Who says dessert needs eggs, butter, or milk to be delicious? Vegan dessert recipes are proving that indulgence and plant-based living go hand in hand. Whether you're new to veganism or a seasoned pro, there's nothing quite like satisfying your sweet tooth with treats that align with your values—and your health goals.
This guide brings you a mix of easy-to-make, mouthwatering vegan desserts. From rich chocolate cakes to chewy cookies and creamy puddings, you’ll find something to crave and create. And if you’re proud of your plant-based lifestyle, check out The Dharma Store for vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton—ethical, stylish, and made for dessert lovers like you.
Why Vegan Desserts Are Worth Making
Vegan desserts aren’t just about skipping animal products—they’re about embracing whole, plant-based ingredients that nourish your body while delighting your taste buds. When you use ingredients like almond flour, coconut milk, dates, and cacao, you’re getting natural sweetness and nutrients with every bite.
Benefits of vegan dessert recipes:
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Dairy-free and egg-free
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Often lower in saturated fat
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Rich in fiber and antioxidants
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Allergy-friendly for many diets
Now, let’s dive into some indulgent yet wholesome recipes you can whip up at home.
1. Vegan Chocolate Avocado Mousse
Creamy, rich, and completely dairy-free.
Ingredients:
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2 ripe avocados
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1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1/4 cup maple syrup
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of sea salt
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Optional: dairy-free chocolate chips or berries for topping
Instructions:
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Scoop the avocado flesh into a food processor.
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Add cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt.
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Blend until smooth and creamy.
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Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Why it works: Avocados make this mousse ultra-silky while adding healthy fats and fiber.
2. Classic Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Crispy on the edges, soft in the center—everything a cookie should be.
Ingredients:
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1/2 cup coconut oil, softened
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3/4 cup brown sugar
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1/4 cup almond milk
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 tsp baking soda
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1/4 tsp salt
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1 cup vegan chocolate chips
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F.
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Cream together the coconut oil and brown sugar.
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Mix in almond milk and vanilla.
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In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
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Add dry ingredients to wet and mix until just combined.
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Fold in chocolate chips.
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Scoop onto a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes.
Tip: Let them cool for chewy perfection.
3. No-Bake Vegan Peanut Butter Bars
Decadent and protein-packed—no oven required.
Ingredients:
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1 cup natural peanut butter
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1/2 cup maple syrup
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2 cups rolled oats
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1/4 cup coconut oil
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1/2 cup dark vegan chocolate chips
Instructions:
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Mix peanut butter and maple syrup in a saucepan over low heat.
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Stir in oats until well coated.
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Press mixture into a parchment-lined pan.
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Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil and spread on top.
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Chill for 1–2 hours before cutting into bars.
4. Vegan Banana Bread with Walnuts
Sweet, moist, and perfect with a cup of tea.
Ingredients:
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3 ripe bananas
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1/4 cup melted coconut oil
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1/4 cup maple syrup
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1/4 cup almond milk
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
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1 tsp baking soda
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1/2 tsp cinnamon
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1/4 tsp salt
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1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a loaf pan.
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Mash bananas and mix in oil, syrup, milk, and vanilla.
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Stir in flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
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Fold in walnuts.
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Pour into pan and bake for 45–50 minutes.
5. Vegan Lemon Coconut Balls
Bright, tangy, and ideal for meal prep or grab-and-go snacks.
Ingredients:
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1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
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1 cup cashews
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1/4 cup lemon juice
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Zest from one lemon
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2 tbsp maple syrup
Instructions:
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Blend all ingredients in a food processor until a sticky dough forms.
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Roll into small balls and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Perfect for: School lunches, afternoon cravings, or post-dinner treats.
6. Rich Vegan Chocolate Cake
The ultimate centerpiece for birthdays or special occasions.
Ingredients (Cake):
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 cup coconut sugar
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1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 tsp baking soda
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1/2 tsp salt
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1 cup almond milk
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1/3 cup vegetable oil
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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2 tsp vanilla extract
Ingredients (Frosting):
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1/2 cup vegan butter
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1/4 cup cocoa powder
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2 cups powdered sugar
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2–3 tbsp almond milk
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a cake pan.
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Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl.
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Mix wet ingredients separately, then combine with dry.
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Pour batter into pan and bake for 30–35 minutes.
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Cool before frosting.
7. Vegan Apple Crisp
Warm, spiced, and perfect for fall.
Filling:
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4 cups sliced apples
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2 tbsp maple syrup
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1 tsp cinnamon
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1 tsp lemon juice
Topping:
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1 cup rolled oats
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1/3 cup almond flour
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1/4 cup coconut oil
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2 tbsp maple syrup
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1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F.
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Toss filling ingredients and place in baking dish.
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Mix topping and crumble over apples.
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Bake for 35–40 minutes.
8. Vegan Chia Pudding
Nutrient-dense and endlessly customizable.
Base Ingredients:
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1/4 cup chia seeds
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1 cup almond milk
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1 tbsp maple syrup
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Toppings:
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Berries, banana slices, granola, or cacao nibs
Instructions:
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Mix all base ingredients in a jar.
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Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
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Top with fruit or nuts and enjoy.
Tips for Making the Best Vegan Desserts
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Use ripe bananas or dates for natural sweetness.
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Opt for full-fat coconut milk for creamier puddings and mousses.
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Use ground flax or chia as egg substitutes (1 tbsp + 2.5 tbsp water = 1 egg).
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Keep unrefined sweeteners like maple syrup, agave, and coconut sugar in stock.
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Invest in a high-speed blender or food processor for silky textures.
Make Desserts That Match Your Ethics
These vegan dessert recipes prove you don’t have to compromise indulgence for ethics. Whether you’re celebrating, meal prepping, or just craving something sweet, these treats offer all the flavor and none of the animal products.
And if you want to wear your values proudly while baking or shopping, check out The Dharma Store. Their vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton are the perfect way to make a statement without saying a word.