These 15 baking recipes without refined sugar rely on wholesome ingredients while still delivering plenty of sweetness. From texture-packed dessert bars to soft peanut butter banana muffins and hearty honey-sweetened oat bread, there’s something here for every craving.
Yes, you’re on a baking website filled with plenty of classic, sugar-forward dessert recipes! But over the years, I’ve also developed a collection of recipes made without refined sugar—and to be honest, these are the ones I bake most often for my family.
Each recipe is sweetened with ingredients like honey, maple syrup, or fruit, which not only add sweetness but also enhance moisture and flavor. The result is a collection of bakes that feel a little more wholesome… without sacrificing taste or texture!
They still absolutely hit the spot when you’re craving something sweet.
Keep this list of baking recipes without refined sugar handy for the next time you’re looking for a treat that’s a bit more nutritious than, say, chocolate cake. Instead, you can try this chocolate coconut almond tart. It still satisfies the most intense chocolate cravings… and, as a bonus, is very easy to make!
This chocolate coconut almond tart also joins my lists of vegan recipes and gluten free recipes.
If you’re looking for healthier baking recipes using fresh berries, try these popular healthy berry streusel bars. This no-bake Greek yogurt fruit tart is also a light and refreshing option; I often serve it for breakfasts and brunches!
Browse By Dietary Preference
Here are even more baking recipes you can browse by specific dietary needs or preferences.
15 Baking Recipes Without Refined Sugar
Note: A few of the following recipes include add-ins like chocolate chips—feel free to use refined sugar-free versions if you’d like to keep the recipes fully refined sugar-free, or replace with chopped nuts, dates, or other dried fruit.
Simply Applesauce Muffins
These simple applesauce muffins are quick to make, reliably moist, and made with wholesome ingredients you likely already have on hand.
No-Bake Greek Yogurt Fruit Tart (GF)
This wholesome Greek yogurt fruit tart comes together with a simple 3-ingredient crust, protein-packed Greek yogurt, and all your favorite seasonal fresh fruits.
Honey Oat Bread
Wholesome and honey-sweetened, this no-knead oat bread is simple to make (mostly hands-off!) and full of flavor.
Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars (GF)
One of my most-made recipes—quick, easy, and delicious. Skip the chocolate chips or swap in raisins, nuts, or dates to keep them refined sugar–free.
Easy Maple Baked Pears
Such a simple, satisfying dessert! These 4-ingredient maple vanilla baked pears are quick, easy, and perfect with granola and yogurt.
Salted Quinoa Granola Bars
Chewy, crunchy, and naturally sweetened, these quinoa bars are made with dates, almond butter, oats, honey, and quinoa. Omit the chocolate drizzle to keep them refined sugar–free.
Peanut Butter Banana Muffins
Super moist and one of my all-time favorites, these muffins are sweetened with banana and honey. Skip the chocolate chips or use dates or nuts instead.
Chocolate Coconut Almond Tart (GF & Vegan)
Silky and decadent, this coconut almond tart uses coconut milk and only needs 10 minutes in the oven before setting in the refrigerator.
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Cups
Made in 1 bowl with simple ingredients in about 30 minutes, these apple cinnamon baked oatmeal cups are a wholesome family favorite.
Healthy Berry Streusel Bars
These easy healthy berry streusel bars combine two layers of almond oat streusel and one thick layer of homemade berry filling.
Vanilla Almond Snack Bars
Like homemade KIND bars, these snack bars are a little sweet, a little salty, and packed with whole foods… and no refined sugar!
Blueberry Almond Power Muffins (GF)
These gluten-free blueberry almond power muffins are wholesome, satisfying, and protein-packed with creamy Greek yogurt.
Honey Skillet Cornbread
Super simple! Honey-sweetened and baked in a skillet for irresistibly crisp edges.
Fluffy 100% Whole Wheat Pancakes
Soft, fluffy, and 100% whole wheat, these pancakes are easy to make and boosted with protein from Greek yogurt and eggs.
1-Bowl Baked Oatmeal
Baked oatmeal is bread pudding for breakfast! Made with a handful of healthy ingredients, this easy recipe comes together in 1 bowl and leaves you satisfied all morning.
Q: Have you tried any of these yet? I’d love to hear which ones you bake and love most!
