Yes, you read that right! You can enjoy a lusciously sweet and decadent tiramisu that’s completely aligned with your whole-food, plant-based lifestyle. This isn’t just a healthier twist; it’s a reimagining of the classic dessert using a surprising ingredient that makes it both wholesome and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a delightful dessert or a guilt-free treat any time of day, this Whole Foods Tiramisu is your perfect answer.
Whole Foods Plant-Based Tiramisu
The Secret Whole Food Ingredient Revealed
Traditional tiramisu relies on ladyfingers or cake soaked in coffee, which often don’t fit into a whole-food, plant-based eating plan. Our recipe swaps these out with a revolutionary ingredient: whole-grain bread. Don’t knock it until you try it! When soaked in a maple-sweetened coffee mixture and layered with a rich, creamy cashew-based cream, the whole-grain bread transforms into a delightful, texturally perfect base for your tiramisu.
Why Choose Plant-Based Desserts?
Incorporating plant-based desserts into your diet is about balance and mindful indulgence. If you are following a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle, it’s about creating sustainable habits that support your wellness goals, without feeling deprived. Treats like this whole foods tiramisu become occasional joys that fit within a health-conscious approach, whether your goals are weight management, boosting energy levels, or simply enjoying delicious, wholesome food. This recipe proves that you can savor sweet treats while staying true to your health commitments.
Whole Foods Tiramisu Recipe: Step-by-Step
Ingredients:
- 9 slices whole-grain bread, crusts removed
- 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso, chilled
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, divided
- 1/8 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1/4 cup pitted dates
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions:
- Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the bread slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Place the baking sheet into a cold oven, then preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the oven reaches temperature, flip the bread slices and toast for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, until lightly crisp. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
- While the bread is toasting, prepare the coffee mixture. In a shallow bowl, combine the chilled coffee, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, and almond extract. Stir well to combine.
- Next, make the cashew cream. In a high-speed blender, combine the raw cashews, plant-based milk, pitted dates, the remaining 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, and lemon juice. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. You may need to scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Once the toasted bread is cool enough to handle, quickly dip each slice into the coffee mixture, ensuring both sides are moistened but not soggy.
- In an 8×8-inch glass baking dish, create the tiramisu layers. Start with a layer of coffee-soaked bread, followed by half of the cashew cream. Repeat with a second layer of bread and the remaining cashew cream.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the tiramisu to set and flavors to meld.
- Just before serving, slice the whole foods tiramisu into portions and dust generously with cocoa powder. Enjoy this plant-based twist on a classic!
Nutritional Highlights of Whole Foods Tiramisu
This whole foods tiramisu isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits compared to traditional versions. By using whole-grain bread and a cashew cream, you’re adding fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based protein to your dessert. Cashews are a great source of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health, and dates provide natural sweetness along with fiber and potassium. This dessert offers a more balanced nutritional profile, allowing you to indulge in a sweet treat while nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 8
Serving Size: 1
Calories: 212
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 169mg
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 9g
Protein: 8g
Ready to explore more quick and delicious whole-food, plant-based recipes? This recipe is featured in the 30-Minute Whole-Food, Plant-Based Cookbook, filled with over 100 recipes designed to bring healthy plant-based meals to your table in under 30 minutes! Order your copy today and discover the ease and joy of whole foods plant-based cooking.
