Dessert recipes using natural sugar

Better than regular sugar

Food writer and blogger Shauna Seaver proves that baking without added sugar is not only healthier but also delicious. Try these five treats using alternative ingredients—coconut sugar, muscovado sugar, turbinado sugar, honey, and more.

Carrot and banana cupcakes with coconut sugar meringue frosting

Coconut sugar is derived from the evaporated sap of the coconut palm (meaning it has no coconut flavor); it imparts a vibrant, exotic sweetness that imbues these cupcakes with a rich flavor. It's also used in the luxurious meringue frosting, adding a hint of salted caramel to the topping without the need for cooking.

Recipe: Carrot and banana cupcakes with coconut sugar meringue frosting

Chocolate chip cookies with muscovado sugar

Muscovado sugar, rich in molasses, and rich, bittersweet chocolate create a dense texture in these mouthwatering cookies. The key to perfect results: don't overmix the dough; to avoid overbaking, bake the cookies without defrosting, and remove them from the oven just before they're fully baked.

Recipe: Chocolate chip cookies with muscovado sugar

Lemon and berry pie with honey

Honey pairs beautifully with citrus and berries, and it's also hygroscopic—meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. This property helps create a moist, dense texture (similar to a sponge cake), which will only improve as the cake sits.

Recipe: Lemon and berry pie with honey

Tarte Creme brulee with turbinado sugar

This tart combines classic crème brûlée with orange-flavored cheesecake—all encased in a glossy, caramelized turbinado sugar crust.

Recipe: Tarte Creme brulee with turbinado sugar

Soft cookies with maple syrup

Liquid sweeteners like maple syrup make these cookies soft and fluffy. Enhance this simple yet delicious treat with a handful of dried fruit, toasted pecans, or bittersweet chocolate chips.

Recipe: Soft cookies with maple syrup