9 healthy desserts that’ll be the stars (and stripes) of your July 4th party

Sure, July 4th is all about throwing some burgers (and vegetables!) on the grill. And yes, the pasta salads, potato salads, and all the other salads on the table are sure to be a hit. But after all the savory food is polished off, there’s going to be one question on everyone’s mind: What’s for dessert?

Boy, do healthy food bloggers have you covered. From festive fruit kabobs and patriotic apple pie to cooling key lime bars and smoothie ice pops, there is certainly no shortage of sweet, sweet inspiration. Choosing healthy desserts for July 4th has never been easier.

9 healthy desserts for July 4th that are sure to please a crowd



1. Blueberry pie

Well+Good’s YouTube series Alt-Baking Bootcamp shows how to master making this yummy gluten-free blueberry pie. The crust is a mix of coconut flour, hazelnut four, and tapioca starch, which results in a slightly nutty taste, but also ups the fiber. Gut-friendly food never tasted so good.

2. Strawberry shortcake

Another Alt-Baking Bootcamp win, this strawberry shortcake is made with a quarter cup ghee, which gives it an irresistible, buttery taste. (And also ups the healthy fats.) A touch of honey and vanilla plays well with the strawberries’ natural sweetness. Plus, it will look super festive on your spread!

3. Chocolate chip cookies

Never underestimate the power of a plate of chocolate chip cookies. Sometimes, party goers don’t want to commit to a whole bowl of something, but a cookie? No one can resist—especially when the recipe is as healthy as this one, both vegan and gluten-free.

4. Banana bread

When banana bread is as pretty as this loaf—seriously, look at it!—it begs to be brought to the party. Low-sugar and gluten-free, it’s a healthy win for party guests who want a dessert with just a touch of sweetness.

5. Chocolate drizzled fruit kabobs

What’s better than a red, white, and blue dessert? A red, white, and blue dessert drizzled in chocolate. If you’re pressed for time (oh hello guests who are here early) make assembling the kabobs a fun group activity by putting bowls of bananas, strawberries, and blueberries on the table and having people make their own.

6. Gluten-free peach blueberry cobbler

Peaches are one of summer’s most popular fruits—and the sweetness happens to pair perfectly with tart blueberries. Most of the time, cobbler—a classic summer dessert best enjoyed on grandma’s porch—is made with both dairy and gluten, but this recipe allows for both types of eaters to enjoy it. Serve it hot—you know, after everyone’s all burgered out—with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream.

7. Homemade apple crumble pie

What’s more classic than apple pie? The secret to making one a step above the rest is the spice blend used in the crumble, a warming mix of sea salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Paired with the vanilla and maple syrup in the apple filling and your friends will lean all the way in on this Americana staple.

8. Key lime pie bars

These pie bars are as refreshing as they are beautiful. They’re perfect for a July 4th party because they’re blessedly cooling, which will be much appreciated after hours spent in the sun outside—and by the hot grill. The recipe uses macadamia nuts in the crust and filling to make it both vegan and gluten-free. Oh, and that vibrant green hue? You can thank the matcha for that.

9. Tropical smoothie ice pops with mango and passion fruit

Another way to cool off your guests using dessert: ice pops! These mango and passion fruit ones are essentially a frozen healthy smoothie. Besides the fruit, all your need is yogurt and honey.

Here’s what healthy food experts serve at their July 4th parties. And these are the most popular July 4th recipes by state.