix? A tangy mango, perhaps? In this Fresh Apple and Mango Crumble with Healthy Granola, tart, crisp apple paired with the sweet, juicy mango is the perfect combination for your taste buds. By using a variety of nuts, oats and spices, you can top this dish with a classic crumble or make your own healthy granola for an extra crunch and peace of mind.

Last but not least, we can’t forget holiday cookies! 

So whip up some Ginger Snap Cookies that burst with the essence and aroma of seasonal spices like cinnamon and ginger. The perfect accompaniment? Nothing beats a cold glass of milk.