“I’ve always had a huge sweet tooth, so when I first heard the word ‘diabetes,’ I thought for sure I’d have to say goodbye to all the ‘good stuff,’” says Julija, HIgedi founder. But here’s the thing – that’s not exactly how it works! Sweet treats don’t have to be completely off the table with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). It’s all about being smart with your choices and, yes, (we know, it’s a bit of a bummer) controlling your portions.
Gestational diabetes doesn’t mean you have to give up all your favorite treats. With the right balance of nutrients, you can still enjoy a variety of delicious sweets while keeping your blood sugar levels in check. This guide is here to help you navigate the world of GDM-friendly treats, with tips on how to choose, modify, and make treats that fit your health goals without compromising on flavor!
Gestational diabetes doesn't mean you have to give up all your favorite treats. With the right balance of nutrients, you can still enjoy a variety of delicious sweets while keeping your blood sugar levels in check. This guide is here to help you navigate the world of GDM-friendly treats, with tips on how to choose, modify, and make treats that fit your health goals without compromising on flavor! (And if you're looking for real life inspiration from other moms managing GD, the HIgedi app has a whole community sharing what they're actually eating—blood sugar readings and all.)
Let’s be real – who doesn’t crave a good old sweet treat from time to time? The good news is, even with gestational diabetes, you can still enjoy desserts by making informed choices and substitutions. You don’t have to completely give up your favorites, you just need to enjoy them smartly. Think of your regular go-to sweets – like a (small) slice of cake, 1-2 cookies, or a scoop of ice cream. These are most probably absolutely fine, as long as you balance them out with protein, fiber, or healthy fats to help prevent a spike in blood sugars.
Chocolate & Almonds – A square or two of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) paired with almonds or walnuts. The chocolate satisfies your sweet tooth, while the nuts add protein and healthy fats to keep blood sugar steady.
Cookie & Cheese – A small cookie paired with a slice of cheese. The protein and fat in the cheese help slow down the sugar absorption from the cookie.
A Balanced Meal + Ice Cream – Have a meal with plenty of protein and fiber first, then enjoy a small scoop of full-fat ice cream. This helps prevent a sudden blood sugar spike.
It’s all about balance (and, yes, portion size). Instead of eating sugar on its own, pair it with protein, fiber, or healthy fats to help your body process it more smoothly.
Yes, you can have sweets, but keeping portions in check is key. Even just a few bites can satisfy that craving without sending your blood sugar on a rollercoaster. When choosing a treat, try to pick one that’s higher in protein and has less added sugar—it’ll help keep things more balanced. Here’s what a smart portion looks like:
Cake: A small slice (choose one which is higher in protein and has less added sugar if possible, e.g. cheesecake, nut-based cakes).
Cookies: 1-2 small ones (opt for a protein-rich option, like almond flour cookies).
Ice Cream: A small scoop (go for higher-protein options like Greek yogurt-based or full-fat ice cream).
Chocolate: A square or two (dark chocolate with 70% cocoa or higher).
Did you know that how you eat your food can actually make a difference in how your body processes sugar? The trick is starting with fiber, then protein, and saving carbs for last. This helps slow down how quickly sugar hits your bloodstream, keeping things more stable.
1. Eat some fiber first – A handful of nuts, a little side salad, or even some chia pudding.
2. Follow with protein – A piece of cheese, some Greek yogurt, or a boiled egg.
3. Now enjoy your treat – Your body will handle it much better this way!
Okay, so you still love that cheesecake, but maybe the crust is the problem, or you can’t have it in a giant portion anymore. No worries – there’s always room for tweaking! By swapping out or modifying a few ingredients, you can still enjoy your favorite treats with a little less guilt.
Cheesecake (with a nut-based crust) – Instead of a traditional crust, use crushed nuts like almonds or pecans with a little butter or coconut oil. This adds healthy fats and lowers the carb content, making it a more balanced treat.
Cheesecake (crustless) – Skip the crust altogether! A crustless cheesecake is just as creamy and delicious, but with fewer carbs. Perfect for a lighter, lower-carb option!
Low-carb Chocolate Cake – Craving cake? Go for one made with almond or coconut flour instead of regular flour, and swap the sugar for a low-carb sweetener. Bonus points for adding some protein powder or Greek yogurt to up the protein content!
Cookies (low-carb version) – Try swapping some or all of the flour with almond flour and replacing sugar with a low-carb sweetener. These tweaks make cookies much friendlier to your blood sugar while still being totally satisfying.
Low-carb treats are your best friend when managing gestational diabetes. You can still indulge in sweets without worrying about a big blood sugar spike. The key is to choose recipes with low-carb ingredients and limit added sugars.
Chia Pudding – Chia seeds are full of fiber and omega-3s, which makes them a great choice for GDM-friendly treats. Mix chia seeds with unsweetened almond milk, a dash of vanilla extract, and your favorite sweetener for a creamy, low-carb dessert. Bonus: It's so simple to make and packed with nutrients!
Avocado Chocolate Mousse – Yep, avocado! It’s creamy and smooth, making it the perfect base for a decadent chocolate mousse. Blend ripe avocado with cocoa powder, almond milk, and a sugar substitute for a rich, chocolatey treat that’s loaded with healthy fats. It's indulgent, yet super nourishing!
Coconut Macaroons – These little bites of joy are made with shredded coconut, egg whites, and a low-carb sweetener like monk fruit or stevia. They’re sweet, satisfying, and surprisingly low in carbs! Plus, they’re the perfect snack to keep you energized without the sugar crash.
Wondering what other mamas are eating to satisfy their sweet tooth?
In the HIgedi app, you'll see real meal photos from moms managing GD—most of them complete with their blood sugar readings 1-2 hours later. From chocolate mousse to chia pudding, you'll discover what actually works for other women just like you. It's the easiest way to find out how others are handling the same cravings you're on.
Download the HIgedi App - Free | Learn More
Real moms, real meals, real support—no judgment.
Sometimes the best treats aren’t even sweet! Healthy fats and protein-based snacks or treats are a great option because they help keep you full longer, and they don’t cause big blood sugar swings.
Nut Butter and Celery Sticks – A simple, yet satisfying combo! Pair almond or peanut butter with crunchy celery sticks for a quick snack that packs protein, healthy fats, and a nice crunch.
Cheese & Veggie Platter – Who says you need sweets to enjoy a treat? Grab some cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) and pair it with crunchy veggies like cucumber, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. It’s filling, nutrient-dense, and perfect for a savory craving.
High-Protein Chocolate Pudding (with hard-boiled eggs) – Not your typical chocolate pudding, but trust us – you’ll never guess it’s made with boiled eggs! It’s rich, creamy, and surprisingly filling. The protein from the eggs helps balance the sweetness, making it a great chocolate fix without the blood sugar spikes.
Almond Butter Fat Bombs – Made with almond butter, almond flour, coconut oil, and a splash of vanilla, these little bites are filling, satisfying, and the perfect treat when you need something rich and indulgent without all the sugar.
Smoothies and shakes are an excellent way to get creative with your treats. You can pack in a bunch of nutrients and still have something that tastes like dessert. Plus, the bonus is you can sneak in some extra protein and fiber to help stabilize your blood sugar.
Berry Protein Smoothie – A refreshing, nutrient-packed smoothie that’s low in carbs and high in protein! Blend frozen mixed berries with unsweetened almond milk, a scoop of protein powder, a spoonful of peanut butter, and a handful of spinach. It’s sweet, creamy, and full of vitamins, protein, and healthy fats. For added texture and nutrition, consider adding a tablespoon of rolled oats.
Chocolate Avocado Shake – Indulgent yet guilt-free! Blend a ripe avocado with unsweetened cocoa powder, almond milk, and a sweetener like stevia. Add a scoop of protein powder to make it extra filling. This shake is rich, creamy, and perfect for when you’re craving something decadent without the sugar crash.
Get more inspiration in our 12 Low-Carb Gestational Diabetes Smoothie Ideas blog post.
Just because something is sugar-free doesn’t mean it’s carb-free. With gestational diabetes, it’s essential to remember that we need to count carbs, not just sugar. Sugar-free doesn’t always mean blood sugar-friendly. Many sugar-free products still contain carbs, sugar alcohols, or hidden ingredients that can affect your glucose levels. So while they may seem like the perfect guilt-free treat, it’s important to read labels and make sure they’re truly a good fit for managing gestational diabetes.
Artificial sweeteners are often used in sugar-free foods to help reduce sugar intake, but it's crucial to choose approved options and consume them in moderation.
✔ Check the carb count – Some sugar-free treats still have just as many (or more!) carbs as regular versions.
✔ Watch out for sugar alcohols – Ingredients like maltitol can still spike blood sugar.
✔ Go for whole food swaps – Choosing naturally low-carb options is often the better way to go.
Sugar-Free Gelatin – A light and refreshing treat! Just be sure to check the label to make sure it’s truly low in carbs.
Sugar-Free Cookies – Not all are created equal! Many are still high in carbs, so opt for ones made with almond flour or coconut flour instead of traditional flour.
Sugar-Free Chocolate – A great option if it’s made with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit (and not loaded with sugar alcohols that can cause digestive issues).
Homemade Sugar-Free Treats – The best way to control ingredients! Try making your own treats with low-carb flours and natural sweeteners to keep things truly diabetes-friendly.
Fruits can still be a part of your sweet treat rotation, but some fruits have higher glycemic indexes (GI) than others, meaning they cause your blood sugar to rise more quickly. Pairing fruit with protein or healthy fats can help balance things out. You can learn more about fruits in our 7 Best Fruits for Gestational Diabetes blog post.
✔ Go for lower-GI fruits – Berries, apples, pears, and cherries are better choices than tropical fruits like bananas or pineapple.
✔ Pair with protein or healthy fats – This helps balance blood sugar and keeps you full longer.
✔ Stick to a small portion – A handful of berries or half an apple is usually a good place to start.
Apple & Peanut Butter – A classic! The protein and healthy fats in peanut butter help slow down how quickly the apple’s natural sugars hit your bloodstream.
Berries & Greek Yogurt – Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries paired with unsweetened Greek yogurt = a creamy, protein-packed treat that won’t spike your blood sugar.
Pear & Cheese – A few pear slices with some cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) make for a perfect sweet-savory snack that’s balanced and delicious.
Cherries & Almonds – A handful of fresh cherries (not dried!) with some almonds or walnuts adds fiber, protein, and healthy fats for a better blood sugar response.
Avocado & Cocoa – Blend half an avocado with a bit of cocoa powder and a sugar-free sweetener for a creamy, chocolatey fruit-based treat that’s full of healthy fats.
Let’s be real—sometimes you just don’t have the time (or energy) to whip up a homemade treat. And that’s okay! The good news? There are plenty of store-bought options that can work for gestational diabetes.
The trick is reading labels carefully because even snacks marketed as “healthy” can be loaded with hidden sugars and sneaky carbs. The goal is to choose treats that are higher in protein and fiber while keeping added sugar to a minimum.
✔ Higher protein content – Helps slow down sugar absorption and keeps you full.
✔ More fiber – Balances blood sugar and supports digestion.
✔ Less added sugar – Even “healthy” brands can sneak in unnecessary sugars! Consider options that use natural sweeteners like coconut sugar, which may be less processed and provide additional nutritional benefits, but remember to consume them in moderation as they can still cause spikes in blood glucose levels. Remember: carb is a carb.
Dark Chocolate (70% or Higher)
A square or two of dark chocolate is a great low-sugar treat—especially when paired with healthy fats and protein to slow sugar absorption. Try:
Lily’s Dark Chocolate (sweetened with stevia), various flavors our top pick *Lily's Salted Caramel*
Hu Kitchen Dark Chocolate (no refined sugar), various flavors our top pick *Hu Kitchen Organic Raspberry Cashew Butter*
Ghirardelli Intense Dark Chocolate Squares (good for portion control)
Chocolate Nut Clusters
Crunchy, satisfying, and packed with fiber and healthy fats. Look for options low in added sugar and made with whole nuts:
Manitoba Harvest Superseed Snack Clusters, Dark Chocolate *OUR TOP PICK*
Dark Chocolate-Covered Almonds
Almonds provide fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making this a great grab-and-go snack:
SkinnyDipped Dark Chocolate Almonds *OUR TOP PICK*
No Sugar Added Chocolates
No Sugar Added Peanut Butter Cups – Options like Reese’s, SkinnyDipped Peanut Butter Cups, or Lily’s are all great picks.
Russell Stover Chocolates, various flavors our top pick *Russell Stover Sugar Free Pecan Delights*
If you’re craving something cold and creamy, low-carb ice cream and Greek yogurt bars can be great options. Try:
Rebel Ice Cream, various flavors our top pick *Rebel Mint Chip*
Halo Top Keto Series, various flavors our top pick *Halo Top Peanut Butter Cup*
Some brands make treats using almond or coconut flour, which increases fiber and protein compared to traditional cookies. Using alternatives like almond flour instead of wheat flour can offer additional nutritional benefits, especially for those managing dietary concerns. Try:
Protein bars can be a great option if they’re low in carbs and high in fiber and protein. Try:
Quest Bars
KIND Bars
Nature Valley Protein Bars
Barebells Protein Bars *OUR TOP PICK*
No Cow Bars (plant-based)
UNREAL Dark Chocolate Coconut Bars *OUR TOP PICK*
Because sometimes you just need something sweet! If cravings hit, here are some options to try:
Shameless Snacks – Not super low-carb, but high in fiber to balance blood sugar.
SmartSweets Lollipops – No added sugar, a great on-the-go treat.
These treats are simple, satisfying, and great for managing blood sugar levels without feeling deprived.
Apple with Peanut Butter – A timeless favorite! Apples provide fiber, while peanut butter gives you healthy fats and protein. Together, they make a balanced, sweet, and savory snack that keeps you full and satisfied.
* Mix equal parts of peanut butter with Greek yogurt (or vanilla-flavored protein yogurt) for a protein-packed dip!
Greek Yogurt with Berries – Packed with protein and antioxidants, Greek yogurt pairs perfectly with low-GI berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. It’s a creamy, nutrient-rich treat that helps you stay full and supports stable blood sugar.
Greek Yogurt with Peanut Butter & Nuts – For a protein-packed snack, mix Greek yogurt with a spoonful of peanut butter and top with your favorite nuts. It’s a satisfying combination of creamy, nutty goodness and healthy fats.
Trail Mix – Create your own trail mix with a blend of unsweetened cranberries, seeds, and nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds. It’s a quick, on-the-go snack that’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats.
Cottage Cheese with Cinnamon & Chia Seeds – Cottage cheese is high in protein and pairs beautifully with a sprinkle of cinnamon and chia seeds, which offer extra fiber and omega-3s. This is a simple, low-carb snack that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Dark Chocolate & Almonds – A square or two of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) paired with a handful of almonds makes for a sweet and crunchy treat. Plus, you get the added benefit of healthy fats and protein.
In the mood for something a bit more fun or creative? Here are some lesser-known but equally delicious options to enjoy.
Avocado Chocolate Pudding – Blend ripe avocado with cocoa powder, a low-carb sweetener, and a little almond milk for a creamy, rich chocolate pudding. It’s packed with healthy fats and fiber for a satisfying, indulgent treat.
Strawberry-Chia Seed Pudding with Cottage Cheese – Blend fresh strawberries with creamy cottage cheese, a splash of milk, a hint of vanilla extract, and stir in chia seeds for added texture. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours for a thick, delicious pudding that’s packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. For added nutrition and flavor, top it with fresh berries. A satisfying treat!
Cottage Cheese Ice Cream – Yes, you can make ice cream from cottage cheese! Blend cottage cheese with frozen berries and a dash of vanilla for a creamy dessert that’s perfect as is, or toss it in the freezer for a high-protein, low-sugar ice cream.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Fat Bombs – Mix peanut butter, coconut oil, and a bit of cocoa powder for a quick, no-bake treat that’s high in healthy fats and protein. These bite-sized treats are rich and satisfying, perfect for when you’re craving something sweet.
Avocado Popsicles – For a cool and refreshing treat, blend avocado, unsweetened coconut milk, and a touch of stevia, then freeze into popsicle molds. The result is a creamy, sweet snack that’s perfect for a hot day.
For even more inspiring treat ideas, be sure to check out Not So Classic GD Snack Ideas.
So, we’ve covered both the classic and the not-so-classic treats—but what about those extra fun, super easy-to-make desserts that you might not have thought of? These treats are light, refreshing, and take just minutes to put together, making them perfect for when you need something sweet without the hassle. From fluffy Jello mousse to protein-packed cottage cheese ice cream—let's go!
Creamy Jello Mousse – Jello + Greek yogurt + heavy cream → Blend until light and fluffy. Chill for a creamy, guilt-free dessert!
Including healthy fat in dessert recipes like this can enhance the nutritional value, promoting gut health and providing important nutrients like protein and fiber.
Jello Ice Pops – Jello + lemon juice + blended berries → Freeze in popsicle molds for a refreshing summer treat.
Jello Cheesecake Fluff – Jello + softened cream cheese + almond milk → Blend for a no-bake cheesecake-style treat!
Jello Chia Pudding – Jello + chia seeds + almond milk → Let sit overnight for a fun, jelly-like chia pudding.
Jello Pudding Cups – Jello + Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt → Stir for an easy, high-protein pudding alternative.
Cottage Cheese Mousse – Cottage cheese + (frozen) berries + vanilla extract → Blend for a creamy, protein-packed mousse.
Chocolate Cottage Cheese Pudding – Cottage cheese + cocoa powder + sweetener → Blend for a rich and creamy treat.
Cottage Cheese Banana Split – Cottage cheese + banana slices + dark chocolate drizzle + chopped nuts → A fun, healthier twist on a classic dessert.
Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough Dip – Cottage cheese + almond flour + vanilla extract + sweetener + sugar-free chocolate chips → Blend for a smooth, edible cookie dough-style dip.
Cottage Cheese Ice Cream – Cottage cheese + frozen berries/peach chunks + vanilla extract → Blend, freeze, and enjoy a protein-rich frozen treat!
Cottage Cheese Chocolate Truffles – Cottage cheese + cocoa powder + almond flour + low-carb sweetener → Blend, roll into balls, and coat with cocoa powder or shredded coconut. Chill before serving!
Coconut Almond Truffles – Cottage cheese + almond butter + shredded coconut + vanilla extract → Mix, shape into balls, and roll in more shredded coconut. Chill before serving!
Greek Yogurt Mousse – Greek yogurt + sugar-free Jello mix → Blend until light and fluffy for an easy, mousse-like treat!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip – Greek yogurt + cocoa powder + peanut butter + sweetener → A delicious dip for apple slices or strawberries.
Lemon Cheesecake Yogurt Cups – Greek yogurt + cream cheese + lemon juice + sweetener → Mix, chill, and top with nuts for a cheesecake-inspired snack.
Greek Yogurt Ice Cream (Berries) – Greek yogurt + frozen berries + vanilla extract → Blend, freeze, and enjoy a refreshing frozen dessert.
Greek Yogurt Ice Cream (Chocolate Peanut Butter) – Greek yogurt + cocoa powder + peanut butter + almond milk → Blend until creamy, freeze, and enjoy a protein-packed ice cream.
Greek Yogurt Apple Crumble – Greek yogurt + baked apples + cinnamon + nuts → A warm, cozy dessert with all the flavors of a classic crumble.
Greek Yogurt Chocolate Truffles – Greek yogurt + cocoa powder + almond flour + sweetener → Roll into balls and coat with coconut or cocoa powder for a rich, bite-sized treat.
Gestational diabetes doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to all your favorite treats! I know, at first it might seem like you’re going to have to cut out everything sweet, but honestly, that’s not the case. Certain foods need to be limited, but nothing is completely off-limits—except for the usual pregnancy no-gos like raw meat, raw fish, and unpasteurized dairy. With a little planning and smart choices, you can still have your dessert and enjoy it too! It’s all about finding that balance. By mixing in some healthier options and controlling portions, you can treat yourself from time to time. So, don’t stress – you can still indulge, just in a way that works for you!
Ready to connect with other GDMamas managing treats the same way?
You don't have to figure this out alone. Join thousands of moms in the HIgedi community who are sharing real meals, blood sugar results, and judgment-free support. See what other women are eating, ask questions, and find the treat solutions that work for your body.
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Because managing gestational diabetes should feel less lonely and more supported.
1. Can I have sweets if I have gestational diabetes?
Generally yes! Keep portions small, pair with protein or fat, and test your blood sugar to see how you respond. It's about balance, not deprivation.
2. What’s the best way to modify regular treats?
You can modify many regular treats by swapping out high-carb ingredients. For example, use almond flour instead of regular flour, and replace sugar with low-carb sweeteners like stevia or erythritol. You can also reduce portion sizes or eliminate parts of the treat, like a cheesecake crust or sugary frosting.
3. Can I eat fruit with gestational diabetes?
Generally yes, but choose low-GI options like berries, apples, and peaches. Pair fruit with protein (like nut butter or Greek yogurt) to slow down the absorption of sugar and help stabilize your blood sugar. See our Best Fruits for Gestational Diabetes in our dedicated post for details.
4. What’s the deal with sugar-free treats?
Sugar-free doesn’t necessarily mean carb-free. Many sugar-free treats still contain carbs, which can affect your blood sugar levels. Always check the labels for carb content and portion size.
5. Can I have low-carb desserts if I have gestational diabetes?
Generally yes! Low-carb desserts made with almond flour, coconut flour, or chia seeds can help satisfy cravings without blood sugar spikes.
6. How do I balance treats with my meals?
Treats are best enjoyed as part of a balanced meal or snack. Never eat treats on an empty stomach. Pair sweets with protein and healthy fats (dark chocolate with nuts, berries with Greek yogurt) to prevent spikes.
7. What if I eat a treat and my blood sugar goes higher than expected?
Don't panic. Try: taking a short walk, drinking water, relaxing with deep breathing, or checking in with your care team if it's a pattern. One spike doesn't define your management. Keep focusing on trends and stay consistent with your healthy habits!
8. How do I know what treats are best for me?
Test your blood sugar 1-2 hours after eating to see how certain treats affect you. Keep a food journal to track patterns, and work with your dietitian to tailor recommendations to your body.
9. Can I eat chocolate with gestational diabetes?
Generally yes! Prefer dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) and keep it to 1-2 small squares paired with nuts. Dark chocolate has less sugar and more antioxidants than milk chocolate. See our Chocolate and Gestational Diabetes post for details.
10. Are sweetened beverages okay?
Avoid or highly limit sugary drinks—they spike blood sugar fast with no fiber to slow absorption. Try flavored sparkling water, unsweetened iced tea, or water infused with fruit instead. See our What to Drink Besides Water with Gestational Diabetes post.
11. Are store-bought "diabetic-friendly" treats safe for gestational diabetes?
Not always. Always check labels for total carbs, serving size, and added sweeteners. Test 1-2 hours after eating to see how your body responds.
12. When is the best time to have a treat with gestational diabetes?
Best after a balanced meal or in the afternoon/evening when insulin resistance is lower. Avoid first thing in the morning or on an empty stomach.
For more gestational diabetes-friendly treat ideas, check out these helpful resources:
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Yasso Greek Yogurt Bars, various flavors our top pick *Yasso Fudge Brownie*
