Introduction 🍽️
Veganism has gained tremendous popularity in recent years, with more people opting for plant-based diets for health, environmental, and ethical reasons. As the demand for vegan options continues to rise, brunch has become a social gathering staple where people are eager to explore vibrant and delicious plant-based meals. When planning the perfect vegan brunch, many hosts focus on the savory dishes—scrambles, toasts, and salads—but what about dessert? Serving an indulgent vegan dessert is the perfect way to end the meal on a high note. But the question remains: What should I serve for dessert at a vegan brunch? There are countless options to choose from, whether you’re catering to vegans or simply looking to offer a delicious dessert that everyone can enjoy. From fruity tarts to decadent chocolate treats, vegan desserts can be just as satisfying (if not more so) than their non-vegan counterparts.
In this article, we’ll guide you through 15 mouth-watering vegan dessert ideas for your next brunch. These treats are not only delicious but also easy to make, so you can focus on enjoying the gathering rather than stressing over complicated recipes. Whether you’re hosting a casual brunch with friends or a more formal gathering, these vegan desserts will impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe.
Why Vegan Desserts Are Perfect for Brunch 🍓
The Appeal of Vegan Desserts in a Brunch Setting 🥄
Vegan desserts are gaining popularity, and for good reason. As more people turn to plant-based diets, the demand for desserts that align with vegan principles—free from dairy, eggs, and animal products—has skyrocketed. When hosting a brunch, vegan desserts offer several benefits that make them a great choice:
- Inclusive for All Diets 🌱: Many people have dietary restrictions that go beyond veganism, such as lactose intolerance, gluten sensitivity, or allergies to eggs. Vegan desserts are naturally dairy-free and egg-free, making them a safe and thoughtful option for most guests.
- Healthier Alternatives đź’š: While desserts are traditionally seen as indulgent, many vegan desserts can be made with healthier ingredients, such as fruit, nuts, and whole grains. These substitutions reduce the use of refined sugar, dairy, and other processed ingredients, giving your brunch a more nutritious finish without sacrificing flavor.
- Creative and Delicious 🥧: Vegan ingredients—like coconut milk, avocados, almond flour, and flax eggs—open up endless possibilities for unique flavors and textures in your desserts. Whether it’s a rich chocolate mousse or a fruit-filled tart, vegan desserts offer a burst of creativity that can impress any guest.
1. Pancakes with Maple Syrup and Fruit 🥞
A classic brunch staple, pancakes can easily be made vegan without sacrificing any of their fluffy goodness. The beauty of vegan pancakes is that they’re simple to prepare and can be served with a variety of toppings, making them versatile for any brunch gathering. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free blend)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the almond milk, oil, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with oil.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet and cook until bubbles appear on the surface of the pancake. Flip and cook until golden brown on both sides.
- Serve with maple syrup, fresh berries, or your favorite fruit topping.
These vegan pancakes are a light yet satisfying dessert option. To elevate them, try adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter. This dish can also be prepared in advance and kept warm, making it perfect for a stress-free brunch.
2. Lemon Bars 🍋
For those who love citrus, vegan lemon bars are an excellent choice for a brunch dessert. These tangy and sweet treats have a buttery crust (thanks to plant-based butter) and a zesty lemon filling that will delight your taste buds. What makes this dessert even more appealing is that it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients: For the crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup plant-based butter (cold and cubed)
For the lemon filling:
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- For the crust, combine the flour and powdered sugar in a food processor. Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture forms crumbs.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming an even layer.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- For the filling, whisk together the lemon juice, zest, sugar, cornstarch, and turmeric in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Pour the lemon filling over the cooled crust and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Vegan lemon bars are a crowd-pleaser and a perfect balance of tart and sweet. They pair well with a cup of tea or even a light champagne cocktail, making them a great choice for a brunch event.
3. Chocolate Mousse 🍫
For chocolate lovers, a rich and creamy vegan chocolate mousse is the ultimate dessert. Made with silken tofu or avocados, this mousse is incredibly smooth and indulgent without any dairy. The recipe below will guide you to a luxurious dessert that is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
- 1 block silken tofu, drained and patted dry
- 1/2 cup dairy-free dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Melt the dark chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the silken tofu, melted chocolate, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt.
- Blend until completely smooth, scraping down the sides of the blender as necessary.
- Spoon the mousse into individual serving glasses and refrigerate for at least an hour to firm up.
- Serve with whipped coconut cream, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch.
This decadent chocolate mousse is rich, velvety, and sure to impress even the most discerning chocolate lover. It’s also a fantastic dessert for make-ahead brunches, as it keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days.
4. Cinnamon Rolls 🍩
Cinnamon rolls are a timeless brunch favorite, and making them vegan is surprisingly easy. Soft, sweet, and loaded with warm cinnamon filling, these rolls are perfect for a brunch dessert. The combination of the pillowy dough and the sweet glaze will have your guests coming back for more.
Ingredients: For the dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar (or any sweetener of choice)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup melted plant-based butter
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons almond milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm almond milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until the dough begins to form.
- Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, adding flour as needed until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle.
- Spread the melted butter evenly over the dough and sprinkle with cinnamon and coconut sugar.
- Roll the dough tightly and cut it into 12 even pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish and allow them to rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, almond milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the warm cinnamon rolls and serve.
These vegan cinnamon rolls are the perfect combination of soft, gooey, and sweet. They make a fantastic dessert or even a sweet breakfast treat for a special brunch.
5. Vegan Cheesecake (No-Bake Option) 🍰
Cheesecake is a classic dessert that doesn’t have to be left out of a vegan brunch. A no-bake vegan cheesecake made with cashews or coconut cream offers a rich and creamy texture that mimics traditional cheesecake perfectly. You can top it with fresh fruit, fruit compote, or chocolate sauce for a delightful finish.
Ingredients: For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or gluten-free crumbs)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
For the filling:
- 2 cups raw cashews (soaked for at least 4 hours)
- 1/2 cup coconut cream (or coconut milk)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For the topping:
- Fresh berries, fruit compote, or chocolate sauce (optional)
Instructions:
- In a food processor, pulse the graham cracker crumbs, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even crust. Place in the freezer while you prepare the filling.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked and drained cashews, coconut cream, lemon juice, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
- Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth it out evenly.
- Place the cheesecake in the freezer for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
- Once set, remove from the pan and top with fresh berries, fruit compote, or drizzle with chocolate sauce for added flavor.
- Slice and serve!
This vegan cheesecake is wonderfully creamy, tangy, and sweet. Its no-bake nature makes it an easy, make-ahead dessert that can be stored in the freezer until you’re ready to serve.
6. Vegan Fruit Tart 🍓
A fruit tart is a show-stopping dessert that not only tastes incredible but also looks beautiful. With a flaky, buttery crust and a creamy plant-based filling topped with fresh, seasonal fruits, this vegan fruit tart is the perfect way to end any brunch.
Ingredients: For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk (chilled overnight)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon agar-agar powder (optional, for extra firmness)
For the topping:
- Mixed fresh fruits such as berries, kiwi, mango, and pineapple
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a tart pan with a removable bottom.
- For the crust, combine the almond flour, coconut flour, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and salt in a bowl. Stir until the mixture forms a dough.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the tart pan.
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Let it cool completely.
- For the filling, scoop the solid coconut cream from the chilled coconut milk can and place it in a mixing bowl. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract and whisk until smooth.
- If using agar-agar, dissolve it in hot water according to package instructions, then add it to the coconut cream mixture for a firmer filling.
- Pour the coconut cream mixture into the cooled crust and smooth it out.
- Refrigerate the tart for at least 3 hours to set.
- Before serving, arrange the fresh fruits on top in a colorful design.
- Slice and enjoy!
This vegan fruit tart is a crowd-pleaser, offering a refreshing combination of rich, creamy filling and vibrant, juicy fruits. It’s a visually stunning and light dessert that’s perfect for a brunch.
7. Vegan Chia Seed Pudding 🍮
For a light yet satisfying dessert, vegan chia seed pudding is an excellent option. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires no cooking, and can be made in advance, making it a perfect choice for brunch. You can experiment with different flavors by adding fruits, nuts, and spices to make it your own.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh fruit or granola for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2-3 hours, or overnight, to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken.
- Once set, give the pudding a good stir to break up any clumps.
- Spoon the pudding into individual serving glasses or bowls.
- Top with fresh fruit, granola, or a drizzle of almond butter for added texture and flavor.
- Serve and enjoy!
This vegan chia seed pudding is a versatile dessert that can be personalized with different toppings, such as berries, coconut flakes, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s healthy, refreshing, and perfect for those who prefer a lighter dessert after a hearty brunch.
8. Vegan Apple Crisp 🍏
Apple crisp is a classic fall dessert, but it’s delicious year-round! The warm, cinnamon-scented apples combined with the crispy, oat-based topping make for a delightful end to your vegan brunch. It’s perfect for guests who enjoy fruity, comforting desserts.
Ingredients: For the filling:
- 4 cups peeled, sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup coconut oil (melted)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with coconut oil or line with parchment paper.
- For the filling, combine the sliced apples, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a large bowl. Toss to coat.
- Spread the apple mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- For the topping, combine the oats, almond flour, coconut sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl. Stir in the melted coconut oil until the mixture is crumbly.
- Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving with a dollop of vegan whipped cream or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream.
Apple crisp is the perfect combination of warm fruit and crunchy oats, making it a comforting and satisfying dessert. It’s simple to prepare and can be enjoyed by everyone at your brunch!
9. Vegan Donuts 🍩
Everyone loves donuts, and making them vegan is easier than you might think! These light and fluffy vegan donuts are sure to be a hit at your brunch. You can top them with glazes, sprinkles, or powdered sugar for a fun, customizable dessert.
Ingredients: For the donuts:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
For the glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons almond milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, combine the almond milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each mold about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean.
- Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Dip each donut into the glaze and set aside to allow it to set.
- Serve and enjoy!
These vegan donuts are incredibly soft and fluffy, and you can easily customize them with different glazes or toppings. Serve them warm for an extra indulgent treat.
10. Vegan Banana Bread 🍌
Banana bread is another classic dessert that translates beautifully into vegan form. It’s moist, fragrant, and full of natural sweetness from the ripe bananas. You can enjoy it as a dessert or even a light breakfast treat at your vegan brunch.
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted) or vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (mixed with 3 tablespoons water)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flaxseed with water and let it sit for 5 minutes to create a flax egg.
- Add the flax egg, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas and stir to combine.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips, if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the banana bread to cool before slicing and serving.
This vegan banana bread is moist, flavorful, and perfect for brunch. It’s a great way to use up overripe bananas and provide a healthy dessert option. The addition of nuts or chocolate chips can add a little extra texture and flavor to the bread.
11. Vegan Panna Cotta 🍮
Panna cotta is a silky smooth Italian dessert that can easily be made vegan with a few simple substitutions. Made with coconut milk or almond milk, this dessert is both elegant and delicious. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or fruit compote and is sure to impress your brunch guests.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups coconut milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon agar-agar powder
- Fresh berries or fruit compote for topping
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine the coconut milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat until warm, but not boiling.
- Sprinkle the agar-agar powder over the liquid and stir to dissolve.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour the mixture into individual serving glasses or molds.
- Allow the panna cotta to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Once set, top with fresh berries or fruit compote and serve.
This vegan panna cotta is rich, creamy, and a perfect way to finish your brunch on a sweet and light note. It’s a sophisticated dessert that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
12. Vegan Coconut Macaroons 🥥
Coconut macaroons are chewy, sweet, and full of tropical flavor. These little bite-sized treats are naturally gluten-free and vegan, making them an excellent choice for your brunch dessert spread.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups shredded coconut (unsweetened)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut, maple syrup, almond flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small mounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the macaroons are golden brown on the edges.
- Let them cool on the baking sheet before serving.
These vegan coconut macaroons are simple, sweet, and absolutely delicious. They’re a great option for those who prefer a lighter, coconut-flavored dessert.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right dessert for a vegan brunch is an exciting opportunity to showcase the versatility and deliciousness of plant-based treats. From rich and creamy chocolate mousses to refreshing fruit tarts, the options are endless and satisfying for everyone, whether they follow a vegan lifestyle or not. The desserts we’ve explored offer something for every taste — from fruity and light to decadent and indulgent. They are not only crowd-pleasers but also simple enough to make in advance, leaving you with more time to enjoy your brunch.
Remember, when planning your vegan brunch dessert spread, it’s important to keep variety in mind. Offering a mix of textures and flavors, such as creamy puddings, crumbly scones, and rich brownies, will appeal to different preferences. Furthermore, the beauty of vegan desserts is that they can be customized to cater to a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions, making them inclusive for all your guests.
Whether you’re hosting a small gathering, a large brunch, or simply looking to treat yourself, these vegan dessert ideas will not disappoint. With creativity and a few simple swaps, you can create an unforgettable spread that’s both delicious and compassionate. Happy baking and enjoy every bite of your delicious vegan brunch desserts!