When I was pregnant and managing gestational diabetes, I didn’t just crave sweets—I craved celebration. Something creamy and decadent to swirl on top of a cupcake or spread across a cake and feel like, yes, this is special.

But most frostings are loaded with powdered sugar or artificial sweeteners that just didn’t sit right with me.

That’s why this Healthy Cream Cheese Icing was born. It’s tangy, rich, and lightly sweetened with real maple syrup or honey. The cream cheese gives it that indulgent cheesecake flavor, while the cottage cheese adds a boost of protein—and blends up completely smooth. It’s the kind of frosting you feel good about feeding to your kids and sneaking a spoonful of yourself.

Why You'll Love this Icing

• No powdered sugar - sweetened with just 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
• Naturally higher in protein thanks to cottage cheese
• Thick, creamy texture like a rick cheesecake frosting
• Perfect for cupcakes, cakes or dipping strawberries
• Gestational diabetes-friendly - balanced, lower in carbs and full of healthy fats

Ingredients

• 1 (8 oz) block Cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup (114 g) Cottage cheese (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup (70 g) Maple syrup or honey
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Bring everything to room temperature. this makes blending much easier and results in a smoother frosting.
2. Add all ingredients to a blender or food processor.
3. Blend until silky smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
4. Pipe or spread on to cake, cupcakes, pancakes etc.
5. Chill before serving to firm up the icing.

6. Bring everything to room temperature. This makes blending much easier and results in a smoother frosting.

Notes for GD Mamas

• This recipe makes just enough to cover 12 cupcakes moderately - it's rich, so a little goes a long way.
• For best blood sugar balance, pair your cupcake with a protein or eat after a protein rich meal with room left over in your carb macros.
• Test your own response, you can reduce the honey or maple syrup to accomodate your sugars and taste.

A Gentle Reminder

Just because you’re managing gestational diabetes doesn’t mean joy is off the table. You can still celebrate. You can still enjoy creamy frosting on a cupcake. You can still have food that feels like a hug. I hope this icing brings a little sparkle to your day and makes your celebrations—big or small—feel that much sweeter.