Vegan desserts are often underrated and misunderstood. But what if we told you that vegan options can be just as indulgent, decadent, and downright delicious as their non-vegan counterparts?
Prepare to start drooling as I reveal a collection of the best 20 vegan dessert recipes you won’t believe are 100% plant-based!
Vegan ingredients in desserts
When it comes to whipping up delicious vegan desserts, understanding which ingredients are vegan-friendly and which are not is key.
Here’s a handy table listing some common non-vegan ingredients often used in desserts along with vegan alternatives to use instead:
| Non-Vegan Ingredient | Vegan Alternative |
| Butter | Vegan butter (made from plant-based oils), coconut oil |
| Milk | Almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, oat milk, cashew milk, rice milk |
| Cream | Coconut cream, cashew cream, soy cream |
| Eggs | Various egg substitutes such as flaxseed meal, applesauce, mashed banana, silken tofu, commercial egg replacers |
| Yogurt | Coconut yogurt, almond yogurt, soy yogurt |
| Gelatin (for thickning) | Agar agar, carrageenan, pectin, or other plant-based gelling agents |
| Honey | Maple syrup, agave nectar, date syrup, brown rice syrup |
| Chocolate (with dairy) and chocolate chips | Vegan chocolate chips, dark chocolate (ensure it’s dairy-free) |
| Whipped cream | Coconut whipped cream, whipped aquafaba (chickpea brine), whipped coconut cream |
These alternatives can be used in various dessert recipes to make them vegan-friendly. Always check labels for hidden non-vegan ingredients and ensure that any processed or pre-packaged items are certified vegan if necessary.
20+ Surprising vegan dessert recipes
Now, here are the BEST desserts that are 100% vegan!
1. Vegan Mango Mousse
Starting off our list is a delightful Vegan Mango Mousse. It’s smooth, creamy, and bursting with tropical flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients like ripe mangoes, coconut cream, and a touch of sweetness from maple syrup or agave.
2. Pumpkin Macaroons
Who says macaroons have to be made with egg whites? These Pumpkin Macaroons are not only vegan but also require no baking. With the warm spices of pumpkin pie and the white chocolate drizzle on top, these macaroons are sure to become a fall favorite.
3. Dark Chocolate Pie
For all the chocolate lovers out there, this Dark Chocolate Pie is a dream come true. Made with a luscious filling of chocolate and coconut cream, and topped with a dollop of whipped coconut cream and fresh strawberries, this pie is pure chocolate bliss.
4. Almond Flour Doughnuts
These Almond Flour Doughnuts are proof that you can have your cake (or doughnut) and eat it too. Soft, fluffy, and baked to perfection, these doughnuts are made with wholesome ingredients like almond flour, applesauce, and vanilla bean paste.
5. Vanilla Coconut Flour Donuts
Another delicious doughnut option, these Vanilla Coconut Flour Donuts are gluten-free, grain-free, and completely vegan.
6. Almond Flour Lemon Bars
Tangy, sweet, and oh-so-zesty, these Almond Flour Lemon Bars are a refreshing twist on a classic dessert. With a buttery almond flour crust and a silky smooth lemon filling, these bars are perfection.
7. Millionaire Bars
Indulge your sweet tooth with these decadent Millionaire Bars. Layers of coconut flour shortbread, gooey medjool date caramel, and rich chocolate come together to create a truly indulgent dessert that just happens to be vegan (make sure you swap out the eggs for a vegan egg replacement).
8. Keto Oreos
Yes, you read that right—vegan Oreos! These Keto Oreos are a healthier take on the classic cookie sandwich (even though Oreos are also vegan), made with coconut flour, coconut oil, and a creamy coconut filling. Dunk them in a glass of almond milk for a nostalgic treat that’s better than the original.
9. Banana Pudding
Made with ripe bananas, coconut milk, and a hint of vanilla, this Vegan Banana Pudding is the perfect way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter.
10. Banana Coconut Ice Cream
Cool off on a hot day with this refreshing Banana Coconut Ice Cream. Made with just three ingredients—frozen bananas, vanilla bean powder, and shredded coconut—this dairy-free ice cream is creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-delicious.
11. Chocolate Coconut Milk Ice Cream
For all the chocolate lovers out there, this Chocolate Coconut Milk Ice Cream is a must-try. Rich, creamy, and full of chocolate flavor, this dairy-free ice cream is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
12. Almond Flour Coffee Cake
Start your day off right with a slice of this Almond Flour Coffee Cake. Moist, fluffy, and bursting with cinnamon flavor, this cake is the perfect accompaniment to your morning cup of joe.
13. Magic Cookie Bars
These Magic Cookie Bars are truly magical. Layers of coconut flour crust, butterscotch chips, shredded coconut, and pecans come together to create a sweet and satisfying treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.
14. Disney Dole Whip (Copycat Recipe)
Missing your favorite Disney treat? Bring the magic home with this Dole Whip Copycat Recipe. Made with just four ingredients—pineapple juice, coconut milk, frozen pineapple, and vegan vanilla ice cream/homemade coconut ice cream—this vegan version of the iconic theme park treat is just as delicious as the original.
15. Peppermint Bark
Get into the holiday spirit with this Vegan Peppermint Bark. Creamy white chocolate studded with crunchy candy canes makes for a festive and delicious treat that’s perfect for gift-giving or enjoying yourself.
16. Almond Flour Cookies
These Almond Flour Cookies are soft, chewy, and utterly irresistible. Made with just two ingredients (almond flour and maple syrup), these cookies are perfect for dunking in a glass of almond milk or enjoying on their own.
17. Coconut Mousse
Light, fluffy, and full of coconut flavor, this Coconut Mousse is a dreamy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Top with fresh berries and/or toasted coconut – YUM!
18. Edible Cookie Dough
Forget about baking—this Edible Cookie Dough is meant to be enjoyed straight from the bowl. Made with almond flour, peanut butter powder, coconut oil, and chocolate chips, this vegan cookie dough is safe to eat raw and oh-so-delicious.
19. Almond-Free Macarons
Made with aquafaba, sugar, and cream of tartar, these airy Almond-Free Macarons are filled with dairy-free chocolate filling for a truly indulgent experience.
20. Chocolate Hazelnut Cups
A creamy chocolate hazelnut filling encased in a crunchy chocolate shell makes for a deliciously indulgent dessert that’s perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself).
21. Keto Chocolate Mousse
Last but not least, this dairy-free chocolate mousse is keto, vegan-friendly, and the ultimate chocolate dessert!
Let us know in the comments below which one you’re trying!
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