The Perfect Vegan Dessert
- Completely Vegan & Dairy-Free – Made with plant-based ingredients.
- Perfect for Special Occasions – Stunning presentation for Valentine’s Day.
- Easy to Make Ahead – Prepare in advance for a stress-free dessert.
This recipe is the perfect way to impress your loved one while keeping it completely plant based. Try these mini strawberry mousse cakes for a show-stopping Valentine’s Day treat! They’re dairy-free, egg-free, and bursting with flavor—perfect for a romantic celebration or a special treat!
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake Base:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- ½ cup coconut sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- ¼ cup coconut oil (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
For the Vanilla Cream Layer:
- 1 ½ cups-soaked cashews (soak for at least 4 hours)
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ½ cup coconut cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (melted)
For the Strawberry Mousse:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled)
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp agar-agar powder
- ½ cup coconut yogurt
- 1 tsp lemon juice
For the Strawberry Glaze:
- ½ cup strawberry jam
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water)
Garnish:
- Fresh strawberries, halved
- Vegan meringue kisses (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Base
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and baking powder.
- Add almond milk, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar. Mix until smooth.
- Pour batter into the baking tray and bake for 15-18 minutes. Let cool completely before cutting into small round bases using a cookie cutter.
Step 2: Make the Vanilla Cream Layer
- Blend soaked cashews, maple syrup, coconut cream, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and melted coconut oil until smooth.
- Spread an even layer over the chocolate cake rounds. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Mousse
- In a saucepan, heat strawberries and maple syrup over medium heat until soft.
- Blend until smooth, then return to the saucepan. Stir in agar-agar and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and fold in coconut yogurt and lemon juice.
- Pour over the vanilla layer and chill for 2 hours until set.
Step 4: Add the Strawberry Glaze
- Heat strawberry jam and lemon juice in a small pan.
- Add cornstarch mixture and stir until thickened. Let cool slightly.
- Spread over the mousse layer and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Decorate & Serve
- Top each cake with fresh strawberry halves and vegan meringue kisses.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your elegant vegan sweet treat or Valentine’s Day dessert!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best natural sweetness.
- Chill each layer properly to ensure the cakes hold their shape.
- Make ahead – These cakes store well in the fridge for up to 3 days.