The Ultimate Guide To Plant-Based Baking During The Holidays

The holidays are a perfect time to embark on a delightful journey into the realm of plant-based baking, where you’ll explore the art of creating decadent treats that align with your values of sustainability and  kindness-based living. 

Unleash the Magic of Plant-Based Baking

Plant-based baking is more than just a culinary trend; it’s a celebration of creativity, innovation, and a commitment to making choices that resonate with our values. 

By choosing plant-based ingredients, we not only contribute to a healthier planet but also embrace a compassionate approach to baking.

It’s easier than most people think to replace animal ingredients in their favorite recipes –– there’s a plant-based substitute or workaround for literally everything!

Getting Started: Essential Vegan Baking Ingredients

Most holiday baked goods require similar properties to be considered truly delectable: 

• Binding
• Leavening
• Moisture
• Richness
• Sweetness
• Texture

Let’s dive into the heart of vegan baking by exploring the key ingredients that form the foundation of our cruelty-free confections:

1. Plant-Based Milk: Replace dairy milk with a variety of plant-based alternatives like almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk. Each brings its unique flavor profile to your creations.
2. Egg Replacements: Bid farewell to traditional eggs and welcome substitutes like flax eggs, applesauce, mashed bananas, or commercial egg replacers. These alternatives provide the binding and leavening properties essential in baking.
3. Plant-Based Butter and Oils: Swap out dairy butter for plant-based alternatives or opt for heart-healthy oils like coconut or olive oil. These additions ensure richness and moisture in your baked goods.
4. Sweeteners: Embrace natural sweeteners such as maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar. They add sweetness without the need for refined sugars.
5. Flour Varieties: Experiment with a diverse range of flours, including whole wheat, almond, coconut, or even chickpea flour. Each imparts a unique texture and flavor to your creations.

Mastering the Techniques: Tips for Perfect Plant-Based Baking

1. Understanding Leavening Agents: Baking soda and baking powder are vegan-friendly leavening agents that help your treats rise. Be mindful of their proportions to achieve the desired texture. 

Pro Tip: Adding 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar per tablespoon of baking powder or baking soda activates the leavening agents to give your baked goods a better rise.

2. Flax Eggs for Binding: Combine ground flaxseeds with water to create a flax egg, an excellent binding agent in recipes like cookies and cakes.
3. Balancing Moisture: Vegan baking often requires adjustments to maintain the right moisture content. Add extra liquid or reduce flour as needed to achieve the perfect balance.
4. Plant-Based Frosting and Toppings: Elevate your creations with dairy-free frostings made from plant-based butter, organic powdered sugar, and non-dairy milk. Explore fresh fruits, nuts, or coconut flakes for delightful toppings.

Did you know that cane sugar is often refined with animal bone char? The good news is that per USDA guidelines, organic sugar cannot be filtered through bone char, making it a safe option for the plant-based baker.

Experiment With Your Recipes

As you experiment with plant-based baking during the holiday season, you’ll find what works best for converting your favorite recipes using these tips.

If you’re looking for inspiration, these are a few of our favorite recipes:

Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cookies

Apple-Caramel Tartlets

Turkey-Style Holiday Roast

Explore all the recipes on Vkind from the Recipes page – there’s something for everyone!

Conclusion: Baking with Purpose and Passion

In the world of vegan baking, every creation is a testament to our commitment to living a sustainable, kindness-based lifestyle. 

As you embark on your baking adventures, remember that each batch of cookies, cake, or muffins is a small but impactful contribution to a kinder world.

So, preheat those ovens, gather your vegan ingredients, and let the aroma of plant-powered goodness fill your kitchen. Happy holiday baking!