Are you a fan of unique and creative desserts that just so happen to be vegan? Look no further! Chickpeas, those humble legumes commonly found in savory dishes, have been surprisingly elevated into sweet treats. From decadent cakes to gooey cookies, these 18 creamy chickpea dessert recipes will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wondering how something so unexpected can be so divine.
In this article, we’ll take a journey through the world of chickpea desserts, exploring a wide range of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. From classic treats like cookies and cakes to innovative creations like pudding and truffles, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the versatility and deliciousness of chickpeas in sweet dishes.
Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bites
Transform chickpeas into a delicious cookie dough treat that’s perfect for snacking or as a dessert. This unique recipe combines the nutty flavor of chickpeas with rich chocolate chips and a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork until smooth.
2. Add oats, peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and salt to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in chocolate chips.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Once chilled, use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form bite-sized balls.
6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bites are ready to devour as soon as they’re formed.
Vegan Chickpea Blondies with Peanut Butter
These rich and fudgy blondies are a game-changer for vegan dessert lovers, featuring the unique addition of chickpeas and peanut butter. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1 tablespoon melted vegan butter or margarine
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, peanut butter, maple syrup, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour in non-dairy milk and melted vegan butter or margarine; stir until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chickpea Flour Halva with Cardamom
Halva is a popular Indian sweet dish made from chickpea flour, and when flavored with cardamom, it becomes a delightful treat. This recipe is easy to make and requires just a few ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpea flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpea flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in the water to form a thick paste. Mix well until smooth.
3. Heat the ghee or oil in a small pan over medium heat.
4. Add the cardamom powder to the hot ghee/oil and let it sizzle for a few seconds.
5. Pour the chickpea flour mixture into the pan with the cardamom-infused ghee/oil.
6. Stir continuously until the halva thickens and leaves the sides of the pan, about 10-12 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chickpea and Coconut Milk Pudding
A unique and delicious dessert that combines the nutty flavor of chickpeas with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, coconut milk, honey, salt, and vanilla extract.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Pour the mixture into a baking dish or ramekins.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pudding is set and lightly golden brown on top.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Chickpea Date Truffles
These bite-sized treats combine the natural sweetness of dates with the warmth of spices and the creamy texture of chickpeas. Perfect for a quick snack or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, dates, oats, honey, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Process until smooth.
2. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Place the truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, roll the truffles in confectioners’ sugar (if using).
6. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None required – simply assemble and chill.
Chickpea Banana Bread with Maple Glaze
A moist and nutritious twist on traditional banana bread, this recipe incorporates chickpeas for added protein and texture. The maple glaze adds a sweet and sticky finish.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup mashed bananas (2-3 ripe)
– 1/4 cup chickpeas, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Maple glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine flour, oats, bananas, chickpeas, maple syrup, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
3. Add egg and olive oil; blend until well combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Let cool completely before glazing.
Maple Glaze:
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Whisk together until smooth. Drizzle over cooled bread and serve.
Chickpea Chocolate Fudge Cake
This rich and decadent cake combines the humble chickpea with the indulgent flavors of dark chocolate, creating a unique dessert that’s both surprising and delightful.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, cocoa powder, and melted butter. Beat until smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Mix well.
5. Stir in chickpeas and chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chickpea Tahini Energy Bars
These no-bake energy bars combine the creaminess of tahini with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, making them a perfect snack for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout fuel.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped nuts or seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, blend chickpeas, oats, and tahini until well combined.
2. Add honey, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt. Process until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough between parchment paper to desired thickness (about 1/4 inch).
4. Cut into bars or shapes of your choice.
5. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None!
Enjoy your nutritious and delicious Chickpea Tahini Energy Bars!
Chickpea Pumpkin Pie with Almond Crust
This creamy and nutritious pie combines the warmth of pumpkin with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, all wrapped up in an easy-to-make almond crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds for crust
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. Add almond milk, maple syrup, and lemon juice. Blend until well combined.
4. Press sliced almonds into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish to form crust.
5. Pour filling over crust and bake for 40-45 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chickpea Apple Cinnamon Muffins
Experience the warm flavors of autumn with these moist and flavorful muffins, featuring chickpeas, apples, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup canned chickpeas, mashed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1 medium)
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In another bowl, combine mashed chickpeas, diced apples, egg, milk, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This innovative twist on traditional carrot cake adds the nutritional boost of chickpeas, while the cream cheese frosting provides a tangy and creamy contrast. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup grated carrot
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, applesauce, chickpeas, carrot, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Spread or pipe onto cooled cake.
Chickpea Peanut Butter Chocolate Cups
These bite-sized treats are a unique fusion of creamy peanut butter, velvety chocolate, and protein-rich chickpeas. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while still indulging in nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
– 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup mashed chickpeas
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together oats, peanut butter, and mashed chickpeas until well combined.
3. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or over low heat. Stir in honey and salt.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the peanut-chickpea mixture into each muffin liner.
5. Top with melted chocolate, spreading evenly to cover the filling.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are no-bake and ready in just a few steps.
Chickpea Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf
Brighten up your brunch or snack time with this unique and flavorful Chickpea Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf. This moist and aromatic bread is packed with the creamy goodness of chickpeas, zesty lemon, and a hint of crunch from poppy seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, oil, eggs, and poppy seeds. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chickpea Blueberry Crumble Bars
A sweet and savory twist on traditional blueberry bars, these Chickpea Blueberry Crumble Bars combine the natural sweetness of chickpeas with the tartness of fresh blueberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add melted butter, stirring until just combined.
3. Fold in chickpeas, blueberries, and vanilla extract (if using).
4. Press half the mixture into prepared baking dish. Top with remaining mixture.
5. Mix oats, brown sugar, and baking powder. Sprinkle over top of bars.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chickpea Almond Butter Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are packed with protein and fiber, making them an excellent snack for anyone looking to incorporate more wholesome ingredients into their baking routine. With the added bonus of being naturally sweetened by dates, these treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while still being good for you.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup mashed chickpeas
– 1/4 cup pitted dates, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, almond butter, and chickpeas until well combined.
3. Add chopped dates, egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chickpea Coconut Macaroons
These chewy macaroons are infused with the creamy richness of chickpeas and the tropical flavor of coconut. Perfect for a sweet treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg white
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, coconut, sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg white until frothy. Fold into the chickpea mixture until well combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown on the bottom.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chickpea Matcha Green Tea Cookies
A unique fusion of East meets West, these chickpea matcha green tea cookies offer a delightful twist on traditional baked goods. With the added nutrition from chickpeas and the subtle bitterness of matcha, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpea flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flours, sugar, and matcha powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chickpea Raspberry Chia Jam Tart
This Chickpea Raspberry Chia Jam Tart combines the flavors of sweet and savory, with a surprise ingredient – chickpeas! The tart crust is filled with a chia jam made with fresh raspberries, then topped with a creamy chickpea mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients; press into a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a blender, combine chia seeds, raspberries, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
4. In a bowl, mix chickpeas, honey, vanilla extract, and salt.
5. Pour chia jam into the tart crust, followed by the chickpea mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy desserts featuring the humble chickpea! From classic treats like chocolate chip cookie dough bites and peanut butter blondies, to innovative creations like halva with cardamom and pumpkin pie with almond crust, these 18 recipes will satisfy your sweet tooth. With flavors ranging from rich and decadent to bright and fruity, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creamy chickpea desserts.
