Are you looking for delicious desserts that also have anti-inflammatory properties? Look no further! In this article, we will explore six healthy and indulgent dessert recipes that not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also help reduce inflammation in the body.
Anti-inflammatory desserts are not only tasty but also offer a range of health benefits. By incorporating ingredients that help reduce inflammation, these desserts can aid in reducing joint pain, improving digestion, and boosting overall immunity.
Main Ingredients in Anti-Inflammatory Desserts:
- Turmeric: Known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric is a key ingredient in many of these desserts.
- Ginger: Another potent anti-inflammatory spice, ginger adds a zesty kick to these sweet treats.
- Berries: Packed with antioxidants, berries help fight inflammation and add natural sweetness to the desserts.
- Dark Chocolate: Rich in antioxidants, dark chocolate not only satisfies cravings but also helps reduce inflammation in the body.
- Coconut Oil: A healthy fat that is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil is a staple in these desserts.
1. Turmeric Almond Chia Seed Pudding
This creamy, golden pudding boasts a host of anti-inflammatory benefits from turmeric and chia seeds. It’s a delicious and nutritious way to end any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups almond milk (360 ml)
- 1/2 cup chia seeds (90 g)
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder (15 g)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (15 ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (2.5 ml)
- Pinch of black pepper
- Pinch of cinnamon
Cooking Method
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the almond milk, chia seeds, turmeric powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, black pepper, and cinnamon.
- Whisk the mixture thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, then whisk again to prevent the chia seeds from clumping.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the chia seeds to fully absorb the liquid.
- Before serving, give the pudding a good stir. Serve chilled, topped with fresh fruit or nuts if desired.
2. Ginger Blueberry Oatmeal Bars
These Ginger Blueberry Oatmeal Bars are a delightful and healthy treat that combines the anti-inflammatory properties of fresh ginger and blueberries with the heartiness of oatmeal. Perfect as a snack or a dessert, these bars are both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats (240 ml)
- 1 cup blueberries (240 ml)
- 1/2 cup almond flour (120 ml)
- 1/2 cup honey (120 ml)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted (60 ml)
- 2 tsp freshly grated ginger (10 ml)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5 ml)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (2.5 ml)
- 1/4 tsp salt (1.25 ml)
Cooking Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the oats, almond flour, grated ginger, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the honey, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until well combined.
- Gently fold in the blueberries.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly and press it down firmly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting them into squares.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
3. Blueberry Chia Seed Pudding
This creamy and rich chia seed pudding is packed with antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, making it an anti-inflammatory powerhouse.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (480 ml)
- 1/2 cup chia seeds (90 g)
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (150 g)
- 1-2 tbsp maple syrup (15-30 ml), to taste
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5 ml)
Cooking Method:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Stir in the chia seeds until well combined.
- Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Serve topped with fresh blueberries.
4. Turmeric Ginger Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies incorporate potent anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric and ginger, balanced with a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour (96 g)
- 1/4 cup coconut flour (28 g)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted (60 ml)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (60 ml)
- 1 tbsp ground turmeric (15 g)
- 1 tsp ground ginger (5 g)
- 1/2 tsp baking soda (3 g)
- 1/4 tsp sea salt (1.5 g)
Cooking Method:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, turmeric, ginger, baking soda, and sea salt.
- Mix in melted coconut oil and maple syrup until a dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the baking sheet, flattening them slightly with your hand.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
5. Dark Chocolate Avocado Mousse
This decadent mousse combines the richness of dark chocolate with the creamy texture of avocado for a deliciously healthy treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (25 g)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (60 ml)
- 1/4 cup almond milk (60 ml)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5 ml)
- Pinch of sea salt
Cooking Method:
- Scoop the flesh of the avocados into a food processor.
- Add cocoa powder, maple syrup, almond milk, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
- Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Spoon the mousse into serving cups and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Serve chilled, optionally topped with fresh berries.
6. Pineapple and Mango Sorbet
Refreshing and tangy, this sorbet is made with anti-inflammatory fruits like pineapple and mango, perfect for a hot day.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups frozen pineapple chunks (320 g)
- 2 cups frozen mango chunks (320 g)
- 1/4 cup coconut water (60 ml)
- 1 tbsp lime juice (15 ml)
Cooking Method:
- Add frozen pineapple and mango chunks to a blender.
- Pour in coconut water and lime juice.
- Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides if necessary.
- Scoop into bowls and serve immediately, or freeze for later.
