Deciding on the perfect wedding dessert (or desserts!) can be a challenging task. From choosing cake flavors and selecting other desserts such as cookies, candy, or doughnuts, there's a lot to decide on. And if you’re keeping specific dietary preferences or needs in mind, it can be even trickier.
For those who follow a vegan diet, it may seem impossible to find delicious vegan wedding desserts. But luckily, there are many bakers out there who specialize in vegan wedding cakes, along with other vegan treats, making it possible to still enjoy an incredibly sweet treat while celebrating your nuptials.
A couple planning to serve vegan desserts should first look for an expert vegan baker. “Couples will be serving guests that aren't vegan, so it’s important to choose a bakery that knows how to make a product that’s close to the real thing,” says Johannah Zuniga, owner of Dream Cakes. For many desserts, there may be simple swaps that can be made such as utilizing vegan butter, non-dairy milk, and substitutes for eggs. For others, it’s more complicated, making it vital to sample desserts from multiple bakeries to choose the best fit. “It's really important to know that the product you are about to potentially spend a lot of money on is top-notch for you and your guests,” says Meagan Benz, co-owner of Crust Vegan Bakery.
Meet the Expert
- Meagan Benz is the co-owner of Crust Vegan Bakery, a vegan bakery in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
- Johannah Zuniga is the owner of Dream Cakes, a bakery based in Portland, Oregon.
If you’re only planning to serve cake, consider how big of a vegan cake is actually needed. “We offer a vegan cutting cake for the couple—and the few guests that are vegan—and regular cake for the rest of the guests,” says Zuniga. And as for cake flavors? Generally, you’ll still be able to find a wide range. “I always try and encourage clients to get their favorite flavors from their tasting as well as something more traditional and classic if they are going with two different cake options,” says Benz. Chocolate can always be a great, approachable option, and often, many people can’t tell it’s even vegan.
As for other dessert options? If a dessert table is your vision, work with your baker to determine an entirely vegan menu or mix and match between vegan and non-vegan options. Brownies, cheesecakes, cookie sandwiches, and s’mores bars can all be made vegan with the right tweaks. It’s all about making adjustments without having to give up on the idea of dishing out great wedding desserts.
Below, find 12 ideas for vegan wedding desserts to consider adding to your menu.
Cut a Vegan Cake
Stick with tradition and opt for a vegan wedding cake. But before you confirm with your baker, consider how much cake you actually need. You may want a multi-tiered cake that's entirely vegan. However, if only you and your partner are vegan, and the rest of your guests aren't, choosing a single-tiered vegan cake just for you to cut and eat may be the best fit.
Put Together a Candy Bar
Want to skip cake, cupcakes, and cookies altogether? Put together a candy bar so guests can make up the perfect mixture of sweet treats. Popular candies such as Sour Patch Kids, Twizzlers, and Skittles are all vegan. Plus, you can find vegan chocolates to add to the mix as well.
Get Cozy With Fruit Crisps
Fruit crisps such as apple and peach are typically made with fresh fruit as the base paired with a topping of flour, sugar, butter, and oats. The good news? The butter can easily be substituted for a vegan option, making it possible to put together the most adorable, comforting dessert.
Make a Macaron Tower
Want an alternative to a cake while still making a statement? It is in fact possible to make vegan macarons. Work with your baker to select your flavor, and then plan to put together a stunning display. We love the way a single color commands attention, but you could also mix and match flavors and colors.
Choose Dairy-Free Cones
A simple and sweet idea? Mini ice cream cones! Select your favorite vegan ice cream flavor, or incorporate a selection of flavors. Chocolate, raspberry oat, or vanilla bean are sure to be a welcome treat on a warm day.
Decorate Rice Crispy Treats
Hoping to include a nod to your childhood? Dress up these classic treats and swap non-vegan ingredients for vegan-friendly products. You can even find dairy-free chocolate options to decorate them for the occasion.
Celebrate With Shortbread
Obsessed with the floral shortbread trend? Don't miss out on it! Shortbread can often be made vegan by utilizing vegan butter. Work with your baker to find the best fit for your needs, and select stunning blooms to match the rest of your aesthetic.
Bake Brownies
Craving comfort food? It's still doable with a vegan diet! Vegan brownies can absolutely still be on your dessert menu—and many guests may even say they're better than the regular version. Put together a display on a cake stand and dress it up with greenery and blooms for a lovely look.
Choose Popsicles
For a summer wedding, consider popsicles. These can be served during cocktail hour, or displayed in a pretty bucket filled with ice. They're generally vegan and come in a variety of flavor choices for a no-fuss option.
Let Fresh Fruit Shine
Fruits can be the star of the show with a plant-based diet, and there are so many delicious ways to prepare different fruits for plated desserts. We love the idea of a grilled fruit option, such as peaches, paired with a handcrafted sorbet for a sophisticated dessert to round out an incredible vegan meal.
Include Chocolate Covered Oreos
It's hard to believe, but Oreos are vegan, making them a favorite snack for many. Why not choose this popular treat, but dress them up for the occasion? Dip Oreos in vegan white chocolate and decorate them with gold detailing for a sophisticated take on this classic cookie.
Mix Up Milkshakes
Want a late-night sweet for your reception? Add vegan milkshakes to the menu! Mix them up with ingredients such as dairy-free ice cream, fresh fruit, sorbet, and dairy-free milks. From classic chocolate and vanilla to even peanut butter and pumpkin, the flavor options are endless.