Diwali, the festival of lights, is a time for joyous celebrations, family gatherings, and of course, indulging in delectable sweets. This year, embrace the spirit of the festival with a guilt-free twist – a delightful collection of vegan Diwali sweets! Forget the dairy and embrace the vibrant flavors of traditional treats, reimagined for a compassionate and delicious Diwali celebration. We’ve curated a selection of recipes that are not only free from animal products but also bursting with the authentic tastes you love. Expect rich textures, delightful aromas, and the same celebratory spirit, all without compromising on flavor.
This vegan Diwali sweets collection offers a variety of options to suit every palate, from classic favorites with a plant-based makeover to exciting new interpretations. Each recipe is carefully crafted to be easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. Ready to dive into the sweet magic? Let's begin with our step-by-step instructions for creating these incredible vegan treats!
Tools Needed
- loaf pan
- parchment paper
- knife
- spatula
- ableskiver pan or apple pan (for gulab jamuns)
- instant pot
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Vegan Barfi
- Make sugar syrup by boiling sugar, water, saffron, and salt until slightly thick . Cook for 2 more minutes .
- Add almond flour and vegan butter to the syrup . Mix well until lumpy and combined .
- Cook until mixture leaves the sides of the pan . Transfer to a parchment-lined loaf pan , press down, and even out .
- Press chopped pistachios or almond slivers on top . Slice while warm . Refrigerate for 15 minutes to cool completely before serving .
Step 2. Vegan Gulab Jamuns
- For Gulab Jamuns, mix the dry mix with non-dairy milk to form a dough . Fry or pan-fry until golden brown . Soak in sugar syrup . Keep them small and cook over low-medium heat to prevent cracking .
Step 3. Vegan Rasmalai
- For Rasmalai, soak soft cheese balls in cashew pistachio milk with saffron, cardamom, and optionally rose water . Let it soak overnight . Garnish with pistachios .
Step 4. Vegan Gajar Halwa
- For Gajar Halwa, in an Instant Pot on sauté, roast cashews in vegan butter . Add dates, raisins, or currants . Add carrots, sugar, salt, almond meal, and almond milk . Cook for 1 minute, then pressure cook for 6-7 minutes . Natural pressure release . Add cardamom, cook for 3-4 minutes . Garnish and serve warm or chilled .
Read more: Vegan Carrot Halwa: Easy Indian Dessert Recipe
Tips
- You can use other nut flours for the burfi, such as cashew or pistachio flour .
- The Gulab Jamun dry mix can be stored for months in the fridge .
- For even browning of Gulab Jamuns, deep fry them .
- The Rasmalai milk is delicious served on its own .
- Gajar Halwa can be made without nuts or on the stovetop .
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute ingredients in these vegan Diwali sweet recipes?
Yes! Many substitutions are possible. Check the individual recipe notes for suggestions, or feel free to experiment with similar plant-based alternatives based on your preferences and availability.
2. How long do these vegan Diwali sweets last?
Most of these sweets will last for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate them.
This Diwali, illuminate your celebrations with the warm glow of these delicious and compassionate vegan sweets. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the satisfaction of creating beautiful treats that are kind to both you and the planet. Happy Diwali!