Vegan Christmas Recipes https://www.worldofvegan.com/category/holiday/christmas/ Vegan recipes, guides, articles, and beyond! Thu, 25 Jan 2024 17:21:08 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.worldofvegan.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/cropped-favicon-32x32.png Vegan Christmas Recipes https://www.worldofvegan.com/category/holiday/christmas/ 32 32 Pink Beet Hummus https://www.worldofvegan.com/beetroot-hummus/ https://www.worldofvegan.com/beetroot-hummus/#comments Wed, 24 Jan 2024 19:38:23 +0000 https://www.worldofvegan.com/?p=9597 The world of dips and spreads is a fun one. Everyone seems to have their favorites, and the options are endless, but one thing is for certain: hummus is king. No other spread can overshadow the universal love for this dip, and we get it! But, what’s the only thing that could top the beloved […]

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The world of dips and spreads is a fun one. Everyone seems to have their favorites, and the options are endless, but one thing is for certain: hummus is king. No other spread can overshadow the universal love for this dip, and we get it!

But, what’s the only thing that could top the beloved original hummus? Well, pink hummus, of course! 

This delicious beet hummus recipe is so good you’ll make it on repeat. Sweet, creamy, savory, and, did I mention gorgeous? Get ready to add another spread to your ultimate top 3 list! And get your camera ready, because is definitely an Instagram-worthy dish. 

A bowl of pink beet hummus with decorative toppings served surrounded by ingredient flaylay.

Pink Hummus With Beetroot: It’s So Versatile!

It seems like hummus is everywhere these days and there’s isn’t a dinner party, picnic or gathering without it. Hummus is a must!

This shouldn’t come as a surprise because hummus has it all. It’s vegan, healthy, nutritious, and packed with plant-based protein. The best part? It requires only a few simple ingredients, and it’s easy and quick to prepare. Toss chickpeas, tahini (sesame paste), olive oil, lemon juice, salt and spices in a food processor, a few pulses and voila! 

But pink hummus with beetroots? It’s the new best thing! It’s way more fun tot eat and packed with extra nutrients from the roasted beets. 

Star Ingredients

Beets: The vibrant and earthy flavor of two medium-sized cooked or roasted beetroots is the driving force behind the stunning pink hue of this hummus. Not only do they add a burst of color, but they also infuse a subtly sweet and slightly earthy taste that sets this hummus apart. You can buy store-bought cooked beets, use beets from a can, bake them yourself, or cook them in the microwave.

A woman holding out a bundle of fresh raw red beets with their greens.

Chickpeas: A can of chickpeas forms the creamy base of our Pink Hummus. These protein-packed legumes provide a smooth and velvety texture, creating a perfect canvas for the striking beetroot color and flavor to shine through.

Tahini: Three tablespoons of tahini add a rich, nutty depth to the hummus, enhancing its creaminess and providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the beetroots. Tahini contributes to the well-balanced and savory profile of the dip.

Garlic: Two cloves of garlic are the aromatic backbone of this recipe. They bring a pleasant pungency that complements the sweetness of the beetroots and adds a hint of warmth to each bite.

Lemon: The juice of one large lemon provides a bright and zesty kick to the hummus, balancing the earthiness of the beetroots and enhancing the overall freshness of the dish. For additional flavor, zest the lemon with a microplane or zester and add the zest in as well!

Cumin: Half a teaspoon of ground cumin introduces a subtle smokiness and an earthy undertone that pairs harmoniously with the beetroots, creating a depth of flavor that lingers on the palate.

Ingredients for pink beet hummus in a food processor on a kitchen counter.

How to Make Pink Hummus

Step 1: Cook your beets! You can do this in the microwave, oven, or buy pre-cooked beets.

  • Microwave method: Wash, dry, and chop your raw beets, add them to a bowl with some water, cover with a paper towel, and microwave on high for five minutes.
  • Oven Method: Wash, dry, and chop your raw beets, add them to a baking pan, rub with olive oil, and bake for 20 minutes at 400℉.

Step 2: Add all the hummus ingredients to a food processor and blend until creamy and smooth. If desired, add a tablespoon or two of water and blend further.

Blended pink hummus in a food processor on a countertop.

Step 3: Scoop the hummus onto a dish or into a bowl rotating the back of spoon to create a nice texture on top. Dress with your toppings, and enjoy!

Serving pink hummus with olive oil drizzle, sesame seeds, and toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pink hummus made of?

Pink hummus uses beets to give it that beautiful pink color! Cooked beets not only contribute their vibrant color but also a subtle earthy sweetness to the hummus.

Is beet hummus good for you?

Yes, beet hummus can be a nutritious and healthful addition to your diet. Beets, the primary ingredient giving the hummus its vibrant color, are rich in essential nutrients. They contain fiber, vitamins such as folate and vitamin C, minerals like potassium and manganese, and antioxidants.

How long does homemade hummus last?

Homemade hummus can typically last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. To increase the longevity of your hummus, promptly store it in an airtight container in the fridge after making it. Keep it sealed when not in use.

Pink Hummus made with beet and topped with chickpeas served with crackers.
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Pink Beet Hummus

This colorful spin on traditional hummus is a showstopper! This gorgeous pink hummus is made with roasted beets and is perfect for dipping pita, crackers, and veggies, spreading on sandwiches, or serving at any party or gathering.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Middle Eastern
Keyword beetroot hummus, hummus, hummus recipe, pink hummus
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 128kcal
Author World of Vegan

Ingredients

  • 2 medium-sized beetroots cooked or roasted
  • 1 15-ounce can chickpeas rinsed and drained
  • 3 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 lemon large
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon salt to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided

To serve

  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons Cilantro chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame seeds white or black

Instructions

To Cook the Beets

  • To Roast: Slice each beet into 1-inch chunks, place on a roasting pan, and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place in the oven and roast for 25 minutes at 400℉.
  • To Microwave: Chop beets into 1-inch chunks and place in a microwave-safe bowl with a little water. Cover with a paper towel and microwave for 5 minutes. Allow to cool before handling.
  • Store Bought: You can also use store bought cooked beets, as long as they are not pickled in vinegar.

To Make The Hummus

  • In a food processor and add the cooked beets, chickpeas (reserving a handful for garnish), tahini, garlic, juice of one lemon, cumin, salt, and pepper, and blitz. Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and continue blending in the food processor until smooth. If desired, add one tablespoons of water for a creamier and less thick hummus.
  • Spoon the pink hummus into the center of a plate or bowl, and use the back of a spoon to spread the mixture, creating some texture or a bowl in the center for the toppings. Drizzle with remaining olive oil, sprinkle with remaining chickpeas, and top with cilantro and sesame seeds.
  • Serve with pita bread, crackers, veggies, on sandwiches, or atop fresh salads.

Nutrition

Serving: 4g | Calories: 128kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Sodium: 219mg | Potassium: 159mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 30IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 1mg

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Vegan Ratatouille https://www.worldofvegan.com/ratatouille/ https://www.worldofvegan.com/ratatouille/#comments Mon, 15 Jan 2024 21:28:24 +0000 https://www.worldofvegan.com/?p=111184 Originating from the sunny climate of Provence, ratatouille is not just a dish, it’s a celebration of the Mediterranean’s finest produce. You can bring this vibe into your kitchen any time of the year with our easy and delicious ratatouille recipe! This rustic stew, brimming with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, offers deeply flavorful […]

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Originating from the sunny climate of Provence, ratatouille is not just a dish, it’s a celebration of the Mediterranean’s finest produce. You can bring this vibe into your kitchen any time of the year with our easy and delicious ratatouille recipe!

This rustic stew, brimming with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, offers deeply flavorful notes enriched with olive oil, garlic, and a medley of fresh herbs. It’s a dish that rewards patience, making it perfect for a relaxed weekend cooking session.

Ratatouille’s charm lies in its versatility. Serve it as a hearty main alongside quinoa or polenta fries, or let it shine as a rich topping on crisp crostini, complemented by a dollop of vegan ricotta. But why stop there? Explore its potential by tucking it into a warm pita with a drizzle of tahini or dollop of hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired wrap. You can use it as a robust filling for vegan lasagna, layered with plant-based béchamel sauce. Stirring it into pasta for a quick, nutritious meal, perhaps with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan, is another excellent choice!

Every bite of this ratatouille brings a taste of southern France right to your kitchen. Next up, we’ll guide you through making this delightful dish. From choosing the best vegetables to simmering them to perfection, we’ll cover all the essentials. Gather your ingredients and let’s start.

Here’s to a dish that’s as much about enjoying the flavors as it is about celebrating the essence of French cooking. Bon appétit!

Why You Should Make This Ratatouille

Thinking about trying this classic ratatouille recipe? You’re in for an amazing experience. This dish is more than a simple medley of vegetables; it’s an explosion of flavor and a feast for the eyes. Let’s explore more reasons why you’ll fall in love with this ratatouille!

  • Full of Flavor: Savor the rich layer of flavors in each bite of our ratatouille. With a balanced blend of garlic, tomato sauce, olive oil, and fresh herbs, each vegetable shines, offering a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
  • Versatility at Its Best: Ratatouille is a chameleon in the kitchen. Perfect as a main dish, a colorful side, or a unique addition to meals, it pairs wonderfully with grains, shines as a topping on bread, and can even be a flavorful filling for sandwiches or lasagna.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Ideal for those busy weeks, ratatouille is a make-ahead marvel. It tastes even better the next day, making it a smart, delicious choice for meal planning and quick dinners.
  • A Touch of French Cuisine: Experience the joy of French cooking with this authentic Provence-inspired dish. Ratatouille brings the essence of French culinary tradition to your table, no passport required!
  • Naturally Inclusive: Embracing a range of dietary needs, this ratatouille is vegetarian, vegan, and free from gluten, soy, and nuts. It’s a wholesome dish that everyone can enjoy, whether at a large gathering or a quiet meal at home.
  • Simple Ingredients, Incredible Outcome: Who knew simplicity could taste so exceptionally good? Common vegetables and pantry staples unite to create an beautiful dish. Ratatouille proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients to enjoy a truly remarkable meal.
A side shot of ratatouille in a cast iron pan.

Essential Ingredients

These key ingredients all work together to create a beautiful, cozy ratatouille. Let’s go over some of them, as well as offer some substitutions.

Red Onion: Adds a mild, slightly sweet flavor that enhances the overall savoriness of the dish. If you don’t have red onions, yellow onions make a good substitute, offering a similar texture but a slightly stronger flavor.

Tomato Sauce: Acts as the base of the ratatouille, providing moisture and a rich, tangy taste. If tomato sauce isn’t available, crushed tomatoes, tomato puree, or even a good quality marinara sauce can be used as alternatives.

Eggplant: Brings a unique, hearty texture to the ratatouille, absorbing flavors beautifully.

Zucchini: Offers a light, slightly sweet flavor and a tender texture. In case zucchini is not available, summer squash is a great alternative, as it has a similar texture and flavor profile.

Red Bell Peppers: Provide a sweet and slightly earthy flavor, adding a pop of color and crunch.

Plum Tomatoes: These are less watery and more flavorful than other varieties, making them perfect for ratatouille. If plum tomatoes aren’t available, any other fresh, ripe tomatoes will do, though they may release more liquid into the dish.

Fresh Thyme: This herb adds a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the vegetables.

Lemon, for Garnish: Adds a fresh, zesty finish to the dish, brightening up the flavors in the dish.

How To Make Vegan Ratatouille

Making this vegan ratatouille is a labor of love that offers amazing aromas, and fun assembly of all the vegetables. Here’s how we make it!

Start by Preheating Your Oven: Set it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready for baking.

A sauté pan with oil and onions.

Step One: Prepare the Sauce. In a saucepan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped garlic and half a head of finely sliced red onion. Cook them together until the onion is soft and translucent, about 2 minutes.

Tomato sauce being simmered in a sauté pan.

Step Two: Simmer the Tomato Base. Pour in the tomato passata or tomato sauce. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes. During the last minute, stir in the leaves from a sprig of fresh thyme. This sauce will serve as the flavorful foundation of your ratatouille.

Vegetables being sliced on a wooden countertop.

Step Three: Slice Your Vegetables. Thinly slice the eggplant, zucchini, red bell peppers, and plum tomatoes. Aim for slices about a fifth of an inch thick, or thinner if preferred.

Seasoning ratatouille in a pan.

Step Four: Assemble the Ratatouille. Arrange the vegetable slices in the casserole dish in an overlapping circular pattern. This not only ensures even cooking but also makes for an aesthetically pleasing presentation. Season the arranged vegetables lightly with salt and pepper.

Step Five: Bake the Ratatouille. Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. The vegetables should be tender and the flavors well combined.

Ratatouille, garnished with lemon slices.

Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh lemon slices and a sprig of thyme. Your ratatouille is now ready to be enjoyed!

Helpful Tips For Making Perfect Ratatouille

Ready to turn your ratatouille into a masterpiece? These helpful tips will elevate your cooking experience, ensuring your dish is as beautiful as it is delicious. Let’s go over some culinary secrets that will make your ratatouille stand out both in flavor and presentation.

  • The Art of Vegetable Slicing: Thin, consistent slices are key. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline for uniform thickness. This not only ensures even cooking but also makes layering easier and more aesthetically pleasing.
  • Creating a Beautiful Swirl: Start by placing one slice of each vegetable (eggplant, zucchini, bell pepper, tomato) in the pan, slightly overlapping the last. Continue this pattern around the edge of the pan. Once the outer circle is complete, start a new circle inside, following the same pattern. The goal is to fill the pan with a spiral of beautifully arranged vegetables. This technique, while simple, adds an elegant touch to your dish.
  • Layering for Flavor: Before arranging your veggies, spread the tomato sauce evenly on the bottom of the pan. This creates a flavorful base and prevents sticking. Sprinkle some fresh herbs over the sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Season as You Go: Lightly season each layer of vegetables with salt, pepper, and additional herbs. This ensures every bite is infused with flavor.
  • Slow and Low Cooking: Ratatouille benefits from slow, gentle cooking. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender without losing their shape. Be patient and keep the heat at a medium-low setting.
  • Letting It Rest: Once out of the oven, give your vegan ratatouille a few minutes to settle. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, making it even more flavorful.
Ratatouille on a fork.

How To Serve

When it comes to serving your homemade ratatouille, the possibilities are as varied as they are delicious. This versatile dish shines whether served warm or at room temperature, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion.

For a classic touch, plate it alongside a serving of creamy polenta or a bed of fluffy couscous, allowing these grains to soak up the rich flavors of the stew. If you’re leaning towards a more casual, hands-on experience, consider spooning it over toasted slices of crusty bread, perhaps with a smear of vegan ricotta.

Ratatouille also makes a superb accompaniment to grilled tofu or seitan, offering a colorful and flavorful contrast. For those special gatherings, you can elevate your presentation by topping the ratatouille with a sprinkle of fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze, turning the humble stew into an elegant entrée. No matter how you choose to serve it, ratatouille brings a touch of Provençal charm to your table, promising a meal that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious.

How To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers of your delicious vegan ratatouille is easy! Ratatouille keeps well in the refrigerator and often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld. To properly store it, let the ratatouille cool to room temperature first. Then, transfer it into an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 4-5 days.

If you find yourself with a larger batch, ratatouille also freezes beautifully. Spoon the cooled stew into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top as the contents will expand when frozen.

Label the containers with the date, and you can enjoy your ratatouille for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stove over low heat to restore its warmth and flavors.

FAQs

What is ratatouille made of?

Ratatouille is a traditional French stew made primarily from vegetables. The key ingredients typically include eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, all simmered together with olive oil, garlic, and a blend of fresh herbs like thyme and basil. This combination results in a rustic, delicious, vibrant, flavorful, and wholesome dish.

What is it called ratatouille?

Ratatouille gets its name from the French word “ratouiller” and the Occitan word “ratatolha.” Both terms suggest a mishmash or stew. The dish originated in the Provence region of France and typically referred to a simple peasant stew. Over time, it evolved into the more refined version we know today, but the name stuck, continuing to evoke its humble, rustic origins and the process of mixing or stirring together vegetables.

How do you serve ratatouille?

Ratatouille is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. It’s delicious on its own as a hearty main course, especially when accompanied by crusty bread, quinoa, rice, or pasta. You can also serve it as a side dish with grilled tofu, seitan, or your favorite plant-based protein. For a more creative approach, use it as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or even as a topping for bruschetta or pizza. Ratatouille can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a great option for potlucks and picnics.

Ratatouille, served with lemon slices.
Ratatouille, garnished with lemon slices and herbs.
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Vegan Ratatouille

This fresh vegan ratatouille dish will take you to a sunny day in the Mediterranean and remind you of why we love these simple ingredients so much!
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine French, Italian, Mediterranean
Keyword ratatouille, ratatouille recipe, vegan french dish, vegan Mediterranean dish, vegan ratatouille
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 129kcal
Author World of Vegan

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 heads red onion finely sliced
  • cups tomato passata or tomato sauce
  • 1 medium-sized eggplant
  • 1 medium-sized zucchini
  • 2 red bell peppers
  • 2 plum tomatoes
  • A few sprigs of fresh thyme
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 2 slices lemon for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. 
  • In a saucepan, add olive oil and cook the finely chopped garlic with half a head of red onion (finely sliced).
  • After 2 minutes, add the tomato passata (or tomato sauce) and season with salt and pepper.
  • Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes and add the little leaves from a sprig of fresh thyme. This will be your base for the ratatouille.
  • Spread the sauce evenly on the bottom of a round casserole dish.
  • Slice the vegetables very thin, about a fifth of an inch, or even thinner if desired.
  • Arrange sliced vegetables in circles as shown in the photo and season with salt and pepper. 
  • Cook in the oven at 350 Fahrenheit for 30-40 minutes.
  • Garnish with fresh lemon slices and a sprig of thyme, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 129kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Sodium: 736mg | Potassium: 1056mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 2909IU | Vitamin C: 105mg | Calcium: 51mg | Iron: 2mg

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No-Bake Chocolate Pie with Graham Cracker Crust https://www.worldofvegan.com/chocolate-pie/ https://www.worldofvegan.com/chocolate-pie/#comments Thu, 21 Dec 2023 21:06:08 +0000 https://www.worldofvegan.com/?p=112156 When the chocolate cravings strike they must be met! This 4-ingredient no-bake chocolate pie recipe is the perfect solution to those imminent cocoa cravings creeping up at around 5 o’clock. The simplest ingredients and not much time spent in the kitchen make this pie from the Plant-Based On A Budget cookbook a true keeper! Instead […]

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When the chocolate cravings strike they must be met! This 4-ingredient no-bake chocolate pie recipe is the perfect solution to those imminent cocoa cravings creeping up at around 5 o’clock. The simplest ingredients and not much time spent in the kitchen make this pie from the Plant-Based On A Budget cookbook a true keeper!

Instead of making a chocolate ganache filling that requires heating heavy whipping cream on a stovetop, this recipe uses silken tofu, which blends beautifully into a creamy and velvety filling. I’ve used this technique before to make chocolate mousse and vegan pudding!

Are you up for the no-bake pie challenge? It’s the easiest and most delicious chocolate pie you’ll ever make. No tricky techniques or steps and it involves a blender, a microwave, and a fridge. Doesn’t get easier than that! You have to try it!

Ingredients Needed and Substitutions

This chocolate pudding pie is made with a secret ingredient—silken tofu! You can’t taste the tofu at all, but you’re left with a creamy pudding-like consistency without needing to prepare a packet of instant pudding or whip heavy cream. With just a few extra ingredients, this pie is a snap to make!

Dairy-Free Semisweet Chocolate Chips

Opt for high-quality vegan semisweet chocolate chips to ensure a rich and indulgent chocolate flavor.

Hand holding up a bag of Chocolate Emporium semi-sweet chocolate chips.

Silken Tofu

Select a 14-ounce block of silken tofu, also known as “soft” tofu. Ensure it is well-drained to achieve a smooth and creamy texture in the pie filling. Silken tofu contributes to the pie’s velvety consistency.

Overhead view of a block of silken tofu.

Vanilla Extract

Use pure vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor of the chocolate pie.

Graham Cracker Pie Crust

Choose a pre-made vegan graham cracker pie crust for convenience or prepare your own using vegan graham crackers and plant-based butter. Crumble them together and press it tightly at the bottom of the pan. Ensure the crust is firm and well-set to support the creamy filling.

How To Make This Easy No Bake Chocolate Pie

For the Pie

In a small microwave-safe bowl, heat the chocolate chips for 45 seconds, stirring with a fork until smooth. If the chocolate remains lumpy, microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, or use a double boiler for an alternative melting method.

A bowl of melted vegan dairy-free chocolate.

Blend the melted chocolate, tofu, and vanilla in a blender or food processor until creamy, then pour the mixture into the pie crust and freeze for 30 minutes until the filling solidifies.

The pie can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.

For the Coconut Whipped Cream

Refrigerate a can of coconut milk overnight or for at least 6 hours. Once chilled, the milk and water will have separated. Remove the lid and pour out the water (which can be saved for a smoothie). In the bowl of an electric mixer, whisk the solidified coconut milk, vanilla, and powdered sugar on high for 5 minutes until fluffy. Alternatively, use a hand whisk if an electric mixer is unavailable. Serve immediately.

Coconut Whipped Cream on a spoon.

Topping Ideas

To top off this no-bake chocolate pie you can make this delicious coconut whipped cream. It compliments the intense chocolate flavor of the pie perfectly. Or use any store-bought vegan whipped cream you prefer.

Want to change it up? Try these other tasty toppings:

  • Coconut yogurt. Another great idea if you don’t want to work extra for the topping cream, is to top it with very thick and fatty coconut yogurt and drizzle a bit of maple syrup on top.
  • Dust with cocoa powder. Light dust the top with cocoa powder using a fine sieve for an extra layer of chocolate goodness.
  • Chocolate shavings. use a vegetable peeler to create delicate chocolate shavings for an elegant garnish.
  • Chopped nuts. Sprinkle with chopped nuts such as almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts for added crunch.
  • Edible flowers. Decorate with edible flowers for a visually stunning and whimsical touch.
A couple of No-Bake Chocolate Pie slices on a plate, topped with whipped cream and fresh berries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other crackers to make the crust?

Absolutely! You can choose any easy to crumble cracker or cookie. If you notice that the crackers you use don’t hold very well you could add a bit of vegan butter to bring it all together. Just make sure you press them tight enough and the crust will harden with the cold. 

Can I freeze this no bake chocolate pie?

Yes, this pie is easy to freeze! After assembling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For added protection, place the pie in a large resealable plastic bag. Freeze the pie for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

More No Bake Dessert Recipes

vegan chocolate pie with whipped cream and berries
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No-Bake Chocolate Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

This no-bake chocolate pie is one of the easiest I’ve ever made. There are only four ingredients, and all of them can be snapped up at your local grocery store. For vegan chocolate chips, look at the ingredients and make sure they don’t say “contains milk.” I usually buy Trader Joe’s or Guittard semisweet chocolate chips. For the pie crust, Keebler’s graham-cracker crust is accidentally vegan and is a good bet.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword dairy-free chocolate pie, no bake chocolate pie with graham cracker crust, no-bake chocolate pie, vegan chocolate pie
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 1 Pie
Calories 894kcal

Ingredients

For the pie:

  • 1 12-ounce bag dairy-free semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 14-ounce block silken tofu drained (also called “soft” tofu)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 vegan graham cracker pie crust

For the coconut whipped cream:

  • 1 13.5-ounce can full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 teaspoons powdered sugar

Instructions

For the Pie:

  • In a small, microwave-safe bowl, microwave the chocolate chips for 45 seconds. Mix with a fork until smooth. (If the chocolate is still lumpy, microwave for 20-second intervals, mixing in between, until the chocolate is completely smooth. Alternatively, melt using a double boiler.
  • In a blender or food processor, blend the melted chocolate, tofu, and vanilla until creamy.
  • Pour the tofu-chocolate mixture into the piecrust and place in the freezer for 30 minutes or until the filling solidifies. The pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

For the Coconut Milk:

  • Place the can of coconut milk in the refrigerator and let it sit overnight or for at least 6 hours.
  • After the coconut milk is completely chilled, the milk and water should have separated. Remove the lid and pour out the water. (You can save it for a smoothie.)
  • In the bowl of an electric mixer, whisk the solidified coconut milk, vanilla, and powdered sugar on high for 5 minutes or until the mixture is fluffy. (If you don’t have an electric mixer, a hand whisk will also work.) Serve Immediately.

Notes

Storage: Cover and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Toni’s Tips:
  • If you don’t have a graham-cracker pie crust handy, you can crumble your favorite cookies or graham crackers and pack them tightly into the bottom of an 8-inch pie dish. Then pour the tofu-chocolate mixture on top of the crumbs and place the pie in the freezer.
  • Avoid using coconut milk with guar gum because it prevents the milk from solidifying. If you can’t find one that is full-fat and doesn’t have guar gum, coconut cream also works.
Testers’ Tip: “To make your own pie crust, use a sleeve of vegan graham crackers, which has roughly ten, and pulse them in a blender or food processor until they crumble. Add ½ cup vegan butter to the blender or food processor and blend together. Using your fingers, press the graham cracker mixture into the baking sheet.” —Lisa K. from New Orleans, LA

Nutrition

Calories: 894kcal | Carbohydrates: 120g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 43g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 29g | Sodium: 802mg | Potassium: 214mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 33g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 0.01mg | Calcium: 52mg | Iron: 5mg

About The Cookbook

The Plant-Based on a Budget cookbook is a must! It’s one of those cookbooks that will end up on your kitchen counter and never make it to the shelves. The idea behind it is to help you save money while eating a healthy plant-based diet. Pretty amazing, right? You’ll find so many staple recipes here like broccoli soup, 3 bean salad, and blueberry muffins. 

Toni Okamoto is the budget eating guru. She has been sharing delicious tips and recipes on her blog for years and this is already her second cookbook. You can also find her alongside World of Vegan founder Michelle Cehn in the Plant-Powered People Podcast, so go have a listen!

If you want to get your own copy of this book find it here.

This no-bake vegan chocolate pie recipe was excerpted from Plant-Based On a Budget by Toni Okamoto, BenBella Books, 2019. Photos by Jenny Love.

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The Ultimate Vegan Gift Guide: 150+ Ideas For the Holidays and Beyond https://www.worldofvegan.com/vegan-gift-guide/ https://www.worldofvegan.com/vegan-gift-guide/#comments Wed, 20 Dec 2023 00:40:04 +0000 https://www.worldofvegan.com/?p=113965 After a decade of anticipation, we are delighted to present the comprehensive Vegan Gift Guide you’ve been waiting for. This meticulously curated guide showcases an array of conscientious, sustainable, and fully vegan gift options suitable for every conceivable occasion, budget range, and recipient profile. Whether you are working with a budget as modest as $10 […]

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After a decade of anticipation, we are delighted to present the comprehensive Vegan Gift Guide you’ve been waiting for. This meticulously curated guide showcases an array of conscientious, sustainable, and fully vegan gift options suitable for every conceivable occasion, budget range, and recipient profile.

Whether you are working with a budget as modest as $10 or as generous as $500, whether your recipient is an avid meat lover or a dedicated herbivore, whether you are selecting a gift for a 5-year-old or a centenarian, our guide is here to serve as your compass, guiding you towards thoughtful and meaningful gifts imbued with compassion and purpose.

These gift ideas are versatile and suitable for any occasion—be it the holiday season, Christmas, Hanukkah, a birthday celebration, stocking stuffer ideas, or any other event that comes to mind.

Printable Animal Gift Tags (Our Gift to You!)

Make your gifts extra special with our free printable gift tags featuring sweet animals adorned with flower crowns. Simply print them out, cut them, and attach them to your gift!

Preview of the printable vegan holiday gift tags.

You can use regular printer paper, cardstock, or adhesive paper. Use a single-hole punch to create a hole at the top of each tag, making it easy to attach to your gifts with ribbon or string. Thread a ribbon or twine through the hole you’ve punched and tie the tag securely to your gift.

Whether you’re gifting to a friend, family member, or loved one, our adorable animal-inspired gift tags are sure to bring a smile to their face.

Vegan Gift Baskets

If you’re struggling to find the perfect heartfelt gift for that special someone, consider a thoughtful gift basket! Even if you’re shopping for someone who seems to have it all, there’s a vegan gift basket waiting to enchant them. Here, we’ve compiled a selection of the finest vegan gift basket choices available.

Many of the gift sets below are available on Amazon with one-day shipping.

Cozy “Spa in a Box” Feel Better Care Package

This is the perfect get well gift for someone who needs some self care. Whether life is just hard, they are recovering from an injury, or they’re grieving a loss, this “Sending Hugs” care package is ready to ship on Amazon. It’s filled with cozy cloud socks, peaceful herbal tea, a comforting soy candle, moisturizing vegan hand cream, a sachet of dried lavender for aromatherapy, and a ceramic mug.

A get well gift basket with a soy candle, vegan lotion, cozy socks, a mug, and tea.

Dried Fruit Gift Basket

A timeless gift that is fantastic for anyone—friends, family, colleagues, or corporate gifts! These dried fruit platters are fantastic for sharing, so they make great gifts for groups, and the platter transforms into a fruit basket that can be used for years to come.

A platter of dried fruit in an apple-shaped basket for gifting.

Tea Lover’s Gift Box

Send warm love and care in a box with a set of premium quality organic teas. They have several gift sets to choose from including a self-care collection, tea-by-mood collection, and this “World of Tea” collection perfect for that friend who loves to travel!

World of Teas gift box from Numi with nine different types of teas in a beautiful box.

Flowering Tea Gift Set

Any tea lover will adore this gorgeous gift set from Numi! The glass teapot is specially designed to show off flower tea pods as they delicately bloom as soon as hot water is added. And the teas are organic, fair-trade, and sustainably crafted. This gift is so unique it’s a great option for the person who has everything.

A gift basket set with Numi's flowering tea pods and special glass teapot.

Soy Candle Gift Set

Gift warmth and light to a dear friend with this stunning ensemble of hand-poured soy candles that combine natural elegance with captivating scents. These come in decorative tins that are appropriate for any occasion—from birthdays to holidays or as a get well gift—and are available on Amazon.

Four beautifully designed soy candles in metal tins packaged in a decorative gift box.

Harry & David’s Vegan Charcuterie Basket

Long respected as a premium gift basket brand, Harry & David finally added a vegan charcuterie box to their lineup. This artfully curated assortment is a testament to the fusion of taste and ethics. Bursting with vibrant flavors, premium dried fruits, and vegan charcuterie meats and cheeses, this is a perfect gift for anyone who loves fine cheese.

A vegan charcuterie box from Harry and David's.
Photo credit: Harry and David’s

Edible Arrangements Fruit Bouquets

Who wouldn’t love an edible boquet made from fresh juicy fruit transformed into beautiful, delectable flower-inspired arrangement? Each bouquet is a delightful blend of artistry, color, and sweet flavor, making it the perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, saying thank you, or sending warm wishes, Edible Arrangements offers a unique and delicious way to express your sentiments.

White vase with beautiful fresh fruit bouquet from Edible arrangements.

Holiday Popcorn Tin

Popinsanity Artisanal Popcorn has a wide assortment of festive sweet and savory popcorn and kettle corn, and all of their flavors except for three are vegan! 

Vegan holiday popcorn tin from Popsanity.

Vegan Snack Gift Set

If you’re a fan of Amazon and one-day shipping, you can send a Bunny James gift box filled vegan snacks in a snap. They offer their vegan gift boxes in a variety of sizes at different price ranges, ranging from $29 to $159, with free next-day shipping. With nearly 3,000 5-star ratings on Amazon, this is a great option for college students, business associates, faraway friends, or anyone who loves to snack. It’s packed with cookies, protein bars, candy, chips, jerky, fruit and nut blends, and more.

A purple box filled with dozens of vegan snacks as a gift basket.

Gift-Worthy Vegan Cookbooks

Cookbooks are exceptional gifts for any occasion, offering a world of culinary inspiration. With a vast array of plant-based cookbooks tailored for comfort food lovers, health enthusiasts, gourmet aficionados, cheese connoisseurs, chocoholics, and beyond, it won’t be hard to find a perfect match.

You can also find vegan cookbooks specially crafted for air fryer recipes, Instant Pot recipes, kid-friendly recipes, budget-friendly recipes, and every cultural cuisine imaginable. Dive into our curated selection of the finest vegan cookbooks.

Our Favorite Cookbooks for Gifting

The Friendly Vegan Cookbook – This welcoming book is a phenomenal introduction to vegan cooking. Crafted with the spirit of sharing delicious vegan food in mind, it’s filled with easy-to-follow plant-based versions of beloved family dishes. With its captivating photography and rigorously tested recipes, it caters to both seasoned cooks and those new to the kitchen. The recipes are so good even the most staunch meat lovers will be reaching across the table for seconds!

The Friendly Vegan Cookbook

The Joy of Vegan Baking – Written by one of the most notable vegan cookbook authors, Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, this baking book a must-have in every herbivore’s kitchen. It’s the vegan baking bible, and a delightful treasure trove of sweet and savory vegan baked goods.

Cover art for The Joy of Vegan Baking by Colleen Patrick-Goudreau.

Cooking from the Spirit – Brought to you by the beloved vegan personality Tabitha Brown, this cookbook combines plant-based goodness with her unique spiritual touch, infusing every dish with love and positivity.

The cover of Tabitha Brown's vegan cookbook called "Cooking From the Spirit."

The Vegan Instant Pot Cookbook – Authored by Nisha Vora, a well known expert in vegan cuisine, this cookbook unlocks the potential of your Instant Pot with a delectable array of plant-based recipes.

Cover art for the Vegan Instant Pot Cookbook by Nisha Vora.

The Homemade Vegan Pantry – From the kitchen of a seasoned DIY enthusiast Miyoko Schinner—the vegan cheese queen herself—this cookbook will empower anyone to whip up their own pantry staples. This is perfect for anyone passionate about sustainability, homesteading, or kind living.

Cover art for The Homemade Vegan Pantry by Miyoko Schinner.

Vegan Gifts For The Home Cook

For the culinary enthusiast in your life, we’ve compiled a list of thoughtful vegan gifts that will elevate their kitchen experience and add a dash of eco-consciousness to their cooking journey:

Stylish Apron: Every home cook could use a fun new apron—especially if it’s a high-quality apron from a reputable brand like Hedley and Bennet! They make aprons worn by top chefs around the world, for both adults and kids in dozens of styles. And they’ll last a lifetime!

Festive holiday Hedley & Bennett aprons his and hers.

Beautiful Chef’s Knife: A top-notch quality chef’s knife is a kitchen workhorse, ensuring precision and ease in chopping veggies and fruits for plant-based recipes.

Chef's knife on a cutting board with vegetable ingredients.

A Quality Cutting Board: A durable and stylish cutting board is a kitchen essential, providing the perfect surface for slicing and dicing delicious plant-based creations.

Beautiful Quality Cookware: Surprise someone you love with premium cookware such as Caraway or Le Creuset that not only enhances the cooking process but also adds a touch of elegance to their kitchen.

Quality Bakeware: Upgrade their baking game with high-quality bakeware that guarantees even heat distribution for perfect vegan treats.

Caraway cookware set in light pink with pots and pans set up on a countertop.

Tofu Press: A tofu press streamlines the tofu-preparation process, ensuring extra firmness for delicious plant-based dishes.

Tea Kettle: A stylish tea kettle is a must-have for tea enthusiasts and offers a cozy touch to their kitchen.

Spoon Rest: An elegant stone spoon rest keeps their countertops clean and utensils within easy reach while they whip up vegan masterpieces.

High-Quality Apron: An apron provides protection for cooks by shielding their clothing from stains, spills, and heat during meal preparation.

Mortar and Pestle: A marble mortar and pestle add a touch of sophistication to the kitchen, perfect for grinding spices and herbs for flavorful vegan dishes.

Fun Woodland Cookie Cutters: These whimsical cookie cutters bring a touch of joy to baking vegan treats, adding a playful element to their culinary creations.

Silicone Stasher Bags: Help them reduce plastic waste with reusable silicone Stasher bags, a sustainable alternative for food storage.

stasher bags filled with berries and veggies

UnPaper Towels: Eco-conscious kitchen enthusiasts will appreciate reusable UnPaper towels, a washable planet-friendly alternative to disposable paper towels.

Handmade Ceramic Dishes: Elevate their dining experience with handmade ceramic dishes like these, adding an artistic touch to their table setting.

Nooch Jar: A special nutritional yeast jar is a charming and practical gift for your super-vegan friends for storing the most beloved vegan pantry staple.

Vegan Sprinkles: For the home bakers in your life, gift them with some fancy colorful vegan sprinkles, perfect for adding a whimsical flair to cupcakes and cookies.

fancy sprinkles with pink vegan birthday cake

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products: Have a neat and tidy Monica in your life? Bring them joy with a thoughtful Vegan Gift Basket packed with your favorite sustainable kitchen cleaning products. Or, give them a gift certificate to the Grove Collaborative, so they can restock eco-essentials all year long!

Kitchen Appliances On Everyone’s Wish List

Yonanas Soft Serve Maker: This fun and affordable appliance will magically transform frozen bananas into thick, creamy, delectable soft-serve. It’s ideal for anyone with a sweet tooth, and especially perfect for parents, kids, and teens.

yonanas banana soft serve with fresh fruit

Almond Cow: Craft your own nut milk in moments, save money, and reduce single-use packaging waste effortlessly.

Almond Cow plant based milk maker machine surrounded by bags of almonds, grains, and cashews.

Instant Pot (or any pressure cooker): Save time in the kitchen, cut costs, and enjoy healthier homemade meals with this versatile pressure cooker.

michelle cehn opening instant pot pressure cooker in fall pumpkin scene

Air Fryer: For quick and health-conscious cooking, this appliance delivers crispy results. Consider printing out some of these vegan air fryer recipes for a personalized touch.

ninja air fryer with jack and annies vegan nuggets staged on world of vegan countertop

High-Speed Blender: Blend smoothies, creamy sauces, soups, and more with ease using the Vitamix, everyone’s all-time favorite blender.

Blackberry smoothie in a blender pitcher.

Stand Mixer: This timeless classic in a fun color is a baker’s dream and a cook’s delight, perfect for kitchen enthusiasts.

Kitchenaid Stand Mixer Friendly Vegan Cookbook Vegan Gift Idea

Milk Frother and Warmer: Elevate your mornings with perfect lattes made at home, complete with frothy goodness.

Ice Cream Maker: Create personalized ice creams and frozen desserts to satisfy your sweet cravings with unique flavors.

Indoor Vertical Garden: A space-saving smart garden system like Gardyn allows you to grow up to 30 plants in just 2 feet of floor space, perfect for gardening enthusiasts.

Electric Composting Machine: An innovative gift for eco-warriors or urban dwellers, the Lomi home composter is turning kitchen scraps into compost, even without outdoor space.

Michelle Cehn adding organic waste food scraps into the Lomi kitchen composter.

Vegan Gifts For The Home

Transform their living space into a haven of comfort and conscious living with our curated selection of vegan gifts for the home. From cozy ambiance enhancers to sustainable lifestyle subscriptions, these thoughtfully chosen items are perfect for adding a touch of warmth, style, and eco-friendliness to any living space:

Soy Candle: Infuse their home with the gentle glow and soothing scents of one of these vegan soy candles, creating a serene atmosphere for relaxation.

fall vegan candle in jar with pumpkin and holiday decor

A House Plant or Succulents: Breathe life into their home with vibrant house plants or charming succulents, bringing a touch of nature indoors.

Ceramic Mug: Explore the artisan-made ceramic mugs on Etsy for a beautifully crafted vessel that elevates their morning coffee or tea routine.

Beautiful pale pink speckled ceramic mug.

A Stone or Crystal: Gift them a meaningful stone or crystal with a heartfelt note or message, adding a touch of positive energy to their space.

Essential Oil Diffuser: Create a calming ambiance with an essential oil diffuser, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy in the comfort of their home.

Essential Oil diffuser.

Coconut Bowls: Enhance their eco-conscious dining experience with a set of coconut bowls paired with wooden utensils, perfect for serving delicious vegan meals.

etched coconut bowls and wooden spoons stacked up with strawberries in them

VegNews Magazine: A subscription to the most popular vegan magazine.

Vegan gifts from Etsy shops: Explore unique and artisan-made vegan gifts from Etsy shops, adding a touch of handmade charm to their home.

Vegan Advent Calendar: Count down to the holidays with a vegan advent calendar, filled with daily surprises and treats for the festive season.

Woman holding up a Moo-Free advent calendar filled with vegan holiday chocolates.

Vegan Subscription Boxes

Vegan subscription boxes are ideal gifts, especially for those you can’t visit in person. Not only will they delight in the initial box of surprise goodies, but you can also extend their happiness with subscriptions available for 3 months, 6 months, or even a full year! Explore some of our top picks:

Vegan Cuts – Surprise a friend with a monthly Vegan Cuts box! They offer not one, but three fabulous options: Snack Box, Beauty Box, or Makeup Box.

vegan cuts snack subscription box

AllTrue – AllTrue is the ultimate gift-worthy lifestyle box. This quarterly box is thoughtfully curated with a collection of home, body, and life goods that support artisans and important causes. Think woven blankets, vegan leather pouches, hand-crafted wooden serving bowls, mind-calming essential oils, and kindly crafted face masks. While AllTrue is not an all-vegan company, every box can be tailored to be completely vegan.

all true cause box subscription box

Petit Vour – Experience the beauty of cruelty-free living with Petit Vour, the premier vegan beauty box. Each month, they deliver a selection of high-quality vegan and ethically sourced beauty products right to your doorstep.

petit vour cruelty free beauty box unboxed with pacifica

Love Goodly – Love Goodly brings you the best in vegan lifestyle products. Their carefully curated boxes feature a mix of beauty, wellness, and eco-conscious items.

love goodly vegan cruelty free lifestyle subscription box

Kinder Beauty Box – Co-founded by Daniella Monet and Evanna Lynch, Kinder Beauty Box is a vegan beauty subscription service that’s all about kindness. Treat your loved ones to their handpicked vegan and cruelty-free beauty products that promote self-care and compassion.

kinder beauty vegan cruelty free subscription box

Gift-Worthy Books

The Boy, The Mole, The Fox, & The Horse – Charlie Mackesy’s heartwarming tale beautifully illustrates the profound lessons of friendship and kindness, making it a cherished gift for both adults and children.

An open page of the book by Charlie Makesy.
The Boy, The Mole, The Fox, and The Horse by Charlie Mackesy

Walking With Peety: The Dog Who Saved My Life – Eric O’Grey’s heartwarming journey with his rescue dog Peety will inspire and touch the soul, showcasing the transformative power of compassion and a plant-based lifestyle.

The Sprout Book – Perfect for wellness enthusiasts, this book takes the reader on a journey into the world of sprouting with Doug Evans, the king of sprouts. It explores the immense nutritional benefits of these tiny powerhouses in your daily diet, and provides practical tutorials and recipes for growing your own sprouts at home.

Vegan Children’s Books – including beloved titles like Linus the Vegetarian T-Rex and Junebug, which are perfect for both vegan and non-vegan children.

Holding up the vegan children's book called Linus the Vegetarian T-Rex.

How Not to Die – A groundbreaking guide by Dr. Michael Greger, this book empowers readers with evidence-based insights on preventing chronic diseases through a whole-food, plant-based diet.

Prevent & Reverse Heart Disease – Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn presents a life-changing approach to cardiovascular health, demonstrating how a plant-powered diet can prevent and even reverse heart disease.

Special Vegan Food and Treats: Savor the Flavors of Compassion

Indulge your taste buds and nourish your soul with these delectable vegan delights, perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself.

Baked Goods: Whether homemade vegan desserts and baked goods or from artisan online vegan bakeries that ship, these treats offer a taste of vegan perfection.

Vegan Gift Ideas | Michelle Cehn & Kristie Middleton Wrapping Homemade Vegan Pumpkin Bread & Writing Holiday Cards

Vegan Chocolate: Satisfy your sweet cravings with a luxurious vegan chocolate gift box filled with ethically crafted delights.

Heart shaped box of vegan chocolate truffles with white chocolate, dark chocolate, and plant based milk chocolate.

Your Favorite Tea Paired With a Cozy Mug: Create moments of warmth and relaxation with your preferred tea and a snug, stylish mug.

Blooming Teas and Glass Teapot Set: A perfect gift for tea lovers, or anyone who needs some relaxation and self-care, Numi’s Flowering Tea Gift Set makes an thoughtful and unique gift at an affordable price point. They also have several other tea gift boxes filled with various themed collections of herbal teas designed for gifting.

Numi's glass teapot gift set with beautiful blossoming teas.

Produce Delivery Box: Elevate any home with fresh, sustainably sourced produce delivered right to your recipients doorstep. A few fantastic options include Imperfect Produce, Farm Fresh to You, and Misfits Market.

Vegan Meal Delivery Service: Simplify mealtime with the convenience of a vegan meal delivery service, offering delicious and nourishing options.

Michelle Cehn Opening the Veestro Box Meal Delivery

Beautiful Olive Oil Gift Set: Elevate your culinary creations with a luxurious olive oil gift set, showcasing the rich flavors of nature.

Beautifully wrapped olive oil and vinegar gift set from Wild Groves.

Nice Bottle of Vegan Wine: Raise a glass to cruelty-free indulgence with a fine bottle of vegan wine, thoughtfully selected from our vegan wine guide or dedicated vegan wine brands.

Gift box of vegan wine fro Kind of Wild wine.

Fancy Bottle of Alcohol: Explore the world of vegan-friendly spirits, ensuring your bottle of choice aligns with your compassionate values.

Vegan Jerky: Experience the bold flavors and satisfying textures of vegan jerky, a savory snack that’s cruelty-free and delicious.

hand holding up a bag of smoky carolina bbq vegan jerky louisville vegan jerky in front of a natural rock formation

Vegan Bath and Beauty Lovers

If you’re putting together a gift for a bath, body, or beauty lover, or someone in your life who needs some self care, there are nearly infinite cruelty-free brands to choose from.

Vegan Lip Balm: Gift your loved ones the perfect solution for soft and nourished lips with vegan lip balm, a thoughtful addition to any beauty routine.

Eco friendly compostable lip balm tubes from Booda Organics.

Vegan Shampoo Bars: Make a sustainable and cruelty-free statement with vegan shampoo bars, an eco-conscious gift that’s gentle on hair and the planet.

A collection of vegan cruelty-free eco-friendly shampoo bars laid out on a table.

Skincare or Body Care: Treat someone special to a luxurious vegan skincare or body care gift set, a pampering package that shows you care about their well-being and ethical values.

Collection of vegan beauty and makeup products from different brands including blush, skincare, perfume, and makeup brushes.

Vegan Body Lotion: Delight in the gift of soft, moisturized skin with vegan lotion, a nourishing and compassionate addition to anyone’s skincare routine.

A tin of Avocado body butter for dry skin from The Body Shop brand of vegan lotion.

Cruelty-Free Nail Polish: Add a pop of cruelty-free color to their life with nail polish, a vibrant and stylish gift for the beauty enthusiast.

A collection of sparkly vegan nail polish from Pacifica.

Vegan Soap: Elevate bath time with artisanal vegan soaps, available on Etsy and from popular brands, making for charming and fragrant presents.

Natural Cruelty-Free Soap wrapped in twine.

Compassionate Chick’s Guide to DIY Beauty: Inspire the DIY lover in your life with this book, the perfect gift for crafting cruelty-free beauty products at home.

Bath Bombs: Transform bath time into a spa-like experience with bath bomb gift sets, including delightful options from LUSH.

Gift Box from a Cruelty-Free Beauty Brand: Share the gift of ethical beauty with a curated gift box from a cruelty-free brand like Pacifica, offering a variety of delightful products.

Vegan Gift Ideas | Pacifica Gift Boxes With Lip Balm and Body Care

Homemade Gift Basket With Your Favorite Bath and Body Products: Craft a personalized gift basket filled with your favorite bath and body products, a heartfelt and thoughtful gift idea that shows you’ve put in extra effort to create a special present.

Vegan Gifts For Him: Thoughtful Choices for Every Occasion

When it comes to choosing vegan gifts for the gentlemen in your life, there’s no shortage of thoughtful options to explore. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply showing your appreciation, these vegan-friendly gifts are bound to make him smile.

  • Cookbook(s): Support his passion for food or love of specific cuisines with a hand-picked vegan cookbook.
  • Apron: Spice up his cooking attire with a new apron from a chef-worthy brand!
  • Vegan Belt: Elevate his style with a fashionable and cruelty-free vegan belt.
  • Vegan Wool Socks: Keep his feet warm and cozy with sustainable and animal-friendly wool-alternative socks.
  • Nice Coffee Tumblr: Make his morning routine more enjoyable with a sleek and reusable coffee tumbler.
  • HydroFlask Water Bottle: Help him stay hydrated on the go with a durable and eco-conscious water bottle.
  • Reusable Coffee Cup: Ideal for eco-conscious coffee lovers, a reusable coffee cup reduces waste and supports sustainable sipping.
  • Vegan Wallet (from a vegan leather brand like these): Upgrade his everyday essentials with a stylish and ethical vegan wallet from a trusted cruelty-free brand.
  • Natural or Plant-Leather Watch: Add a touch of sophistication to his look with a natural or plant-based leather watch.
  • Sustainable sweater or clothing: Keep him warm and stylish with sustainable clothing, and consider renowned brands like Pact for quality.
  • Cruelty-Free Winter Jacket
  • Eco-Friendly Safety Razor: Elevate his grooming routine with an eco-friendly safety razor that reduces plastic waste.
  • Vegan Meats Gift Basket: Satisfy his taste buds with a delectable vegan meats gift basket, perfect for indulging in plant-based culinary adventures.
  • Vegan Gift Basket: Explore a wide range of vegan gift baskets tailored to his interests, whether it’s gourmet treats, wellness essentials, or more.
Man holding a pair of brown Will vegan shoes.

These vegan gifts for him showcase your thoughtfulness and commitment to a compassionate and sustainable lifestyle, making each occasion more special and meaningful.

Vegan Gifts For Her: Thoughtful and Memorable Ideas

Surprise and delight a special women in your life with vegan gifts that reflect her values and passions. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just to show you care, these thoughtful options are sure to make her day.

  • Vegan Cookbook(s): Inspire her culinary adventures with a collection of plant-based cookbooks, opening up a world of delicious possibilities.
  • Apron: She’ll love a style-forward apron from a widely celebrated brand like Hedley & Bennett!
  • Subscription Box: Treat her to the gift of discovery with a vegan beauty or lifestyle box, brimming with cruelty-free treasures and surprises.
  • Vegan Uggs-Style Boots: Keep her cozy and stylish with warm, vegan-friendly boots inspired by the iconic Ugg style.
  • Vegan T-Shirt or Clothing: Show her how much you respect her love of animals with chic and sustainable vegan t-shirt or clothing that makes a kind statement.
  • Reusable Coffee Cup: Add convenience to her daily routine with a stylish and eco-friendly reusable coffee cup.
  • Stainless Steel Wine Tumblr: Empower her to pour a glass of wine by a campfire, in the park, or anywhere she travels with a durable and eco-conscious wine tumbler.
  • Vegan Leather Handbag, Backpack, or Wallet: Complete her look with a cruelty-free and fashionable accessory, whether it’s a handbag, backpack, or wallet.
  • Sustainable sweater or clothing: Support her eco-conscious lifestyle with sustainable clothing from respected brands like Pact. Just be sure to avoid wool, angora, leather, and silk.
  • Cruelty-Free Winter Coat: Help her stay cozy and warm during chilly seasons with a cruelty-free winter coat.
  • Conscious Jewelry: Choose a thoughtful piece of ethical and conscious jewelry.
  • Vegan Gift Basket: Explore a wide range of vegan gift baskets tailored to her interests, from gourmet treats to wellness essentials.

Your thoughtful gifts can honor her unique spirit and unwavering dedication to a life marked by compassion and sustainability, infusing every occasion with deeper significance and cherished memories.

girl wearing white kale em with kindness vegan shirt with sunflower in her back pocket

Gifts For Kids: Sparking Joy, Compassion, and Imagination

Finding the perfect gifts for kids can be a delightful adventure. Whether you’re shopping for a special occasion or just to bring a smile to their faces, these thoughtfully chosen options are bound to ignite their imagination and curiosity.

Vegan Children’s Books: Our favorites are Linus the Vegetarian T-Rex and Junebug.

vegan kid reading a book to his stuffed animal cow

Kids Apron: Cultivate their love of cooking, baking, and smoothie making with a fun new apron they can wipe their four-frosted hands on!

Kids black apron with animal print design.

Eco-Friendly Kids Cups and Plates: Make mealtime more enjoyable with these charming Elk & Friends Cups, perfect for tiny hands. They pair perfectly with these silicone bunny plates and matching kid-safe forks and spoons.

Eco-friendly kids cups and silicone bunny plates from Elk & Friends in a holiday scene.

Coloring Pages: Print out our collection of free coloring pages and pair them with vegan art supplies for endless artistic adventures.

Earth day drawing coloring page with animals, the planet, a whale, and the words "Protect Our Planet."

Kids Water Bottle: Keep kids hydrated on their adventures with a durable and planet-friendly water bottle like these from Klean Kanteen.

Eco-Friendly Lunchbox: Encourage sustainable living from a young age with eco-friendly lunchboxes from PlanetBox that are both stylish and practical. These stainless steel dishwasher-safe lunch boxes are a favorite among conscious parents worldwide.

Planet Box stainless steel zero waste vegan kids lunchbox with fruit kebabs.

Sustainable Toys: Spark their imagination with sustainable and eco-friendly toys from brands like Lovevery, Wiwiurka, and EarthHero, offering hours of playful learning.

Subscription Box: Age-appropriate toy subscription box from Lovevery, packed with developmental treasures.

Vegan kid Graham Miller opening and playing with a Lovevery play kit gift.

Wooden Pikler Climbing Triangle: Enhance physical development and playtime adventures with a wooden Pikler triangle for climbing and exploration, like this Wooden Pikler Triangle from Wiwiurka

Games: Teach the importance of animal rescue while enjoying quality family time with the Rescued Card Game, crafted by vegans with love.

These gifts for kids are not just presents; they’re invitations to learn, explore, and create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.

Vegan Gifts For Babies: Nurturing a Compassionate Beginning

When it comes to the littlest members of the family, introducing them to a world of compassion and sustainability is a beautiful gift in itself. These thoughtful vegan baby gifts help pave the way for a bright and conscious future.

Stuffed Animals: Nurture any little one’s love of animals with a snuggly plush friend, a companion for life’s earliest adventures. Consider stuffed animals that represent farmed animals to help foster love for cows, pigs, chickens, turkey, and other animals that are often neglected and underserved in our world.

vegan baby wearing a chicken halloween costume with a peta not a nugget stuffed chick

Teething Toys: Offer soothing relief and playful exploration with eco-friendly teething toys like Oli & Carol’s teethers made from natural rubber and inspired by nature and vegetables.

Onesies: Give a little one in a message of hope for a compassionate and sustainable future with a charming “The Future Is Vegan” Onesie.

Vegan Onesie gift that says "homegrown with love" laying on a baby changing table.

Vegan Children’s Books: Cultivate a love for reading and kindness with vegan-themed children’s books that spark imagination and empathy.

Vegan Kids Books vivi the super vegan and slumberkins slumber sloth book

Slumberkins: Create sweet bedtime moments of mindfulness with Slumberkins, nighttime books that inspire comfort and emotional well-being.

Vegan Kids Books Slumberkins

Newborn Play Gym: Foster early learning and development with a thoughtfully designed play gym like this popular option from Lovevery, promoting sensory exploration.

These vegan baby gifts not only embrace the joy of infancy but also plant the seeds of compassion and conscious living from the very beginning. Celebrate the precious new life in your world with these nurturing and meaningful gestures.

Heartfelt Gifts for New Moms: Celebrating New Beginnings

Welcoming a new life into the world is a beautiful journey, and these thoughtful gifts are designed to support and pamper new moms during this special time.

Vegan Meal Delivery Service: Ease the demands of meal preparation with a vegan meal delivery service, ensuring nourishing and convenient options for the busy days ahead.

Vegan Meal Delivery from Veestro

Conscious Baby Clothes: Dress the little one in ethical and adorable baby clothes, a reflection of care for both baby and the planet.

Cute conscious eco-friendly baby onesie gift for new moms.

Baby Carrier, Ring Sling, or Swaddle Blanket: Enhance bonding and ease with a baby carrier or ring sling from trusted brands like Baby Tula or Sakura Bloom.

Vegan Swaddle

Collection of Kids Cups: Create delightful moments with a collection of kids’ cups from Elk & Friends, perfect for tiny hands.

elk and friends toddler kids glass silicone cup

Gift Card to Doordash or Grubhub: Offer the gift of convenience with a Doordash or Grubhub gift card, providing easy access to delicious meals during those busy days.

Gift Card to a Favorite Local Restaurant: Support the new mom’s love for plant-based cuisine with a gift card to her favorite local vegan restaurant, ensuring a delightful dining experience.

Cloth Diapers: Embrace sustainability with cloth diapers, a choice that not only reduces waste but also provides comfort for the baby.

Vegan Cloth Diaper Stash Assembled In A Drawer

These thoughtful gifts for new moms celebrate the joys of motherhood while promoting sustainability and convenience, making the transition into parenthood a little smoother and a lot more special.

Gifts for Furry Friends

There’s a special kind of warmth that comes from gifting something thoughtful to your friend’s beloved fur babies. Often, our canine, feline, and other furry companions are left off the holiday gift list, making your gesture of kindness truly remarkable and unforgettable.

Explore this comprehensive guide to plant-based dog treats and resources, and consider wrapping up a package of treats with a festive toy or crafting a full gift basket of furry delights. Here, we’ve curated a selection of heartwarming options for your furry friends.

Treats: Spoil them with a variety of delectable vegan options from V-Dog, including Kind Jerky, Breath Bones, and Wiggle Biscuits. Or give them some Wild Earth’s Koji Dog Treats made with innovative and sustainable ingredients or Bright Planet Vegan Dog Treats.

Vegan Dog Treats Fruitables World of Vegan Art

Vegan Rawhides: Keep their chewing urges satisfied with wholesome and vegetable-packed Sam’s Yams sweet potato rawhides or adorable Whimzees Dog Chews.

Dentil chews breath bones for dogs from V-Dog that works as rawhides.

Fresh Dog Food: Elevate their dining experience with fresh and whosome dog food from PawCo or Bramble, tailored for their well-being.

A dog sitting at a table, eating a bowl of PawCo Foods vegan adult dog food.

The Simple Little Vegan Dog Book: Give their human companions a book to help them navigate the world of tasty plant-based dog treats.

Dog Bandana: Delight any pup parent with a fun or festive dog bandana that aligns with their style, character, and personality.

vegan dog wearing an im vegan bandana at a vegan festival

Cute Dog Toys: Add fun to their playtime with an array of adorable and durable dog toys.

These thoughtfully selected vegan dog treats and essentials celebrate your dog’s well-being while aligning with your values of compassion and sustainability.

These special vegan food and treats transform ordinary moments into extraordinary ones, celebrating the delicious fusion of ethical choices and mouthwatering flavors. Whether shared with loved ones or savored in solitude, they offer a delectable journey through the world of vegan indulgence.

Handmade Gifts Filled With Heart

Let’s not forget the best category of all: homemade gifts! Let your creativity run wild and made something from the heart—from scratch.

Homemade Vegan Hot Cocoa Mix in a mason jar on a wooden table with Christmas lights in the background.

Salt Dough Ornaments

Make this easy 3-ingredient salt dough from just flour, salt, and water, and craft your own special ornaments! This is a great holiday activity for kids and makes great gifts, gift adornments, or stocking stuffers for grandparents, family, and close friends.

Make Your Own Gift Basket

Vegan Wine and Cheese Gift Basket

Assemble a sophisticated artisan vegan cheeseboard basket complete with an ensemble of gourmet vegan cheeses, a jar of stuffed olives, dried fruit, nuts, and a nice bottle of vegan wine.

Zero-Waste Gift Basket

Let the eco-warrior in your life know you care with the ultimate zero-waste gifts. Create a custom collection of your favorite zero-waste essentials, such as:

  • Travel Utensil Set: Say goodbye to single-use plastics with a compact, on-the-go utensil set perfect for eco-conscious dining.
  • Glass or Metal Straws: Sip sustainably with elegant and reusable glass or metal straws, reducing plastic waste one sip at a time.
  • Reusable Cloth Produce Bags: Shop eco-consciously with reusable produce bags that make trips to the grocery store waste-free.
  • Bar Soap: Opt for plastic-free cleanliness with bar soap thoughtfully wrapped in biodegradable paper.
  • Bamboo Toothbrush: Upgrade their dental care routine with a bamboo toothbrush, a sustainable alternative to plastic.
  • Vegan Lip Balm: Keep lips moisturized and eco-friendly with vegan lip balm in a compostable container.
  • Vegan Shampoo Bar: Embrace plastic-free hair care with a vegan shampoo bar in a durable metal tin.
  • Reusable Water Bottle or Mug: Stay hydrated on the go with a stainless steel water bottle or enjoy your favorite beverages in a reusable coffee tumbler.
  • Eco Living Book: Inspire and educate with the book “Give A Shit” by vegan sustainability advocate Ashlee Piper, a guide to sustainable and compassionate living.
Sustainable vegan gift basket.

A zero-waste gift basket is not only a thoughtful gesture but also a powerful way to encourage eco-friendly choices and reduce environmental impact. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, inspiring a greener, more sustainable tomorrow.

Vegan S’mores Kit

Make your own s’mores kit complete with a package of vegetarian marshmallows, vegan graham crackers, and some quality vegan chocolate bars. If the gift recipient loves camping, add in some other fun camping gear like a portable hammock, insulated camping mug, rechargeable hand warmers, or a portable camping stove.

Vegan Movie Night Kit

Wrap up a must-see vegan documentary DVD in a gift basket with popcorn, a nutritional yeast shaker, vegan candy (Skittles, Swedish Fish, and Sour Patch Kids are all vegan), a cozy soy candle, and some warm fuzzy socks. Or skip the DVD, pick a Netflix movie, and get ready for a romantic night in!

Homemade Vegan Hot Cocoa Kit

Gift our homemade vegan hot chocolate mix in a mason jar wrapped up with a cute mug and vegan marshmallows. You can add a nice set of measuring spoons with it too!

Vegan Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe

Exciting Experiences and Adventures

Surprise your loved one with tickets to a concert, event, or a stay at a vegan resort or hotel! You can get tickets to an upcoming Veg Fest (vegan festival) or plan a weekend visit to a local farmed animal sanctuary.

Does your loved one like to travel? If you have the budget, why not surprise them with a fully planned trip to a vegan-friendly destination! Here are just a few of the many vegan-friendly cities below.

Gracias Madre vegan mexican restaurant in san fransico burrito
Photo credit: @GraciasMadreSF on Instagram

If travel isn’t their thing but they love food, you can get them a gift card to a local vegan restaurant. That’s practically guaranteed to be a home-run.

Charitable Donations and Virtual Adoptions: Gifts that Make a Difference

This vegan gift guide wouldn’t be complete without the heartwarming gesture of charitable donations and virtual adoptions. By gifting these meaningful tokens, you’re not only honoring someone special but also contributing to a cause close to their heart. Here are a few ways to give the gift of compassion:

World Wildlife Fund: Opt for symbolic animal adoptions that include a plush stuffed animal and adoption certificate, offering a unique way to support wildlife conservation.

Farm Sanctuary, Animal Place Sanctuary, and Many More: Numerous animal rescue groups and animal sanctuaries offer similar adoption programs, enabling you to sponsor an animal in need in someone’s honor. Farm Sanctuary and Animal Place Sanctuary are just two examples.

Plant a Tree (or Tree Grove) in Someone’s Honor: A tree planted in their name is a gift that grows, symbolizing life, sustainability, and a lasting impact on the environment.

Vegan Gifts from Vegan Nonprofit Organization Shops: Explore the online shops of various nonprofits, where you’ll find items that give back, aligning with your values while making excellent gifts. Some of our top picks include:

With these compassionate gifts, you not only brighten someone’s day but also contribute to a better world—one filled with kindness and care for all living beings.

Vegan Stocking Stuffers

MukLuks vegan cozy faux fur knit cabin socks.

Hungry For More Vegan Gift Ideas?

Check out our other gift guides for specific budgets, personalities, and occasions.

This guide to the best vegan gifts is not sponsored by any of the brands or companies mentioned, and we only share products and companies we sincerely adore. Happy gifting! 

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Super Easy Vegan Sugar Cookies https://www.worldofvegan.com/vegan-sugar-cookies/ https://www.worldofvegan.com/vegan-sugar-cookies/#comments Tue, 19 Dec 2023 20:46:07 +0000 https://www.worldofvegan.com/?p=9045 One of my absolute favorite holiday memories is making holiday cookies with my mom and my great aunt! We’d make simple sugar cookies with icing, and it was always so much fun to cut out the cookies and ice them with pretty colors. I remember one of my first few years as a vegan, when […]

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One of my absolute favorite holiday memories is making holiday cookies with my mom and my great aunt! We’d make simple sugar cookies with icing, and it was always so much fun to cut out the cookies and ice them with pretty colors.

I remember one of my first few years as a vegan, when the Christmas season came I really wanted to re-create that childhood favorite recipe. And…I did! I’ve been baking these vegan sugar cookies for years. I now make them every holiday season because they’re so simple, fun, and nostalgic! I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do.

While this recipe is great for anyone, it’s especially excellent if you want to bake vegan holiday treats with kids. They’ll absolutely adore using cookie cutters to create adorable little cookies, and they’ll love icing them too. I sure loved it as a kid!

And by the way, you can totally make these cookies at any time of the year. I like using stars, gingerbread men, and Christmas trees. And of course, you can use this recipe to make vegan Hanukkah cookies! Or cookies to fit your kiddos themed birthday party. Or New Year’s cookies. You get it. You can get creative with fun shapes and colors to make these cookies a big hit any time of the year.

I hope this recipe brings you as much joy and nostalgia it as it does for me. This is truly why I love sharing my recipes. Because for me, great vegan food is pure joy and bliss! Happy baking!

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

  • Coconut Oil: Use refined coconut oil for a neutral flavor or unrefined for a subtle coconut undertone. Both work equally well in this recipe. Ensure it is in a semi-solid state for proper creaming with sugar. You want it to be scoopable, not soild and hard, nor too melted and liquid-y.
  • Cane Sugar: Opt for organic cane sugar for a less processed option. Don’t forget the extra tablespoon which adds a touch more sweetness and helps achieve a soft texture.
  • Plant-Based Milk: Choose an unsweetened plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat. Having it at room temperature ensures it integrates smoothly with the other ingredients and doesn’t cause the coconut oil to solidify.
  • Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Measure the flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Avoid compacting the flour to prevent a dense texture in the cookies.
  • Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Ensure these leavening agents are fresh for optimal rise. Baking powder adds lift, while baking soda contributes to the cookies’ browning and flavor.
  • Powdered Sugar: If making the icing too, the only extra ingredient you’ll need is powdered sugar. Sift the powdered sugar before preparing the icing to eliminate lumps.

How To Make Vegan Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Combine the coconut oil, cane sugar, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract in the bowl of a stand mixer or use an electric hand mixer. Cream the ingredients on medium/high speed until well-combined.

Step 2: Sift in the flour, baking powder, and baking soda, then beat until a dough forms

Crumbly vegan sugar cookie batter that is being mixed with an electric hand mixer.

Step 3: On a floured work surface, gently knead the dough into a ball. Roll it out with a rolling pin to about ¼ inch thickness, avoiding excessive thinness for a softer, crispy texture.

Step 4: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and line baking trays with silicone mats or parchment paper. Use cookie cutters to shape cookies and place them on the prepared trays. Re-roll and cut any dough scraps. Bake on the center rack for 10-12 minutes until golden brown on the bottom.

Step 5: While the cookies bake, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and water to make the icing. Add vegan food coloring if desired and set aside.

More powdered sugar added to the royal icing bowl.

Step 6: Once the cookies are done, transfer them to a wire rack to cool. Apply the icing once cooled, allowing it to dry completely before serving or storing.

Vegan Sugar Cookie Recipe | WorldofVegan.com
  • Measure out the flour properly. Don’t scoop out the flour with the cup, instead, use a spoon to add the flour to the cup, then level it off with the back of a knife. This way it’s not packed into the cup, causing the dough to be too dry and crumbly.
  • I highly recommend using a stand mixer if you have one, but if not (they’re pricey, I know!) a hand mixer will work. If you don’t have either you can try to mix the ingredients by hand, but the texture just won’t be the same. An electric mixer is necessary to cream the coconut oil and cane sugar together, as well as incorporate the dry ingredients in order to form a nice dough.
  • Make sure to use room temperature almond milk in this recipe. You don’t have to remember to leave the almond milk out hours before. You can just gently heat the milk in a small sauce pot until it is at room temperature (but don’t let it get too warm). If you use cold almond milk from the fridge it will change the consistency of the coconut oil, and therefore also the dough. Since coconut oil turns very solid when it’s cold, the ingredients work much better when all of the ingredients are at room temperature. Then the dough will be much smoother and easier to roll out.

Icing Your Cookies Like a Pro

When it comes to icing your cookies, you have a few options. The first is to apply the icing using a silicone basting/pastry brush. If you don’t have one of these, you can dip the tops of the cookies into a shallow dish with the icing to coat them. It may get a bit messy (but hey, the kids might love that!).

If you want to get fancy, you can pipe the icing onto your cookies like the pros. This takes a little more time and finesse, but it can be really fun and rewarding when you have beautiful cookies to show for it! The concept is this:

  1. You’ll need two types of icing, one thick icing that you’ll pipe onto the cookie with a frosting bag and a size 2 piping tip to form the design and border.
  2. Then, you’ll need to thin out the remaining icing ever-so-slightly by adding a teensy bit of water to create a “fill icing” or “flood icing.” You can dollop this flood icing onto the cookie and it will spread out to fill in the cookie design. The thicker icing outline you piped on first will hold that fill icing in place until it dries. The icing recipe below makes a thicker icing that you can pipe or spread onto the cookie.
  3. To make the fill icing, you’ll just add a teensy bit of water until you reach the right consistency. Be careful though—you can always add more water but you can’t go back, and if you make the icing too wet it won’t harden on the cookie. Professionals sometimes use spray bottles so they can add the littlest bit of water until they get a perfect consistency. 

If this is all sounding a little confusing or overwhelming, watch this sugar cookie icing tutorial video to learn the basics of sugar cookie decorating (and get some awesome design inspiration). 

How To Add Vegan Food Coloring To Your Icing

I love the super simple icing that goes on these vegan sugar cookies. You can leave it white and decorate it with your favorite vegan sprinkles, or you can add some color to make the icing pop.

Many mainstream food coloring products are not natural, healthy, or vegan. To ensure you’re using vegan-friendly options, check out this full list of vegan food coloring brands.

You can also get creative and make your own food coloring! I love to use natural ingredients that are highly pigmented to add rich and beautiful all natural coloring to baked goods. With most of these, you only need a really small quantity to make vibrant hues. Here are some great ideas for colors:

  • Green: Spirulina or barley grass juice powder
  • Red or Pink: Pitaya (dragonfruit) powder or beet powder
  • Yellow or Orange: Turmeric (note that turmeric typically creates a mostly yellow hue, and using too much to achieve orange will likely affect the flavor of the recipe you’re making)
  • Blue: Blue Majik or butterfly pea powder (also known as blue matcha)
  • Purple: Blueberry powder

This is just the tip of the iceberg—there are countless real-food ingredients that you can use for coloring. I suggest experimenting to find the colors you love the most. Consider giving our Vegan Royal Icing recipe a try. It’s perfect for topping any and all types of cookies!

Vegan Sugar Cookies | Easy Holiday Recipe
What can I use instead of coconut oil?

Softened vegan butter makes a great substitute.

Can I make these sugar cookies gluten-free?

While we haven’t tested these sugar cookies with a gluten-free flour, typically an all-purpose gluten-free flour can work.

Can these cookies be made in advance?

Yes! There’s a few ways you can make these cookies in advance. Once you’ve cut out the cookie shapes, you can arrange them on a lined tray and refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight.
You can also store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or a refrigerator for slightly longer. These cookies can also be frozen, with or without icing! Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Storage Tips

Once the vegan sugar cookies are baked and iced, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should remain fresh for up to a week. If you need to stack the cookies in the storage container, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together or damaging the icing.

Refrigeration: While vegan sugar cookies typically store well at room temperature, if you’re keeping them for an extended period or in warm conditions, you can refrigerate them.

Freezing (Unbaked Dough): If you’ve prepared extra dough or want to save some for later, you can freeze it. Wrap the cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer bag. Thaw the dough in the refrigerator before rolling and cutting.

Freezing (Baked Cookies): If you’ve baked more cookies than needed, you can freeze the baked and iced cookies. Place them in a single layer on a tray until frozen, then transfer them to an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Vegan Sugar Cookies | Easy Holiday Recipe
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Vegan Sugar Cookies

Celebrate the holidays (or any time of year) with these easy vegan sugar cookies. This recipe makes a small batch of vegan sugar cookies—if you want a big batch of more dough to play with (especially if you’re using large cookie cutters), double the batch!
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword christmas cookies, holiday cookies, sugar cookies, vegan cookies, vegan sugar cookies
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 35 cookies (depending on cookie cutter size)
Calories 46kcal
Author World of Vegan

Equipment

  • Handheld Mixer or Stand Mixer

Ingredients

  • cup coconut oil soft and scoopable (not solid or melted)
  • ½ cup cane sugar + 1 tablespoon
  • ¼ cup plant-based milk unsweetened at room temperature
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda

Icing

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon water + 1 teaspoon, add more water as needed to get your desired consistency

Instructions

  • Add the coconut oil, cane sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to the bowl of a stand mixer (or mix with an electric hand mixer). Cream the ingredients together on medium/high speed for a few minutes until it’s well-combined.
  • Sift the flour, baking powder, and baking soda into the mixer and beat until it forms a dough.
  • Gently dust a clean work surface with flour. Transfer the dough to your work surface and knead it into a ball. Use a rolling pin to gently roll the dough out until it is around ¼ inch thick. Try not to roll the dough too thin because then the cookies will be more crunchy rather than soft and crispy.
  • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2 baking trays with silicone mats or parchment paper.
  • Use cookie cutters to cut cookies out and place them on the baking tray. Form any dough scraps into a ball and re-roll and cut more cookies, until all of the dough is gone.
  • Bake the cookies on the center rack of your oven for around 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden brown on the bottom.
  • In the meantime, make the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and water until smooth. Feel free to add vegan food coloring if desired. Set aside.
  • When the cookies are finished, transfer them to a wire rack to cool. Once they’re cooled, apply the icing onto the cookies. Allow the icing to dry completely before serving or storing. 

Notes

This recipe for vegan sugar cookies makes somewhere around 35 to 45 cookies depending on the size of the cookie cutters you use. I used pretty small cookie cutters along with a few large ones and it made 50 cookies.
Storage:
After baking and icing the vegan sugar cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, maintaining their freshness for up to a week. When stacking cookies in the container, insert a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking or any potential damage to the icing.
For extended storage or in warmer conditions, refrigerating the cookies is an option, although they typically fare well at room temperature.

Nutrition

Calories: 46kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 19mg | Potassium: 5mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 0.1IU | Calcium: 8mg | Iron: 0.2mg

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Vegan Hot Chocolate Mix https://www.worldofvegan.com/hot-chocolate-mix/ https://www.worldofvegan.com/hot-chocolate-mix/#comments Mon, 18 Dec 2023 22:17:45 +0000 https://www.worldofvegan.com/?p=119054 If you love a cozy cup of vegan hot chocolate often—like me—welcome! You need this recipe in your life. In just a few minutes you can have a prepared dairy-free hot chocolate mix that brings your cozy beverage that much closer to you when the comfort craving strikes. Key Ingredients The best part about this […]

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If you love a cozy cup of vegan hot chocolate often—like me—welcome! You need this recipe in your life. In just a few minutes you can have a prepared dairy-free hot chocolate mix that brings your cozy beverage that much closer to you when the comfort craving strikes.

Pouring Vegan Hot Chocolate into a Mug

Key Ingredients

The best part about this hot cocoa mix? You just need four ingredients:

Hand holding up a bag of Chocolate Emporium semi-sweet chocolate chips.

That’s it! You can store it in a 16 ounce mason jar or any sealed container and it will last all season long.

How To Use This Vegan Hot Chocolate Mix

When you’re ready to make a steaming mug of this vegan hot cocoa mix, it only takes a few minutes to prepare! Simply heat some dairy-free milk up either in a microwave-safe mug or bowl in the microwave, or warm it up on the stove.

Stir in 3½ tablespoons of the hot chocolate mix for every one cup of milk. Top with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Scooping up the best vegan hot chocolate mix.

Topping Ideas

While the mixture does include mini vegan chocolate chips, it’s always fun (and delicious) to add some toppings! Here are some of my favorites:

Hot Cocoa Bar

If you want to have even more fun, create your own little at-home vegan hot cocoa station! Get some vegan marshmallows and drop them in a jar. If the holidays are near, neatly place some candy canes in a festive mug. Pop a little jar of vanilla extract or peppermint extract by your hot cocoa bar for a winter-inspired flavor boost. Set out your favorite hot cocoa sipping mugs, and honey, you’ve got yourself a vegan hot cocoa bar!

If you want to get really crazy (I always do!) you can even order a sparkly sign for your hot cocoa bar. Has your home ever been this ready for the holidays

DIY Vegan Hot Chocolate Mix

The Perfect DIY Holiday Gift

Looking for a delightful vegan Christmas gift, stocking stuffer, Hanukkah gift, housewarming gift, hostess gift, or just want to pamper someone you love? A mason jar filled with chocolatey goodness and TLC is a surefire hit.

Stick some vegan marshmallows on the top of the jar and Package it up with some fancy vanilla extract and peppermint extract and handwritten cocoa-making instructions for an extra-special surprise. Your friend, neighbor, co-worker or loved one will think of you every time they sip on vegan hot cocoa throughout the season! 

Homemade Vegan Hot Cocoa Mix

FAQ’s

What is the best non-dairy milk for hot chocolate?

If you like your hot chocolate ultra-creamy, opt for soy milk or oat milk. These both have a closer consistency to cow’s milk, making them the best alternative.

Which hot chocolate powder is vegan?

Siete Mexican Hot Chocolate, Starbucks Double Chocolate Hot Cocoa Mix, Swiss Miss Non-Dairy Chocolate Flavored Hot Cocoa Mix, Target’s Good & Gather Hot Cocoa Mix, Godiva Dark Chocolate Hot Cocoa, and Ghirardelli Double Dark Premium and Chocolate Mocha Hot Cocoa mixes are all vegan!

Is Swiss Miss hot chocolate powder vegan?

Most Swiss Miss hot chocolate powders are not vegan. However, they do offer one non-dairy option made with nonfat dried coconut milk.

Is Nestle hot chocolate powder vegan?

No, Nestle does not currently offer a vegan or dairy-free hot chocolate pwoder.

Best Vegan Hot Chocolate Recipe
Vegan hot chocolate mix in a mason jar.
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Vegan Hot Chocolate Mix (3 Ingredients)

This is the perfect vegan hot chocolate mix. I make a batch of this every winter so I can enjoy easy-to-make vegan hot cocoa throughout the holiday season. This hot cocoa mix also makes a great handmade vegan holiday gift!
Course Drink
Cuisine American
Keyword dairy-free hot chocolate mix, vegan hot chocolate mix, vegan hot cocoa mix
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 150kcal
Author Michelle Cehn | World of Vegan

Equipment

Ingredients

  • ¾ cups cocoa powder
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup mini vegan chocolate chips or finely chopped vegan chocolate

Instructions

  • In a small mixing bowl, add the cocoa powder, sugar, and chocolate and mix until fully incorporated. Pour in the jar and seal tightly.
  • Attach a label that notes the recipe (3½ tablespoons of hot chocolate mix per 1 cup of soy milk).

Notes

Decorate as desired! For instance, you can tie a festive string around the jar and cut out some wrapping paper to attach to the lid of the jar.
Storage: Keep the vegan hot cocoa mix in an airtight container in a cool dark place like a pantry or cabinet for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 150kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Sodium: 96mg | Potassium: 0.3mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 25g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Calcium: 26mg | Iron: 1mg

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Soft and Chewy Vegan Gingersnap Cookies https://www.worldofvegan.com/gingersnap-cookies/ https://www.worldofvegan.com/gingersnap-cookies/#comments Fri, 15 Dec 2023 21:06:44 +0000 https://www.worldofvegan.com/?p=125781 Snap out of your baking rut with these spicy little morsels! While most gingersnaps are hard and brittle, you can really sink your teeth into these soft and chewy vegan gingersnap cookies. Warm and spicy, brown sugar and molasses round out the flavors with unrivaled richness. A crunchy layer of granulated sugar on the outside […]

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Snap out of your baking rut with these spicy little morsels! While most gingersnaps are hard and brittle, you can really sink your teeth into these soft and chewy vegan gingersnap cookies. Warm and spicy, brown sugar and molasses round out the flavors with unrivaled richness. A crunchy layer of granulated sugar on the outside gives them a satisfying bite, yielding to a tender interior for the perfect textural contrast.

This recipe comes from Vegan Christmas Cookies and Cocoa by Audrey Dunham and is an easy win this holiday season, and beyond! They’re the kind of cookie that Santa would leave extra presents for, though they might be hard to share.

Chewy Vegan Gingersnap Cookie With a Bite Taken on a Table

Why You’ll Love These Vegan Gingersnaps

  • There’s never a bad time for cookies, but these warmly spiced vegan ginger cookies are especially well-suited for winter celebrations. Vegan holiday parties, Christmas Eve gatherings, even New Year’s Eve with a side of bubbly! Everyone will go wild for these at cookie swaps big and small.
  • So simple you’d think that baking is child’s play, but you really can get the kids involved in this one. Create sweet memories in the kitchen while the little ones learn how to mix and measure to make their own treats.
  • No need to shop for rare, specialty ingredients for this fool-proof formula. That makes this recipe especially affordable, too.
  • Perfect for a crowd, you can easily double, or even triple the recipe. Everyone on your list can get a sweet, homemade gift!

Ingredients Needed

Ground Flaxseeds: Making these eggless ginger cookies is a snap with ground flax! Taking the place of conventional eggs, a tablespoon of ground flaxseeds (also called flaxseed meal) mixed with water functions as a binder and helps retain moisture, keeping this cookie soft and chewy.

All-Purpose Flour: Standard white flour provides a neutral foundation to build such a flavorful spice profile upon. While we haven’t tested gluten-free flours, we imagine they would work well with this recipe. If you do try making these gluten free, please let us know how it goes in the comments below! 

Cinnamon: You can’t have a classic gingersnap without cinnamon! This sweet spice rounds out the sharper edges of the flavor profile with a nostalgic taste and subtle warmth.

Ginger: The namesake of this cookie, powdered or dried ginger is used here to easily incorporate its bold essence evenly throughout.

Cloves: Just a tiny pinch will do, since this spice goes a long way. It’s less commonly used in American households, so you could also experiment with using ground nutmeg or cardamom for a delicious change of pace, if you’re all out.

Brown Sugar: Crucial to the sweetness and moisture in these gingersnap cookies, brown sugar imparts a rich, caramel-like taste that complements the warm spices.

Vegan Butter: Plant-based butter is easily substituted 1 for 1 in any recipe that calls for conventional dairy butter. All brands have a different blend that is typically made from avocado oil, coconut oil, palm kernel oil, olive oil, or some combination of those. Check labels for soy-free options, if needed.

Molasses: This sticky stuff is a thick, dark syrup made from sugarcane or beet sugar, and is less sweet than refined sugar. It has a robust, unique flavor most commonly associated with gingerbread, and also baked beans.

Granulated Sugar: Used just to gild the lily here, a touch of granulated sugar is used to roll the cookies and create that irresistible crunchy crust on the outside of your vegan gingersnap cookies. Feel free to amplify that texture by using coarse sugar, such as turbinado, instead.

Gathered ingredients for these vegan gingersnap cookies, on a baking tray with labels.

Recipe Swaps and Substitutions

If you have a hard time going by the book for any recipe, don’t worry! This formula is so solid that you can easily modify it to fit your needs and cravings.

  • Make these extra-chewy by using part oat flour instead of all-purpose flour. For this version (which is actually Audrey’s original recipe), use 1¼ cup of oat flour, and 1½ cup of all-purpose flour. You can get oat flour at the grocery store or grind up your own by popping old fashioned rolled oats in the blender until you have a silky smooth flour. 
  • Make it gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
  • Spice it up by adding finely chopped crystalized ginger, and/or grated fresh ginger to the batter.
  • Everyone loves chocolate, so go ahead and add a generous handful of vegan chocolate chips for an extra sweet finish.
  • Vegetable shortening can be used instead of vegan butter in a pinch, but the texture will be much more cakey than chewy.

How To Make

Don’t worry, there’s no dairy involved! This classic technique involves beating together the butter and sugar very thoroughly before adding in the remaining ingredients to lighten and leaven the dough, while ensuring even distribution of fat and sweetener throughout. It’s a very simple but essential skill to master.

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine ground flaxseed with water and set aside to thicken. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.

Step 2: Using a stand or handheld mixer, cream together brown sugar, butter, and molasses until fluffy. Pause to scrape down the bowl with your spatula at least once about halfway through, to make sure everything gets incorporated.

Step 3: Add the flaxseed mixture and mix again. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the sugar mixture, scraping the bowl as needed, until a thick dough forms.

Step 4: Roll the dough into 16 golf ball-sized portions, coat each in granulated sugar, and place them on baking sheets. Bake one sheet at a time on the top rack for 9-10 minutes or until cracks appear. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for 3-5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Vegan Gingersnap Cookies Dough Balls Flatlay With Christmas Holiday Ornaments and Sugar for Dipping

Tips

  • Allow the vegan butter to warm to room temperature before beginning. Straight out of the fridge, it will be too hard to mix smoothly, but it shouldn’t be melted, or the cookies might turn out greasy. Generally, it helps to take the butter out 1 hour before getting started.
  • It’s easiest to use a stand mixer since it takes considerable and consistent stirring. Use the paddle attachment for more complete coverage. You can also use a hand mixer, though it may take a bit longer.
  • Like your ginger cookies crispier? You can bake for a few extra minutes if desired.

Storage

Cool your dairy-free ginger cookies fully on a wire rack before storing. Transfer them to an airtight container with a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. These vegan gingersnaps will stay fresh at room temperature for one week.

If you want to store them for an extended period, place them in a freezer-friendly container and freeze them for 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

FAQ’s

What’s the difference between gingersnaps and ginger cookies?

The terms “gingersnaps” and “ginger cookies” are often used interchangeably, but there can be subtle differences in texture and flavor. Gingersnaps tend to be less sweet and have a more crispy and crunchy exterior. However, the distinction can be subtle.

Can I make gingersnaps without molasses?

Traditionally gingersnaps include molasses because it contributes both a sweetness and a distinct flavor. However, an equal amount of maple syrup can be used as a replacement for molasses if you need an alternative. Note that the flavor and texture will change but it will still be delicious!

Stack of Dairy-Free Gingersnap Cookies With Christmas Lights in Background

More Spiced Treats to Try

If you try this recipe for vegan ginger cookies, let us know what you think by leaving a comment and rating below! Be sure to follow along on PinterestInstagram and Facebook for even more vegan recipe inspiration.

Easy Vegan Gingersnap Cookies-15
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Soft & Chewy Vegan Gingersnap Cookies

There's something really special about these soft and chewy vegan gingersnap cookies. Perhaps it's the way they've carved out their own lane in the hypothetical cookie aisle or how they bring up warm memories of the holidays. No matter the time of year you decide to enjoy these delicious treats, you're truly in for a good time.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword dairy-free cookie recipe, egg-free cookie recipe, soft and chewy cookie recipe, vegan gingersnap cookie recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings 16 cookies
Calories 232kcal
Author Audrey Dunham (modified slightly)

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (8 grams)
  • 3 tablespoons water (45 ml)
  • cups all-purpose flour (345 grams)
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ginger
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar (216 grams)
  • ¾ cup vegan butter or margarine, softened (170 grams)
  • ¼ cup molasses (59 ml)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar for rolling (58 grams)

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (approx. 190°C) 
  • Combine the ground flaxseed and water in a small bowl and set aside.
  • In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flours, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves and stir to combine. Set aside. 
  • Using a stand or handheld mixer, cream the brown sugar, butter, and molasses until fluffy, about 1 minute. Then add the flaxseed mixture and mix again for another 30 seconds.
  • Add half of the dry ingredients to the sugar mixture and mix on low until mostly combined. Then add the second half of the dry ingredients and mix again, this time starting on a low speed and then increasing to high as the dough becomes thick and hard to mix. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. The dough will be very thick when it’s done.
  • Pour the granulated sugar into a bowl and set aside. Then form 16 golf ball-sized dough balls and place them on parchment-lined or ungreased baking sheets. Roll each ball in the granulated sugar to evenly coat, then return to the baking sheet, ensuring they’re at least 3 inches (about 8 cm) apart from one another, as they will spread.
  • Bake the cookies one sheet at a time on the top rack in your preheated oven for 9-10 minutes or until cracks form across the surface. It’s better to slightly underbake than to overbake. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 3-5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Notes

FOR BEST GLUTEN-FREE VERSION: Try using your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour in place of the regular all-purpose flour. Check the labels for all remaining ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free, as well. 
STORAGE: These cookies are flexible and can be stored in airtight or non airtight containers, tins, or on plates covered in foil or plastic wrap. You can also freeze these cookies for several months and they’ll be just fine!
AUDREY’S ORIGINAL RECIPE: The original recipe calls for 1¼  cup of oat flour and 1½ cup of all-purpose flour, which makes these cookies extra chewy. We tested them using just all-purpose flour so the ingredient list would be very simple and familiar to people, and the cookies are absolutely delicious both ways!

Nutrition

Calories: 232kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Sodium: 281mg | Potassium: 125mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 0.01mg | Calcium: 29mg | Iron: 1mg

Vegan Christmas Cookies Cookbook

This recipe for vegan gingersnap cookies comes from the cookbook Vegan Christmas Cookies and Cocoa by vegan recipe creator and personality Audrey Dunham. This book is a festive collection of holiday sweets and sips to enjoy with the whole family. Full of nostalgic classics and new favorites to explore, every recipe is 100% plant-based, with easy gluten-free options included. Now you can transform your kitchen into Santa’s workshop to delight both kids and kids-at-heart.

Vegan gingersnap cookie recipe adapted with permission from Vegan Christmas Cookies and Cocoa by Audrey Dunham. Photos by J.J. Steele for World of Vegan, all rights reserved.

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Vegan Shepherd’s Pie (Cottage Pie) https://www.worldofvegan.com/vegan-shepherds-pie/ https://www.worldofvegan.com/vegan-shepherds-pie/#comments Mon, 11 Dec 2023 17:19:34 +0000 https://www.worldofvegan.com/?p=125703 This vegan shepherd’s pie, also known as cottage pie, is the ultimate comfort food! It’s rich and hearty—full of mushrooms and vegetables in a savory sauce topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This is the perfect meal for chilly evenings to cozy up with! In every language, a rich, hearty stew topped with creamy mashed potatoes […]

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This vegan shepherd’s pie, also known as cottage pie, is the ultimate comfort food! It’s rich and hearty—full of mushrooms and vegetables in a savory sauce topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This is the perfect meal for chilly evenings to cozy up with!

In every language, a rich, hearty stew topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked to golden-brown perfection always spells comfort food. Cottage pie is a classic dish that’s withstood the test of time, matured over the years, and grown to have greater allure than ever. Every western culture has a similar casserole to its name, brimming with enough meat and vegetables in every bite to appease both hunters and gatherers throughout the ages.

Unlike a pastry-covered pie, cottage pie skips the fussy dough to make preparation and serving a breeze. No baking experience required! All you need is an appetite for a hearty, heartwarming meal.  

A serving of vegan shepherd's pie on a plate with a fork.

What Makes This The Best Recipe For Vegan Shepherd’s Pie?

  • Umami: The so-called fifth taste, otherwise understood as savory flavor, contributes the distinct depth and richness that makes the overall eating experience so satisfying. Meat is naturally high in umami, but so are mushrooms, which are the secret ingredient here.
  • Allergen-friendly: Everyone’s welcome to the table when this dish is on the menu! There are no common allergens in the mix, meaning it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, eggless, nut-free, soy-free, and as always, completely vegan.
  • Freezer friendly: Whether you want to prep ahead or save leftovers for a rainy day, this vegan shepherd’s pie keeps like a champ. Freeze individual portions for up to 6 months and simply microwave or pop it into the oven until hot all the way through.

Key Ingredients

Ingredients for vegan shepherd's pie measured out on a white background.

Russet potatoes: These spuds are high in starch which makes them mash up into a light, fluffy vegan mashed potato topping. Peel them for a perfectly smooth mash or keep the skins on for a more rustic approach

Dried mushrooms: Dried porcini are ideal here for their uniquely nutty, earthy flavor and toothsome, meaty texture. Other good options include dried shiitake mushrooms, dried oyster mushrooms, dried wood ear mushrooms, or dried morel mushrooms.

Dried herbs: No pantry is complete without a range of dried herbs at the ready. Through the dead of winter when nothing green is growing, they’ll get you through those dark days with zest and fragrance to spare. Basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme are our VIPs here.

Lentils: This complete protein creates the most convincing vegetarian cottage pie around using only whole foods. Canned and ready-to-eat, they’re very convenient anytime you want to cut out the meat.

Sun-dried tomatoes: Chewy and subtly sweet, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes are a rich source of umami as well, harmonizing with the mushrooms to heighten that taste. For even greater flavor, use some of the oil for cooking, instead of plain olive oil.

Nutritional yeast: Both cheesy and buttery without a drop of dairy, nutritional yeast is essential for creating natural vegan alternatives. It can be used to enhance anything from soup to popcorn.

A jar labeled "nooch" and filled with nutritional yeast.

What’s The Difference Between Shepherd’s Pie vs Cottage Pie?

Though the terms can sometimes be used interchangeably, the difference between the two traditionally comes down to the place of origin and type of meat.

  • Shepherd’s pie hails from Scotland, later gaining in popularity throughout England and Ireland. It typically calls for ground lamb, befitting of the name.
  • Cottage pie came later, appearing in text around 1791 without clear heritage other than the United Kingdom at large. These casseroles were filled with ground beef instead.

While a plant-based version could be seen as either (or neither) based on these simple definitions, most vegan ground meat is compared to beef, given that lamb has a more gamey or grassy taste. Cottage pie is a better fit for conventional flavor expectations.

Vegan Shepherd's Pie in a casserole dish with a serving spoon and a serving missing.

How To Use Dehydrated Mushrooms

Dried mushrooms are indispensable umami bombs that contain even greater flavor than their fresh counterparts. That’s because the drying process concentrates their essence, breaking down cell walls and making it more readily accessible than straightforward cooking alone.

Here’s how to rehydrate dried mushrooms:

  1. Sort your mushrooms and give them a rinse. Wild mushrooms especially are likely to still carry dirt from where they were grown. Brush lightly to remove any leftover particles. Double-check that there are no other stones or twigs that might have gotten mixed up with them.
  2. Soak in cold water, ideally overnight. Many recipes will quickly rehydrate dried mushrooms in hot or even boiling water to speed through the procedure. While that technically works, it fails to unlock their full potential. Dried mushrooms tend to float, so keep a plate on top of them in a large bowl to keep them all submerged. Store in the fridge until ready to use.
  3. Drain the soaking water but save it! You now have incredibly flavorful mushroom broth, ideal for making soups and stews with, in addition to the toothsome mushrooms you want for the recipe at hand.

Kept in a dry, cool place, dried mushrooms are shelf-stable and can last for 1 – 3 years. Once rehydrated, the mushrooms should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge and used within 5 – 7 days.

This method works for a variety of different mushrooms including dried porcini mushrooms, dried shiitake mushrooms, dried morel mushrooms, dried oyster mushrooms.

Ideas For Cottage Pie Adaptations

Never eat the same meal twice when you apply a bit of creativity to the basic cottage pie formula! Make it your own with a few simple twists.

  • Switch up the protein: Use crumbled tofu or tempeh, realistic vegan ground meat like Impossible or Beyond Meat, or a combination of all your favorites.
  • Add an extra serving of vegetables: Take a hint from what’s fresh and in season or dig deep into your freezer to pull out a ready-made blend. Keep the cuts as consistent as possible so everything cooks at the same rate. When in doubt, corn and peas are always good choices to start with.
  • Say cheese: Everyone loves cheese, so sprinkling a handful of your favorite shredded vegan cheese over the top is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Add it within the last 10 minutes of cooking so it can get nice and melty.  
  • Spice is nice: The flavor profile is very mild as written, but if you’re a heat seeker, go ahead and spike the filling with crushed red pepper flakes, Tabasco, sriracha, harissa, or your favorite hot sauce.
A serving of vegan shepherd's pie on a plate with a fork.

More Cozy Vegan Casseroles To Try

Vegan Shepherd's Pie in a casserole dish with a serving spoon and a serving missing.
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Shepherd’s Pie {Cottage Pie} That’s Dairy-Free & Vegan

This vegan shepherd’s pie, also known as cottage pie, is the ultimate comfort food! It’s rich and hearty—full of mushrooms and vegetables in a savory sauce topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This is the perfect meal for chilly evenings to cozy up with!
Course dinner
Cuisine English
Keyword dairy-free shepherd’s pie, gluten-free shepherd’s pie, vegan holiday recipe, vegan shephard’s pie, vegan thanksgiving recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 4
Calories 497kcal
Author Beatriz Buono-Core & Mirko Guth

Ingredients

Mashed Potato Topping Ingredients: 

  • 4 large russet potatoes peeled and diced
  • plant-based milk unsweetened and unflavored, to taste
  • vegan butter to taste
  • salt and pepper to taste

Cottage Pie Filling Ingredients: 

  • cup dried mushrooms porcini if you can find them, otherwise any dried mushroom will do
  • 1 cube vegetable bouillon
  • cups water
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 carrots peeled and diced
  • 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 8-ounce can lentils drained
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil drained and chopped
  • 6 tablespoons tomato puree
  • cup nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan optional
  • parsley or chives for garnish optional

Instructions

  • Place the diced peeled potatoes in a large saucepan, cover with water, bring to a boil, and simmer for 15 minutes or until soft. Drain the water and roughly mash. Add plant-based milk, vegan butter, salt, and pepper, all to taste, and continue mashing until completely smooth. Set aside.
  • In a medium bowl, add the dried mushrooms, bouillon cube, and water. Let the mushrooms soak for 8 minutes, and mix to dissolve the vegetable stock.
  • Preheat the oven at 430 degrees F.
  • Heat a large frying pan with the olive oil on medium heat. Add the carrots, onion, basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. Stir and cook until lightly soft.
  • Add the tomato puree to the frying pan and stir. Take your soaking mushrooms and pour the liquid into the frying pan, holding back the mushrooms. Roughly chop the mushrooms before adding them to the pan as well. Add the chopped sundried tomatoes and lentils, and simmer until thickened.
  • Once the cottage pie mixture is ready, spread it evenly in a casserole dish. Top with the mashed potatoes and sprinkle generously with nutritional yeast. Cook in the oven for 10 minutes or until the surface is golden. Garnish with parsley or chives and enjoy!

Notes

Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Can’t find canned lentils? Use about 1 cup of cooked lentils instead.

Nutrition

Calories: 497kcal | Carbohydrates: 81g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Sodium: 89mg | Potassium: 2109mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 5420IU | Vitamin C: 41mg | Calcium: 94mg | Iron: 5mg

Photos by J.J. Steele for World of Vegan, all rights reserved. Thanks to our recipe testers Ruth Havertz and Taylor Gillespie

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Vegan Royal Icing https://www.worldofvegan.com/vegan-royal-icing/ https://www.worldofvegan.com/vegan-royal-icing/#comments Thu, 07 Dec 2023 18:40:32 +0000 https://www.worldofvegan.com/?p=135648 Bright white like freshly fallen snow, royal icing is an equally important harbinger of the holiday season. It’s the foundation that every beautiful cookie platter is built upon, the glue that holds together gingerbread houses, and the finishing touch on intricately decorated cakes. Unlike fluffy buttercream frosting, royal icing can be piped or drizzled in […]

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Bright white like freshly fallen snow, royal icing is an equally important harbinger of the holiday season. It’s the foundation that every beautiful cookie platter is built upon, the glue that holds together gingerbread houses, and the finishing touch on intricately decorated cakes.

Unlike fluffy buttercream frosting, royal icing can be piped or drizzled in fine lines and artistic patterns that dry to a hard, crunchy finish—perfect for decorating vegan sugar cookies with. It’s easy to loosen the consistency to make it spreadable and cover large areas at once, making it an essential component that every baker can master.

This recipe comes from Vegan Christmas Cookies and Cocoa by Audrey Dunham and is perfect for the holiday season and more. This classic royal icing recipe without eggs can be used year-round for whatever your cookie decorating needs may be!

Snowflake-shaped sugar cookies on light background decorated with egg-free royal icing.

Why This Is The Best Royal Icing Recipe

  • Only six ingredients: There’s a good chance you already have these common pantry staples on hand!
  • Ready in minutes: This recipe is so quick and easy that it practically makes itself. Your mixer does all the work so you can reap the rewards in no time.
  • Tastes great: The flavor is subtle and goes well with everything. Using only vanilla and almond extract in the mix, it has an uncanny marshmallow taste that everyone will love.
  • Free of all common allergens: Everyone should be able to enjoy a beautiful treat. This recipe was made to be shared, since it’s naturally nut-free, seed-free, gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and vegan.
  • Light corn syrup: Distinctly different from high-fructose corn syrup, light corn syrup is processed in the same way as cornstarch. It’s a clear, flavorless liquid sweetener that’s very helpful in candy making to prevent crystallization.

Key Ingredients

Vegan royal icing ingredients measured and labeled.
  • Aquafaba: Once dumped down the drain, the brine in a can of chickpeas is now every bit as valuable as the beans themselves. Aquafaba is the liquid they’re packed in, which can be whipped just like egg whites to make cakes, meringues, and in this case, icing!
  • Cream of tartar: Despite the name, there’s no dairy involved here. Cream of tartar is the acidic byproduct of fermenting grapes into wine. It helps stabilize foams, like the beaten aquafaba, to make a stronger structure that will hold up over time.
  • Confectioner’s sugar: Also known as powdered sugar, or 10x sugar, this is the most crucial element in the icing, both for sweetness and structure.

How To Make Vegan Royal Icing Without Meringue Powder

Traditionally, royal icing was made with liquid egg whites or meringue powder. This was the secret ingredient that allowed it to set and dry to a hard, glossy finish. Luckily, it’s even easier to make eggless royal icing in just a few steps!

Step 1: To start, use a stand mixer with the whisk attachment installed or a hand mixer to whip together the aquafaba and cream of tartar. Start on a low speed and gradually increase it to the highest setting. It should take about 5 to 7 minutes for the mixture to be light and fluffy, much like whipped cream.

Aquafaba whipped in a bowl.

Step 2: Add half of the powdered sugar, whisk until incorporated, then add the remaining half. Whisk again until smooth and glossy. Follow that with the corn syrup and both extracts, mixing again well.

Ingredients for vegan royal icing added to bowl.

Step 3: Test the consistency to see if it’s thick enough to pipe as desired. If not, add another ½ cup of powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, add in more water, just a few drops at a time; a little bit goes a long way.

Step 4: Divide into bowls and add color if using (see below for natural coloring ideas.) Transfer into piping bags and apply to your desserts. If you don’t have traditional piping bags, you can also use zip top baggies with the very tip of one corner snipped off.

Snowflake-shaped sugar cookies decorated with vegan royal icing and sitting on a drying rack.

Tips For Success

  • Always sift your powdered sugar! If it’s packed into the measuring cup, the ratios will be off. Clumps are also tricky to beat out once they’re already in the aquafaba mixture, so save yourself the headache and take care of it early on.
  • Liquid food coloring will add more moisture to the icing, which means you’ll probably have to add more powdered sugar to achieve a firm, pipable royal icing that isn’t too runny.
  • Play with different flavor extracts to make your icing more exciting. There’s everything from coconut to root beer, but bear in mind that some of these will change the color of the icing too.
  • If you’re working with multiple colors at once, make sure you keep the icing you’re not working with fully covered to prevent it from drying out. Keep plastic wrap directly on the surface so it doesn’t form a crackled skin on top.

How To Store Decorated Cookies

Once applied to your desserts, let the icing stand for at least 1 to 2 hours to dry and fully set. It will take longer in more humid environments.

Carefully stack them using a piece of parchment paper in between each one and store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for a few days at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

For longer storage, you can even freeze iced sugar cookies for up to three months! This is great if you want to get all of your holiday baking done ahead of time. Simply remove the cookies from the freezer and thaw them at room temperature in the morning on the day you want to serve them.

How To Color Vegan-Friendly Royal Icing

Plain white royal icing has a clean and elegant look. When you want to inject more color into your cookie masterpieces, it’s the perfect canvas. You can find natural food coloring in liquid or powder form at most health food stores and online. If you’d like to make your own, there are many easy ways to add color from whole food sources. Add a little bit at a time until it reaches your desired intensity.

  • Red: Beet powder or annatto
  • Orange: Carrot powder or pumpkin powder
  • Yellow: Ground turmeric or saffron
  • Green: Matcha or spinach powder
  • Blue: Blue spirulina or butterfly pea tea powder
  • Purple: Purple potato powder or red cabbage powder
  • Black: Food-grade charcoal
  • Brown: Cocoa or carob powder
Hand piping vegan royal icing onto sugar cookies shaped like a snowflake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I double or triple this recipe?

Since royal icing dries quickly, you’re better off making a separate, fresh batch after you finish the first. Only double it if you have several people using it all at once so it doesn’t sit and harden.

What can I use instead of corn syrup?

Feel free to use light agave nectar or maple syrup if you’d prefer but bear in mind that these will turn the icing a pale beige color, particularly with the latter option.

How can I make my own confectioner’s sugar?

If you run out of confectioner’s sugar and can’t get out to the store, don’t panic! You can simply take 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, potato starch, or tapioca starch and grind them together in a food processor until finely powdered. Scale up the quantities as needed.

Can I make sugar-free royal icing?

Sugar is the main ingredient here which makes it difficult to swap out. There are powdered sugar alternatives made from stevia, erythritol, and/or monk fruit that can be used at a 1:1 ratio, but if used for royal icing, it may not dry completely. Your mileage may vary depending on the specific blend.

Can I buy vegan royal icing in stores?

Unfortunately, there aren’t any brands of prepared royal icing, vegan or not. Since it hardens when it dries, it’s not shelf stable. In a pinch, you can use “accidentally vegan” canned frosting such as Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines. It can be piped as is or warmed to loosen it into a more liquid or pourable consistency but bear in mind that it will remain soft after being applied.

Snowflake-shaped sugar cookies on wooden plate decorated with eggless royal icing.

Recipes You’ll Love To Decorate With Royal Icing

Snowflake-shaped sugar cookies decorated with vegan royal icing and sitting on a drying rack.
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Best Vegan Royal Icing Recipe

This vegan royal icing is easy to make and use. It beautifully decorates cookies with ease and has the most delicious flavor. This recipe never lets me down, and has helped our family create cookies we’re proud to show off and share with others.
Course Dessert, Ingredient
Cuisine American
Keyword royal icing recipe, vegan royal icing
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 1.5 cups of icing
Calories 267kcal
Author Audrey Dunham

Equipment

  • Handheld Mixer or Stand Mixer

Ingredients

  • 1⁄4 cup aquafaba the liquid inside a can of chickpeas / garbanzo beans
  • 1⁄4 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 1⁄2 cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar) measured then sifted, + more as needed
  • 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1⁄4 teaspoon almond extract
  • Food coloring optional

Instructions

  • Using a handheld or stand mixer with a whisk attachment, mix the aquafaba and cream of tartar on the highest speed possible until fluffy, bright white, and very thick, 5–7 minutes.
  • Add 3⁄4 cup of the powdered sugar and mix on medium speed until glossy, 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  • Add the remaining 3⁄4 cup of powdered sugar, the corn syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract and mix until incorporated.
  • Decide if your icing is thick enough by adding a small amount of icing to a piping bag fitted with a decorating tip (alternatively, you can decorate your cookies with a butter knife.) Test the icing on parchment paper or on one of your cookies to see if it runs. If it does, add up to 1⁄2 cup more powdered sugar a little at a time until the icing reaches a thick enough consistency.
  • Add the food coloring, if using, one drop at a time until you reach the desired color. If using multiple colors, divide the icing into small bowls and color each one separately.
  • Decorate cookies with icing, followed by sprinkles or other decorative candies, if you like.
  • Allow iced cookies to set at room temperature until completely dry, 1–2 hours.

Notes

Be sure to sift powdered sugar before adding to the mixing bowl.
The more food coloring you add, the longer the icing may take to dry.
For more precise decorating, use piping bags fitted with decorating tips.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoon | Calories: 267kcal | Carbohydrates: 67g | Protein: 0.001g | Fat: 0.003g | Sodium: 10mg | Potassium: 294mg | Fiber: 0.003g | Sugar: 65g | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 0.1mg

Vegan Royal Icing recipe was reprinted with permission from Vegan Christmas Cookies and Cocoa by Audrey Dunham. Photos by Candi Elm for World of Vegan, all rights reserved.

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Best Vegetarian Roast Recipes https://www.worldofvegan.com/vegetarian-roast-recipes/ https://www.worldofvegan.com/vegetarian-roast-recipes/#comments Tue, 05 Dec 2023 04:49:45 +0000 https://www.worldofvegan.com/?p=128110 It’s time to move beyond the turkey and ham, to kinder, healthier, and even more delicious plant-based roasts! Whether you’re trying to warm up during the colder months of winter, looking to enjoy a delightful plant-based Sunday dinner, or are preparing a holiday dinner for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, these vegetarian roast recipes will be […]

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It’s time to move beyond the turkey and ham, to kinder, healthier, and even more delicious plant-based roasts! Whether you’re trying to warm up during the colder months of winter, looking to enjoy a delightful plant-based Sunday dinner, or are preparing a holiday dinner for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, these vegetarian roast recipes will be the star of your table.

If you’ve gotten into a dinner rut or are looking to make your weekly Sunday dinners more exciting, our answer is to cook more vegan roasts! You’ll love how great your kitchen smells as the various herbs and spices waft through the air, instilling feelings of comfort and coziness.

There’s also nothing quite like enjoying a perfectly tender bite of Sunday roast as a new week is about to begin. So grab your favorite bakeware, break out those aromatics, and let’s get to work!

best vegetarian roast recipes
Best Vegetarian Roast Dinner Recipes that are Plant-Based and Vegan

Make Your Own Vegetarian Holiday Roast

Below you’ll find a round-up of the very best vegan roast recipes from around the web. All of the following recipes are:

  • vegan
  • vegetarian
  • plant-based
  • dairy-free
  • cholesterol-free
  • meat-free

We also included options that are soy-free, gluten-free, and nut-free for allergen-friendly roasts.

Plant-Based Roast Base Ingredients

What goes into these succulent, meatless masterpieces? Vegan roasts boast a palette of wholesome ingredients, including seitan (wheat gluten), mushrooms, nuts, tofu, beans or lentils, grains, and an assortment of vegetables. Elevating these natural elements are a harmonious blend of aromatic spices and herbs, transforming these simple ingredients into a culinary symphony that will redefine your perception of plant-based dining. Dive into the recipes and witness the magical metamorphosis of whole foods into your next vegan dinner sensation.

Best Vegetarian Roast Recipes (100% Vegan)

The Perfect Vegan Wellington

A beautiful and delicious recipe by Audrey Dunham, this vegan mushroom Wellington is savory, flaky, and completely worth the effort. It’s actually surprisingly easy! It’s made with vegan puff pastry (which you can easily fond from brands like Pepperidge Farm) and decorated with a gorgeous braid. This is any mushroom lover’s dream roast.

vegan mushroom wellington roast with braided puff pasty on a thanksgiving dinner table

Vegan Turkey Roast

A delicious vegan turkey for Thanksgiving, this recipe will have you feeling like it’s the holidays all the time! Made using simple ingredients such as tofu and vital wheat gluten, this recipe is actually quite easy to put together. But it is recommended that you prepare the seitan a day in advance if possible for optimal texture and flavor.

Sliced Plant Based Seitan Turkey Roast with Roasted Veggies for Thanksgiving

Veggie Meatloaf

If you’re dining with meatloaf lovers, this is a must! It’s a health-ified version of a classic meatloaf made with lentils, walnuts, and mushrooms. Crazy? It may sound nuts (and it is, literally, made with nuts!) but this popular recipe has stood the test of time. Dozens of iterations of this veggie meatloaf have spread across the internet, but this is our all-time fave by Desiree Neilsen.

veggie lentil loaf served on a white plate with rosemary

Vegan Holiday Roast

This amazing meatless roast by Vegan Huggs is both beautiful and delicious and will make a beautiful centerpiece to any meal! Using a seitan base and stuffed with a delicious sourdough bread stuffing, this recipe is actually relatively easy to put together. You just need to wait patiently for a few hours as it finishes up in the oven.

vegan holiday roast on a plate with green herb garnish

Seed & Carrot Roast Loaf

Great for those who are gluten-free or just love seeds and veggies! This loaf by Kind Earth is one of the easiest vegetarian roasts you could ever make, Once the carrots are boiled and the seeds are ground, it only takes a few minutes to combine everything together. Stick it in the oven for about 45 minutes, and you’re golden!

sliced up carrot and seed loaf on a plate with herbs

Vegan Ham Roast

This super flavorful vegan ham recipe by Shane & Simple is a must-try for you if you like your vegan roasts with a tinge of sweetness. With only 15 minutes of prep time and 75 minutes cook time in the Instant Pot, you’ll love how quickly this amazing dish comes to life!

roasted vegan ham partially sliced with a grilled pineapple circle on top

Festive Butternut Squash Roast

Gluten-free, vegan, and full of fall flavor! This butternut squash roast by The Veg Space is a perfect vegetarian roast recipe for anyone who’s sensitive to gluten or just prefers more veggies in their life. Stuffed with a lentil filling, this squash roast has everything you need for a completely filling and tasty meal.

butternut squash roast stuffed with lentil stuffing on a cutting board

Cashew Nut Roast

Made with a combination of cashews, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, this yummy nut loaf from Vegan Punks is perfect for those who love the combination of crunchy nuts with salty breadcrumbs. Drizzle on some gravy and you’ll be all set for a Sunday roast dinner.

cashew roast on a cutting board with herb garnish

Gluten-Free Veggie Roast

Made from the mighty celeriac vegetable, this oil-free and gluten-free dish from Seven Roses is one of the most simple vegetable roasts you could ever make. Add as many fixings as you’d like to round out this nutritious and budget-friendly meal!

celery root roast in a pot with roasted potatoes

Vegetarian Lentil Loaf

Nut-free, gluten-free, soy-free and totally meatless, this vegan lentil loaf from Strength & Sunshine is made with the power of lentils and cauliflower. Covered in a red ketchup sauce, this nostalgia-inducing recipe only takes about 45 minutes to make and is filled with veggies and loaded with protein.

lentil load with ketchup sauce

Vegan Mushroom Meatloaf with Sticky Asian Glaze

Mushroom lovers, rejoice! This tasty vegetarian loaf recipe from Sunnyside Hanne calls for mushrooms, carrots, chickpeas, and more before being finished off with a deliciously tangy Asian glaze. Great alongside potatoes and broccoli or some rice and smashed cucumbers!

vegan mushroom loaf with sweet red sauce

Whole Roasted Cauliflower

What’s round and comes out of the ground but also tastes great on a plate? This delicious whole roasted cauliflower from Nutriplanet! It’s perfect for anyone who wants to keep their Sunday roast super simple. Gluten-free, soy-free, and totally tasty!

roasted cauliflower on a pot with vegetables

Juicy Vegan Roast Beef

This delicious vegan loaf recipe from My Plantiful Cooking makes a hearty holiday dinner or tasty meat-free treat throughout the week. With ingredients such as vital wheat gluten, kidney beans, and liquid smoke, this vegan roast beef comes together in just over an hour. It will keep 3-4 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.

vegan roast beef with rosemary garnish

Brown Sugar Glazed Tofu

From Plant Based RD comes a ridiculously easy gluten-free roast recipe. You’ll never believe it uses tofu as the main ingredient! All you need to do is make sure it’s pressed and marinate it overnight before popping it in the oven the next day!

sliced tofu roast on a plate

Holiday Stuffed Roasted Acorn Squash

Elevate your holiday feast with the rich and savory allure of stuffed acorn squash—a delightful vegetarian alternative that effortlessly steals the spotlight from the traditional roast. Bursting with autumnal flavors, these golden-hued gourds are generously filled with a delectable medley of grains, nuts, and seasonal herbs, creating a hearty and satisfying centerpiece for your festive table. The velvety texture of the acorn squash perfectly complements the earthy stuffing, offering a symphony of tastes and textures that will captivate both vegetarians and meat enthusiasts alike.

Vegetarian stuffed acorn squash on a baking sheet.

Tempeh Pot Roast

Savory, comforting, and full of plant-based protein. This tempeh pot roast by From My Bowl is the answer to your easy meal dreams. With only about 15 minutes of prep time, most of the work is done in the slow cooker with this vegan roast recipe!

pot roast tempeh with vegetables

What to Do With Your Leftover Vegetarian Roast?

If you’ve got leftovers, you’ve got tot try this epic air fryer sandwich make with veggie roast leftovers. We designed this recipe as a creative way to use Thanksgiving turkey leftovers. But you can apply it to all types of vegetarian roasts! It’s simply divine.

Vegan Thanksgiving Sandwich from Leftovers Recipe

Don’t Want to Cook Your Own Vegetarian Roast? Try These Store-Bought Options!

Whether you’re short on thyme or time, there are many options for delicious vegetarian roast dinners available both online and at the supermarket. From Field Roast to Tofurky, here are some of the most popular meatless roasts out there:

Explore our vegan turkey guide for even more options. If you’re having a large gathering, why not have a taste test with as many vegan roasts as you can? That way you’ll get a beautiful array of different textures, colors, and flavors! And once your vegetarian roast dinner is done, serve it alongside some delicious mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or other desired vegan sides.

During the holidays, we come across foods that are uncommon or unfamiliar at other times of the year (especially at parties). If you aren’t sure what fois gras is, make sure to look into it before you consider taking a bite.

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Salt Dough Ornaments https://www.worldofvegan.com/salt-dough-ornaments/ https://www.worldofvegan.com/salt-dough-ornaments/#comments Mon, 04 Dec 2023 02:31:18 +0000 https://www.worldofvegan.com/?p=137242 With only three simple pantry ingredients, you and your family can create salt dough ornaments for any season or special occasion. Measuring out ingredients, forming the dough, and incorporating tactile elements is fun for any age, but especially for younger ones. This soothing activity brings together science, cooking, and artful creativity––what could be better? When […]

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With only three simple pantry ingredients, you and your family can create salt dough ornaments for any season or special occasion. Measuring out ingredients, forming the dough, and incorporating tactile elements is fun for any age, but especially for younger ones. This soothing activity brings together science, cooking, and artful creativity––what could be better?

When the holidays roll around, the first thing that comes to mind is decorating…or maybe food. Either way, both food and decorations can transform a festive event into something even more magical and memorable. (Although this DIY clay recipe is technically edible, we don’t recommend giving it a try. The amount of salt would be overwhelming!)

If you have kiddies at home who become bored easily (or if the weather is wonky), use this opportunity to create an at-home Art Camp for Kids! This is the perfect time for children (or adults!) to allow their creativity to flow freely. Spend the day mixing up the salt dough (a super sensory activity opportunity) and decorating with delight after the ornaments are done.

Let’s get started!

Salt dough ornament with the word "vegan" stamped on it.

DIY Clay Tips

Creating your own homemade clay is easier than you think! Although this project may get a little messy, it’s totally worth it. These salt dough ornaments can be exquisite and elegant or super chill and cheezy. They can be cute and cuddly, classic or contemporary, and even silly or scary. There are no rules once the dough is ready.

Before you get started, here are few suggestions to keep the clutter in check:

  • Cover Your Space – Find an area in your home (possibly the kitchen) where you can add easy-to-clean cloths or newspaper to spread over your working surface. It might be a good idea to cover your clothing, as well. A kitchen apron or old clothes would work well.
  • Collect Creative Tools – Fill small cardboard boxes or plastic containers with a variety of art supplies such as paints, paintbrushes, crayons, markers, small items (rocks, seashells, bells, etc.), glue, and hanging materials (twine, ribbon, lace, etc.). This will make organization less chaotic and can help to keep things contained.
  • Cleaning Supplies – Even the neatest person will appreciate having some wet cloths, reusable paper towels, wipes, or perhaps a little brush and dust pan to minimize the mess. Washing hands before and after this project is a must. Especially before adding decorations to your lovely salt dough ornaments.

Holiday Ornament Shape Suggestions

This homemade clay recipe isn’t only for the winter holidays. There are endless ways in which you can personalize this dough to make ornaments of any shape, size, or color. Here is a small list of shape suggestions for every season or celebration. We’d love to hear your ideas, too! Make sure to add them to the comments below.

  • Celebrate the Seasons – Be inspired by the myriad of colors in each season. For Fall, make leaf shapes in red, yellow, brown, and orange. In Spring, cut out and paint flowers, umbrellas and birds in soft, pastel shades. The Summer months can be swimsuits, sunshine, and flip flops in the brightest jewel tones. Finally, Winter symbols of snowflakes, snowmen, and candles in soft blues, yellow, and white.
  • Best Birthday Ever – Pick out shapes that match the person whose birthday it is. Think about their favorite hobbies, colors, and foods when creating their ornaments. They can be given as mini paperweight gifts, hung together in a row as a bunting in their favorite place, or ask friends and family to write a little loving note on the back in paint or marker as a birthday token.
  • Make Festive Days Extra Fancy – These adorable ornaments can be made for any yearly holiday. For instance: Valentine’s Day (hearts, cupids, lips), Easter (bunnies, baskets, birds), New Year’s (champagne bottle, horns, year numbers), Halloween (pumpkins, witches, candy), Thanksgiving (corn, friends, pie), or even the First Day of School (pencils, letters, school bus). The ideas are endless!
Vegan kid Graham Miller stringing holiday salt dough ornaments on a baking sheet.

How To Decorate Your Salt Dough Ornaments

This is the most thrilling part! Use your brain power to come up with your best and most brilliant ideas. You can do it! These are only some suggestions for decorating. The ideas are infinite!

To double check whether the art supplies you’re using are vegan-friendly, make sure to consult our Vegan Art Supply Guide!

Helpful Hint: If you wish for your salt dough ornaments to last more than a year, consider spraying them with a clear acrylic sealer or painting on a layer or two of Mod Podge. Remember to let dry thoroughly before storing.

Salt dough ornament shaped like a Christmas tree.

Scented Salt Dough Ornaments

Why not add a little something special to your ornament before baking? Include several drops (or sprinkles) of a natural scent to the unbaked dough to boost these salt dough decorations up a notch. Here a few scent recipes to get you started:

  • Lavender & Rosemary – 9 drops of lavender essential oil + 6 drops of rosemary essential oil or extract. Wonderfully herbal!
  • Orange & Cinnamon – 15 drops of orange essential oil (or extract) + ½-1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This will give your ornament a delicious, spicy scent, as well as a warm, light brown shade.
  • Peppermint & Vanilla – 5 drops of peppermint + 10 drops of vanilla essential oil or extract. Sweet and cool, just like a candy cane!

Note: Make sure to mix in the scented oils, extracts, or spices well into the dough before cutting and baking. If the scent is not strong enough when done, you can always use a paintbrush to brush more onto the back of the salt dough ornament (in case of staining) and let dry.

Four Tips For Hanging Up Your Salt Dough Ornaments

Hanging an ornament (for any occasion) should be fun, not frustrating and fiddly. If you follow these tips, you’ll find yourself looking forward to this step every year. No need to worry!

Salt dough ornament shaped like a star, hanging on a tree branch.

Use Strong, Reliable Materials

Skimping on the string or using ratty, old ribbon won’t do, friends! If it looks worn out or is breaking apart, put it in the compost or leave out for the birds. Go for good stuff such as: kitchen cotton string, hemp twine, linen cord, satin ribbon, metal ornament hooks (not the flimsy kind), or even rubber bands.

Be Careful About the Hole Placement

When adding the hole to the unbaked ornament, make sure that the hole is not too close to the top. If it is, chances are that the hole may either close up or not be sturdy enough to hold the ornament’s weight once out of the oven. Place the hole at least ¼-½ inch down from the tippy top.

Hang To Your Heart’s Content

Choose between a tree (either natural, artificial or even a small, metal tabletop tree just for ornaments), a wooden, expandable hat rack, or simply anywhere in your home that can hold a little bit of weight. Other unique ideas include door knobs, chair arms, banana trees, chandeliers, mug rack, or even your rear view car mirror! Find that special place and make it a tradition to add it there every year.

Bring Out The Bunting

Instead of arranging the ornaments individually on a tree, hook, or stand, you can tie or sew them onto a sturdy cord (like a cotton clothesline) or to a long length of seam binding (you can find it at any fabric store). Then, simply attach each end securely to the edges of a doorway, across a fireplace mantle or over a window curtain rod. Bunting makes everything more exciting!

Handprint Clay Creations

Make your own homemade clay handprint at home! Swap out cookie cutters for fingers, hands, or paws! These can be such wonderful and thoughtful gifts for family members and friends, as well as to commemorate significant life events and occasions.

  • New Baby
  • Pets
  • First Day of School
  • Anniversaries
  • Birthdays

To create these lovely, personalized clay pieces, make the salt dough as usual. But, instead of cutting out small, individual shapes, roll out the dough into one large shape. Place on a sheet of parchment paper. Try to keep the dough to around ½” thickness. Clean and dry the selected hand, finger, thumb, or paw (or item) well. Press the chosen part into the dough so that there’s a definite depression, but not all the way to the bottom. Remove very gently.

Lift the parchment paper off of the counter and place onto a baking sheet. Bake as for the salt dough ornaments. You may choose not to flip the piece over in the middle of baking. If you feel nervous that your creation might crack or break, simply turn the baking sheet around 180 degrees and continue baking. It’s not completely necessary for it to be flipped onto the other side. When done, let cool as directed and decorate!

Step-By-Step Tutorial

To make these easy homemade clay ornaments all you need are three simple ingredients: all-purpose flour, salt, and water! That’s it!

Key components in salt dough ornaments with labels.

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F or the lowest temperature your oven will go to.

In a medium to large mixing bowl, add the flour, salt, and water and mix thoroughly using a wooden spoon or your hands. Once a dough forms, keep kneading it for a few minutes, adding a sprinkle of flour as needed if the dough becomes too sticky.

Step 2:

Once the dough has a soft, mostly dry texture, allow it to rest in the bowl for 20-30 minutes.

Salt dough ornament batter all mixed together in a bowl.

Step 3:

When ready, sprinkle a little flour on the counter top or cutting board and roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness.

Step 4:

Press cookie cutters into the dough surface, spacing them in a way that allows you to use up as much space as possible. Carefully peel away excess dough and transfer the cut shapes to a parchment lined baking sheet. Continue cutting out ornaments (occasionally reforming dough and rolling it back out when you only have scraps left) and placing them on the baking sheet until all of the dough has been used up.

Salt dough rolled flat with cookie cutter placed on top.

Step 5:

Use a straw or large wooden skewer to make a clearly defined hole near the top of the cut shapes.

This is also the time to use any stamps or embossing letters if you have them.

Step 6:

Place on a middle rack of the oven and bake for 30 minutes.

Using a spatula, carefully flip the ornaments over and bake for another 30 minutes or until the shapes feel firm. Depending on your oven, it may take more or less than 30 minutes. Keep checking every 5 minutes or so. Don’t let the ornaments become brown.

Holiday shaped salt cough ornaments on baking sheet after baking.

Step 7:

Take the baking sheet out of the oven and allow the ornaments to cool completely before removing from the tray.

Step 8:

Decorate any way you like (adding paint, glitter, accessories, etc.) and thread a piece of ribbon or string through the top hole of the ornament. Enjoy!

Kid threading kitchen twine through DIY salt dough ornaments.

Salt Dough Ornament Q&A

My ornaments look puffy! What do I do?

Good question! At higher temperatures, the dough seems to expand a little more easily. To prevent this from happening, use the lowest setting on your oven when baking your ornaments. Also, place them as far away from the heating element as possible. Usually, this means towards the bottom of the oven.

After baking your cut shapes for 30 minutes (at your oven’s lowest temperature), flip them gently and make sure to check them every 5 minutes or so. Some ovens cook more quickly than others.

How do I make no bake salt dough ornaments?

As an alternative to baking your salt dough ornaments in the oven (or if you do not have an oven), you can allow your ornaments to air dry on parchment paper or wax paper in a place that has low humidity.

This may take from a few days to a week, but they will eventually dry and harden. Make sure to flip the ornaments once per day. If you have the extra time and space, this is a nice way to save on electricity as well.

Salt dough ornament shaped like a Christmas tree, hanging on a tree branch.

More Arts & Crafts Ideas and Vegan Recipes for Kids

Being creative can be hard work, so here is additional inspiration for both vegan art supplies and vegan kids’ snacks. Once you’re done filling their minds with amazing art, fill up their bellies with healthy, delicious vegan snacks. These Peanut Butter & Jelly Thumbprint Cookies are an art project and fun food in one recipe—give them a try!

Salt dough ornaments shaped like Christmas trees, candy canes, gingerbread men, and stars.
Print

Salt Dough Ornaments

Celebrate extra special occasions with these nostalgic, salt dough ornaments! Simple ingredients, easy to make and fun to decorate. These make wonderful keepsakes for future holidays and is a lovely tradition to start with your family. 
Course Craft
Cuisine American
Keyword Christmas, Easter, holidays
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings 15 3″ ornaments
Author Gina House

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 cups All purpose flour (plus an extra 1/2 cup for rolling out dough)
  • 1 cup Table Salt (not Kosher salt or other chunkier salts)
  • 1 cup Warm Water (should be a little warmer than room temperature)
  • Twine or other string for hanging the ornaments

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F or the lowest temperature your oven will go to.
  • In a medium to large mixing bowl, add 1 cup of flour, salt, and water. Mix thoroughly using a wooden spoon or your hands. Keep kneading the dough in the bowl for a few minutes. Add a sprinkle of extra flour if the dough is too sticky.
  • Once the dough has a soft, mostly dry texture, let the dough sit in the bowl for 20-30 minutes.
  • Sprinkle a little flour on the counter top or cutting board and roll out the dough to ¼” thickness.
  • Press cookie cutters into the dough surface, making sure to arrange them in a way so that you can use up as much space as possible. Peel away excess dough and carefully add the cut shapes to a parchment lined baking sheet. Continue cutting out ornaments (occasionally reforming dough and rolling it back out when you only have scraps left) and placing them on the baking sheet until all of the dough has been used up.
  • Use a straw to make a clearly defined hole near the top of the cut shapes.
  • Place on a middle rack of the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
  • Using the spatula, carefully flip the ornaments over and bake for another 30 minutes or until the shapes feel firm. Depending on your oven, it may take more or less than 30 minutes. Keep checking every 5 minutes or so. Don't let the ornaments become brown.
  • Take the baking sheet out of the oven and allow the ornaments to rest on the baking sheet until completely cool.
  • Decorate any way you like (adding paint, glitter, accessories, etc.) and thread a piece of ribbon or string through the top hole of the ornament. Enjoy!

Notes

Use lengths of raffia, cotton kitchen string, twine, yarn, metal ornament hooks, or anything you like for hanging the ornament securely.

This salt dough ornament recipe was developed and written by Gina House and edited by Rachel Lessenden. Photos by Amanda McGillicuddy for World of Vegan, all rights reserved.

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No Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread https://www.worldofvegan.com/cranberry-walnut-bread/ https://www.worldofvegan.com/cranberry-walnut-bread/#comments Sun, 03 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.worldofvegan.com/?p=157226 There’s something so special about homemade bread baking in the oven—lovely fragrance, extra cozy warmth in the kitchen, and the feeling of incredible accomplishment. This delicious cranberry walnut bread is packed with the perfect combination of tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts, along with a hint of orange. This delightful treat is sure to become a […]

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There’s something so special about homemade bread baking in the oven—lovely fragrance, extra cozy warmth in the kitchen, and the feeling of incredible accomplishment. This delicious cranberry walnut bread is packed with the perfect combination of tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts, along with a hint of orange.

This delightful treat is sure to become a monthly (or weekly!) family favorite. Once you bake your first loaf, you’ll realize that this recipe is a must-have for any baking repertoire. It’s an easy-to-follow recipe that brings a burst of flavor that will brighten up anyone’s day.

If your mouth is watering for a bite of sweet and tangy goodness, let’s get baking!

An interior shot of baked cranberry walnut bread.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Cranberry Walnut Bread

Baking your own bread is not only satisfying, but it’s also one of those activities that brings peace and comfort to your day. If family or friends take part in either the making or the eating of this bread, that’s even more reason to give it a try!

  • Easy and Enjoyable to Make: Mix the simple dry and wet ingredients together and you’re good to go. No need to knead! (he he)
  • Tangy, Slightly Sweet, and Heavenly: The combination of tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts is delightful. The perfectly balanced bread is not too sweet or too sour.
  • Excellent for Meal Prep: Make a day or two before and you’ll have a tasty ready-made breakfast or snack whenever hunger strikes.
  • Great for Breakfast, Snacks, or On-the-Go: All you need to do is slice and enjoy! This bread is incredible as is—warm, cool, or room temperature. Add a topping of choice, if desired. Our favorites include vegan butter, vegan cream cheese, thick jams, or even nut butter.
  • Free of Dairy, Eggs, and Preservatives: Because you’re baking this bread yourself, there’s no added chemicals or any animal products to be wary of. You can also swap out or substitute any ingredient that you are sensitive to for even more versatility.
A sliced loaf of walnut cranberry bread.

Key Ingredients

Explore the heart of this cranberry walnut bread recipe with a closer look at its key ingredients, where the vibrant notes of cranberries and the rich texture of walnuts come together to elevate this simple, delightful snack.

  • Cranberries: These beautiful little berries are high in antioxidants and a good source of vitamins C, A, and K. Fresh cranberries are used in this recipe, but if fresh are not in season, feel free to use frozen berries thawed in the fridge. Dried cranberries can also work, but it would be best to reduce the amount of sugar to ½ (or ¾) of a cup instead.
  • Walnuts: Full of omega 3s fats and fiber for a healthy heart and brain. Also high in iron, zinc, copper, selenium, vitamin C, and niacin. They’re an excellent choice of nut to add to your daily meals. Feel free to add an equal amount of nuts, if walnuts aren’t your favorite. A mix of unsalted nuts would also work well and taste lovely in this bread.
  • Orange: The orange zest and juice add a small amount of bright sweetness to this fruity bread. It not only complements the tart cranberry flavor but you’ll get a tiny boost of vitamin C, as well. For an unusual twist, try using tangerine or clementine instead.
  • Flaxseeds: This nutty bread is just full of healthy fats. Along with the walnuts, the flaxseed adds even more omega 3s to every bite. A ground flax “egg” acts as a binder to keep the bread dough together. You can swap out the flaxseeds (if needed) for mashed ripe banana, a powdered egg alternative, applesauce, or soaked chia seeds. Check out this vegan egg replacement guide for even more suggestions.
Key ingredients for cranberry walnut bread with labels.

How To Make No Knead Cranberry Nut Bread

These simple steps are all you need to know to get started on this luscious loaf. Once you get the orange and flax egg prepped, everything else is a cinch. Just add to the bowl, mix, and bake. No need to knead!

Step 1: Zest and juice the orange. Set aside the 3-4 tablespoons of juice and zest for later.

Orange zest and bread batter.

Step 2: Make the flax egg using 3 tablespoons of warm water and 1 tablespoon of ground flaxmeal. Leave to thicken.

Step 3: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F and grease the loaf pan. You can also line it with parchment paper.

Step 4: Mix up the dry ingredients well. The flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and sugar should be incorporated fully.

Dry bread ingredients in a glass bowl.

Step 5: Into the same bowl, add in the wet ingredients of orange zest, orange juice, flax egg, melted vegan butter, vanilla, and boiling water. Stir well until the batter is smooth.

Step 6: Add in the nuts and cranberries. Mix just enough to combine.

Step 7: Sprinkle with optional chopped walnuts and dried cranberries. Place in oven and bake for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan and sit for at least an hour before removing the loaf and cutting the bread. (Note: Bread is even better the next day. It’s totally worth the wait.)

Helpful Tips and Suggestions for Serving

The best part of making a fresh loaf of bread is deciding how to enjoy it! This cranberry walnut bread is very versatile, especially with ingredients. Here are our favorite tips on ways to swap ingredients and how to serve this bread most successfully.

  • Best Made Ahead: This wonderful walnut cranberry bread is even better the next day. Although it tastes delicious right out of the oven, the flavor and texture are best after resting for a day.
  • Toasted vs. Chilled: Sliced and toasted (with extra vegan butter) or eaten right from the fridge slathered with vegan cream cheese are both super tasty options. Toasted tastes best with a hot cup of tea, while chilled is perfect for taking it on-the-go or with a cool beverage.
  • Four Fruity Flavors: Instead of fresh cranberries, try swapping for big juicy blueberries, sliced strawberries, peeled peach halves, or in-season chopped apples.
  • Go Nuts!: If walnuts aren’t your favorite, how about adding in slivered almonds, pistachios, macadamia nuts, or pecans? You could also add a sprinkling of chocolate chips to the top as well before baking.
  • Feel Free to Use Gluten-Free: We’ve tested this recipe with Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free 1-to-1 baking flour with excellent results.
  • Lower-Fat Version: For a low-to-no fat version, replace the 2 tablespoons of vegan butter with an equal amount of applesauce.
  • Reduced Sugar Substitute: If you’d rather not use granulated sugar, try substituting for an equal amount of ripe, speckled, mashed bananas. Other options include date sugar, coconut sugar, or monk fruit.
Walnut cranberry bread sliced on a plate.

Cranberry Walnut Bread Simple Storage

Store this no knead cranberry walnut bread in the fridge if you think you may not be able to eat the entire loaf in one week. If the bread will be gobbled up in less than a week, you can simply keep it covered on the counter.

A freshly baked loaf of bread will keep fresh for up to a week at room temperature, up to two weeks in the refrigerator, or for 2-3 months in the freezer. Make sure to wrap the bread in freezer paper (or parchment paper) and add it to a sealed, freezer-safe container before freezing. Thaw in the fridge a day or two before serving the bread or slice carefully and warm in the toaster.

More Easy Bread Recipes to Try

A loaf of walnut cranberry bread, sliced.
Print

Cranberry Walnut Bread (Easy + No Knead)

This cranberry walnut bread is a sweet and satisfying crowd favorite! Bursting with the vibrant flavors of dried fruit and crunchy nuts, this festive loaf will steal the spotlight on your holiday table. With simple pantry staples and a little bit of cheerful cranberry flavor, our cranberry walnut bread is the perfect bake-ahead bread for any celebratory occasion.
Course Baked Good, Breakfast or Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword cranberry walnut bread
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 10 slices
Calories 294kcal
Author Gina House | World of Vegan

Equipment

  • Loaf Pan 5" x 9"
  • Sifter
  • Orange Juicer or a simple fork will do

Ingredients

  • 1 medium orange
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxmeal
  • 3 tablespoons warm water
  • oil or spray oil for greasing the pan
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour also works well
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vegan butter melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup boiling water
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts plus a handful for topping (lightly toast in a dry, preheated pan, if desired).
  • 1 cup whole fresh cranberries or thawed and drained frozen cranberries
  • 3 tablespoons dried sweetened cranberries for topping (optional)

Instructions

  • Using a zester, zest the orange peel and set the zest aside. Cut the orange in half, squeeze the juice into a small bowl to make 4-5 tablespoons orange juice, and set aside.
  • In a small ramekin, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxmeal with 3 tablespoons of very warm water. Let sit for at least 10 minutes until it thickens. This will be your flax egg.
  • Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.
  • Spray or rub the sides of the loaf pan with oil and line with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and sugar. Then stir to fully combine the dry ingredients.
  • To the same bowl, add the orange juice, orange zest, melted butter, flax egg (flaxmeal and water mixture), vanilla extract, and boiling water. Mix well.
  • Add the nuts and cranberries, reserving a small amount of nuts for topping, and mix just enough to combine.
  • Spoon batter into the prepared loaf pan, sprinkle the top with the walnuts and dried cranberries (this is optional), and bake for one hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan and sit for at least an hour before removing the loaf cutting the bread.

Notes

  • Lower-Fat Version: Feel free to substitute 2 tablespoons of applesauce for the plant-based butter for a lower-fat version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Tested with Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour with excellent results.
  • Add Some Pizzazz: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts, dried cranberries, white or dark chocolate chips, or  Turbinado sugar over the top before placing it into the oven to bake.

Nutrition

Calories: 294kcal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.4g | Sodium: 255mg | Potassium: 120mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 25g | Vitamin A: 38IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 59mg | Iron: 2mg

Thanks to our amazing recipe testers Jessica Sabbagh, Nicole Benson, and Taylor Allred for testing this recipe! Cranberry Walnut Bread photos by Amanda McGillicuddy for World of Vegan, all rights reserved.

The post No Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread appeared first on World of Vegan.

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