If you’re diving into the world of vegan baking and cooking, carob powder is a fantastic ingredient to have in your pantry. Derived from the pods of the carob tree, carob powder offers a naturally sweet, chocolate-like flavor without the caffeine and bitterness found in cocoa.
It’s an excellent alternative for those seeking to avoid chocolate or looking for a nutrient-rich addition to their recipes. Whether you’re whipping up a dessert, a smoothie, or a rich sauce, carob powder brings a unique taste and health benefits to the table.
In this post, we’ll explore several delicious and easy carob powder recipes vegan that you can try right at home. From luscious brownies to creamy smoothies and even a decadent frosting, these recipes highlight the versatility of carob powder.
Plus, each recipe is completely plant-based, dairy-free, and perfect for anyone embracing a vegan lifestyle or simply wanting to incorporate healthier ingredients. Ready to get started?
Let’s dive into some mouthwatering creations!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Carob powder is a powerhouse ingredient that not only tastes great but also offers a host of benefits. Unlike chocolate, carob is naturally sweet and contains no caffeine or theobromine, making it ideal for sensitive individuals.
You’ll love these recipes because:
- They’re vegan and allergy-friendly, perfect for dairy-free and chocolate-free diets.
- Carob provides natural sweetness, so less added sugar is needed in your dishes.
- The recipes are versatile and can be adapted for snacks, desserts, and beverages.
- They’re simple and quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weekdays or weekend treats.
Ingredients
- 1 cup carob powder – rich and naturally sweet
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier twist)
- 1 cup organic cane sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, or coconut works great)
- 1/3 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (helps with rising)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans) or vegan chocolate chips
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- 8×8 inch baking pan or muffin tins
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Oven or stovetop for baking
- Cooling rack
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with coconut oil.
- In a large bowl, sift together the dry ingredients: carob powder, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the wet ingredients: plant-based milk, melted coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, vanilla extract, and sugar until well combined.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter light.
- If using, fold in nuts or vegan chocolate chips now for extra texture and flavor.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve as a delicious vegan treat or snack.
Tips & Variations
For an extra fudgy texture, substitute 1/4 cup of the flour with almond flour or oat flour.
Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note.
Want a sweeter treat? Drizzle with vegan caramel sauce or top with coconut whipped cream.
Make these into muffins by using a muffin tin and reducing the baking time to 18-20 minutes.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving (1 slice) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Fat | 8 g |
Carbohydrates | 25 g |
Fiber | 4 g |
Sugar | 12 g (from natural sugars) |
Protein | 3 g |
Serving Suggestions
These carob powder treats are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them as a snack with your morning coffee or tea, or serve them as a dessert topped with fresh berries and a dollop of coconut yogurt.
For a decadent twist, pair your carob brownies with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or drizzle with melted almond butter. They also work wonderfully crumbled over a bowl of vegan ice cream or smoothie bowls for added texture and flavor.
If you want to explore more vegan-friendly recipes that complement this treat, check out our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food or try the creamy goodness of our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe.
More Delicious Carob Powder Recipes Vegan
Vegan Carob Smoothie
- Ingredients: 2 tbsp carob powder, 1 banana, 1 cup almond milk, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp chia seeds
- Instructions: Blend all ingredients until smooth. Serve chilled.
Carob Energy Balls
- Ingredients: 1 cup dates (pitted), 1/4 cup carob powder, 1/2 cup oats, 1/4 cup almond butter, 1 tbsp chia seeds
- Instructions: Pulse dates in a food processor until sticky. Add remaining ingredients and pulse until combined. Roll into balls and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Vegan Carob Frosting
- Ingredients: 1/2 cup vegan butter, 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 3 tbsp carob powder, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 2-3 tbsp plant milk
- Instructions: Beat vegan butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and carob powder. Add vanilla and plant milk, mixing until smooth and spreadable.
- Ingredients: 1 cup dates (pitted), 1/4 cup carob powder, 1/2 cup oats, 1/4 cup almond butter, 1 tbsp chia seeds
- Instructions: Pulse dates in a food processor until sticky. Add remaining ingredients and pulse until combined. Roll into balls and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Vegan Carob Frosting
- Ingredients: 1/2 cup vegan butter, 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 3 tbsp carob powder, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 2-3 tbsp plant milk
- Instructions: Beat vegan butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and carob powder. Add vanilla and plant milk, mixing until smooth and spreadable.
Try these recipes to further enjoy the marvelous flavor and health benefits of carob powder. They’re perfect for quick snacks, desserts, and even breakfast treats!
Conclusion
Carob powder is a wonderful and versatile ingredient that deserves a spot in every vegan kitchen. Its natural sweetness and chocolate-like taste make it a superb alternative to cocoa, especially for those avoiding caffeine or allergens.
The recipes provided here showcase how easily you can incorporate carob into your daily meals, from baked goods to smoothies and beyond.
With simple ingredients and straightforward methods, these carob powder recipes vegan are accessible to both beginner and seasoned cooks. Whether you’re aiming to satisfy a sweet tooth or just want to experiment with new flavors, carob offers a delicious and healthful option.
Don’t forget to explore other creative dishes like our Cajun Ranch Wing Sauce Recipe or indulge in the tangy delight of the Lemon Straws Recipe for more culinary inspiration.
Happy cooking and enjoy the wonderful world of carob!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Carob Powder Brownies
Description: Deliciously rich and fudgy vegan brownies made with carob powder as a healthy chocolate alternative. Perfect for a guilt-free treat.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup carob powder
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water (flax egg)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix ground flaxseed with water and let sit for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine flour, carob powder, baking powder, salt, and coconut sugar.
- Add melted coconut oil, almond milk, vanilla extract, and flax egg to dry ingredients.
- Stir until smooth and fold in walnuts if using.
- Pour batter into a greased 8×8 inch baking pan.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before cutting into squares.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 10g | Carbs: 22g
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