festive Plant-Based Holiday Treats for All

Festive Plant-Based Holiday Treats for All

Festive Plant-Based Holiday Treats for All

These delightful Plant-Based Holiday Treats are a celebration of the season, combining the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger with the sweetness of maple syrup and the heartiness of oats. Perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings, these treats are not just delicious but also cater to diverse dietary preferences, making them a fantastic addition to any festive table. The flavor profile is sweet and slightly spiced, while the texture is chewy with a satisfying crunch from the nuts and seeds.

Recipe Overview

This recipe is special because it brings together seasonal flavors in a way that is accessible and enjoyable for everyone, whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just looking for a healthier dessert option. These treats are perfect for Christmas parties, New Year’s celebrations, or any festive occasion where you want to spread some cheer with delicious food.

Prep and Cook Times

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Skill Level: Beginner

Serving Information

This recipe yields about 12 treats. They can be served as-is or paired with a dollop of vegan whipped cream or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence. Consider garnishing with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or crushed nuts for added visual appeal.

Ingredients List

  • 1 cup (100g) rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup (60g) almond Flour (or any nut flour)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut oil, melted (or any neutral oil)
  • 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (75g) chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans) or seeds (e.g., pumpkin, sunflower)
  • 1/2 cup (80g) dried fruit (e.g., cranberries, raisins) – optional

Substitutions: For a gluten-free version, ensure that the oats are certified gluten-free. You can also swap almond flour with oat flour or any gluten-free flour. For a nut-free option, replace nuts with extra seeds.

Equipment List

  • Mixing bowls (1 large and 1 medium)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet (preferably lined with parchment paper)
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Oven mitts
  • Cooling rack (optional)

Note: If you don’t have a baking sheet, you can use a 9×9-inch (23x23cm) baking dish instead; just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to heat while you prepare the mixture.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Stir until well combined.
  3. Combine wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Combine mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated. The mixture should be moist and slightly sticky.
  5. Add nuts and fruits: Fold in the chopped nuts and dried fruit (if using) until evenly distributed.
  6. Scoop onto baking sheet: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. They will firm up as they cool.
  8. Cool: Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Technique Tips and Troubleshooting

Mixing Technique: Be careful not to overmix the batter; just stir until combined for a tender texture. If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of plant-based milk to help it come together.

Common Issues: If your treats spread too much while baking, try refrigerating the mixture for 15 minutes before scooping onto the baking sheet. This helps keep them from spreading too thin.

Plating and Presentation

To serve, arrange the treats on a festive platter. You can dust them lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted dark chocolate for an elegant touch. Fresh berries or a sprig of mint can add a nice pop of color!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. These treats are best enjoyed at room temperature; however, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a warm, fresh taste.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize your treats! You can add spices like cardamom or allspice for a different flavor profile. For a chocolatey twist, mix in some vegan chocolate chips or cocoa powder. You can also experiment with different nuts and seeds based on what you have on hand.

Notes on Ingredients and Equipment

Oats are the star of this recipe; make sure they are fresh for the best flavor. If you’re unsure about the almond flour, any nut or seed flour will work well. For the baking sheet, a non-stick option will help prevent any sticking, but parchment paper is highly recommended for easy cleanup.

Final Touches and Personal Notes

This recipe holds a special place in my heart as it was inspired by my family’s holiday gatherings, where we always made sure there was something sweet for everyone to enjoy. I encourage you to experiment with the ingredients and make this recipe your own—add your favorite spices or swap in seasonal fruits. Happy baking!

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Don’t hesitate to share your tweaks and tips in the comments!

Marcella
Marcella

Marcella Gucci embodies a warm, inviting, and adventurous spirit. Her tone is friendly yet knowledgeable, blending passion for culinary exploration with a genuine love for travel. She communicates with enthusiasm, inspiring her audience to embrace new flavors and cultures.

As the founder of Travel Foodie, Marcella is a culinary enthusiast and globe-trotter. With a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for diverse food cultures, she curates experiences that connect people through the universal language of food. Marcella’s mission is to transform culinary dreams into reality, guiding her audience on a delectable journey around the world.

Travel Foodie where culinary curiosity meets wanderlust! This site is your passport to a world of flavors, offering a delightful mix of travel tips, authentic recipes, and immersive culinary experiences. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply looking to spice up your kitchen, we will serves up inspiration and tasty tidbits that will leave you hungry for more. Bon appétit!

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