25+ Delicious Holiday Diabetic Cherry Recipes for Guilt-Free Indulgence

The holidays are a time for indulging in delicious treats, but for those managing diabetes, finding the right recipes can be a challenge.

Luckily, cherries are a fantastic fruit to include in your holiday meals, offering natural sweetness without causing blood sugar spikes.

Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, cherries provide a healthy base for creating diabetic-friendly desserts, appetizers, and even savory dishes.

We’ve curated over 25 holiday diabetic cherry recipes that will let you enjoy the season’s flavors while keeping your health in check.

From sugar-free cherry pies to savory salads, these recipes are perfect for festive gatherings, offering both taste and nutrition.

25+ Delicious Holiday Diabetic Cherry Recipes for Guilt-Free Indulgence

With the holidays just around the corner, there’s no reason to miss out on the joy of delicious food.

The 25+ diabetic cherry recipes we’ve shared not only allow you to enjoy the sweet and tart flavors of cherries but also help keep your blood sugar levels in check.

Whether you’re looking for festive desserts, savory sides, or refreshing drinks, these recipes are perfect for any holiday table.

Cherries offer a healthy, naturally sweet option that fits seamlessly into your diabetic-friendly diet.

So go ahead, embrace the holiday spirit with these delightful cherry recipes, and share them with family and friends—you’ll all be grateful for the flavors and health benefits they bring.

Holiday Diabetic Cherry Compote

This diabetic-friendly cherry compote offers a perfect balance of tart cherries and sweeteners that are suitable for those watching their sugar intake. A delicious topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or even as a filling for low-carb desserts, it’s an excellent way to enjoy the flavors of the season without compromising health.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen tart cherries
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened stevia or monk fruit sweetener
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup water

Directions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and sweetener. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Stir occasionally, cooking for 10-12 minutes, until the cherries soften and release their juices.
3. Once the cherries are cooked down, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Allow the compote to cool to room temperature before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

This cherry compote is a low-sugar option that still delivers a rich and flavorful topping for various dishes. It’s perfect for the holiday season when you want to enjoy festive flavors without worrying about blood sugar spikes. The tartness of the cherries combined with the sweetness from the stevia makes it a great way to satisfy your cravings.

Diabetic Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies

These diabetic cherry almond shortbread cookies are a delightful treat with a delicate balance of almond and cherry flavors. With minimal sugar and healthy fats from almond flour, they make for a perfect low-carb cookie to share with family and friends over the holidays.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened stevia or monk fruit sweetener
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/3 cup chopped dried cherries (unsweetened)
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon water (if needed)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, sweetener, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the almond extract and softened butter, mixing until the dough comes together. If the dough is too crumbly, add a tablespoon of water at a time to bind it.
3. Gently fold in the chopped dried cherries.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each cookie slightly with your fingers.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
6. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.

These cookies are a holiday favorite, offering the comforting crunch of shortbread with the sweet-tart punch of cherries. Perfect for anyone watching their blood sugar levels, these cookies are both filling and satisfying, with the addition of almonds providing healthy fats and protein. The dried cherries add a lovely chewy texture that complements the buttery almond base.

Sugar-Free Cherry Cheesecake Bites

These sugar-free cherry cheesecake bites are a mini indulgence that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. With a creamy, rich filling and a sugar-free cherry topping, they offer the sweet pleasure of cheesecake without the added sugar, making them ideal for diabetics.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup unsweetened stevia or monk fruit sweetener
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for thickening)

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, stevia, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. Spoon the mixture into mini muffin tins lined with cupcake liners, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the cherries, water, lemon juice, and chia seeds over medium heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries soften and the mixture thickens into a syrup.
3. Once the cherry topping has cooled, spoon a small amount onto each cheesecake bite.
4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the cheesecake bites to set properly.

These sugar-free cheesecake bites are a fun and festive dessert for anyone needing a diabetic-friendly option. The rich, creamy base combined with the bright and tart cherry topping creates a beautifully balanced bite-sized treat. These bites can be easily made ahead of time, making them a convenient choice for your holiday gatherings.

Holiday Diabetic Cherry Chia Pudding

This diabetic-friendly cherry chia pudding is a nutritious and satisfying dessert, combining the benefits of chia seeds with the tartness of cherries. It’s a great way to indulge in a festive treat while keeping your blood sugar levels in check.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened stevia or monk fruit sweetener
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions:

1. In a bowl, mix the almond milk, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and sweetener. Stir until well combined.
2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and form a pudding-like consistency.
3. In a small saucepan, heat the cherries, lemon juice, and cinnamon over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer until the cherries soften and release their juices.
4. Once the cherry topping is ready, allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the chilled chia pudding.
5. Serve the pudding in small bowls or jars, topping each with the warm cherry mixture.

This cherry chia pudding is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of the season without the sugar overload. The chia seeds provide fiber and healthy fats, while the cherry topping adds a burst of festive flavor. It’s a light, yet satisfying treat that can also be enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack.

Diabetic Cherry Pistachio Bark

This diabetic-friendly cherry pistachio bark combines the richness of dark chocolate with the crunch of pistachios and the tartness of dried cherries. It’s an easy, no-bake treat that satisfies chocolate cravings while keeping sugar levels in check.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened dried cherries, chopped
• 1/4 cup pistachios, shelled and chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

Directions:

1. Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Alternatively, microwave the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
2. Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt.
3. Spread the melted chocolate evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Sprinkle the chopped cherries and pistachios evenly over the chocolate.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the bark hardens.
6. Break into pieces and serve.

This cherry pistachio bark is an indulgent yet diabetic-friendly treat, combining the rich flavor of dark chocolate with the natural sweetness of cherries and the crunch of pistachios. It’s a simple, satisfying dessert that’s perfect for holiday snacking or as a gift for loved ones.

Sugar-Free Cherry Almond Smoothie

This refreshing sugar-free cherry almond smoothie is a perfect option for a quick breakfast or a post-holiday workout snack. Packed with healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, it’s a nutrient-dense way to start the day or recharge between meals.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cherries
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened stevia or monk fruit sweetener (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Ice cubes (optional)

Directions:

1. In a blender, combine the almond milk, Greek yogurt, cherries, almond butter, sweetener, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend on high until smooth and creamy. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker, colder smoothie.
3. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.

This smoothie is a great way to enjoy the flavors of cherries while keeping your blood sugar in check. The almond butter adds a rich, nutty flavor, while the Greek yogurt provides a dose of protein. It’s a versatile, nutritious beverage that’s perfect for the holidays or any time of year.

Diabetic Cherry Coconut Energy Balls

These no-bake cherry coconut energy balls are a great on-the-go snack that’s full of flavor and energy-boosting ingredients. The combination of cherries, coconut, and almonds makes for a nutrient-dense, low-sugar treat that’s perfect for those managing diabetes.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup dried unsweetened cherries, chopped
• 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup almond flour
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened stevia or monk fruit sweetener (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

Directions:

1. In a food processor, pulse the dried cherries, shredded coconut, almond flour, chia seeds, and salt until finely chopped.
2. Add the almond butter, sweetener, and vanilla extract, and pulse until the mixture starts to come together. If the mixture is too dry, add a teaspoon of water or almond milk to help it bind.
3. Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up the energy balls.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

These cherry coconut energy balls are a delicious and healthy option for anyone needing a quick snack. They’re low in sugar and high in fiber and healthy fats, which makes them perfect for maintaining balanced blood sugar levels. With the sweet-tart flavor of cherries and the satisfying texture of coconut and almonds, they make for a delightful treat that’s both nutritious and filling.

Diabetic Cherry Coconut Milk Smoothie

This refreshing cherry coconut milk smoothie combines the tropical flavors of coconut and cherries with a creamy, nutrient-rich base. It’s a satisfying, sugar-free treat that’s perfect for anyone seeking a healthy, delicious holiday drink.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cherries
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened almond butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon stevia or monk fruit sweetener (optional)
• Ice cubes (optional)

Directions:

1. Add the coconut milk, cherries, almond butter, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and sweetener to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a thicker smoothie, add some ice cubes.
3. Pour the smoothie into a glass and serve immediately.

This cherry coconut milk smoothie is a perfect combination of creamy, tropical flavors and antioxidants from the cherries. It’s an ideal low-carb breakfast or snack option, helping to keep your energy levels high without affecting blood sugar levels. The chia seeds add a boost of fiber and omega-3s, making this smoothie a truly nutritious treat.

Holiday Diabetic Cherry Jello

This festive cherry jello is a light, sugar-free dessert that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Using sugar substitutes, this version is diabetic-friendly and allows everyone to enjoy a classic treat without the added sugar.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• 2 tablespoons gelatin (unflavored)
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup unsweetened stevia or monk fruit sweetener
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Directions:

1. In a saucepan, heat the water and cherries over medium heat until the cherries are soft and have released their juice, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Mash the cherries slightly with a fork or potato masher to release more juice.
3. Sprinkle the gelatin over the cherry mixture and stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
4. Add the sweetener and almond extract (if using), then stir until everything is combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a mold or individual serving cups, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
6. Serve chilled.

This sugar-free cherry jello is a fun and festive treat that won’t raise your blood sugar levels. It’s a light and refreshing dessert that’s easy to prepare, making it a great option for any holiday celebration. The natural cherry flavor shines through, providing a satisfying yet guilt-free indulgence.

Diabetic Cherry Oatmeal Bars

These diabetic-friendly cherry oatmeal bars are a wholesome and satisfying snack, ideal for breakfast or a midday treat. Packed with fiber from oats and natural sweetness from the cherries, they are a perfect alternative to sugary granola bars.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened dried cherries, chopped
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup unsweetened stevia or monk fruit sweetener
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 egg (or egg substitute)
• Pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish (8×8) with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
2. In a large bowl, combine the oats, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the applesauce, sweetener, almond milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until fully combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, then fold in the chopped cherries.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bars are firm and lightly golden around the edges.
7. Let the bars cool before cutting them into squares.

These cherry oatmeal bars are a great way to enjoy a sweet, filling snack without the added sugar. The combination of oats and cherries provides a healthy dose of fiber and antioxidants, while the almond flour adds a boost of healthy fats. These bars are an easy, portable option for a diabetic-friendly snack.

Diabetic Cherry Chocolate Mug Cake

This single-serve cherry chocolate mug cake is a decadent, guilt-free dessert that’s perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings. It’s quick to prepare, and with its rich chocolate flavor and tart cherry topping, it’s a wonderful way to indulge while keeping your blood sugar in check.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons almond flour
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened stevia or monk fruit sweetener
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened almond milk
• 1 egg (or egg substitute)
• 1 tablespoon fresh or frozen cherries, chopped
• Pinch of salt

Directions:

1. In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together the cocoa powder, almond flour, sweetener, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the egg, almond milk, and vanilla extract, and mix well until the batter is smooth.
3. Fold in the chopped cherries.
4. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the cake is cooked through (it should rise and firm up).
5. Let it cool slightly before serving.

This diabetic-friendly cherry chocolate mug cake is a quick and indulgent dessert that you can enjoy without worrying about your sugar intake. The almond flour provides a low-carb base, while the tart cherries complement the rich cocoa, making this mug cake the perfect treat to enjoy on a cold winter night or any holiday celebration.

Diabetic Cherry Almond Cookies

These diabetic-friendly cherry almond cookies are a delightful, low-sugar treat that combines the rich flavors of almonds and cherries. They are perfect for holiday snacking or as a light dessert for those managing their blood sugar levels.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened dried cherries, chopped
• 1/4 cup unsweetened stevia or monk fruit sweetener
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond butter
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the almond flour, sweetener, and salt.
3. Add the almond butter, egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine into a dough.
4. Gently fold in the chopped cherries.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
7. Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.

These cherry almond cookies offer a perfect balance of flavors with a nutty base from almond flour and almond butter. The cherries add a sweet, tart kick, making them a great snack or light dessert for the holidays. These cookies are low-carb, rich in protein, and provide a satisfying treat without the blood sugar spikes.

Sugar-Free Cherry Panna Cotta

This sugar-free cherry panna cotta is a creamy, smooth dessert that’s rich in flavor but light on sugar. The cherry compote topping adds a festive touch, making this a perfect dessert for any diabetic-friendly holiday spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
• 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin
• 1/4 cup unsweetened stevia or monk fruit sweetener
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
2. In a saucepan, combine the almond milk, heavy cream, and sweetener. Heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until completely dissolved.
3. Add the vanilla extract and stir to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into serving glasses or ramekins and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
5. In a small saucepan, heat the cherries, lemon juice, and cinnamon over medium heat. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the cherries soften and release their juices.
6. Spoon the cherry compote over the set panna cotta and serve chilled.

This sugar-free cherry panna cotta offers a rich and creamy dessert with a fresh cherry topping, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings. The panna cotta itself is smooth and indulgent, while the cherry compote adds a burst of flavor and color. This dessert is a healthy, low-sugar alternative to traditional holiday sweets.

Diabetic Cherry Walnut Salad

This diabetic-friendly cherry walnut salad is a vibrant, nutritious dish that combines fresh cherries, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. It’s perfect as a side dish or light main for holiday meals.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup walnut halves
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, or kale)
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, fresh cherries, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. If using, sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the top just before serving.

This cherry walnut salad is light yet packed with flavor, thanks to the balance of sweet cherries and crunchy walnuts. The tangy vinaigrette complements the freshness of the greens, while the goat cheese adds a creamy touch. It’s a refreshing and heart-healthy option for anyone managing their blood sugar levels, especially during the holidays.

Diabetic Cherry Gingerbread Loaf

This diabetic-friendly gingerbread loaf is a perfect holiday treat, with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, combined with the sweet-tart taste of cherries. The loaf is moist, flavorful, and makes a great low-sugar dessert for those with diabetes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened dried cherries, chopped
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup unsweetened stevia or monk fruit sweetener
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking powder, spices, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, applesauce, almond milk, vanilla extract, and sweetener.
4. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Gently fold in the chopped cherries.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

This diabetic cherry gingerbread loaf offers the perfect blend of warming spices and natural sweetness, making it a wonderful treat for the holidays. The cherries add a burst of flavor and a slight tartness that contrasts beautifully with the rich gingerbread taste. This loaf is a low-sugar option that’s moist, satisfying, and full of festive flavor.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!