9.2 Vegan Baking - Vegan Baking Explained

Key Concepts

• Substitution of Animal Products
• Texture and Structure
• Flavor Enhancement
• Baking Techniques
• Common Vegan Ingredients

Substitution of Animal Products

Vegan baking involves replacing animal products with plant-based alternatives. Common substitutions include:

• Eggs: Replaced with flax eggs (flaxseed meal and water), chia seeds, applesauce, or commercial egg replacers.
• Milk: Replaced with almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
• Butter: Replaced with coconut oil, margarine, or vegan butter.
• Cream and Cheese: Replaced with coconut cream, silken tofu, or vegan cream cheese.

Example: In a vegan chocolate cake, replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and butter with coconut oil.

Texture and Structure

Achieving the right texture and structure in vegan baked goods requires careful consideration of ingredient ratios and interactions. Key factors include:

• Binding Agents: Flax eggs and chia seeds provide binding properties similar to eggs.
• Moisture Levels: Applesauce and mashed bananas add moisture without the need for eggs.
• Fat Content: Coconut oil and vegan butter contribute to a tender crumb.

Example: For a vegan banana bread, use mashed bananas to add moisture and binding, and coconut oil for richness.

Flavor Enhancement

Flavor enhancement in vegan baking often involves using natural sweeteners, spices, and extracts. Common techniques include:

• Sweeteners: Use maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar for natural sweetness.
• Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract add depth and complexity.
• Citrus Zest: Lemon or orange zest can brighten flavors in cakes and cookies.

Example: In a vegan carrot cake, use maple syrup for sweetness, and add cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract for rich flavors.

Baking Techniques

Baking techniques for vegan recipes may differ slightly to achieve the desired results. Key techniques include:

• Creaming Method: Cream vegan butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Veganizing Recipes: Adjust cooking times and temperatures as needed, as vegan ingredients may behave differently.
• Testing for Doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester to check for doneness, as vegan baked goods may cook more quickly.

Example: When baking a vegan chocolate chip cookie, cream vegan butter and sugar, then add flax eggs and mix well before incorporating dry ingredients.

Common Vegan Ingredients

Familiarize yourself with common vegan ingredients to enhance your baking. Key ingredients include:

• Flaxseed Meal: Used to make flax eggs for binding.
• Coconut Oil: Provides richness and moisture.
• Almond Flour: Adds a nutty flavor and a tender crumb.
• Chia Seeds: Can be used to make chia eggs for binding.
• Vegan Chocolate: Use dairy-free chocolate chips or chunks.

Example: In a vegan chocolate chip cookie recipe, use almond flour for a nutty flavor and vegan chocolate chips for a rich taste.

Analogies

Think of vegan baking as a puzzle where each piece (ingredient) must fit perfectly to create a complete picture (baked good). Just as a painter uses different brushes and colors to create a masterpiece, a vegan baker uses plant-based ingredients and techniques to craft delicious treats.