For those who’ve taken the step to going vegan, it’s sometimes hard to find baked goods that don’t contain butter, eggs, or dairy. Whether on holidays, birthdays, or just a day where you need to treat yourself to that much-needed brownie, it can be a challenge. The good news is there’s a growing demand for vegan dessert alternatives – in particular, for vegan baked goods. From food blogs to food trucks, we’ve found some of the most delicious pies (and even their recipes) that you just have to try.

Banoffee Pie is one of the most delicious pies (and if you have English friends, they won’t believe it’s vegan!). With a crust of almonds, oats, spices, sugar, and coconut oil, it takes only 20 minutes to make. Then the raw caramel toffee is dates, almond butter, lemon juice, and vanilla. The filler will make you salivate just thinking about it: coconut milk, bananas, and dark chocolate. Don’t forget to add the caramel toffee!

As simple to make as the original, Key Lime pie is a great summer dessert for picnics, the beach, birthday parties, and any other sun- loving festivity. This fresh vegan version is great and causes no regrets. Simply buy a pre-made gluten-free graham cracker crust, lime juice, cornstarch, agave nectar, non-dairy cheese or silken tofu, and vanilla; so simple and so tasty.

Who doesn’t love chocolate? For those of us that can resist the taste of coconut and chocolate, this treat is not to be missed! The smooth mousse-like filler is mostly dark chocolate that gains its texture with coconut milk and dates. Coconut whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes make great additions as well. When soaking dates to make the crust, a helpful hint is to soak them in a bowl for 30 minutes to soften.

Pumpkin pie squares are an easy snack or fun vegan version of the traditional pumpkin pie. The vegan filling is as tasty as the pie you are used to having on Thanksgiving, and you can replace the average cool whip with a delicious coconut cream. The crust is simply gluten-free graham crackers, coconut oil, and agave nectar. The pumpkin filler is a regular can of pumpkin puree, the same kind you buy for traditional pies, and maple syrup, coconut milk, and spices. Bake and be sure to let it set overnight.

 Here are a few techniques for how you can transform your favorite treats and pies into a vegan-friendly dessert:  Vegan cheeses can be used in cheesecakes.  Eggs can be replaced with a replacer, apple sauce, mashed bananas, or flax seeds.  There are many non-dairy milks (replacers such as oat, soy, and nut milk or rice milk. Tofu also makes a great dairy replacer, especially for mousses and creamy pies).  For honey or refined sugar, you can use unrefined cane juice, agave nectar, maple syrup, or date juice.  To replace butter and unhealthy oil in baked goods, you can substitute oil with a 1:1 ration of apple sauce. For cookies, use apple juice instead.  To reduce or replace gluten, use coconut flour; it has high fiber and protein benefits.

When purchasing or baking vegan pies and baked treats, remember that, in most cases, you’re replacing less healthy ingredients with ones of high nutritional content that are of natural origins. Using organic oils, non-gluten flour, and natural sweeteners such as agave nectar allow you to enjoy your dessert without regret.

Website: Fresh 'n Lean (888) Sources: s-vegan-pies-you-should-try/ We are happy to help you!