Usually, desserts are made with dairy products to bring in flavor and comfort. But that does not mean every dessert carries dairy. We have friends who are not fans of dairy products due to various reasons. This article is a helping guide for them to the space of dairy-free desserts with Canadian influence.
1. Maple Pecan Pie
Everything in Canada is connected with maple syrup somehow. A classic pecan pie made with this liquid gold is the perfect way to enjoy a slice of bread or even a pie. You can swap out the traditional butter for a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil. Non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk can be used to keep the pie creamy and flavorful. The Maple pecan pie is perfect for any special occasion.
2. Dairy-Free Nanaimo Bars
This is an all-time favorite Canadian dessert typically made with butter. But since we are looking at dairy-free desserts we can use a plant-based butter for the base, and replace the custard powder filling with a mix of powdered sugar, dairy-free butter, and a splash of vanilla extract. Also, we can use dairy-free chocolate chips melted with a little coconut oil. You have a perfect dairy-free dessert with a Canadian twist.
3. Coconut Maple Snow Candy
This one is inspired by the maple taffy which is a traditional and conventional food for Canadians during the sugaring-off season. This dairy-free dessert is easy and super fun to make. You need maple syrup, fresh snow and crushed ice. You should heat the syrup until it becomes lava-thickened and pour it over the snow or ice making a chewy, delicious candy. You can also sprinkle some shredded coconuts or cashews on top before it settles.
4. Apple Crisp with Oat Topping
A comforting fall dessert that is ideal is a warm apple crisp. Use a plant-based margarine or coconut oil as a dairy-free substitute for butter in the oat topping. Scoop in some nutmeg and cinnamon, and drizzle some maple syrup over the apples to make them sweeter. For the ultimate comfort treat, serve it hot with a scoop of vanilla ice cream that is free of dairy.
5. Dairy-Free Butter Tarts
A Canadian classic, butter tarts are delicious even without butter! Use vegetable shortening to make a flaky, dairy-free pie crust. Then, whisk together dairy-free butter, brown sugar, and a touch of vanilla to make the filling. That flaky crust and gooey, sweet center will still be there, but there will be no dairy.
These dairy-free desserts are very easy to make and have all the right Canadian twists. This is proof that you don’t need dairy to enjoy a good, sweet, and delicious dessert with your family. If you like to learn more about desserts check out the best food blogger in Canada.
