What desserts do not have dairy?

Many popular desserts can be made without any dairy at all. Some common dairy-free sweets include fruit sorbet, coconut milk pudding, almond flour brownies, chia seed pudding, and vegan chocolate mousse. Recipes that use plant-based ingredients like oat milk, coconut cream, or avocado offer delicious alternatives. You can explore plenty of these in our curated list of dairy free dessert recipes perfect for all skill levels.

What sweets don't contain dairy?

Sweets without dairy include a wide range of options, from dark chocolate bars (labeled dairy-free) and nut-based energy balls to fruit leather, oatmeal cookies made with coconut oil, and even banana "ice cream." If you’re following a specific diet or have allergies, many dairy free dessert recipes can be tailored to be nut-free, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free too.

Is Cool Whip dairy-free?

Cool Whip may appear dairy-free at first glance, but it actually contains casein, a milk derivative. While it's technically lactose-free, it’s not suitable for those avoiding dairy entirely. Instead, try alternatives like So Delicious CocoWhip or Reddi-wip’s non-dairy coconut and almond varieties. These pair perfectly with dairy free dessert recipes like fruit parfaits or icebox cakes.

What can lactose intolerants eat for dessert?

People with lactose intolerance can enjoy a wide variety of desserts made with plant-based ingredients. Coconut milk ice cream, almond-based cheesecakes, oat milk brownies, and avocado mousse are just a few examples. You’ll find dozens of dairy free dessert recipes designed specifically for those avoiding lactose while still enjoying indulgent, flavorful sweets.

Dairy Free Dessert Recipes: The Best 25+ Delicious & Easy Ideas

Name: Irresistible Dairy Free Dessert Recipes You’ll Love (Even If You’re Not Lactose Intolerant)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup almond butter; ¼ cup maple syrup; ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons almond milk (or oat milk); Pinch of sea salt; Optional: ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract, dairy-free chocolate chips or walnuts

Description

These quick dairy-free brownies are rich, fudgy, and made with just a handful of clean, plant-based ingredients. Perfect for when you’re craving something sweet but want to skip the milk and butter, this one-bowl recipe comes together in under 25 minutes. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and packed with chocolatey goodness, it’s a go-to treat for anyone following a vegan, gluten-free, or lactose-free lifestyle. No fancy equipment. No hard-to-find ingredients. Just simple, satisfying brownies made the dairy-free way.

Ingredients

Scale

½ cup almond butter
¼ cup maple syrup
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tablespoons almond milk (or oat milk)
Pinch of sea salt
Optional: ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract, dairy-free chocolate chips or walnuts

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a small baking dish (8×8 or loaf pan) with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix almond butter and maple syrup until smooth.
Add cocoa powder, almond milk, and salt. Stir until fully combined. The batter will be thick.
Fold in optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
Spread mixture evenly in the baking dish.
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the center is set.
Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or store chilled.

Notes

Texture Tip: For cakier brownies, add 1 extra tablespoon of almond milk. For fudgier texture, bake closer to 15 minutes and let cool completely before slicing.
Nut-Free Option: Replace almond butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini for an allergy-friendly version.
Sweetener Swap: You can use agave or date syrup in place of maple syrup, though this may slightly change the flavor.
Add-Ins: Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped walnuts, dairy-free chocolate chips, or shredded coconut for added texture.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. These also freeze well for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 180 kcal
Sugar: 9 g
Sodium: 60 mg
Fat: 13 g
Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10.5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 13 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 5 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: dairy free dessert recipes, dairy free brownies, vegan brownies, gluten free chocolate dessert, clean eating treats