Gluten-Free Vegan Desserts - The Foodie Diary

Desserts are one of life’s greatest pleasures, but for those following a gluten-free and vegan diet, finding delicious and satisfying sweet treats can sometimes be a challenge. Fortunately, with the right ingredients and a little creativity, you can make mouthwatering gluten-free vegan desserts that everyone will love. Whether you’re avoiding gluten due to celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or personal preference, and you’re committed to a plant-based diet, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about making the best gluten-free vegan desserts at home.

Why Choose Gluten-Free and Vegan Desserts?

Opting for gluten-free vegan desserts isn’t just about dietary restrictions—it’s also a great way to incorporate healthier, whole-food ingredients into your diet while still enjoying your favorite sweets. Some benefits include:

Healthier Ingredients: Many gluten-free flours are rich in nutrients and fiber, such as almond flour, coconut flour, and oat flour.

Better Digestion: Removing gluten can be beneficial for those with digestive sensitivities, while a plant-based diet often includes fiber-rich ingredients that aid digestion.
Allergy-Friendly: These desserts are free from common allergens like dairy, eggs, and gluten, making them a great choice for those with food allergies or sensitivities.
Sustainability: Vegan desserts have a lower environmental impact, as they do not rely on animal products.

Now, let’s explore some of the best gluten-free vegan dessert recipes you can make at home!

1. Decadent Chocolate Avocado Mousse

This rich and creamy chocolate mousse is made with avocados, which provide a silky texture while adding healthy fats and nutrients.

Ingredients:

2 ripe avocados

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 cup dairy-free milk (almond, oat, or coconut)

Instructions:

In a food processor, blend the avocados until smooth.

Add cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend again.
Slowly add dairy-free milk until the mousse reaches the desired consistency.
Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Tip: Top with fresh berries, coconut whipped cream, or chopped nuts for extra flavor.

2. Flourless Almond Butter Brownies

These fudgy brownies are packed with protein and natural sweetness, making them a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients:

1 cup almond butter
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup dairy-free chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
In a bowl, mix almond butter, maple syrup, cocoa powder, baking soda, and vanilla extract.
Stir in chocolate chips if using.

Pour batter into the pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool before cutting into squares.

Tip: Serve with a drizzle of peanut butter or coconut ice cream.

3. No-Bake Coconut Date Balls

These naturally sweetened energy bites are packed with fiber and healthy fats, perfect for a quick snack or dessert.

Ingredients:

1 cup pitted Medjool dates

1 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
1/2 cup almonds or cashews
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)

Instructions:

In a food processor, blend dates, coconut, and nuts until the mixture becomes sticky.

Add vanilla extract, sea salt, and chia seeds. Blend again.
Roll the mixture into small balls.
Coat in extra shredded coconut if desired.

Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Tip: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey version!

4. Vegan and Gluten-Free Apple Crisp

This warm and cozy apple crisp is the perfect fall dessert, topped with a crunchy oat-based crumble.

Ingredients:

For the filling:

4 apples, peeled and sliced
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the crumble topping:

1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
1/2 cup almond flour

1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
In a bowl, mix apple slices with maple syrup, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Place in the baking dish.
In another bowl, combine oats, almond flour, coconut oil, maple syrup, and cinnamon to create a crumble topping.

Sprinkle the crumble over the apples.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Tip: Serve with dairy-free vanilla ice cream or coconut yogurt.

5. Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are soft, chewy, and filled with peanut butter goodness!

Ingredients:

1 cup almond flour

1/2 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 cup dairy-free chocolate chips

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a bowl, mix almond flour, peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and baking soda.
Stir in chocolate chips.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the baking sheet and flatten slightly.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden brown.
Cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking!

6. Creamy Vegan Cheesecake (No-Bake)

This dairy-free cheesecake is rich, creamy, and requires no baking!

Ingredients:

For the crust:

1 cup almonds or pecans
1 cup Medjool dates

1/4 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

1 1/2 cups cashews (soaked overnight)
1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)

1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Blend crust ingredients in a food processor. Press into a springform pan.
Blend filling ingredients until smooth. Pour over crust.
Freeze for 2-3 hours until firm.

Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.

Tip: Top with fresh fruit or a berry compote for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Eating gluten-free and vegan doesn’t mean sacrificing delicious desserts. With the right ingredients, you can create treats that are not only indulgent but also nutritious and satisfying. From creamy chocolate mousse to chewy cookies, these recipes prove that plant-based and gluten-free desserts can be just as delicious—if not more—than their traditional counterparts.

So next time you’re craving something sweet, try one of these amazing recipes and enjoy a guilt-free indulgence! 🍪🌱

More Delicious Gluten-Free Vegan Dessert Ideas

If you loved the recipes above, there are still plenty of amazing gluten-free vegan desserts you can try! From refreshing fruit-based treats to rich, chocolatey indulgences, the possibilities are endless. Here are some more delightful recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth.

7. Chia Seed Pudding – A Healthy, Creamy Delight

Chia seed pudding is a nutritious and delicious dessert that’s incredibly easy to make. It’s packed with fiber, protein, and omega-3s, making it a guilt-free treat.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup chia seeds
1 cup dairy-free milk (coconut, almond, or cashew)
2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Fresh fruit or nuts for topping

Instructions:

In a bowl or jar, mix chia seeds, dairy-free milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
Stir well and let sit for 5 minutes. Stir again to prevent clumping.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until the mixture thickens.

Before serving, stir again and top with fresh fruit, nuts, or coconut flakes.

Tip: Blend the pudding for a smooth, mousse-like texture!

8. Raspberry Lemon Bars

These tangy and sweet raspberry lemon bars are a perfect gluten-free and vegan twist on a classic dessert.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

1 cup almond flour
2 tablespoons coconut flour
2 tablespoons maple syrup

3 tablespoons coconut oil (melted)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the filling:

1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries

1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
3 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch pan.
Mix all crust ingredients and press into the pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
In a saucepan, combine raspberries, lemon juice, maple syrup, and cornstarch. Cook until thickened.

Pour the filling over the baked crust.
Bake for another 15 minutes. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least an hour before slicing.

Tip: Dust with powdered sugar or top with coconut whipped cream for extra flavor!

9. Mango Coconut Sorbet

This refreshing sorbet is dairy-free, naturally sweet, and incredibly easy to make with just three ingredients!

Ingredients:

2 cups frozen mango chunks
1/2 cup coconut milk

1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
Transfer to a container and freeze for at least 2 hours.

Scoop and serve with fresh fruit or shredded coconut.

Tip: Add a squeeze of lime juice for a tropical twist!

10. Double Chocolate Banana Bread

Moist, chocolatey, and naturally sweetened, this gluten-free vegan banana bread is perfect for dessert or a sweet breakfast.

Ingredients:

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups oat flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1/3 cup dairy-free chocolate chips

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
In a bowl, mix mashed bananas, maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla extract.

Add oat flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well.
Fold in chocolate chips.
Pour batter into the loaf pan and bake for 40-45 minutes.

Let cool before slicing.

Tip: Serve warm with almond butter or a drizzle of dark chocolate!

11. Vegan Pumpkin Pie

A gluten-free vegan version of this classic holiday dessert, perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

1 1/2 cups almond flour
2 tablespoons coconut oil (melted)
2 tablespoons maple syrup

For the filling:

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
1/2 cup coconut milk
1/3 cup maple syrup

2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ginger

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a pie dish.
Mix all crust ingredients and press into the dish. Bake for 10 minutes.
In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, coconut milk, maple syrup, cornstarch, and spices.
Pour filling into the crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 45-50 minutes. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Tip: Serve with coconut whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon!

12. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

A simple yet elegant dessert that’s naturally gluten-free and vegan!

Ingredients:

1 cup dairy-free dark chocolate, melted
1 tablespoon coconut oil
10-12 fresh strawberries

Instructions:

Melt dark chocolate with coconut oil over low heat.
Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, then place on a parchment-lined tray.
Let set in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.

Tip: Drizzle with white chocolate or sprinkle with crushed nuts for extra flavor!

Final Words: Enjoying Gluten-Free Vegan Desserts

As you can see, there’s no shortage of delicious, creative, and satisfying gluten-free vegan desserts. Whether you’re craving something rich and chocolatey, fruity and refreshing, or warm and comforting, there’s a dessert here for every occasion.

Tips for the Best Gluten-Free Vegan Desserts:

Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh fruit, natural sweeteners, and whole-food flours enhance flavor and nutrition.
Experiment with different flours: Almond flour, coconut flour, oat flour, and chickpea flour all offer unique textures and flavors.
Sweeten naturally: Maple syrup, agave, dates, and coconut sugar are great alternatives to refined sugar.
Store properly: Many of these desserts can be kept in the fridge or freezer for longer enjoyment.
Have fun! Baking and making desserts should be an enjoyable experience—feel free to get creative and try new combinations!

By choosing gluten-free vegan desserts, you’re not only making a healthier choice but also supporting a more sustainable, allergy-friendly, and delicious way of eating. Enjoy these sweet treats and share them with friends and family—you never know who might discover a new favorite! 🍰🍓🌱