5 Healthy Dessert Ideas Toddlers Will Love
Finding desserts that feel like a treat and still support healthy eating habits can be tricky - especially when you’re balancing mealtimes, routines, and a very busy toddler.
To make things a little easier (and sweeter!), we’ve rounded up five wholesome, low-sugar dessert ideas that are perfect for little hands and growing tummies.
Whether you’re planning a weekend pudding, looking for healthier swaps, or simply want a simple dessert you can feel good about serving, these tasty options are sure to be a hit with your toddler…
Jump to:
5 Healthy Desserts for Toddlers
1. Plum & Apple Strudel
A cosy, lightly spiced fruit-filled dessert: juicy plums and apples mixed with cinnamon and ginger, wrapped in golden filo pastry. This version comes straight from the Nursery Kitchen recipe collection.
Why it’s great for toddlers:
Apples and plums bring natural sweetness and fibre.
A touch of warm spice (cinnamon/ginger) gives flavour without adding lots of sugar.
The filo pastry is light - you can even reduce portions for younger toddlers.
Tip: Serve warm, cut into small fingers for little hands, and pair with a smear of Greek yoghurt rather than cream to keep sugar low.
2. Baked Rice Pudding
From the Nursery Kitchen website: “our baked rice puddings are the perfect healthy treat for little ones.”
Why it’s toddler-friendly:
Pudding rice + milk = creamy and satisfying.
Flavourings like cinnamon, vanilla or dried apricots/coconut give interest without excessive sweetness.
You can make it ahead and re-heat gently.
Tip: Use full-fat milk or an unsweetened dairy-free alternative, add soft chopped dried apricots for a gentle sweet hit, and skip added sugar (let the natural milk sugars come through).
3. Banana & Oat “Nice” Cream
A lovely low-sugar dessert: blend frozen banana chunks with a splash of milk (or dairy-free alternative) until creamy like soft-serve. Add a drizzle of pureed berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Why toddlers will love it:
Super creamy texture makes it feel like a treat.
Only one ingredient is banana - sweet enough naturally.
You control any extras, so you can keep sugar minimal.
Tip: Use ripe bananas (for sweetness), freeze slices ahead of time, and serve immediately. Top with chopped soft fruit for texture.
4. Greek Yoghurt & Mixed-Berry Parfait
Layer full-fat Greek yoghurt (or natural yoghurt) with mashed or chopped soft berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) and a handful of oats or wheat-free granola (once toddler is eating well). This gives sweetness from the fruit rather than syrup.
Why it works:
Protein and calcium from yoghurt keep tummies fuller.
Berries = natural antioxidants + vitamins.
Oats add fibre and a slight crunch - great for little hands.
Tip: Mash the berries a little for young toddlers, and use small portions in toddler-friendly dishes or cups.
5. Baked Apple Boats with Cinnamon & Raisins
Core an apple, scoop out a little to make a “boat”, fill with a few raisins, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and bake until softened. Serve warm. Optional: add a small dollop of ricotta or yoghurt.
Why this is lovely:
Baked apple is soft and gentle for little mouths.
Raisins give chewy interest and natural sweetness.
Cinnamon adds flavour without sugar.
Tip: Choose apples that hold shape when baked (e.g., Braeburn, Gala). Cut into slices appropriate for your toddler’s chewing ability.
Tips for Encouraging Healthy Eating at Home
Helping toddlers develop a positive relationship with food doesn’t have to feel overwhelming - small, consistent habits make the biggest difference. Here are some simple tips inspired by the approach we use at My Ohana:
✨ Make mealtimes relaxed and social
Sit together when you can, chat about the food, and keep the atmosphere calm. Toddlers are far more likely to try new things when they feel comfortable and included.
✨ Offer variety - even in small amounts
Little ones often need several exposures to a new flavour before they accept it. Offering a tiny portion alongside familiar foods helps build confidence without pressure.
✨ Let toddlers get involved
Simple tasks like washing fruit, sprinkling oats, or stirring yoghurt give them ownership - and food they help prepare often becomes food they want to taste.
✨ Keep sweetness natural
Use fruit purées, mashed banana or soft berries instead of added sugar. Warm spices like cinnamon or vanilla can make dishes feel special without added sweetness.
✨ Respect little appetites
Toddlers know their hunger cues. Offer balanced options, but let them decide what and how much to eat from what’s served - a gentle approach we also follow at nursery.
✨ Celebrate curiosity
Notice their interest: “You smelled the cinnamon!” or “You touched the berry - well done exploring!” Encouragement builds confidence far better than pressure.
With a calm approach and plenty of positive experiences, children quickly learn that food is something to enjoy and explore - both at home and at My Ohana.
Nutritious Meals at My Ohana
At My Ohana we believe that mealtimes are more than just eating - they’re an opportunity to explore, learn and enjoy together. That’s why our menus are carefully planned and crafted using fresh, seasonal ingredients and designed to be nutritionally balanced, yet delicious and exciting for young palates.
Our rotating menus follow Early Years Guidelines, keeping salt and sugar low while introducing a variety of flavours from worldwide dishes alongside childhood favourites.
From a wholesome breakfast to lunch, snacks and tea, every meal is served in a relaxed, social setting — our team members sit with the children to encourage trying new foods and enjoying mealtimes together.
At My Ohana we know that healthy eating for toddlers doesn’t mean boring. It’s about delicious, wholesome, simple options that fit busy family life. These healthy desserts for toddlers tick those boxes: easy to prepare, low added sugar, and toddler-approved. Plus, they offer an opportunity to involve your little one - let them help mix the yoghurt parfait, or choose the apple for the baked boat.
Here’s to happy tummies, happy taste buds and sweet little smiles at dessert time! 🍓
And if you’re looking for a nurturing, food-loving nursery for your little one, you can find your nearest My Ohana nursery right here.
Other Posts You Might Like …
