What sweets can you eat as a vegan? This is a common question for those transitioning to a plant-based diet or simply exploring vegan-friendly options. Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious vegan sweets available that allow you to indulge without compromising your dietary choices. In this article, we’ll explore the variety of sweets you can enjoy as a vegan and provide some tips on finding and making your own vegan treats.
Why Choose Vegan Sweets?
Choosing vegan sweets offers a range of benefits, not just for your health but also for the environment and animal welfare. When considering what sweets you can eat as a vegan, it’s essential to understand that these treats are typically free from animal-derived ingredients like gelatin, dairy, and eggs. This makes them suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or allergic to certain animal products. Moreover, by opting for vegan treats, you can help reduce your carbon footprint and support more sustainable food production practices.
Naturally Vegan Sweets
If you’re wondering what sweets you can eat as a vegan, you’ll be pleased to know that many options are inherently vegan. For instance, dark chocolate, fruit-based candies like Skittles and Jelly Tots, and many types of licorice are naturally free from animal products. These sweets are not only delicious but also widely available, making them easy to incorporate into your diet.
1. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is often naturally vegan, provided it doesn’t contain milk solids. Furthermore, it’s a rich and satisfying option that can satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings. Brands like Chocolove and Green & Black’s offer excellent vegan-friendly dark chocolate bars.
2. Fruit-Based Candies
Candies like Skittles and Jelly Tots are popular choices that are surprisingly vegan. These sweets use fruit juices and other plant-based ingredients to deliver their fruity flavors without the need for gelatin or dairy. Thus, they are perfect for vegans who want to indulge in something sweet.
3. Licorice
Many licorice candies, such as Twizzlers and Red Vines, are also vegan. These chewy, sweet treats are made without gelatin, making them a safe choice for vegans.
Vegan-Friendly Commercial Sweets
In recent years, many candy manufacturers have started offering vegan options, responding to the growing demand for plant-based products. As a result, you can now find various top vegan-friendly sweets in stores:
1. Candy Kittens
These gourmet sweets are 100% vegan and come in a variety of flavors like Blueberry Bliss and Peach Fizz. They’re made with natural flavors and real fruit juice, making them a healthier option as well.
2. Fox’s Glacier Fruits
These classic hard candies are entirely vegan, offering a refreshing fruity taste without any animal products. Similarly, their ingredients are free from gelatin, ensuring that they are vegan-friendly.
3. Love Hearts
These iconic sweets have captured hearts for decades, and vegans can enjoy them too! Love Hearts are made without any animal-derived ingredients, making them a perfect vegan treat.
For a more extensive list of vegan-friendly sweets, you can explore this Vegan Candy List, which provides a comprehensive overview of available options.
Raw and Organic Vegan Sweets
For those who prefer a more natural approach, raw and organic vegan sweets offer a great alternative. Generally speaking, these treats are typically made with minimal processing and organic ingredients, providing a healthier option.
1. Raw Chocolate
Raw chocolate is made from unroasted cacao beans, thereby preserving more of the natural antioxidants and nutrients found in cacao. Brands like Loving Earth offer a range of raw chocolate bars that are vegan and organic.
2. Fruit Jerky
Fruit jerky, like Snact Apple & Raspberry Fruit Jerky, is made from 100% fruit and contains no added sugars or preservatives. It’s a chewy, satisfying treat that’s perfect for a midday snack. Moreover, it serves as a healthy alternative to processed sweets.
3. Raw Vegan Brownies
Raw vegan brownies are a popular homemade treat that can also be found in health food stores. Made from ingredients like nuts, dates, and cacao, these brownies are rich, fudgy, and entirely plant-based.
Homemade Vegan Sweets
Making your own sweets at home allows you to control the ingredients and ensure everything is 100% vegan. Moreover, homemade treats can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are some simple recipes to try:
1. Vegan Brownies
Vegan brownies are easy to make and require simple substitutions like flax eggs and dairy-free butter. Thus, they’re rich, chocolaty, and just as satisfying as traditional brownies.
2. No-Bake Vegan Cookies
No-bake vegan cookies are quick to prepare and don’t require any baking. Ingredients like oats, peanut butter, and maple syrup come together to create a delicious treat. In addition, they are a perfect option for those who want a quick, sweet fix.
3. Vegan Cupcakes
Vegan cupcakes are another easy-to-make dessert. By using plant-based milk and egg substitutes, you can create fluffy, moist cupcakes that everyone will love.
For more vegan baking ideas, check out our beginner’s guide to vegan baking, which provides tips and recipes for creating delicious plant-based desserts.
Finding Vegan Sweets Online and In Stores
Online Stores
Many online retailers specialize in vegan products, therefore making it easy to find a wide variety of vegan sweets. Websites like The Vegan Kind and Vegan Essentials offer a vast selection of vegan candies, chocolates, and baked goods.
In-Store Tips
When shopping in local supermarkets, look for labels that indicate the product is vegan. Moreover, many brands now clearly mark their products, making it easier for vegans to identify suitable options. If you’re ever in doubt, you can always refer to this guide to vegan sweets for tips on what to look for.
FAQs
Can vegans eat chocolate?
Yes, vegans can eat chocolate as long as it doesn’t contain milk or other animal-derived ingredients. Dark chocolate is often vegan, but always check the label to be sure.
Are all gummy candies non-vegan?
Not all gummy candies are non-vegan, but many do contain gelatin, which is derived from animal collagen. However, there are vegan gummy candies available that use plant-based gelling agents like agar-agar or pectin.
What are some common non-vegan ingredients in sweets?
Common non-vegan ingredients include gelatin, carmine (a red dye made from crushed insects), and certain types of sugar that are processed with bone char. Therefore, it’s important to read labels carefully to avoid these ingredients.
Can vegan sweets be healthy?
Vegan sweets can be healthier than their non-vegan counterparts, especially if they’re made with natural, whole-food ingredients. Nevertheless, they can still be high in sugar and should be enjoyed in moderation.
Conclusion
There’s a wide variety of vegan sweets available, from naturally vegan options to specially made vegan treats. Whether you’re looking for something store-bought or homemade, there’s no shortage of delicious sweets you can enjoy as a vegan. For more inspiration, explore our collection of vegan dessert recipes and discover even more ways to satisfy your sweet tooth while sticking to a plant-based diet.