Thanksgiving dinner isn't really over until the dessert spread comes out: pies, pies, and more pies! For a vegan, this can be tricky territory since so many dessert options — especially a flaky crust — are made with eggs, butter, and milk. Treat your vegan friends right this holiday by including a dessert that works with their dietary limitations. Here are nine traditional Thanksgiving dessert recipes that have received a vegan makeover.
Pumpkin Pie
If you're only going to have one vegan dessert on your Thanksgiving table, make sure it's this recipe for vegan pumpkin pie [1]. Pumpkin pie is the quintessential Thanksgiving dessert after all!
Apple Pie
No Thanksgiving would be complete without a traditional and in-season apple pie. This vegan American apple pie [3] is full of spices that will remind guests of Fall, like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. So delicious, they'll be sure to come back for a second slice!
Pecan Pie
Since Thanksgiving dessert is all about the pies, make sure your spread has a pecan pie, too. This recipe for vegan pecan pie [5] is so delicious, it will probably fool your dairy-friendly friends.
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
You can't have pie without a little ice cream! Treat your vegan guests to this recipe for cashew cream vanilla bean ice cream [7]. Naturally sweetened with a touch of maple syrup, this ice cream is also great on its own sans pie.
Pumpkin Custard
Who says custard can't be vegan? This vegan pumpkin custard [8] is a cross between crème brulée and traditional pumpkin pie filling, but with a slightly creamier texture. A great alternative for people who don't really dig on pie. (Besides, it's so heavenly that you won't miss the crust!)
Apple Cranberry Crisp
For a seasonal dessert filled with Fall flavors, crisp topping, and pumpkin pie spice, try this vegan apple crisp [9]. Not only is this recipe dairy-free, but it's also low in fat and high in manganese, an antioxidant that aids in digestion and fatigue — preventing that Turkey Day food coma!
Sweet Potato Pie With Coconut Cream
For a Southern dish that is slightly sweeter than pumpkin pie, make this vegan sweet potato pie [10]. Loaded with nutrients and dairy-free substitutes like coconut oil, this recipe is a lighter twist on the traditional pie without compromising taste.
Pumpkin Bread Pudding
If you're looking for a waistline-friendly dessert, we suggest this dairy-free pumpkin bread pudding [11]. This vegan recipe is a cinch to make (just throw all the ingredients into a bowl before baking) and low in calories!
Vegan Pumpkin Cheesecake
If you're vegan or lactose intolerant, try this vegan pumpkin cheesecake. The "cheese" is completely dairy-free, made from cashews, but still full of flavor. With no baking required, it is easy to whip up — just watch this video [12]!
— Additional reporting by Emily Bibb