Posted on June 28th, 2024

Summer is the perfect time to try new, refreshing desserts that align with your wellness goals.

At River Hill Bakery, we believe that you can indulge in delightful treats without compromising your health.

Our collection of vegan dessert recipes is easy to make, delicious, and perfect for your summer wellness routine.

Whether you’re looking for a fruity refreshment or a creamy delight, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s get started with these plant-based summer delights and boost your wellness journey with our vegan sweets for summer!

The Benefits of Vegan Desserts

Vegan desserts are not just for those following a plant-based diet. They offer numerous health benefits that everyone can enjoy. By eliminating animal products, these desserts tend to be lower in saturated fats and cholesterol. They are often packed with nutrients from fruits, nuts, and grains, providing a wholesome treat.

Plus, vegan desserts can help reduce inflammation and improve digestion. As we focus on our summer wellness routine, incorporating these nutrient-dense desserts can be a game-changer.

Essential Ingredients for Vegan Desserts

Creating delicious vegan desserts starts with the right ingredients. Here are some staples you’ll need:

• Fruits: Fresh, frozen, or dried fruits like berries, bananas, and dates add natural sweetness and flavor.
• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, cashews, chia seeds, and flaxseeds provide texture and nutrition.
• Plant-Based Milks: Almond milk, coconut milk, and oat milk are great for creamy textures.
• Natural Sweeteners: Maple syrup, agave nectar, and coconut sugar offer healthier alternatives to refined sugar.
• Cocoa and Chocolate: Ensure they are dairy-free for a vegan-friendly option.
• Coconut Oil: A versatile ingredient for baking and setting desserts.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create some amazing vegan sweets for summer.

Refreshing Fruit-Based Treats

Recipe 1: Berry Chia Pudding

Ingredients:

• 2 cups almond milk
• 1/2 cup chia seeds
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup mixed berries
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix almond milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
2. Stir well and let it sit for 10 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Top with mixed berries before serving.

Recipe 2: Mango Coconut Ice Cream

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
• 1 can full-fat coconut milk
• 1/4 cup agave nectar
• 1 tsp lime juice

Instructions:

1. Blend mangoes, coconut milk, agave nectar, and lime juice until smooth.
2. Pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Freeze for an additional 2 hours for a firmer texture.

These fruit-based treats are light, refreshing, and perfect for a hot summer day.

Creamy Vegan Delights

Recipe 1: Chocolate Avocado Mousse

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Blend avocados, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
2. Spoon into serving dishes and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Recipe 2: Cashew Cheesecake Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cashews, soaked overnight
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Fresh berries for topping

Instructions:

1. Blend cashews, coconut oil, maple syrup, coconut milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Pour into silicone molds or mini muffin tins.
3. Freeze for at least 2 hours.
4. Top with fresh berries before serving.

These creamy delights are rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make.

Baked Vegan Goodies

Recipe 1: Vegan Banana Bread

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. Mix mashed bananas, coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in walnuts.
5. Pour batter into the loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Recipe 2: Vegan Lemon Bars

Ingredients:

• For the crust:
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• For the filling:
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp lemon zest

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix almond flour, coconut oil, and maple syrup for the crust. Press into the pan and bake for 10 minutes.
3. Whisk lemon juice, coconut milk, maple syrup, cornstarch, and lemon zest in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened.
4. Pour the filling over the crust and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
5. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.

These baked goodies are perfect for those who enjoy classic desserts with a vegan twist.

No-Bake Vegan Treats

Recipe 1: Coconut Bliss Balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Mix shredded coconut, coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a bowl.
2. Roll mixture into small balls and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Recipe 2: Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Mix rolled oats, peanut butter, and maple syrup in a bowl.
2. Press mixture into an 8x8 inch pan lined with parchment paper.
3. Sprinkle with chocolate chips and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

These no-bake treats are quick, easy, and perfect for a healthy snack.

Conclusion

Incorporating vegan desserts into your summer wellness routine is a delicious and healthful choice.

At River Hill Bakery, we are dedicated to providing you with convenient and professional gluten-free, vegan bakery options that are perfect for any occasion.

Ready to dive into these delicious vegan desserts?

Get started on your journey to a healthier summer with our easy-to-follow recipes!

For more information or to place an order, please contact us at (443) 774-4489 or email us at [email protected].

Enjoy your summer with these plant-based summer delights!