How to Make Vegetarian Versions of Classic Desserts

Indulging in classic desserts while maintaining a vegetarian lifestyle is possible with a few simple ingredient substitutions. In this article, we will explore three popular desserts and learn how to make vegetarian versions of each. Let’s dive into creating delicious, cruelty-free treats!

Vegetarian Chocolate Cake

A classic chocolate cake can easily be transformed into a vegetarian delight. Here’s how:

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 3/4 tsp baking powder
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs (use an egg substitute like flaxseed or chia seed eggs)
• 3/4 cup whole milk (use a plant-based milk alternative)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup boiling water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the egg substitute, plant-based milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.
4. Carefully stir in the boiling water until fully incorporated. The batter will be thin.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and cool completely on a wire rack.

Vegetarian Cheesecake

Create a mouthwatering vegetarian cheesecake by swapping out a few key ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened (use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs (use an egg substitute like silken tofu or egg replacer)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (use a dairy-free sour cream alternative)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tbsp sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. In a large bowl, beat the dairy-free cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add the egg substitute, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in the dairy-free sour cream until well combined.
6. Pour the batter over the crust in the pan.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set.
8. Remove from the oven and cool completely on a wire rack before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.

Vegetarian Apple Pie

Enjoy a vegetarian apple pie by making a few simple tweaks to the traditional recipe.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (use a plant-based butter alternative)
• 1/4-1/2 cup ice water
• 6 cups thinly sliced apples
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp plant-based butter, cubed

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the plant-based butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough forms a ball. Divide the dough in half and wrap each half in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
4. Roll out one half of the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Transfer the dough to the pie plate, pressing it gently into the bottom and up the sides.
5. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Mix well and pour the apple mixture into the pie crust.
6. Dot the apple filling with the cubed plant-based butter.
7. Roll out the remaining dough and place it over the apple filling. Trim the excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly. If necessary, cover the edges of the pie with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
9. Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack before serving.

Conclusion

Creating vegetarian versions of classic desserts doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple ingredient swaps, you can enjoy delicious, cruelty-free treats that satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re craving chocolate cake, cheesecake, or apple pie, these vegetarian recipes are sure to please!