4 Blueberry-Based Desserts That Will Help You Lose Weight
Blueberries are the signature fruit of springtime, and their royal purple juice is used in (and on) everything from jams and marmalades to pancakes and pies. But besides being sweet, tart, and delicious, blueberries are also spring's premier superfood.
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, specifically gallic acid. Over 6,500 peer-reviewed articles have labeled this compound as a strong antifungal and antiviral agent — and as a neuroprotective agent that maintains brain health. Blueberries contain fewer than 100 calories per cup and are a good source of fiber. They're also packed with vitamin C and contain plentiful amounts of the mineral manganese, while research is continuously pouring in linking blueberries to improved memory and insulin response.
Blueberries are a refreshing treat right out of the container, but if you want to simply reimagine this seasonal superfood without adding tons of extra calories and ingredients, try these four blueberry-based desserts that will help you lose weight.
7-Ingredient Blueberry and Lavender Vegan Cheesecake
I bet you're wondering how cheesecake can be vegan — the secret is all in the cashews. This recipe ingeniously blends together raw cashews, coconut milk, and coconut oil to make a creamy filling that mimics the taste and texture of any New York-style cheesecake. The crust for these cakes uses only dates and walnuts (or almonds), bypassing any butter, cream, or flour.
Click here for the 7-Ingredient Blueberry and Lavender Vegan Cheesecake recipe.
Blueberry and Yogurt Ice Pops
These beautiful, simple-to-make yogurt pops truly accentuate the brightness of fresh blueberries. While they are perfect for a warm day, their nutritional profile is so well balanced that you could even take one out of the freezer for breakfast. With fewer than 150 calories per serving, these pops really do bridge the gap between health food and dessert.
Click here for the Blueberry and Yogurt Ice Pops recipe.
Healthy Blueberry-Peach Cobbler
When blueberries and peaches are in season they possess a sweetness that shouldn't be masked or muddled by a pantry full of ingredients. This recipe amplifies the natural beauty of these fruits, seasoning them using only a hint of maple syrup and vanilla extract. Top these cobblers with a granola crumble and you'll have a quick and healthy dessert ready to go in no time.
Click here for the Healthy Blueberry-Peach Cobbler recipe.
Wholesome Banana and Blueberry Muffins
It might come as a shock, but muffins are one of the most nutritionally offensive baked goods sitting behind the pastry glass. A blueberry muffin from Starbucks has 350 calories, 29 grams of sugar, and six grams of saturated fat (30 percent of your recommended daily allowance). These numbers aren't flattering, but homemade muffins can actually be good for you. The foundation of these wholesome muffins is whole-wheat flour, ripe bananas, and fresh blueberries.
Click here for the Wholesome Banana and Blueberry Muffins recipe.