Vegan Lemon Dessert Recipes That Are Easy and Delicious

Bright, zesty, and utterly refreshing, vegan lemon desserts are the perfect way to end any meal on a light and flavorful note. The tangy citrus flavor of lemon combines beautifully with plant-based ingredients, creating desserts that are not only delicious but also wholesome and allergy-friendly.

Whether you’re craving a creamy lemon tart, a fluffy lemon cake, or a no-bake lemon mousse, these vegan recipes will satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your dietary choices.

In this post, you’ll discover a collection of delightful vegan lemon dessert recipes, complete with easy-to-follow instructions and helpful tips. Vegan desserts can sometimes feel intimidating to make, but with the right ingredients and techniques, you can create stunning, vibrant lemon treats that everyone will love.

Plus, these recipes are perfect for spring and summer gatherings or any time you want a refreshing twist on classic desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vegan lemon desserts are a celebration of fresh flavor and simple ingredients. They are:

• Light and refreshing: Perfect for a palate cleanser or a summer treat.
• Dairy-free and egg-free: Ideal for vegans, those with allergies, or anyone looking to reduce animal products.
• Easy to make: Most recipes require minimal prep and common pantry staples.
• Versatile: You can customize sweetness, tartness, and texture to suit your taste.
• Impressively delicious: These desserts will have even non-vegans asking for seconds!

Ingredients

• Fresh lemons: zest and juice for that signature tang.
• Plant-based milk: almond, soy, or oat milk work well.
• Maple syrup or agave nectar: natural sweeteners that complement lemon beautifully.
• Silken tofu or cashews: for creamy textures in mousses and cheesecakes.
• Coconut cream: adds richness and silkiness.
• Flaxseed meal or chia seeds: for egg replacements when baking.
• All-purpose or gluten-free flour: depending on dietary needs.
• Baking powder: for light, airy cakes and cupcakes.
• Vanilla extract: to enhance sweetness and aroma.
• Optional garnish: fresh mint, lemon slices, or powdered sugar.

Equipment

• Mixing bowls: for combining ingredients.
• Whisk or electric mixer: to achieve smooth batters and creaminess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: for accuracy.
• Zester and juicer: to extract lemon zest and juice efficiently.
• Baking pans or tart pans: depending on the dessert type.
• Food processor or blender: essential for creamy mousses and cheesecakes.
• Spatula: for folding and scraping batter.
• Refrigerator: for chilling no-bake desserts.

Instructions

Vegan Lemon Tart

1. Prepare the crust: In a bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of crushed vegan graham crackers or digestive biscuits, 1/3 cup melted coconut oil, and 2 tablespoons maple syrup. Mix until crumbs are moistened.
2. Press the crust: Firmly press this mixture into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch tart pan. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
3. Make the filling: In a blender, combine 1 cup soaked cashews (soaked for 4 hours), 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, ½ cup coconut cream, ½ cup maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Fill the crust: Pour the lemon filling into the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the tart for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh lemon slices or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.

Vegan Lemon Cake

1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
3. Prepare wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk 1 cup plant-based milk, ¼ cup vegetable oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water (egg substitute).
4. Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix until just combined.
5. Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool: Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
7. Frosting: For a vegan lemon frosting, blend 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons vegan butter or coconut oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon lemon zest until smooth.
8. Decorate: Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake and garnish with lemon zest or edible flowers.

Vegan Lemon Mousse

1. Blend base: In a food processor, combine 1 block (12 oz) silken tofu, ½ cup fresh lemon juice, ½ cup maple syrup, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Blend until super smooth.
2. Chill: Pour into serving glasses or bowls and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
3. Serve: Garnish with fresh berries, mint leaves, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh lemons for the brightest and most authentic flavor. Bottled lemon juice tends to be less vibrant.

If you prefer a sweeter dessert, increase the maple syrup or agave nectar by 1-2 tablespoons. For a gluten-free version of the lemon cake, swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

You can also experiment with the crust of the tart by using almond meal or ground walnuts for a nuttier flavor. For extra zest, add a teaspoon of lemon extract along with the fresh lemon juice and zest.

Want a no-bake lemon cheesecake? Follow the tart recipe but use crushed nuts and dates for the crust and soak the cashews overnight for the creamiest texture.

For more vegan dessert inspiration, check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and Vegan Soft Serve Recipe: Creamy, Easy, and Delicious Idea.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve your vegan lemon desserts chilled for the best texture and flavor. A dollop of coconut whipped cream or a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with lemon tart or cake.

Fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries add a lovely contrast and a pop of color.

For a tea party, slice the lemon cake thinly and serve alongside a pot of your favorite herbal tea. The mousse’s light and airy texture make it ideal for individual servings at dinner parties or gatherings.

If you want to make your lemon desserts extra special, try adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or crushed pistachios on top for crunch and an extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion

Vegan lemon desserts offer a delightful combination of tangy freshness and creamy indulgence without relying on dairy or eggs. These recipes are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a sweet treat that is both delicious and kind to animals and the planet.

From the tangy vegan lemon tart to the fluffy lemon cake and the airy mousse, these desserts are versatile enough to fit any occasion or craving.

With simple ingredients, easy equipment, and straightforward instructions, you can whip up these desserts in no time and impress your friends and family. Whether you’re vegan or simply seeking healthier dessert alternatives, these lemon recipes will brighten your dessert table and your day.

For more exciting vegan recipes, explore our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

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