As the vegan movement becomes more and more popular, we’ve seen an influx of creative and innovative ways to make mouthwatering desserts without animal-based products. Whether you're a lifelong vegan, just exploring plant-based options or simply looking to try something new when you’re baking, these 5 unique vegan dessert recipes will have you convinced they’re no different than the delicious non-vegan desserts you’re used to. We've searched far and wide to conjure some delightful vegan desserts beyond the usual cakes and cookies.
1. Chocolate Quinoa Cake
Swap out traditional flour with protein-packed quinoa in this chocolatey cake. Start by blending quinoa with plant-based milk, maple syrup, and coconut oil to achieve a creamy consistency. Add cacao powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Pour the batter into a cake pan and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. You can top this scrumptious cake with a vegan ganache made from dairy-free dark chocolate and coconut milk, which is a great way to sneak in some essential nutrients.
2. Vegan Aquafaba Meringue
Aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, makes a brilliant egg-white substitute, perfect for making vegan meringues. Whip up aquafaba with cream of tartar until stiff peaks form, gradually adding sugar until the mixture is glossy. Pipe onto a baking sheet in beautiful peaks and bake at a low temperature until the meringues are dry and crisp. A garnish of fresh berries and a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce take this light and airy dessert to a whole new level of deliciousness.
3. Avocado Lime Cheesecake
This is a no-bake, raw vegan cheesecake that will redefine your notion of what a cheesecake can be. The creamy filling is a blend of ripe avocados, fresh lime juice, coconut oil, and agave nectar, all set atop a crust of dates and almonds. The result is a lusciously creamy, tangy cheesecake with a subtle crunch, made even better by the fact that it's filled with healthy fats.
4. Sweet Potato Brownies
For a twist on the traditional brownie, sweet potatoes are the way to go. Blend cooked sweet potatoes with dates, almond butter, and vanilla, then mix with cacao powder, baking powder, and a dash of salt. Bake until firm, then enjoy these gooey, rich brownies straight from the oven or let them chill in the fridge for a dense, fudgy treat. Either way, they're full of antioxidants and are sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings.
5. Vegan Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream
For a refreshing summer treat, try this vegan matcha green tea ice cream. Blend up cashews soaked overnight with coconut milk, maple syrup, and matcha green tea powder until smooth. Throw it all together in an ice cream maker until it reaches the perfect creamy consistency. This ice cream is not only a delicious way to cool off but also a great source of antioxidants from the matcha.
Each of these unique vegan dessert recipes offers a fresh, new way to enjoy sweet treats while sticking to a plant-based diet. They are proof that vegan desserts can be just as delightful and satisfying, if not more, as their non-vegan counterparts. Give them a try, and you just might find your new favourite dessert!