Five Ways to Lighten Desserts

Leave the peel on fruits such as apples and pears for pies and tarts. You'll add nutrients and fiber to your diet.

• Delicious Country Pear Tart

Use light or fat-free dairy products—such as milk, cream cheese, and sour cream—instead of regular versions. If you often accompany dessert with ice cream, serve low-fat or fat-free ice cream or yogurt. And in place of whipped cream, top desserts with thawed light or fat-free frozen whipped dessert topping or pressurized whipped dessert topping.

• Fruit Parfaits

Increase the fiber and add some whole grains in a baked good by replacing one-fourth of the all-purpose flour in a recipe with whole wheat flour.

• Wheat & Oat Bread

Boost the seasonings. Add a little extra citrus peel, spice, or flavoring extract when you lower the fat and calories in a recipe. They add flavor without fat.

• Raisin-Pumpkin Tart

Instead of frosting, top cakes or cookies with fresh fruit or low-fat vanilla or fruit-flavored yogurt.

• Chocolate Cake