40 Quick and Easy Desserts for Pregnancy (+ Desserts to Avoid)

Love this article? Spread the word!

Pregnancy cravings calling? Satisfy your sweet tooth with 40 irresistible, simple and easy desserts for pregnancy! Each comes with a quick recipe and amazing health benefits to nourish you and your baby.

During my pregnancy, I couldn’t stop thinking about chocolate—I mean, it was constant.

I’d finish a meal, feel totally full, and still find myself wandering to the fridge for “just one more little bite.”

Sound familiar? Cravings can feel all-consuming (especially in third trimester), but you don’t have to feel guilty about giving in!

Whether you’re hunting for something weight-friendly, good for gestational diabetes, nausea-soothing, or simply a treat that’s junk-free and baby-approved, my list of 40 delicious desserts for pregnancy has got you covered.

From quick fixes for those “I need it now” moments to indulgent treats that feel like pure luxury, there’s something here for every mom-to-be.

Ready to sweeten up your pregnancy journey? Let’s dive in!

PS: Oh, and guess what? If you’re managing gestational diabetes like I did, I’ve a curated list of 20 mouthwatering, low-sugar desserts for pregnancy too—all under 15g carbs each.

What is A Good Dessert for A Pregnant Woman?

When pregnancy cravings hit, it’s tempting to reach for the first sugary treat in sight.

But what if you could indulge in something mouth-watering and give your baby a boost of nutrients at the same time?

Here’s everything you need to know to satisfy your sweet tooth without a hint of guilt:

1. Nutrient Content
   • Protein: Helps with energy and supports baby’s growth. Look for desserts for pregnancy with Greek yogurt, nuts, or nut butters.
   • Fiber: Aids digestion and helps prevent pregnancy-related constipation. Opt for treats with oats, fruits, or chia seeds.
   • Healthy Fats: Supports brain and eye development for your baby. Ingredients like avocado, nuts, and seeds are great sources.
2. Natural Sweeteners
   • Choose desserts sweetened with fruits, honey, or maple syrup instead of refined sugars.
   • These provide sweetness with added nutrients.
3. Low Sugar and Low Glycemic Index
   • Especially important if you have gestational diabetes.
   • Look for options that balance carbs with protein or fiber to prevent blood sugar spikes.
   • I have an article that talks about glycemic index more in depth, together with over 650+ food list PDF.
4. Simple and Safe Ingredients
   • Avoid raw eggs (common in mousse or cookie dough) and unpasteurized dairy.
   • Stick to fully cooked or pasteurized options.
5. Quick and Easy Options
   • Pregnancy cravings can strike anytime, so prioritize desserts that are simple and easy to prepare, like no-bake options or 5-minute recipes.
6. Allergy-Friendly
   • If you have dietary restrictions, look for gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan-friendly desserts for pregnancy that still provide key nutrients.
7. Indulgence with Balance
   • A good dessert for pregnancy feels indulgent without being overly processed.
   • It should be a treat you can enjoy guilt-free while keeping you and your baby healthy.

40 Simple and Easy Desserts for Pregnancy

1. Dark Chocolate Squares

Enjoy 2-3 squares of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher).

Why it’s awesome: Packed with antioxidants to keep your cells healthy and magnesium to help with those annoying pregnancy leg cramps. Plus, it’s chocolate—instant mood booster!

2. Banana Oat Cookies

Mash 2 ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Mix in 1 cup of old-fashioned oats and 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon. Scoop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. Makes about 12 cookies.

Why it’s awesome: A natural source of fiber to ease pregnancy-related constipation. Bananas give you potassium to help with bloating and cramps, and oats are like a super gentle energy boost to get you through the day without the sugar crash.

3. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter

Slice 1 fresh apple (Fuji or Gala work well) into wedges. Spread 2 tablespoons of peanut butter evenly on the slices. Optionally, sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon or crushed nuts for added flavor.

Why it’s awesome: Apples are rich in vitamin C, which supports your immune system and aids in iron absorption. Peanut butter provides healthy fats and protein, crucial for your baby’s brain and nervous system development.

4. Greek Yogurt with Honey

Spoon 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt into a bowl. Drizzle 1 teaspoon of honey on top and add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, seeds or berries if desired.

Why it’s awesome: Greek yogurt is a rich source of calcium and protein, essential for your baby’s bone and muscle development. Honey adds a touch of natural sweetness to brighten your day.

5. Frozen Grapes

Take a handful of grapes, toss them in the freezer for a couple of hours, and voilà—instant cooling snack!

Why it’s awesome: Hydrating and refreshing, frozen grapes are a great remedy for nausea. They are rich in antioxidants and vitamin K, which supports blood clotting and bone health for both you and your baby.

6. Chia Pudding with Almond Milk

Stir 2 tablespoons of chia seeds into 1/2 cup of almond milk, pop it in the fridge overnight, and wake up to pudding magic. Top with berries or a little honey.

Why it’s awesome: Chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for your baby’s brain development. They also provide fiber to aid digestion and prevent constipation.

7. Black Bean Brownies

Blend 1 can of rinsed and drained black beans, 2 eggs, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 1/4 cup maple syrup, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Pour into a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. Cool before cutting into squares.

Why it’s awesome: Black beans give you plant-based iron for energy and help with baby’s red blood cell production.

8. Baked Apples with Cinnamon

Core 2 medium apples and place them in a baking dish. Fill the centers with 1 teaspoon of maple syrup and sprinkle generously with cinnamon. Add a small pat of butter on top and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until tender.

Why it’s awesome: Apples are rich in pectin, a soluble fiber that aids digestion. Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties and helps regulate blood sugar levels during pregnancy.

9. Mango Sorbet

Blend 2 cups of frozen mango with a splash of orange juice and a drizzle of honey. Serve it right away or freeze it for later.

Why it’s awesome: Mango is high in vitamin A, vital for your baby’s vision and immune system development. Orange juice adds a dose of vitamin C, supporting collagen production for healthy skin and tissues.

10. Cottage Cheese with Pineapple

Spoon 1 cup of low-fat cottage cheese into a bowl. Top with 1/2 cup of pineapple chunks (fresh or canned in juice, not syrup). Maybe add a sprinkle of shredded coconut or crushed nuts for fun.

Why it’s awesome: Cottage cheese is a great source of calcium and protein for your baby’s growing bones and muscles. Pineapple provides bromelain, which can help improve digestion and reduce bloating.

11. Berry Smoothie Bowl

Blend 1 cup of frozen mixed berries, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, and a splash of almond milk until thick. Pour into a bowl, then top with granola, chia seeds, and fresh fruit.

Why it’s awesome: Berries are loaded with antioxidants to keep your immune system strong, and Greek yogurt brings calcium and protein to the party for baby’s bones and muscles.

12. Avocado Chocolate Mousse

Blend 1 ripe avocado, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons honey, and a splash of almond milk until creamy. Chill before serving.

Why it’s awesome: Avocado is packed with healthy fats for baby’s brain, while the cocoa gives you a little antioxidant boost. And it’s so creamy, you won’t even miss regular mousse.

13. Yogurt-Dipped Strawberries

Dip fresh strawberries into plain or vanilla Greek yogurt, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid.

Why it’s awesome: Strawberries bring vitamin C for immune support, and the yogurt provides a good dose of protein and probiotics to keep your gut happy.

14. Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites

Mix 1 cup oats, 1/4 cup pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup almond butter, and 1 tablespoon maple syrup. Roll into balls and chill.

Why it’s awesome: Pumpkin is full of vitamin A, which is great for baby’s skin and eyesight. Oats and almond butter keep your energy up when you need it most.

15. Date and Nut Bars

Pulse 1 cup of pitted dates, 1/2 cup almonds, and a pinch of sea salt in a food processor until sticky. Press into a pan, chill, and cut into bars.

Why it’s awesome: Dates are natural energy boosters and can help prep your body for labor, while almonds give you healthy fats and vitamin E.

16. Chocolate-Covered Bananas

Slice 1 banana into chunks, dip in melted dark chocolate, and freeze on a baking sheet. Add crushed nuts if you’re feeling fancy.

Why it’s awesome: Bananas are a potassium powerhouse, helping with swelling and cramping, and dark chocolate makes it feel indulgent without the guilt.

17. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Mix 1/2 cup butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 egg, 1 cup oats, 1/2 cup flour, and 1/2 cup raisins. Scoop onto a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 12 minutes.

Why it’s awesome: Oats help stabilize blood sugar and provide fiber, while raisins bring iron to help prevent anemia.

18. Lemon Sorbet

Blend 1 cup of frozen pineapple chunks with the juice of 1 lemon and a tablespoon of honey until smooth. Serve immediately.

Why it’s awesome: This zesty treat is refreshing for nausea and full of vitamin C, which helps your body absorb more iron from foods.

19. Peanut Butter and Banana Rice Cakes

Spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter on a rice cake, add banana slices, and sprinkle with chia seeds or cinnamon.

Why it’s awesome: Peanut butter delivers protein and healthy fats for baby’s development, while bananas give you a quick energy boost.

20. Sweet Potato Pudding

Blend 1 cup of roasted sweet potato, 1/2 cup almond milk, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth. Chill before serving.

Why it’s awesome: Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, which your body turns into vitamin A, crucial for your baby’s skin, eyes, and growth.

21. Coconut Macaroons

Mix 2 cups shredded coconut, 1/4 cup condensed milk, and 1 egg white. Form small mounds on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.

Why it’s awesome: Coconut provides healthy fats and energy, and the protein from the egg white keeps you feeling full longer.

22. Chocolate Avocado Truffles

Mash 1 ripe avocado and mix it with 2 tablespoons cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons honey. Roll into balls and coat in shredded coconut or cocoa powder.

Why it’s awesome: A sneaky way to pack in omega-3s for baby’s brain, plus the chocolate adds a rich and satisfying flavor.

23. Mango Coconut Chia Pudding

Mix 2 tablespoons chia seeds with 1/2 cup coconut milk. Let it sit overnight and top with fresh mango chunks in the morning.

Why it’s awesome: Mango gives you vitamin A for baby’s skin and vision, and coconut milk adds creamy healthy fats for you both.

24. Apple Nachos

Thinly slice an apple and drizzle with melted peanut butter. Sprinkle with chopped nuts, raisins, and a dash of cinnamon.

Why it’s awesome: Apples give you fiber for digestion, and the peanut butter-nut combo adds protein and good fats for long-lasting energy.

25. Blueberry Compote with Yogurt

Simmer 1 cup of blueberries with 1 tablespoon honey and a splash of water for 5 minutes. Spoon over Greek yogurt.

Why it’s awesome: Blueberries are bursting with antioxidants, and yogurt gives you calcium to keep your bones strong while your baby grows.

26. Carrot Cake Muffins

Mix 1 cup grated carrots, 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 egg, and 1/4 cup olive oil. Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.

Why it’s awesome: Carrots are full of beta-carotene for baby’s development, and the fiber helps keep things moving!

27. Pineapple Popsicles

Blend 2 cups of fresh pineapple with 1/4 cup coconut water. Pour into molds and freeze.

Why it’s awesome: Pineapple is hydrating and helps with digestion, while the coconut water keeps you feeling refreshed.

28. Rice Pudding with Cinnamon

Cook 1/2 cup rice in 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon until creamy. Serve warm or chilled.

Why it’s awesome: The carbs give you energy, while the cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar during pregnancy.

29. Frozen Yogurt Bark

Spread 1 cup Greek yogurt on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with mixed berries, chopped nuts, and a drizzle of honey. Freeze for 2 hours and break into pieces.

Why it’s awesome: Greek yogurt is packed with protein and calcium, while the berries add antioxidants to keep you glowing during pregnancy.

30. Pears with Ricotta and Honey

Slice a ripe pear in half, scoop out the core, and fill with 2 tablespoons ricotta cheese. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon.

Why it’s awesome: Pears are a great source of fiber to help with digestion, and ricotta provides calcium for baby’s developing bones.

31. Frozen Banana Bites

Slice a banana into chunks, dip them in melted dark chocolate, and freeze on a tray. Optional: sprinkle crushed nuts or shredded coconut on top.

Why it’s awesome: Bananas are loaded with potassium for your heart and muscles, and the dark chocolate satisfies your sweet tooth without overdoing it.

32. Homemade Berry Jam on Toast

Simmer 1 cup of mixed berries with 1 tablespoon honey until it thickens. Spread on whole-grain toast.

Why it’s awesome: A fruity, fiber-rich snack with natural sweetness, perfect for keeping your energy up and digestion on track.

33. Coconut Milk Ice Cream

Blend 1 can coconut milk, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Freeze in an airtight container, stirring every 30 minutes until creamy.

Why it’s awesome: Creamy and satisfying, this dairy-free option is loaded with healthy fats for baby’s brain development.

34. Chocolate Dipped Dates

Pit a few dates, stuff with a nut of your choice (almond or walnut), and dip in melted dark chocolate. Let them set in the fridge.

Why it’s awesome: Dates are rich in iron and folate and can help with labor prep, while the nuts and chocolate add crunch and a touch of indulgence.

35. Cinnamon Pear Compote

Slice 2 pears and simmer them with a splash of water, 1 tablespoon honey, and a sprinkle of cinnamon until soft. Serve warm or chilled.

Why it’s awesome: Pears are gentle on the stomach and a great source of fiber, making this dessert perfect for those sensitive days.

36. Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Mix 1 cup oats, 1/2 cup peanut butter, and 1/3 cup honey. Press into a pan, chill, and cut into bars.

Why it’s awesome: Easy to make and packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats for sustained energy.

37. Mango Lassi

Blend 1 cup mango chunks, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, a splash of milk, and a pinch of cardamom. Serve chilled.

Why it’s awesome: Mango is rich in vitamin A, and the yogurt brings probiotics to keep your gut healthy and happy.

38. Chocolate Banana Smoothie

Blend 1 frozen banana, 1 cup almond milk, 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, and a drizzle of honey until smooth. Serve chilled.

Why it’s awesome: Satisfies chocolate cravings while providing potassium and magnesium to help prevent muscle cramps during pregnancy.

39. Watermelon Granita

Blend 2 cups watermelon chunks, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and a touch of honey. Freeze and scrape with a fork to serve.

Why it’s awesome: This hydrating and refreshing dessert helps combat dehydration and keeps you cool on hot days.

40. Strawberry Yogurt Parfait

Layer 1 cup Greek yogurt, fresh strawberries, and a sprinkle of granola in a glass. Repeat layers until full.

Why it’s awesome: Quick to make, full of protein, calcium, and vitamin C, plus it looks and tastes amazing!

Desserts to Avoid When Pregnant

Not all desserts are safe or healthy during pregnancy.

While it’s okay to indulge occasionally, here are some treats you should avoid or enjoy with caution:

1. Desserts with Raw or Undercooked Ingredients
   • Raw Eggs: Common in mousse, raw cookie dough, and homemade ice cream. These can carry salmonella, which poses a risk to both you and your baby.
   • Unpasteurized Dairy: Found in some cheesecakes or custards, it can lead to listeria infections.
2. High-Caffeine Desserts
   • Coffee-Flavored Treats: Excessive caffeine (over 200 mg/day – about 2 cups of brewed coffee) from coffee ice cream or chocolate-heavy desserts can increase your risk of pregnancy complications, such as low birthweight, and even miscarriage.
3. Highly Processed Desserts
   • Packaged Cakes and Cookies: These are often loaded with trans fats, artificial additives, and refined sugars, offering little to no nutritional value.
4. Alcohol-Based Desserts
   • Tiramisu, Rum Cake, or Whiskey-Infused Treats
   • Alcohol, even in small amounts, can cross the placenta and affect your baby’s development. It can interfere with brain and organ formation, increasing the risk of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs).
5. High-Sugar Desserts
   • Candy or Sugary Pastries: These can spike your blood sugar, especially if you’re managing gestational diabetes.
6. Fried Desserts
   • Funnel Cakes or Fried Donuts: While delicious, these are high in unhealthy fats and calories, offering little nutrition for you or your baby.
7. Desserts with Unsafe Additives
   • Artificial Sweeteners: Avoid aspartame or saccharin, which may not be safe in large amounts.
   • Food Dyes: Found in some brightly colored desserts, these additives are best limited during pregnancy.

When you focus on safe, nutrient-packed alternatives, you can satisfy those cravings without worrying about your health or your baby’s development.

Just keep an eye on the ingredient list, and when you’re unsure, homemade is always a safe bet!

Tips for Managing Cravings

What if I have an intense craving that feels out of control? What if all I can think about is those potato chips and nothing else will satisfy it?

If you’re fixated on a specific snack and nothing else will do, it’s natural to feel a little conflicted.

While it’s totally okay to indulge in your cravings from time to time, here’s how you can handle those strong, overwhelming cravings in a way that’s still mindful of your health and your baby’s development:

1. Stay Hydrated
   • Sometimes, cravings can be a sign of dehydration.
   • Make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day.
   • If you’re craving something sweet, try a refreshing glass of water with a splash of lemon or cucumber for a burst of flavor.
2. Choose Healthy Alternatives
   • Try to swap out the processed or sugary snack for something nutrient-packed.
   • If you’re craving chocolate, try a piece of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) or make a smoothie with cocoa powder and a banana.
   • If you’re craving something creamy, reach for Greek yogurt topped with berries or a dollop of nut butter.
3. Keep Healthy Snacks On Hand
   • Having pregnancy-friendly snacks readily available will help you resist the temptation to reach for less healthy options.
   • Stock up on protein-packed snacks like nuts, seeds, or a hard-boiled egg, and keep fruit on hand for a natural sweetness fix.
4. Eat Balanced Meals
   • Ensure your meals are balanced with protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep your blood sugar stable and hunger at bay.
   • When you eat well throughout the day, cravings may be less intense.
5. Distract Yourself
   • If you’re craving something but know it’s not the best choice, try distracting yourself with something else—whether it’s taking a walk, doing a quick meditation, or diving into a good book or podcast. Video gaming helped me a lot.
   • Sometimes, cravings can subside once you redirect your focus.
6. Practice Mindful Eating
   • Sometimes, cravings arise from emotional or stress triggers.
   • When you feel a craving coming on, pause for a moment to check in with yourself. Are you truly hungry, or are you eating out of boredom or stress?
7. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with Fruit
   • If you’re craving something sweet, try satisfying it with naturally sweet fruits like berries, apples, or a banana.
   • Pairing fruit with protein (like a handful of nuts or a slice of cheese) can also help balance your blood sugar and keep cravings in check.
8. Allow Occasional Indulgence
   • It’s important not to feel guilty about craving certain foods during pregnancy.
   • Allowing yourself the occasional indulgence is part of the experience.
   • Just try to keep it in moderation and balance it with healthy choices.

I know cravings can be super intense, and I really hope these tips help you manage them.

Final Thought

Pregnancy is such an exciting journey, and those sweet cravings can definitely be a part of it!

With these 40 delicious desserts for pregnancy, you can treat yourself while knowing you’re giving your body and baby something good.

But desserts are just one part of the equation. That’s why I’ve created a Month-by-Month Nutritional Diet Chart to guide you through every stage of pregnancy.

This chart is packed with curated food lists of what to include and avoid, tailored meal ideas, sample 1-day meal plans for every month, and tips on healthy weight targets.

It’s your ultimate companion for balancing cravings while meeting your nutritional goals.

Grab the Month-by-Month Nutritional Diet Chart now and make eating for two feel easy and totally stress-free!

Love this article? Spread the word!