Hey Alexa, play “Christmas Cookies” on Spotify.
It feels like every December brings a flurry of holiday treats — cozy bakes to share with family, sweet gifts for friends, and those nostalgic recipes we pull out year after year. And while the past few seasons have reminded us that traditions can shift and gatherings can change, one thing hasn’t: the joy of creating something delicious, intentional, and compassionate for the people we love.
This year, we’re celebrating that joy with 21 plant-based holiday desserts that prove festive sweets don’t need dairy or eggs to shine. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering, dropping off goodies for friends, or simply treating yourself after a long day of holiday prep, these plant-powered desserts bring extra cheer, warmth, and flavor to any celebration.
So lean into the magic of the season, savor the simple moments, and enjoy plant-based holiday desserts that are kinder to animals, gentler on the planet, and irresistible to your taste buds — because plant-based baking is where the real holiday magic happens.
1. 5-Ingredient Peppermint Patty
One of the easiest dessert recipes I’ve seen, these peppermint patties can be a fun thing to make with kids!
2. Snickerdoodles
Snickerdoodles are synonymous with the holiday season, so we had to include them in this recipe roundup!
3. Chocolate Orange Cake
Drool-worthy. Get the recipe.
4. Plant-Based Eggnog
No eggs in this eggnog!
5. Jam Tarts
Tasty, pretty, and perfect, we need these jam tarts on our holiday menu!
6. Fluffy 1-Bowl Sugar Cookies
Not only is this cookie recipe easy, but you can decorate the cookies for the holiday you celebrate!
7. Sweet Potato Pie
Can we have two pieces of the sweet potato pie, please? YUM!
8. Mexican Hot Chocolate
Perfect for any chilly winter night, but Mexican hot chocolate is especially wonderful during the holidays.
9. German Chocolate Cake Frosting Truffles
These do take some time, so we recommend preparing the truffles in advance!
10. Panna Cotta with Brown Sugar Sauce
Two words: more please! Make the panna cotta now.
11. Gingerbread Cookies
Did you think you’d make it through this list without a gingerbread cookie recipe?!
12. Plant-Based Eggnog Donuts
Believe it or not, these donuts only take about 30 minutes to make!
13. Panforte
A traditional Italian Christmas cake, this sweet, nutty dessert dates back to the 13th century!
14. Chocolate Peppermint Mousse
I would eat this chocolate peppermint mousse every night if I could.
15. Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Put a dollop of ice cream on a piece of this tropical cake, and we’re sold!
16. Candy Cane Meringue Kisses
You could be the next Great British Baking Show’s “Star Baker” with this meringue recipe!
17. Jam Donut Cupcakes
A twist on classic jelly doughnuts, you’ll want to save some of the jam donut cupcakes before your guests eat them all!
18. Danish Butter Cookies
What’s the holidays without Danish butter cookies? Bonus points if you put them in a holiday tin (that your mother will eventually use for sewing needles and thread…. Just me then? OK!).
19. Black Forest Arctic Roll
Cake and ice cream in one? This black forest arctic roll is two gifts in one!
20. Dairy-Free Eggnog Cheesecake
This eggnog cheesecake recipe is delicious and refreshing and pairs well with coquito!
21. 1-Bowl Chocolate Hazelnut Cake
Chocolate and hazelnuts are always a winning combination!
Looking for holiday main courses for your special gathering? Check out these 15 plant-based holiday recipes.