As the holiday season approaches (but who are we kidding, any time of the year), indulging in delicious, festive desserts is one of the season’s highlights. But if you’re following a plant-based diet—or want to provide options for vegan guests—it’s easier than ever to whip up treats everyone will enjoy. Here, I’ll share some fun, easy ways to incorporate easy plant-based desserts into your holiday spread, along with tips on ingredient swaps, ready-to-go options, and a couple of my favorite recipes to make the holiday season as sweet as it is plant-based!
Go-To Recipes for Easy Plant-Based Desserts
The vegan dessert world has come a long way, with countless options for any taste. There are thousands of recipes online, which means you can find something to match any craving or skill level. Start with a few signature easy plant-based desserts that you can whip up easily. We offer a few basic simple recipes of EASY PLANT-BASED DESSERTS to get you started using some store-bought hacks. From “Nice” Cream to Cherry Berry Crumble Pie you can become an expert in no time.
One of my favorite online recipe finds is THE BEST VEGAN CHOCOLATE CAKE recipe from Nora Cooks. This recipe is easy, doesn’t call for any hard-to-find ingredients, and is so rich and moist that even non-vegans won’t notice the difference! I’ve made it for many groups, and it always wins them over. And if you’re searching for more inspiration, vegan recipe sites offer everything from holiday classics to the latest dessert trends—all easily made plant-based.
Take an Easy Plant-Based Dessert and Jazz It Up
Create a show-stopping dessert that’s interactive and fun for guests start with a simple vegan item and build off of that. You can create a vegan make-your-own Sundae Bar. Set out a variety of dairy-free ice creams, like almond or coconut-based options, and a selection of toppings. Include my easy VEGAN CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES, which are always a hit. Just crumble them up as a topping option, or enjoy them on the side with scoops of your favorite non-dairy ice cream. Toppings like sprinkles, crushed Oreo cookies, fresh strawberries, bananas, and dairy-free chocolate chips make this an irresistible treat that everyone will love—without realizing it’s all vegan!
How to Veganize Classic Dessert Recipes
One of the best parts about plant-based baking is its versatility. You can often “veganize” classic dessert recipes by swapping a few key ingredients.
- Eggs can be substituted with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water = 1 egg), unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup = 1 egg), or mashed bananas, which work especially well in dense cakes and brownies.
- Replace dairy milk with almond, soy, or oat milk for a one-to-one substitution. These options keep the creamy consistency and are suitable for all dessert recipes.
- For butter, use a simple store-bought plant-based butter. Plant-based butters work well in baked goods like cookies and cakes, maintaining that rich, buttery texture. Coconut oil is also an incredible replacement – and is my go-to substitute in baked goods.
- Heavy cream can be swapped with full-fat coconut milk, which has a similar thickness and richness, making it great for whipped cream, ganache, and creamy fillings.
Off-the-Shelf Vegan Dessert Swaps
If you’re pressed for time, there are plenty of store-bought vegan desserts that taste great and are easy to serve. Check out our recommended PLANT-BASED DESSERT SWAPS for some of my top recommendations, including Marie Callender’s Razzleberry Pie (just heat it in the oven and serve) and a range of dairy-free ice cream brands. Look for brands like So Delicious and Ben & Jerry’s Non-Dairy for flavors that satisfy any sweet tooth. These are great for holiday gatherings because they’re convenient, delicious, and readily available.
When searching for easy, store-bought plant-based desserts, don’t rely solely on items labeled as vegan. Many desserts, like Marie Callender’s Razzleberry Pie and Oreos, aren’t marked as vegan but actually are. Often, manufacturers choose not to label certain desserts as vegan to avoid the misconception that they might lack flavor or quality, appealing instead to traditional eaters. Most vegan eaters simply check labels rather than relying on a ‘vegan’ stamp. Use your own judgment to decide if a product aligns with your plant-based goals.
Festive Easy Plant-Based Desserts for a Little Extra Holiday Spirit
When planning your plant-based holiday desserts, think about small touches that add festive flair to your plant-based treats. Decorate with holiday colors by adding red and green sprinkles, pomegranate arils, or dried cranberries to cookies and cupcakes. Use seasonal flavors like peppermint, cinnamon, or pumpkin spice to embrace classic holiday flavors. Try mini desserts like individual servings of mini vegan cheesecakes, mousse cups, or dessert shooters, which allow everyone to enjoy a treat without committing to a large portion.
The Sweet Side of Plant-Based Living
There’s no shortage of delicious vegan desserts to celebrate the season, whether you’re hosting friends, family, or just treating yourself. From making easy swaps in traditional recipes to setting up a vegan Sundae Bar that delights all ages, easy plant-based desserts are a fun way to embrace the holidays with a lighter touch. Let this holiday season be the start of a new tradition of plant-based sweets that no one can resist. Don’t be surprised if these treats become the most popular at your table—and not just because they’re vegan!
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