Even though the carnivore diet is celebrated for helping individuals overcome food and sugar addiction, many people wonder if it’s possible to enjoy occasional desserts while following this lifestyle. The good news is that there are some incredible carnivore diet dessert recipes available that can satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your diet goals. These desserts can be crafted to be almost entirely strict Carnivore, while others incorporate keto-friendly sugar alternatives, offering a broader range of options.
However, it’s important to approach these treats with mindfulness, especially if you’re still working through sugar or food addiction issues. For some, these desserts might act as a gateway, leading to cravings or a return to unhealthy eating habits. If that’s the case, it might be best to avoid them altogether or only enjoy them on special occasions.
For those who have a healthy relationship with food, these carnivore diet desserts are a fantastic way to indulge during celebrations and special events. They can also serve as healthier alternatives for children and guests, ensuring that your entire family can enjoy sweet treats without the usual sugar overload.
Whether you’re looking for a guilt-free indulgence or a fun way to celebrate, these recipes are worth exploring.
What Is the Carnivore Diet?
The carnivore diet, which centers exclusively on animal-based foods, offers several tailored variations to meet different health needs and goals. Each variation has its distinct characteristics:
Beef-Only Carnivore Diet: This version focuses solely on beef and is often favored for its simplicity and effectiveness in elimination diets. It is particularly recommended for those dealing with autoimmune or chronic health conditions. While starting with a beef-only approach can be beneficial, long-term success typically requires diversifying your meat intake for balanced nutrition.
Lion Diet: As one of the most restrictive forms of the carnivore diet, the lion diet consists of only ruminant meats, salt, and water. Often used as a starting point in elimination protocols, this diet may allow for the gradual reintroduction of other meats. It is highly recommended for those with autoimmune conditions or those seeking gut healing due to its limited scope.
Nose-to-Tail Carnivore Diet: This variation promotes the consumption of all animal parts, including organ meats, for a well-rounded nutrient profile. However, caution should be exercised, particularly with liver and kidney intake, to avoid potential nutrient imbalances, such as vitamin A toxicity, especially for those with pre-existing liver conditions.
Meat-Only Carnivore Diet: Expanding beyond beef, this diet includes all types of muscle meat while excluding organ meats, dairy, and eggs. It is ideal for those seeking a foundational elimination diet who know they tolerate muscle meat well.
Zero-Carb Carnivore Diet: This version focuses on foods with zero to minimal carbohydrates (carbs), incorporating dairy, eggs, and all types of meat, with an emphasis on meat and animal fat. Seasonings may be included, making it a viable option for those who tolerate dairy and eggs and do not have autoimmune or chronic health issues.
Carnivore Keto Diet: Combining the low-carb, high-fat principles of the keto diet with the carnivore approach, this diet aims to replicate the benefits of fasting while offering more diet variety through low-toxicity keto options. Foods such as avocados and coconut oil are often included, making this diet suitable for those who are metabolically healthy and have healed or largely healed from chronic conditions.
Carnivore-Ish Keto Diet: Offering even more flexibility, this variation blends keto elements with a focus on animal-based foods. It may include keto-friendly sweeteners, nuts, and other low-toxicity plant-based options while remaining predominantly meat-based. This diet is best for those who are metabolically healthy, have recovered, and do not struggle with food addiction.
Animal-Based Diet: This more inclusive variation centers on animal products but allows for the addition of fruits, honey, and raw dairy. While it is typically reserved for those with high metabolic flexibility and elite athletes, we generally do not recommend this approach as it’s technically not Carnivore or keto in addition to the risk of combining high fat and carbs.
Selecting the right variation is crucial for aligning with your wellness objectives.
What Are the Benefits of the Carnivore Diet?
The carnivore diet is highly celebrated for its many health benefits. Here’s an overview of some of the various health benefits associated with this way of eating:
Reduced Inflammation
One of the most notable benefits of the carnivore diet is its ability to reduce inflammation. Many chronic diseases, such as autoimmune disorders, arthritis, and cardiovascular diseases, are linked to inflammation in the body. The carnivore diet eliminates common diet sources of inflammation, such as grains, legumes, and certain plant-based foods that contain lectins, oxalates, and phytates. Focusing solely on animal products, which are less likely to trigger an inflammatory response, allows many individuals to experience a significant reduction in inflammation-related symptoms.
Improved Digestive Health
The carnivore diet can also have a positive impact on digestive health. Some individuals suffer from digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, or leaky gut syndrome, which are often aggravated by plant-based fibers, anti-nutrients, and other compounds found in vegetables, fruits, and grains. Removing these foods from the diet can help alleviate digestive discomfort, reduce bloating, and improve overall gut health. Additionally, the high-fat content of the diet supports the production of bile, which aids in digestion.
Weight Loss and Metabolic Health
For those struggling with weight management, the carnivore diet can be an effective tool for weight loss and improving metabolic health. Eliminating carbs forces the body to rely on fat for energy, leading to a state of ketosis, where fat is burned for fuel. This process not only promotes fat loss but also helps stabilize blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Many individuals on the carnivore diet report steady weight loss without the need to count calories or monitor portion sizes.
Enhanced Mental Clarity and Mood Stability
The carnivore diet’s impact on mental health is another area where many people see improvements. Many individuals report experiencing enhanced mental clarity, focus, and mood stability. This is in part attributed to the diet’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation in the brain, and eliminate potentially problematic foods that may contribute to brain fog or mood swings. The high intake of essential fatty acids and amino acids from animal products also supports brain function and neurotransmitter production.
Increased Energy and Physical Performance
Another significant benefit of the carnivore diet is increased energy levels and improved physical performance. Without the blood sugar spikes and crashes associated with a high-carb diet, many people on the carnivore diet experience sustained energy throughout the day. The diet’s high protein content supports muscle growth and repair, making it an attractive option for athletes and those engaged in regular physical activity. Additionally, the diet’s focus on nutrient-dense foods ensures that the body receives all the essential vitamins and minerals needed for optimal performance.
Simplified Eating and Reduced Food Cravings
The carnivore diet’s simplicity is another advantage, particularly for those who struggle with food cravings and unhealthy eating habits. Limiting food choices to animal-based products allows individuals to avoid the temptation of processed foods, sugary snacks, and other unhealthy options. This can lead to reduced food cravings and a more controlled approach to eating. The diet’s high satiety factor, due to its emphasis on protein and fat, also helps individuals feel full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
Exclusive Autoimmune Benefits
Finally, the carnivore diet has shown promise in managing autoimmune conditions. Eliminating foods that may trigger an immune response, such as gluten, dairy, and certain plant-based foods, helps individuals with autoimmune disorders experience a reduction in symptoms and, in many cases, remission. The diet’s anti-inflammatory properties, combined with its nutrient-dense nature, support immune function and overall health.
You can learn more about the benefits of the carnivore diet here.
Who Should Try the Carnivore Diet?
The carnivore diet is a versatile diet suitable for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you’re seeking root-cause healing, managing a chronic illness, or simply aiming to optimize your overall wellness, the carnivore diet offers a powerful therapeutic option. This diet can be particularly beneficial for those struggling with chronic health conditions.
It’s also a viable choice for anyone looking to simplify their diet and reduce their intake of processed foods, carbs, and plant-based anti-nutrients. The carnivore diet’s focus on nutrient-dense, whole foods makes it a strong candidate for those seeking to improve their health from the inside out.
Carnivore Diet Dessert Recipes
If you’re following a carnivore diet and have been missing out on sweet treats, you’re in luck! We’ve curated six of our favorite Carnivore dessert recipes that are both delicious and satisfying. These recipes can be made with or without sugar alternatives, catering to your specific diet needs.
Interestingly, many foods tend to taste sweeter once you’ve adjusted to the carnivore diet, so you may find that you need less sweetener—or none at all. Whether you’re indulging in these desserts for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.
Carnivore Whipped Browned Butter Bites Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter
Instructions:
Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter foams and then begins to turn a golden brown. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to watch closely as the butter can quickly go from browned to burned. Once you notice a nutty aroma and the butter has a rich, golden-brown color, remove it from heat immediately.
Prepare the Butter: Pour the browned butter into a mixing bowl and let it cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes. You want it to be slightly firm but still soft enough to whip. Using an electric mixer, whip the browned butter on medium-high speed until it becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. The whipped butter should be smooth and airy.
Shape the Bites: Once the butter is whipped, you can shape it into small bites using a spoon or piping it into silicone molds. If using a spoon, place the bites on an unbleached parchment-lined tray.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the silicone mold or tray for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bites are firm. Serve the whipped browned butter bites cold.
Carnivore-ish Creme Brulee Recipe
Ingredients:
4 large egg yolks
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla powder
A pinch of salt
Keto sweetener alternative (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, pure vanilla powder, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil.
Slowly pour the hot cream into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking. Mix until fully incorporated. Pour the custard mixture into four small ramekins, filling each about three-quarters full.
Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Place a rack or trivet inside the air fryer basket. Add a layer of water to the bottom of the air fryer basket, ensuring that the water level is below the ramekins when placed on the rack. This creates a water bath that will help cook the custard evenly.
Cook the Crème Brûlée: Carefully place the ramekins on the rack or trivet inside the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching the water directly. Air fry the crème brûlée at 300°F (150°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Cool and Chill: Once cooked, remove the ramekins from the air fryer and let them cool to room temperature.
After cooling, cover the ramekins with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled.
Optional Topping: If you wish to create the traditional brûlée topping, you can sprinkle a small amount of allulose or another keto-friendly sweetener on top of the chilled custards and use a kitchen torch to caramelize it. This step is optional and can be omitted for a strict Carnivore version. You can also choose to skip the vanilla to keep this strict Carnivore.
Carnivore-ish Tres Leches Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
6 large eggs, separated
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup allulose (or your preferred sweetener, optional)
1 cup Carnivore Crisp Carnivore Flour
Butter (for greasing the baking dish)
1 cup heavy cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened
For the Tres Leches Sauce:
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla powder
A pinch of salt
2 tablespoons allulose (or your preferred sweetener, optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with the cream of tartar until soft peaks form. If using, gradually add the allulose while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are pale and slightly thickened. Gently fold the beaten egg yolks into the egg whites. Gradually fold in the Carnivore Flour, being careful not to deflate the egg mixture. Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
Prepare the Cream Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until it starts to thicken. Add the softened cream cheese and continue beating until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Set aside.
Prepare the Tres Leches Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, pure vanilla powder, salt, and optional allulose. Stir continuously until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Assemble the Tres Leches Cake: Once the cake has cooled, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface. Pour the cooled tres leches sauce over the cake, allowing it to soak in evenly. Spread the cream layer evenly over the top of the soaked cake.
Chill and Serve: Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled, slicing the cake into squares for individual servings.
Carnivore-ish Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Cheesecake:
1 1/2 cups pork rind panko
1 tbsp melted butter, for greasing the pan
24 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sour cream
5 large eggs
6 scoops Paleovalley Chocolate Bone Broth Protein Powder (Use code “PVFRIEND15“ for 15% off)
4 oz heavy cream
For the Whipped Cream:
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla powder (optional)
1-2 tablespoons allulose (or your preferred sweetener, optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the pork rind panko with the melted butter. Mix until the panko is evenly coated and holds together when pressed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer for the crust. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream and continue to beat until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition until just incorporated. In a separate bowl, mix the heavy cream and the Paleovalley Chocolate Bone Broth Protein Powder. Add the Paleovalley mixture into the mixing bowl and mix until fully incorporated. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake the Cheesecake: Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly. Once done, turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for about an hour to prevent cracking. Afterward, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Prepare the Whipped Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Add the optional pure vanilla powder and allulose if using, then continue to beat until stiff peaks form. Keep the whipped cream in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Serve the Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, remove it from the springform pan. Slice and serve each piece topped with a dollop of the prepared whipped cream.
Pro-Tip: Serve with your favorite Carnivore ice cream recipe for an extra special treat. This recipe can also be made with different flavored Carnivore-friendly protein powders if you’re looking for a different flavor.
Carnivore-ish Keto Smores Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Graham Crackers:
1 cup Carnivore Crisps Carnivore Flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
A pinch of salt
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla powder
1/4 cup melted butter
2 tablespoons allulose (or your preferred sweetener, optional)
For the Marshmallows:
1/4 cup gelatin
1/2 cup cold water (for blooming gelatin)
1/2 cup hot water
1/2 cup xylitol or allulose (or your preferred sweetener, optional)
A pinch of salt
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla powder
For Assembly:
High-quality unsweetened chocolate (preferably without any unwanted fillers)
Instructions:
Prepare the Graham Crackers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the Carnivore Crisps Carnivore Flour, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, pure vanilla powder, melted butter, and optional allulose. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the dough into squares to create the “graham crackers.” Transfer the squares to the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the crackers to cool completely on a wire rack.
Prepare the Marshmallows: In a large mixing bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the 1/2 cup of cold water and let it bloom for 5-10 minutes. In a small saucepan, combine the hot water, optional xylitol or allulose, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sweetener dissolves completely. Pour the hot sweetener mixture into the bloomed gelatin and beat with an electric mixer on high speed until the mixture becomes thick, fluffy, and forms stiff peaks (this may take 8-10 minutes). Add the pure vanilla powder and continue to beat until well incorporated. Spread the marshmallow mixture into a greased or parchment-lined square pan and let it set for at least 1 hour. Once set, cut the marshmallow into squares.
Assemble the S’mores: Place a square of chocolate on one graham cracker. Top the chocolate with a homemade marshmallow square. Place another graham cracker on top, gently pressing down to create the s’more. If desired, you can toast the marshmallows over an open flame or under a broiler for a few seconds before assembling the s’mores.
Pro-Tip: Skip the chocolate and keto sweeteners for a cleaner version.
Carnivore-ish Colostrum Protein Milkshake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Carnivore Ice Cream:
2 cups heavy cream
4 large egg yolks
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla powder (optional)
A pinch of salt
For the Milkshake:
1 cup whole milk
2 scoops of your favorite colostrum
1-2 scoops of your favorite Carnivore-friendly beef isolate or collagen protein powder
2-3 scoops of homemade carnivore ice cream
Instructions:
Make the Carnivore Ice Cream: In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, optional pure vanilla powder, and salt until smooth. Slowly pour the hot cream into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. Once cooled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until the ice cream is thick and creamy. Transfer the ice cream to a container and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Make the Colostrum Milkshake: In a blender, combine 2-3 scoops of the homemade carnivore ice cream with whole milk, colostrum, and Carnivore-friendly beef isolate or collagen protein powder. Choose either unflavored or flavored protein powder based on your personal tolerance and preferences. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you prefer a thicker milkshake, add an additional scoop of ice cream and blend again.
Serve: Pour the colostrum milkshake into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Closing Thoughts on Carnivore Diet Dessert Recipes
While carnivore diet dessert recipes can be a delightful addition on occasion, it’s essential to approach them with mindfulness. For some, these treats may trigger binge cycles or even lead to consuming less-than-ideal foods, especially if you’re still navigating sugar or food addiction. It’s crucial to recognize that while these desserts can be Carnivore-friendly, they should be enjoyed in moderation.
Repairing your relationship with food is an important part of any health journey. If you’ve struggled with sugar or food addiction, it’s vital to work on healing these underlying issues before introducing treats, even those that fit within your diet. Understanding your triggers and setting boundaries can help you enjoy these desserts without guilt or overindulgence.
Remember, the goal is to nourish your body and mind while allowing yourself occasional indulgences in a balanced, controlled way. With time and patience, you can learn to enjoy these carnivore desserts as part of a healthy, sustainable lifestyle. Always prioritize your well-being and listen to your body’s needs, knowing that your health and happiness are the most important aspects of your journey.
Work With Our Trusted Carnivore Diet Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioners
The Nutrition with Judy practice is honored to be a trusted carnivore diet practitioner support serving clients from around the globe. We’re passionate about helping our clients achieve root-cause healing in order to lead the best quality of life possible that’s nearly symptom-free. Our team is dedicated to providing nourishing recipes that align with your wellness goals. We welcome you to explore our free resources and are always available to support you through personalized protocols. Our Symptom Burden Assessment (SBA) is the perfect starting point for discovering your root cause and is required to work with our team— you can learn more in-depth about this powerful tool here.
Start your root-cause healing journey today and contact us any time with any questions or concerns.
DISCLAIMER: This content is for educational purposes only. While we are board-certified in holistic nutrition and are nutritional therapy practitioners, we are not providing medical advice. Whenever you start a new diet or protocol, always consult with your trusted practitioner first.