Chestnut Dessert Recipes Vegan Lovers Will Adore

Chestnuts have long been celebrated for their rich, nutty flavor and versatility in both savory and sweet dishes. When it comes to vegan desserts, chestnuts shine as a creamy, naturally sweet ingredient that can transform simple recipes into decadent delights.

Whether you’re craving a smooth chestnut purée, a luscious mousse, or a delightful cake, these vegan chestnut dessert recipes will satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping things plant-based and wholesome.

Perfect for autumn and winter, chestnut desserts bring warmth and comfort with every bite.

In this post, we’ll explore three mouthwatering vegan chestnut dessert recipes that are easy to make and absolutely delicious. From a classic chestnut purée to a chocolate-chestnut mousse and a chestnut and apple crumble, each recipe highlights the unique texture and flavor of chestnuts while catering to vegan dietary needs.

Ready to impress your family and guests? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chestnuts offer a naturally sweet and creamy texture that’s perfect for vegan desserts, eliminating the need for heavy creams or dairy. These recipes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support healthy digestion and energy levels.

Plus, chestnuts are incredibly versatile. Whether blended into smooth cream or baked into a crumble, they add a subtle sweetness and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with spices like cinnamon and vanilla.

These desserts are also suitable for those with nut allergies, as chestnuts are technically seeds, making them a safer option than common nuts.

Finally, these recipes are simple to prepare with accessible ingredients, ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks. If you love cozy, comforting desserts without animal products, these chestnut treats will quickly become favorites in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

• 500g cooked chestnuts (store-bought vacuum-packed or freshly boiled and peeled)
• 200ml coconut cream (for mousse and purée)
• 100g coconut sugar or maple syrup
• 2 tbsp maple syrup (additional sweetener)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 150g all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
• 100g rolled oats (for crumble topping)
• 50g coconut oil (melted, for crumble)
• 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
• Pinch of salt
• 100g dark vegan chocolate (for mousse)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Equipment

• Food processor or high-speed blender
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric hand mixer
• Baking dish (about 20x20cm)
• Spatula
• Small saucepan (for melting chocolate)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Peeler and knife (for apples)

Instructions

Chestnut Purée

1. Prepare the chestnuts: If using fresh chestnuts, boil them for 20 minutes and peel off the shells and inner skin. If using pre-cooked vacuum-packed chestnuts, drain and rinse them.
2. Blend the ingredients: Place the chestnuts, 100 ml of coconut cream, 50g coconut sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into a food processor.
3. Process until smooth: Blend until you get a creamy, smooth purée. If too thick, add a tablespoon of water or more coconut cream to adjust the consistency.
4. Taste and adjust: Add more sweetener or vanilla if desired. Chill before serving or use as a base for other desserts.

Chocolate Chestnut Mousse

1. Melt the chocolate: Gently melt the dark vegan chocolate in a small saucepan over low heat or using a double boiler method. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the purée: Use the chestnut purée made earlier or blend 300g chestnuts, 100ml coconut cream, 50g coconut sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Whip the coconut cream: Chill the remaining 100ml coconut cream and whip it with an electric mixer until fluffy.
4. Combine all ingredients: Gently fold the melted chocolate into the chestnut purée, then fold in the whipped coconut cream until fully incorporated.
5. Chill: Transfer the mousse to serving bowls and chill for at least 2 hours or until set.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh berries or shaved chocolate before serving.

Chestnut & Apple Crumble

1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Prepare the fruit base: In a bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, 50g coconut sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Prepare the crumble topping: In another bowl, mix flour, rolled oats, remaining coconut sugar, and melted coconut oil until crumbly.
4. Assemble: Spread the apple mixture evenly in a baking dish. Scatter cooked chestnuts on top, roughly chopped.
5. Add topping: Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the fruit and chestnuts.
6. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
7. Serve warm: Enjoy with vegan coconut yogurt or ice cream.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a splash of orange zest or a few drops of almond extract to your chestnut purée or mousse.”

If you can’t find fresh chestnuts, vacuum-packed cooked chestnuts or canned chestnuts are great alternatives that save time. Make sure to drain and rinse them before use.

For the mousse, consider swapping dark chocolate for carob powder for a caffeine-free version. Add a tablespoon of aquafaba (chickpea water) whipped to soft peaks to make the mousse lighter and airier.

The crumble topping can be customized with nuts like walnuts or pecans if you’re not allergic, or seeds like pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.

For a festive touch, sprinkle some ground nutmeg or cloves into the apple mixture.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Chestnut desserts are wonderfully versatile and pair well with a variety of accompaniments. Serve the chestnut purée as a side or topping for pancakes and waffles for a comforting breakfast or brunch option.

The chocolate chestnut mousse makes an elegant dessert when garnished with fresh raspberries, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a sprig of mint. It also pairs beautifully with vegan whipped cream or coconut yogurt for added creaminess.

The chestnut and apple crumble is best served warm, topped with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream. For a cozy touch, drizzle with a bit of maple syrup or sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top.

Don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes like Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe, Pecan Crackers Recipe, and Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe to complement your plant-based dessert menu!

Conclusion

Exploring vegan chestnut desserts is a delightful way to enjoy the natural sweetness and creamy texture of chestnuts while sticking to plant-based eating. These recipes showcase how chestnuts can be transformed into indulgent treats that are both nutritious and satisfying.

From the silky purée to the rich chocolate mousse and warm apple crumble, there’s a chestnut dessert for every occasion and mood.

Whether you’re new to cooking with chestnuts or a seasoned fan, these recipes are approachable and adaptable, making them perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or a cozy night in. Give these vegan chestnut desserts a try and savor the comforting flavors that make chestnuts such a beloved ingredient.

Happy cooking!

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