Sweet tooths, rejoice! You don’t have to sacrifice taste or ethics for a delicious treat. Vegan candy recipes are on the rise, and it’s easy to see why – they’re not only cruelty-free but also packed with nutritious ingredients. From classic treats like chocolate-covered strawberries to unique twists like turmeric and ginger chews, there’s something for everyone in this world of plant-based confections.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 scrumptious vegan candy recipes that will satisfy your sweet cravings without compromising your values. Whether you’re looking for bite-sized treats to indulge in or show-stopping centerpieces for your next gathering, these recipes are sure to impress. So grab your apron and get ready to indulge in some serious sweet tooth satisfaction!
Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
Treat yourself to a decadent vegan treat that combines the creaminess of peanut butter with the richness of chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter (make sure it’s free from animal products)
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup vegan chocolate chips (such as Enjoy Life)
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together peanut butter, powdered sugar, and salt until smooth.
2. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a double boiler or in the microwave (30-second increments, stirring between each interval).
4. Dip each peanut butter ball into the melted chocolate, coating completely. Place back onto the baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow chocolate to set.
Cooking Time: None!
Easy Coconut Date Truffles
Easy Coconut Date Truffles: A Sweet and Nutritious Treat
These bite-sized treats combine the natural sweetness of dates with the richness of coconut, all wrapped up in a simple and easy-to-make package. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, these truffles are also vegan-friendly and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, blend the dates until they form a sticky paste.
2. Add the unsweetened shredded coconut, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt to the processor. Blend until well combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 truffles.
4. Refrigerate the truffles for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped nuts or shredded coconut if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (includes refrigeration time)
Homemade Vegan Gummy Bears
Create a sweet treat that’s perfect for snacking or as a fun addition to your favorite vegan desserts. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make your own delicious and chewy gummy bears at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup fruit puree (such as strawberry or orange)
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon agar agar powder
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the water, fruit puree, and maple syrup. Whisk until well combined.
2. Add the agar agar powder and whisk to dissolve.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
5. Pour the mixture into a silicone gummy bear mold or a shallow dish lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
7. Once set, remove from the mold or cut into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Maple Pecan Caramels
Sweet and nutty, these Maple Pecan Caramels are a perfect treat for any time of the year. This recipe combines the richness of caramel with the earthy flavor of maple syrup and the crunch of pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Combine the heavy cream, granulated sugar, corn syrup, and maple syrup in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 350°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt and butter until melted.
4. Stir in the chopped pecans.
5. Pour into the prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
6. Once set, cut into squares and dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Almond Butter Stuffed Dates
Sweet and Savory Almond Butter Stuffed Dates Recipe
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the richness of almond butter.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 2 tablespoons almond butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped almonds or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the almond butter and honey until smooth.
3. Stuff each date with about 1/2 teaspoon of the almond butter mixture.
4. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the dates.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the dates are slightly caramelized and fragrant.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Salted Caramel Fudge
Vegan Salted Caramel Fudge Recipe
Rich, creamy, and utterly decadent, this vegan salted caramel fudge is the perfect treat for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth while adhering to a plant-based diet. With just seven ingredients, it’s surprisingly easy to make too!
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted vegan butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup caramel sauce (make sure it’s free from animal products)
- Salt, to taste (optional)
Instructions:
- Melt the vegan butter and sugar in a medium-sized saucepan over low heat.
- Add the coconut milk, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Pour in the caramel sauce and stir well to combine.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly before pouring into a lined or greased 8-inch square baking dish.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. Cut into squares and serve!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes (not including chilling time)
Enjoy your delicious vegan salted caramel fudge!
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or making a romantic gesture. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these delicious and elegant chocolate-covered strawberry bites in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 fresh strawberries
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco or coconut oil)
– Optional: chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the strawberries.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the fruit.
4. Place the coated strawberry on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a silicone mat.
5. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to set the chocolate.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or sprinkles, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply refrigerate until ready to serve.
Turmeric and Ginger Chews
These sweet and tangy chews are a perfect blend of spices, packed with the health benefits of turmeric and ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dates, pitted
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine oats, dates, and salt. Blend until well combined.
2. Melt the coconut oil in a small saucepan over low heat.
3. Add the honey, turmeric, and ginger to the melted coconut oil. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into the oat-date mixture and blend until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, triangles).
7. Place chews on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: Approximately 24-30 chews
Vegan Marshmallow Treats
A sweet treat that’s perfect for snacking or as a fun dessert option, these vegan marshmallow treats are easy to make and deliciously chewy. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re a great alternative to traditional marshmallow treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup puffed rice cereal
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Place over low heat and stir until the mixture is smooth.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Add the rolled oats, salt, and puffed rice cereal to the saucepan. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture onto a parchment-lined surface and let set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
5. Once set, use a cookie cutter or knife to shape into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Energy Balls
These bite-sized treats are packed with antioxidants and a boost of energy from matcha green tea powder. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or pre-workout snack, these no-bake energy balls are easy to make and deliciously healthy.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon matcha green tea powder
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Add matcha green tea powder and mix until smooth.
3. Stir in chocolate chips and salt until evenly distributed.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small energy balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 balls.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake energy balls are ready to go as soon as they’re formed.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious matcha green tea energy balls!
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bites
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bites Recipe
These bite-sized treats combine the classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate chip cookies with a gooey cookie dough center, making them irresistible. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, peanut butter, and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
3. Roll tablespoon-sized balls of dough between your hands and place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each ball.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges.
5. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Raspberry Dark Chocolate Bark
Elevate your snacking game with this sweet and tangy combination of dark chocolate, raspberries, and nuts. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick treat or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the honey and salt until well combined.
4. Arrange the raspberries and chopped walnuts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Pour the melted chocolate over the toppings, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
7. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: None
Vegan White Chocolate Macadamia Clusters
A sweet and indulgent treat that combines the creaminess of white chocolate with the crunch of macadamia nuts, all wrapped up in a delicious vegan package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vegan white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup macadamia nuts
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until combined.
4. Add the macadamia nuts to the melted white chocolate mixture and stir until they are evenly coated.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cluster.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
Cooking Time: None! These clusters require no cooking, just chilling.
Enjoy your delicious vegan white chocolate macadamia clusters!
Orange Creamsicle Coconut Bars
Orange Creamsicle Coconut Bars Recipe
Get ready to transport yourself to a tropical paradise with these sweet and tangy Orange Creamsicle Coconut Bars! A perfect combination of citrusy orange, creamy coconut, and crunchy macadamia nuts, these bars are sure to become your new favorite treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the milk mixture over the crust.
6. Sprinkle shredded coconut and chopped macadamia nuts evenly on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cashew Butter Stuffed Figs
Transform ordinary figs into a decadent treat by filling them with creamy cashew butter. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 fresh figs, stems removed
– 1/4 cup cashew butter
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cashew butter, honey, and salt until smooth.
3. Cut the figs in half lengthwise and carefully fill each cavity with about 1-2 teaspoons of the cashew butter mixture.
4. Place the stuffed figs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each fig.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the figs are tender and the filling is lightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Caramel Apple Lollipops
Vegan Caramel Apple Lollipops Recipe
Sweeten up your day with these bite-sized treats that combine the crunch of fresh apples and the richness of vegan caramel. These lollipops are perfect for a quick snack or as a fun party favor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vegan caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4-6 crisp apple slices (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/2 cup granola or chopped nuts
– 10-12 lollipop sticks
Instructions:
1. Dip each apple slice into the vegan caramel sauce, coating both sides evenly.
2. Place a lollipop stick on top of the coated apple slice and press gently to adhere.
3. Roll the apple slice in granola or chopped nuts to create a crunchy topping.
4. Repeat with remaining apple slices and lollipop sticks.
5. Let the lollipops sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the caramel to set.
Cooking Time: None! These lollipops are ready to enjoy as soon as they’re assembled.
Pistachio Rosewater Nougat
This classic Persian confection is a delicate balance of nutty pistachios, floral rosewater, and sweet honey. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this elegant treat to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup (60ml) rosewater
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) shelled pistachios, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup water. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in rosewater, salt, and pistachios.
5. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and let cool slightly.
6. Use spatula or oiled hands to shape into desired form (e.g., logs, bars).
7. Let nougat set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Cups
Treat yourself to a decadent dessert with these bite-sized Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Cups. Crunchy hazelnuts and creamy chocolate spread come together in a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press into the prepared muffin tin cups.
3. Melt milk chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in chopped hazelnuts.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the chocolate-hazelnut mixture into each cup.
5. Top with a dollop of softened butter and sprinkle confectioners’ sugar on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (baking time: 10-12 minutes, cooling time: 3-4 minutes)
Lemon Blueberry Chewy Candies
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet treats, bursting with the flavors of lemon and blueberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt.
5. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then fold in blueberries.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Let the candies set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus cooling time)
Spiced Pumpkin Seed Brittle
Warm up with a sweet and spicy treat this fall season! This Spiced Pumpkin Seed Brittle recipe combines the flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg with crunchy pumpkin seeds for a delightful snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
6. Sprinkle pumpkin seeds over the top.
7. Let cool and set completely before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 20 delicious vegan candy recipes! From classic treats like chocolate-covered strawberry bites and caramel apples, to creative concoctions like turmeric and ginger chews and matcha green tea energy balls, there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of the recipes are easy to make and require just a few ingredients. Say goodbye to animal-derived ingredients and hello to guilt-free indulgence with these tasty vegan candies. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
