Best Vegan Milk Tart Recipe for Creamy Delight

Milk tart is a beloved South African dessert known for its creamy custard filling nestled inside a crisp, buttery crust and topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Traditionally made with dairy milk and eggs, it’s a comforting treat that brings nostalgia and joy to many.

But what if you follow a vegan lifestyle or have dietary restrictions? No worries!

This best vegan milk tart recipe transforms the classic into a plant-based delight that’s just as rich, creamy, and satisfying. Using coconut milk and plant-based alternatives, it offers the same silky texture and aromatic cinnamon flavor without compromising on taste or ethics.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just curious to try a dairy-free version, this recipe is straightforward and uses accessible ingredients. Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends and family with a vegan dessert that holds its own against the traditional version.

Dive in and discover how simple it is to create this iconic treat in a compassionate, delicious way!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan milk tart recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it captures the classic South African dessert’s essence with a luscious, creamy filling that’s perfectly spiced with cinnamon.

The crust is delightfully flaky and buttery, made with vegan butter that browns beautifully in the oven.

It’s also incredibly versatile — perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or casual weeknight treats. The recipe is free from dairy and eggs, suitable for vegans and those with allergies.

And best of all, it uses everyday ingredients you can find at your local grocery store.

For those who want a healthier option, this tart is made with natural sweeteners and plant-based milk, avoiding refined sugars and excessive fats. You’ll enjoy a guilt-free dessert that’s as indulgent as the original!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup coconut sugar or organic cane sugar
• ½ cup vegan butter (cold and cubed)
• 2 tbsp cold water
• 3 cups coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
• ⅔ cup cornstarch
• ¾ cup coconut sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (plus extra for dusting)
• Pinch of salt

Equipment

• 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Fork
• Rubber spatula

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and ¼ cup coconut sugar. Add the cold vegan butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add cold water: Stir in the 2 tablespoons of cold water gradually until the dough starts to come together. Avoid overworking the dough; just bring it into a ball.
3. Chill the dough: Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to make rolling easier.
4. Roll out and bake the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Transfer it to the tart pan, pressing it into the edges. Prick the base with a fork to prevent bubbling.
5. Bake crust: Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove weights and parchment and bake for another 10 minutes until golden. Set aside to cool.
6. Make the filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the coconut milk, cornstarch, coconut sugar, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a custard (about 7-10 minutes).
7. Add vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant finish.
8. Assemble: Pour the warm custard into the cooled tart shell. Smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Chill the tart: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
10. Serve: Just before serving, dust the tart generously with ground cinnamon for that classic look and extra flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a nuttier crust, substitute ¼ cup of the flour with ground almonds.

If you prefer a less sweet filling, reduce the coconut sugar to ½ cup.

Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard for an exotic twist.

Use oat milk or almond milk if you want a lighter custard, but full-fat coconut milk produces the creamiest results.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan milk tart is best enjoyed chilled and fresh out of the fridge. Serve slices on their own with a cup of rooibos tea or strong coffee for an authentic South African experience.

For a decadent twist, top each slice with fresh berries or a dollop of coconut whipped cream. It also pairs beautifully with a tangy fruit compote like mango or passionfruit to balance the sweetness.

If you love exploring plant-based desserts, don’t miss our Leche De Pantera Recipe for another creamy vegan treat, or try the Magic Dough Recipe for a versatile vegan dough perfect for pies and tarts. For a savory contrast, check out the Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes that are entirely plant-based and packed with flavor.

Conclusion

The best vegan milk tart recipe is a perfect way to enjoy a classic South African dessert with a compassionate twist. This recipe delivers a silky, fragrant custard and a crisp, buttery crust that even non-vegans will adore.

It’s simple to make, uses everyday ingredients, and caters to a variety of dietary preferences without sacrificing taste or texture.

Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, this milk tart will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. It’s a wonderful dessert to share with family and friends, offering comfort and nostalgia in every bite.

Give it a try and bring a piece of South African tradition to your table while embracing plant-based living!

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