Craving a rich, creamy dessert that’s also kind to animals and the planet? Our vegan creme brulee recipe offers the perfect solution!
This classic French treat is traditionally made with eggs and heavy cream, but our plant-based version delivers the same luscious texture and caramelized topping without any animal products. Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or just curious about plant-based desserts, this recipe is easy to follow and uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
The silky custard is made from coconut milk and cashews, creating a naturally creamy base that’s both satisfying and indulgent. A touch of vanilla and maple syrup adds that signature sweetness, while a crisp layer of caramelized sugar on top provides the delightful contrast every creme brulee lover cherishes.
Impress your guests or treat yourself with this elegant dessert that feels luxurious yet wholesome.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Our vegan creme brulee is a game-changer for anyone who loves desserts but wants to avoid dairy and eggs. It’s:
- Rich and creamy: Thanks to coconut milk and cashews, you get a smooth, velvety texture.
- Simple to make: No fancy ingredients or special equipment required.
- Customizable: Easily flavored with vanilla, citrus, or spices for a personal touch.
- Perfect for special occasions: Its elegant presentation makes it ideal for dinner parties or celebrations.
- Gluten-free and refined sugar-free options: Using maple syrup keeps it natural and wholesome.
Plus, if you’re interested in other delightful plant-based recipes, check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes and Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk (for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup raw cashews (soaked for at least 4 hours)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup (natural sweetener)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for classic flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder (optional, for color)
- Pinch of salt (to balance sweetness)
- 2-3 tablespoons raw sugar or coconut sugar (for caramelizing the top)
Equipment
- Blender or food processor (to blend the custard)
- Ramekins (4-6 small ceramic or glass dishes)
- Small saucepan (to cook the custard)
- Kitchen torch (for caramelizing sugar; or broiler if unavailable)
- Whisk (to mix ingredients evenly)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fine mesh sieve (optional, for extra smooth custard)
Instructions
- Soak the cashews: Place raw cashews in a bowl, cover with water, and soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain before use.
- Blend the custard base: In your blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, turmeric powder (if using), and a pinch of salt. Blend until very smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cook the custard: Pour the blended mixture into a small saucepan. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Add this to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly.
- Thicken the custard: Continue cooking and whisking for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Strain the custard (optional): For an ultra-smooth texture, pour the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
- Pour into ramekins: Divide the custard evenly among 4-6 ramekins. Let them cool to room temperature.
- Chill: Cover the ramekins with plastic wrap or lids and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, until fully set.
- Caramelize the topping: Just before serving, sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of raw sugar evenly over each custard. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp. If you don’t have a torch, place the ramekins under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the crisp sugar topping with the creamy custard beneath. For extra flair, garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves.
Tips & Variations
Tip: If you prefer a less sweet custard, reduce the maple syrup to 1/4 cup. For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of almond or oat milk to the blend.
Variation: Swap vanilla extract for orange zest and a dash of cinnamon for a citrusy twist. Alternatively, infuse the coconut milk with a sprig of fresh rosemary or lavender before blending for a floral note.
Make it soy-free: This recipe naturally avoids soy, but always check labels on your ingredients if you have allergies.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving (1 ramekin) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Fat | 18 g |
Saturated Fat | 14 g |
Carbohydrates | 15 g |
Sugar | 12 g |
Protein | 3 g |
Fiber | 1 g |
Serving Suggestions
Vegan creme brulee is an elegant dessert that pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve it alongside fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a burst of tartness that balances the rich custard.
A sprig of mint adds a refreshing touch and a pop of color.
For a cozy winter twist, try serving with a warm berry compote or a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce. If you want to keep it simple, a dusting of powdered cinnamon or cocoa powder over the caramelized sugar offers subtle warmth and aroma.
Looking for more vegan dessert inspiration? You might enjoy our Vegan Soft Serve Recipe: Creamy, Easy, and Delicious Idea or the Vegan Pizzelle Recipe: Easy, Crispy, and Delicious Treat.
Conclusion
This vegan creme brulee recipe is proof that indulgent desserts don’t have to rely on animal products. With just a few wholesome ingredients like coconut milk, cashews, and maple syrup, you can create a dessert that’s creamy, smooth, and topped with that irresistible caramelized sugar crust.
Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or simply exploring plant-based cooking, this recipe is a wonderful addition to your dessert repertoire. It’s versatile, elegant, and sure to impress anyone at your table.
Give it a try for your next special occasion or whenever you want a sweet treat that’s both comforting and conscious.
For more delicious and healthful vegan recipes, explore our collection including Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals and Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Creme Brulee
Description: A creamy and rich vegan twist on the classic French dessert, made with coconut milk and a caramelized sugar topping. Perfectly smooth and indulgent without any dairy.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup raw cashews (soaked for 2 hours)
- 2 tablespoons aquafaba
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Blend coconut milk, soaked cashews, maple syrup, cornstarch, vanilla extract, turmeric, and salt until smooth.
- Whisk aquafaba in a bowl until soft peaks form, then fold into the blended mixture.
- Pour mixture into ramekins and place them in a baking dish filled with hot water halfway up the sides.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove ramekins and cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Before serving, sprinkle granulated sugar evenly on top of each custard.
- Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp.
- Let cool for a minute and serve immediately.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 20 g | Carbs: 22 g
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