The Sweet Side of Plant-Based Living
Living gluten-free and vegan doesn’t mean giving up dessert. Whether you’re dealing with dietary restrictions, food allergies, or simply want to nourish your body with cleaner ingredients, gluten-free vegan desserts offer the perfect solution. These treats ditch animal products and wheat without sacrificing flavor, texture, or creativity.
From fudgy brownies and no-bake bites to fruit-forward crisps and creamy puddings, this guide breaks down foolproof dessert ideas you can whip up with ingredients that are plant-based, gluten-free, and satisfying. You’ll also find essential pantry tips and swaps for making any dessert more inclusive.
Ready to embrace your sweet tooth the compassionate way? Let’s dive into the essentials.
Gluten-Free + Vegan: What Does That Mean?
A dessert labeled as both gluten-free and vegan is free from:
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Animal products: No eggs, dairy, gelatin, or honey.
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Gluten-containing grains: No wheat, barley, or rye.
This combo can be a bit of a balancing act in baking. Eggs often serve as binders, while gluten provides elasticity. Without them, recipes require thoughtful alternatives—think flax eggs, chia seeds, almond flour, and starches.
But don’t worry. You won’t miss a thing with the right ingredients and a few go-to recipes.
Must-Have Ingredients for Gluten-Free Vegan Desserts
Building a well-stocked baking pantry makes dessert prep quick and hassle-free. Here’s what to keep on hand:
1. Flours and Starches
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Almond flour
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Oat flour (certified gluten-free)
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Coconut flour
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Brown rice flour
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Tapioca starch
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Arrowroot powder
2. Natural Sweeteners
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Maple syrup
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Coconut sugar
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Agave nectar
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Medjool dates
3. Binders
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Flaxseed meal (for flax eggs)
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Chia seeds
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Applesauce
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Mashed banana
4. Dairy Alternatives
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Coconut milk
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Almond milk
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Cashew cream
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Vegan butter or coconut oil
5. Flavor Enhancers
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Vanilla extract
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Cacao powder
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Lemon zest
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Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom
10 Easy Gluten-Free Vegan Dessert Ideas
1. No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars
Why it works:
These require no oven, minimal cleanup, and just a few ingredients. They're rich, chewy, and store well.
Ingredients:
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Almond flour
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Natural peanut butter
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Maple syrup
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Dark chocolate (dairy-free)
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Coconut oil
Tip: Add crushed gluten-free pretzels on top for crunch.
2. Chickpea Cookie Dough Bites
Why it works:
Chickpeas offer fiber and protein without overpowering the flavor. These bites are safe to eat raw and taste like dessert.
Ingredients:
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Canned chickpeas
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Almond butter
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Maple syrup
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Vanilla extract
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Dairy-free chocolate chips
Tip: Use a food processor for a smooth, doughy texture.
3. Baked Cinnamon Apples with Walnut Crumble
Why it works:
Warm apples and spiced crumble offer comfort food satisfaction with natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
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Sliced apples
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Maple syrup
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Cinnamon, nutmeg
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Gluten-free oats
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Chopped walnuts
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Coconut oil
Tip: Serve warm with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream.
4. Vegan Chocolate Avocado Mousse
Why it works:
Avocados give this dessert a rich, creamy texture without dairy or processed thickeners.
Ingredients:
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Ripe avocados
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Cacao powder
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Maple syrup
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Vanilla extract
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Almond milk
Tip: Chill before serving and top with berries or coconut flakes.
5. Strawberry Chia Jam Bars
Why it works:
These bars are layered with homemade chia jam and an almond-oat crust. Perfect for snacking or serving at brunch.
Ingredients:
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Gluten-free oats
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Almond flour
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Maple syrup
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Coconut oil
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Strawberries
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Chia seeds
Tip: Let the bars cool completely to firm up.
6. Gluten-Free Vegan Brownies
Why it works:
Rich, fudgy, and chocolatey—no one will believe they’re vegan and gluten-free.
Ingredients:
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Oat flour or almond flour
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Cacao powder
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Coconut sugar
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Flax eggs
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Coconut oil
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Dairy-free chocolate chunks
Tip: Don’t overbake. Let them cool to set fully.
7. Banana Nice Cream
Why it works:
One ingredient. Endless variations. This frozen dessert is creamy, sweet, and nutrient-packed.
Ingredients:
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Frozen ripe bananas
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Optional add-ins: peanut butter, cocoa powder, berries
Tip: Blend until smooth and serve immediately, or freeze for a firmer texture.
8. Lemon Coconut Energy Balls
Why it works:
These zesty, refreshing bites are perfect for summer or midday pick-me-ups.
Ingredients:
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Almond flour
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Shredded coconut
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Lemon juice and zest
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Maple syrup
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Chia seeds
Tip: Roll in extra coconut for texture.
9. Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Why it works:
Fall-flavored and fluffy, these muffins use oat flour and flax eggs for structure.
Ingredients:
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Pumpkin puree
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Oat flour
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Coconut sugar
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Pumpkin spice blend
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Almond milk
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Apple cider vinegar
Tip: Use silicone muffin molds for easy release.
10. Vegan Rice Pudding
Why it works:
Comforting and creamy, this dessert works hot or cold.
Ingredients:
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Arborio or short-grain rice
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Coconut milk
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Maple syrup
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Vanilla extract
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Cinnamon
Tip: Stir frequently and cook low-and-slow to avoid sticking.
Tips for Successful Gluten-Free Vegan Baking
Baking without gluten or animal products is its own art. Use these strategies to make your desserts foolproof:
1. Combine Flours
Mixing flours (e.g., almond and tapioca) can create a better texture than using a single gluten-free flour.
2. Don’t Skip the Binder
Flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) are crucial for structure and moisture in most recipes.
3. Taste as You Go
Since vegan batters are safe to eat raw, taste and adjust your sweetener or spices.
4. Watch Moisture Content
Gluten-free flours can absorb more or less liquid. Add plant milk gradually and let batters rest to hydrate.
5. Read Labels
Double-check ingredients, especially baking powder, oats, and chocolate chips, to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.
Make Dessert, Not Compromises
There’s no need to choose between health, ethics, and indulgence. With these gluten-free vegan desserts, you can enjoy rich, satisfying treats made from whole, plant-based ingredients that align with your values.
When you stock your kitchen with thoughtful staples—and maybe even wear your values—you're showing the world that compassion and flavor can go hand in hand. If you want to wear your vegan pride with comfort and style, check out The Dharma Store, where you’ll find ethically made vegan-themed t-shirts crafted from organic cotton.
Dessert is more than food—it’s a moment of joy. Make it intentional, inclusive, and 100% plant-powered.