If you are someone who enjoys baking or has a sweet tooth, going vegan need not stop that. There are plenty of delicious vegan baked goods recipes out there that are just as tasty as their non-vegan counterparts. From muffins and bread to cakes and cookies, vegan baking is an excellent way to satisfy your cravings while adhering to a plant-based diet. Whether you are vegan or just looking for healthier, cruelty-free alternatives to traditional baked goods, this article will provide you with a range of mouth-watering vegan baked goods recipes to try out.
What Are Vegan Baked Goods
Veganism has emerged as an increasingly popular diet and lifestyle choice over the years. It involves ditching all animal-derived products from our plates, including meat, poultry, dairy, and eggs. The concept of making vegan baked goods is no different- it requires avoiding any animal-based ingredients and using plant-based alternatives instead.
Vegan baked goods are typically free from animal products such as butter, milk, cream, cheese, and eggs. A vegan bakery makes cruelty-free and ethically-conscious treats that are more sustainable and just as delicious as traditional, animal-derived baked goods. From breakfast pastries to decadent desserts, a variety of vegan baked goods options are available for the health-conscious and animal-friendly consumer.
Why Choose Vegan Baked Goods
Besides catering to vegan and plant-based audiences, choosing vegan baked goods over traditional ones provides several benefits to both our health and the environment. The following are some reasons why you should consider trying vegan baked goods:
- Animal Welfare: One of the significant reasons people choose vegan baked goods is to avoid causing harm to animals. Veganism refrains from exploiting animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose.
- Health: Vegan baked goods are typically lower in fat, calories, and cholesterol than traditional baked goods. Vegan ingredients such as nuts, seeds, fruits, whole grains, and vegetables provide essential nutrients, fiber, and vitamins necessary for good health.
- Allergies: People with food allergies or intolerances can enjoy vegan baked goods. Often, traditional baked goods contain eggs or dairy, which are common allergens in food. Vegan baking recipes are generally free from those allergens.
- Environmental Impact: Animal agriculture is responsible for a significant amount of greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. Choosing vegan baked goods over traditional ones is an environmentally-friendly choice that helps reduce carbon emissions and preserve natural resources.
Popular Vegan Baked Goods Recipes
Veganism is quickly gaining popularity, and it’s not just for health reasons. Many people are embracing veganism for ethical and environmental reasons, and the shift towards plant-based options is not just limited to savory dishes. Vegan baked goods are becoming increasingly popular, and here are some of the top recipes that everyone should try.
Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
If you’re someone who can’t resist a warm and gooey chocolate chip cookie, then this vegan recipe is perfect for you. These cookies are every bit as soft and delicious as their non-vegan counterparts, and they’re also easy to make.
- Ingredients:
- – 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- – 1 tsp baking soda
- – 1 tsp salt
- – 1 cup vegan margarine (room temperature)
- – 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- – 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- – 2 tsp vanilla extract
- – 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- – 2 cups vegan chocolate chips
- Instructions:
- 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set it aside.
- 3. Using an electric mixer, beat the vegan margarine, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Add applesauce, and beat until combined.
- 4. Mix in the flour mixture until just combined, then fold in the vegan chocolate chips.
- 5. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto baking sheets, and bake for about 10-12 minutes.
Vegan Banana Bread
Banana bread is a classic that everyone loves, and it’s easy to make it vegan-friendly.
- Ingredients:
- – 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- – 1/4 cup vegan margarine (melted)
- – 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- – 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- – 1 tsp baking soda
- – 1 tsp salt
- Instructions:
- 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan and set it aside.
- 2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- 3. In another bowl, mix the mashed bananas, melted vegan margarine, and granulated sugar.
- 4. Mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, then pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- 5. Bake for about 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Vegan Zucchini Muffins
These muffins are a great way to sneak some vegetables into your diet, without sacrificing taste. They’re perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
- Ingredients:
- – 2 cups all-purpose flour
- – 2 tsp baking powder
- – 1 tsp baking soda
- – 1/2 tsp salt
- – 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- – 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- – 1 cup non-dairy milk
- – 1 tsp vanilla extract
- – 1 1/2 cups grated zucchini
- – 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- Instructions:
- 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
- 2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- 3. In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, non-dairy milk, and vanilla extract.
- 4. Mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, then fold in the grated zucchini and chopped walnuts (if using).
- 5. Pour the batter into the prepared muffin tin, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Ingredient Substitutions for Vegan Baked Goods
When transitioning to a vegan lifestyle, baking can become a bit tricky. Without the use of eggs, butter, and milk, it can be challenging to achieve the same texture and taste commonly found in non-vegan baked goods. Fortunately, there are various substitutions that can be used to create delicious and healthy vegan baked goods.
1. Almond Milk for Cow’s Milk
Cow’s milk is commonly used in baking to add moisture and richness to baked goods. However, using almond milk as a substitution can provide the same benefits while also being lower in fat and calories. Plus, almond milk adds a nuttiness that can complement various baked goods, particularly those with chocolate or berry flavors.
2. Applesauce for Eggs
Eggs are a binding agent, so it can be a bit tricky to find the perfect substitution. Fortunately, applesauce is a healthy and effective alternative. One-fourth cup of applesauce can replace one egg. It is recommended to use unsweetened applesauce to avoid changing the flavor of the baked good. Applesauce works particularly well in muffins, bread, and cakes.
3. Coconut Oil for Butter
Butter adds richness and flavor to baked goods. However, it is not vegan-friendly. Coconut oil is a great substitution that can provide the same richness and flavor while also being healthier. It is recommended to use virgin coconut oil, as the refined version can have a coconut flavor that might not work for all baked goods. Coconut oil works exceptionally well in cookies and pie crusts.
4. Banana for Sugar
Sugar is a common ingredient in baked goods, but it is not the healthiest option out there. An alternative sweetener that can also add flavor and texture is banana. Mashed ripe bananas can replace sugar in a 1:1 ratio. Not only does it provide natural sweetness, but bananas also add moisture to baked goods. It works particularly well in muffins and bread.
5. Aquafaba for Egg Whites
Aquafaba is a recent vegan alternative to egg whites. It is the liquid obtained from cooking chickpeas and other legumes. This liquid can be used as a 1:1 replacement for egg whites in various recipes. When whipped, aquafaba can create stiff peaks, similar to whipped egg whites. It works particularly well in meringues and macarons.
Tips for Baking Vegan Goods
Baking vegan goods can be a bit tricky as traditional baking methods often rely on butter, eggs, and dairy. However, with a few tweaks and substitutions, you’ll be able to whip up delicious and satisfying vegan baked goods in no time. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Use High-Quality Ingredients
When it comes to baking vegan goods, quality ingredients are key. Opt for organic, non-GMO, and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. High-quality ingredients will not only taste better but will also make your baked goods more nutrient-dense. For example, instead of using refined white flour, opt for whole-grain flours like spelt, quinoa, or coconut flour.
Understand the Role of Substitutions
When baking vegan goods, you’ll need to find substitutions for eggs, dairy, and butter. For eggs, you can use flax eggs, applesauce, mashed ripe bananas, or silken tofu. For dairy, you can use non-dairy milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk. For butter, you can use vegan butter or coconut oil. Understanding how these substitutions work and their role in baking will make all the difference in your final product.
Measure Ingredients Precisely
Baking is a science, and precise measurement is key to ensure success. When measuring ingredients, use a kitchen scale for accuracy. Using measuring cups and spoons will introduce inconsistencies because different ingredients have different densities. For instance, a cup of flour may weigh differently from a cup of sugar, which can impact the texture and taste of your final product.
Mix the Batter Well
When making vegan baked goods, a common mistake is not mixing the batter well enough. Overmixing can lead to tough, dry, and dense baked goods while under-mixing will result in clumps of ingredients. Find the right balance and mix the batter until just combined and smooth. You can use an electric mixer, a hand mixer, or a spatula to mix the batter, depending on the recipe and your preference.
Baking Time and Temperature
The baking time and temperature for vegan baked goods will largely depend on the recipe and the type of oven you have. Be sure to follow the recipe precisely, but also keep an eye on your baked goods as they cook. Overbaking can dry out your goods, while underbaking can make them mushy. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center of the baked good. If it comes out clean, your baked good is ready.
- Using high-quality ingredients and knowing how to substitute
- Measuring ingredients precisely
- Mixing the batter well
- Baking time and temperature
How to Make Vegan Baked Goods Moist and Rich
Vegan baking can be quite challenging as animal-based products such as butter, milk, and eggs commonly used in baking cannot be used, therefore, it’s essential to make use of ingredients that will keep the final product moist and rich. Here are some tips for achieving moist and rich vegan baked goods:
1. Use fruits and vegetables
Adding mashed banana, applesauce, or pumpkin to your vegan baked goods can significantly improve their moisture content. These ingredients have natural sweetness and help retain moisture, making them perfect replacements for eggs. It’s also advisable to use these ingredients in conjunction with other binders like flaxseed meal or chia seeds to replace the eggs.
2. Use non-dairy milk and vinegar
Combining non-dairy milk with vinegar is an excellent substitute for buttermilk, a common ingredient used in many baked goods. The vinegar in the mixture curdles the non-dairy milk, making it thicker and creamier, just like buttermilk. This mixture can be used in equal amounts as buttermilk in your baking recipes, ensuring you get the same level of richness you’d get with animal-based milk products.
3. Make use of oils
Vegetable oils such as avocado, olive, or coconut oil are excellent fats to be used in vegan baking. They help to keep baked goods moist and add richness, making them ideal substitutes for butter. For baking recipes that require melted butter, melted coconut oil is a great replacement. You can also replace solid butter with solid coconut oil to achieve the same texture and richness.
4. Avoid over-mixing the batter
When making vegan baked goods from scratch, avoid over-mixing the batter. Over-mixing causes the gluten strands in the flour to develop, resulting in a dense and dry final product. It’s essential to mix the ingredients only until they’re well combined to ensure your baked goods stay soft and moist.
5. Don’t overbake
Vegan baked goods tend to cook faster than non-vegan baked goods, so it’s essential to keep a keen eye on them when baking. Overbaking can lead to dry and crumbly results. A good tip is to check your vegan baked goods 5-10 minutes before the recommended baking time is up, especially cakes and bread. This way, you can ensure they are perfectly cooked, tender, and moist.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about vegan baked goods:
Are vegan baked goods healthy?
Vegan baked goods can be a healthy alternative to their traditional counterparts, as they are typically lower in saturated fat and cholesterol. However, it is important to note that just because a baked good is vegan does not necessarily mean it is healthy. Some vegan baked goods may still be high in sugar and calories, so it is important to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Can I use regular sugar in vegan baked goods?
Yes, you can use regular sugar in vegan baked goods. However, some vegans prefer to use alternative sweeteners like maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar as they are less processed and are often considered to be more natural options. It’s important to keep in mind that when substituting sweeteners, it may affect the texture and taste of the final product.
Are there any vegan baking mix substitutes?
Yes, there are several vegan baking mix substitutes available. Some popular options include applesauce, mashed bananas, or even tofu as egg replacers. You can also use coconut cream as a substitute for heavy cream or coconut oil as a substitute for butter. Experimenting with different substitutes can lead to delicious and unique vegan baked goods.
Can I add nuts or fruits to vegan baked goods?
Absolutely! Nuts and fruits are a great addition to vegan baked goods and can add texture and flavor. Some popular options include chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans, as well as blueberries, raspberries, or sliced bananas. Just make sure to chop or slice the ingredients finely and evenly so that they bake evenly.
Do I need special equipment to bake vegan goods?
No, you do not need special equipment to bake vegan goods. However, it’s always a good idea to have a few basic tools on hand, such as measuring cups and spoons, mixing bowls, a whisk or electric mixer, and a baking sheet or pan. If you plan on baking vegan goods frequently, you may want to invest in a few specialty items like a vegan cookbook or vegan baking ingredients.
What are some easy vegan baked goods recipes?
Here are a few simple and delicious vegan baked goods recipes to try:
- Vegan Blueberry Muffins: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of white sugar, 1 tsp of salt, and 2 tsp of baking powder. In a separate mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of unsweetened almond milk, 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, and 1 cup of fresh blueberries. Mix the dry and wet ingredients together until just combined. Pour the batter into a muffin tin lined with muffin liners and bake for 20-25 minutes at 375°F.
- Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies: In a mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened vegan butter, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of white sugar. Mix in 1 tsp of vanilla extract and 1/4 cup of unsweetened almond milk. In a separate bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of baking soda, and 1/2 tsp of salt. Mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, then stir in 1 cup of vegan chocolate chips. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a cookie sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes at 350°F.
- Vegan Banana Bread: In a mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened vegan butter, 1 cup of white sugar, and 2 ripe bananas. Mix in 1 tsp of vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of baking soda, and 1/2 tsp of salt. Mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes at 350°F.
Enjoy Your Vegan Baked Treats!
Thanks for taking the time to read about great vegan baked goods recipes! Hope you’re feeling inspired to try some recipes of your own. You’ll be amazed at the deliciousness that can be achieved without using dairy or eggs. From muffins to cakes to cookies, the possibilities for mouth-watering vegan baked goods are endless. So, grab your apron and get baking. Don’t forget to visit us again for more exciting vegan food ideas!