Every product is independently reviewed and selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
The holiday season is often filled with festive foods, sweet treats, and delicious candies that make celebrations even more special.
However, for those managing diabetes, finding the right balance between enjoying holiday indulgences and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels can be challenging.
But fear not! With the right ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can still indulge in all the classic holiday candy flavors without the added sugar.
We’ve curated a list of over 25 diabetic-friendly holiday candy recipes.
These treats are designed to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your health in check.
From rich chocolate truffles to chewy caramels and spiced pecan pralines, we’ve got something for everyone.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, looking for a homemade gift, or simply want to treat yourself during the festive season, these sugar-free and low-carb candy recipes are the perfect solution.
25+ Delightful Holiday Diabetic Candy Recipes to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
The holidays don’t have to be about compromising on taste or health. With these 25+ diabetic candy recipes, you can enjoy a sweet and festive season without the guilt.
Each of these recipes has been carefully crafted to use sugar substitutes, healthy fats, and natural sweeteners, ensuring you can indulge in your favorite holiday treats while managing your diabetes.
So, this holiday season, get ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to a selection of delicious, sugar-free candies that are as sweet as the season itself.
Sugar-Free Peppermint Bark
This holiday favorite is transformed into a diabetic-friendly treat that combines the refreshing flavor of peppermint with the smoothness of dark chocolate. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping blood sugar levels in check, this recipe is as festive as it is healthy. It’s simple to make and looks stunning as a holiday gift or party centerpiece.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar-free dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup sugar-free white chocolate chips
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 2 tbsp crushed sugar-free peppermint candies
Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt the sugar-free dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
- Spread the melted dark chocolate evenly onto the parchment paper, creating a thin layer. Refrigerate for 10 minutes.
- Melt the sugar-free white chocolate chips using the same method. Add the peppermint extract and mix well.
- Pour the white chocolate over the hardened dark chocolate and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the crushed sugar-free peppermint candies on top. Gently press them into the white chocolate layer.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until fully set. Break into pieces and enjoy!
This sugar-free peppermint bark is a beautiful addition to your holiday treat table. Its refreshing taste and satisfying crunch make it a perfect indulgence for anyone looking to celebrate the season without compromising their health.
Cinnamon-Spiced Nut Clusters
A warm and nutty delight, these cinnamon-spiced nut clusters are ideal for holiday snacking. Packed with healthy fats and a dash of sweetness from sugar-free syrup, this recipe is a diabetic-friendly take on classic nut candies. The aroma of cinnamon adds a festive touch, making it a great treat to share with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted almonds
- 1 cup unsalted pecans
- 2 tbsp sugar-free maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine almonds and pecans.
- In a small bowl, mix sugar-free maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Pour over the nuts and toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the coated nuts on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the nuts are toasted and fragrant.
- Let the clusters cool completely before breaking them apart into bite-sized pieces.
These cinnamon-spiced nut clusters are a wholesome and satisfying treat. Their natural crunch and spiced sweetness make them a perfect addition to any holiday dessert platter or as a thoughtful gift in festive packaging.
No-Bake Chocolate Coconut Truffles
These no-bake truffles combine the rich flavor of sugar-free chocolate with the tropical sweetness of coconut for a decadent holiday treat. Easy to make and packed with fiber, they’re perfect for satisfying your holiday cravings while keeping your blood sugar stable.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar-free dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup sugar-free powdered sweetener
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Melt the sugar-free dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, combine shredded coconut, almond flour, and sugar-free powdered sweetener.
- Add the melted chocolate, almond milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls.
- Roll the truffles in additional shredded coconut to coat.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before serving.
These chocolate coconut truffles are a guilt-free indulgence that will wow your taste buds. Their rich texture and tropical flavor make them a must-have treat during the holidays, perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
Sugar-Free Gingerbread Cookies
These sugar-free gingerbread cookies are a classic holiday treat with all the warm, spicy flavors of the season. Ideal for anyone watching their blood sugar levels, they are low in carbs but full of flavor, making them a perfect addition to your holiday cookie jar. Whether for a party or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup sugar-free molasses
- 1/4 cup sugar-free powdered sweetener
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix together sugar-free molasses, powdered sweetener, egg, vanilla extract, and softened butter.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a parchment-lined surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into shapes using cookie cutters.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until golden.
- Let the cookies cool before decorating with sugar-free icing if desired.
These sugar-free gingerbread cookies are as delightful as their traditional counterparts, offering a festive treat that won’t spike your blood sugar. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday gatherings, or enjoying with a cup of tea.
Sugar-Free Chocolate-Almond Bark
This sugar-free chocolate-almond bark is a rich and crunchy treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings without the sugar overload. Combining the smoothness of sugar-free chocolate with the nuttiness of almonds, this bark makes a great snack or a homemade gift during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar-free dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup whole almonds, toasted
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt the sugar-free dark chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer.
- Sprinkle the toasted almonds and sea salt on top, pressing them gently into the chocolate.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.
- Break into pieces and store in an airtight container.
This sugar-free chocolate-almond bark is a delicious combination of rich chocolate and crunchy almonds, making it a great treat for anyone who loves chocolate but needs to manage their sugar intake. It’s perfect for holiday parties or as a snack during those cozy winter nights.
Coconut-Lemon Energy Balls
These no-bake coconut-lemon energy balls are perfect for a quick, healthy holiday snack. Packed with healthy fats and fiber, they provide a burst of energy while satisfying your sweet cravings. With the refreshing zing of lemon and the richness of coconut, they’re both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup sugar-free powdered sweetener
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 2 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded coconut, almond flour, sugar-free powdered sweetener, chia seeds, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Add almond milk and stir until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency.
- Roll the mixture into small balls, about the size of a walnut.
- Chill the energy balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
These coconut-lemon energy balls are the perfect treat for anyone looking for a sweet yet healthy snack. The tangy lemon flavor combined with the tropical coconut makes them an exciting and refreshing option for your holiday celebrations.
Sugar-Free Dark Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
A simple yet elegant holiday treat, these sugar-free dark chocolate-dipped strawberries are perfect for any festive occasion. The combination of juicy strawberries and rich dark chocolate creates a delightful contrast in flavors and textures, making them a luxurious yet guilt-free dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar-free dark chocolate chips
- 12 fresh strawberries, washed and dried
- 1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)
Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt the sugar-free dark chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth.
- Hold each strawberry by the stem and dip it into the melted chocolate, coating the bottom half.
- Place the dipped strawberries on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
These sugar-free dark chocolate-dipped strawberries are a decadent treat that adds a touch of sophistication to your holiday dessert table. With the natural sweetness of strawberries paired with the richness of dark chocolate, they are sure to impress both family and guests.
Sugar-Free Pecan Pralines
These sugar-free pecan pralines are a delightful, nutty, and crunchy holiday treat that can be enjoyed without worrying about blood sugar spikes. Made with pecans, butter, and sugar-free sweeteners, this candy delivers the classic flavor of traditional pralines while staying diabetic-friendly.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted pecans, toasted
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar-free brown sweetener
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar-free brown sweetener and heavy cream, and cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly.
- Add the toasted pecans, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat the pecans evenly with the caramel mixture.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and allow them to cool and harden, about 30–60 minutes.
- Once set, enjoy these sugar-free pecan pralines as a perfect addition to your holiday treats.
These sugar-free pecan pralines are a rich and indulgent treat that brings the holiday spirit to life. They’re perfect for serving at a gathering or as a sweet homemade gift that everyone can enjoy without the guilt of excess sugar.
Sugar-Free Spiced Apple Rings
These sugar-free spiced apple rings bring the warm and comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove together with the natural sweetness of apples. They’re a perfect festive snack, and the dehydrated apple rings offer a chewy texture that pairs wonderfully with a light sugar-free glaze.
Ingredients:
- 2 large apples, cored and sliced into rings
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tbsp sugar-free sweetener
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and sugar-free sweetener. Set aside.
- In another bowl, combine lemon juice and water. Dip each apple slice into the lemon water to prevent browning.
- Sprinkle the spiced mixture over the apple rings and lay them flat on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 2–3 hours, flipping halfway through, until the apple rings are dried and chewy.
- Allow the apple rings to cool completely before serving.
These sugar-free spiced apple rings are a wonderful, naturally sweet treat. With a burst of warm spices and the chewy texture of apples, they make an excellent snack during the colder months, offering the comfort of a homemade holiday snack with no added sugars.
Sugar-Free Chocolate-Covered Almonds
These sugar-free chocolate-covered almonds are a simple, yet sophisticated treat that can easily satisfy your chocolate cravings while keeping your sugar intake low. The combination of crunchy almonds and rich dark chocolate makes this a perfect snack for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted almonds
- 1 cup sugar-free dark chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the almonds on a baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure they’re evenly toasted.
- Melt the sugar-free dark chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
- Once the almonds are roasted and cooled, dip each almond into the melted chocolate, coating it completely.
- Place the chocolate-covered almonds on a parchment-lined baking sheet and sprinkle lightly with sea salt.
- Refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate hardens.
These sugar-free chocolate-covered almonds are an indulgent yet healthy treat. They provide a perfect balance of rich chocolate and crunchy almonds, making them a great snack that satisfies your sweet tooth without any added sugars.
Sugar-Free Caramel Fudge
This sugar-free caramel fudge brings together the rich, buttery flavor of caramel with the smooth texture of fudge, creating a decadent holiday treat without the added sugars. This recipe is simple, quick, and sure to impress anyone who tries it.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar-free sweetener
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Line a square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the fudge.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar-free sweetener and heavy cream.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5–6 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Pour the caramel fudge mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until the fudge is firm. Cut into squares and serve.
This sugar-free caramel fudge is a smooth and creamy treat that will quickly become a favorite. With its buttery flavor and rich consistency, it’s perfect for gift-giving, parties, or enjoying as a special holiday dessert without worrying about sugar.
Sugar-Free Pumpkin Pie Bites
These sugar-free pumpkin pie bites bring all the cozy flavors of fall into a small, bite-sized form. The creamy pumpkin filling with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg is encased in a crunchy, low-carb crust, making these an irresistible treat for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of pumpkin pie without the added sugars.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup sugar-free sweetener
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a bowl, combine canned pumpkin, sugar-free sweetener, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, vanilla extract, and egg. Mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix almond flour, melted butter, and salt to form the crust.
- Press the almond flour mixture into the bottom of each muffin tin, creating a small base.
- Spoon the pumpkin filling over the crust in each tin.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set. Let the bites cool before serving.
These sugar-free pumpkin pie bites are the perfect autumn treat with all the flavors of a traditional pumpkin pie but without the sugar. They’re great for parties, holiday gatherings, or as a fun and healthy snack to enjoy throughout the season.
Sugar-Free Chocolate-Coconut Fudge
A combination of rich chocolate and the tropical sweetness of coconut, this sugar-free chocolate-coconut fudge is a decadent treat that feels indulgent without the added sugar. It’s easy to make, requires just a few ingredients, and is perfect for sharing during the holidays.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar-free dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup sugar-free powdered sweetener
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Line a small baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal of the fudge.
- In a saucepan, melt the coconut oil and sugar-free dark chocolate chips over medium heat, stirring until smooth.
- Stir in the powdered sweetener, shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the fudge has set.
- Cut into small squares and enjoy!
This sugar-free chocolate-coconut fudge offers a rich, velvety chocolate flavor combined with the chewy texture of coconut. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a holiday treat without worrying about blood sugar levels.
Sugar-Free Cranberry-Almond Energy Bars
These sugar-free cranberry-almond energy bars are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making them the perfect snack for keeping your energy up during the busy holiday season. The tartness of cranberries and the crunch of almonds make these bars both delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond butter
- 1/4 cup sugar-free honey substitute
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the dried cranberries, chopped almonds, and shredded coconut.
- In a saucepan, heat the almond butter, sugar-free honey substitute, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt over low heat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until fully coated.
- Press the mixture into a lined baking dish and flatten it out evenly.
- Refrigerate for 1-2 hours until firm.
- Cut into bars and store in the refrigerator.
These sugar-free cranberry-almond energy bars are the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and crunchy. They’re great for meal prep, as a snack, or a healthy grab-and-go option during the holiday season.
Sugar-Free Chai Spice Cookies
These sugar-free chai spice cookies are warm, aromatic, and filled with the classic spices of chai tea. The fragrant blend of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger makes these cookies a festive and flavorful treat that can be enjoyed throughout the holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup sugar-free sweetener
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine almond flour, sugar-free sweetener, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the egg, vanilla extract, almond milk, and melted coconut oil.
- Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball slightly with a fork.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown on the edges. Let them cool on a wire rack before serving.
These sugar-free chai spice cookies are a fragrant and flavorful holiday treat. The warm spices make them perfect for cozy evenings by the fire or as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!