By Akshara
December 17, 2025
These sugar-free Christmas desserts rely on fruits, nuts and dairy for sweetness rather than refined sugar. Each one is easy to make and still feels appropriate for festive tables and holiday gatherings.
Soak dates briefly if they are dry, then blend them with almonds or cashews and a spoon of cocoa powder. The mixture should form a thick, sticky paste. Roll into small balls with lightly greased hands and chill until firm. Store in the fridge.
Melt good-quality dark chocolate slowly and spread it thinly on a lined tray. Sprinkle roasted nuts, seeds and desiccated coconut evenly over the surface. Press the toppings gently so they stick. Chill until set, then break into shards.
Core whole apples and place them in a baking dish. Fill the centres with chopped nuts, cinnamon and a few raisins if desired. Bake until the apples soften and release their juices. Serve warm, plain or with thick yoghurt.
Cook grated coconut with date paste on low heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan. Let it cool slightly, then shape into laddoos while still warm. Refrigerate to firm up.
Stir chia seeds into milk with vanilla and mashed fruit like banana or berries. Let it rest for at least four hours or overnight until thick. Stir once before serving to smooth the texture. Top with nuts or fruit.
Layer thick strained yoghurt with chopped berries and crushed nuts in small glasses. Chill for about 30 minutes so the flavours settle. Finish with a berry on top before serving.