Indulgent and Guilt-free: The Ultimate Vegan Banoffie Pie Recipe

(recipe taken and adapted from Melissa Hemsley)

Banoffie pies in a glass - bite sized indulgence

Banoffie pie is a beloved classic dessert that perfectly merges the delightful tastes of banana, toffee, and whipped cream, all nestled within a crumbly crust. Traditional recipes often include dairy, refined sugars, and other ingredients that don’t fit into a vegan lifestyle. Thankfully, this recipe offers a delicious alternative that is completely vegan, dairy-free, plus gluten-free, and free from refined sugar, making it an indulgent yet guilt-free treat.

What Makes This Recipe Stand Out?

These vegan banoffie pies in a glass recipe truly shine because it's a perfect balance between indulgence and health. The sweetness comes entirely from natural sources, like dates, which are about 75% sugar, yet packed with nutrients. The creamy texture is achieved without any dairy, and the crust is made from wholesome ingredients. Whether you're aiming to impress guests or simply enjoy a sweet treat, this recipe checks all the boxes - delicious, healthy, and simple.

Ingredients You'll Need

• For the Crust Base:

- 180g nuts (almonds, pecans or walnuts)

- 2 tbsp of coconut oil

- Pinch of salt

- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• For the Toffee Filling:

- 200g pitted dates

- 180ml boiling water

- 1 1/2 tbsp almond butter or any other nut butter

- 2 tsp vanilla extract

- Pinch of sea salt

• For the Topping:

- 200ml plant based yoghurt (Or if you're being adventurous, 1 can of chilled coconut cream and 2 tbsp maple syrup)

- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

• For the Toppings:

- 2 ripe bananas, sliced

- Dark chocolate shavings (dairy-free)

Preparing the Crust Base

Begin by making the crust, which is the sturdy base for this delicious pie. In a food processor, blend together the almonds with the coconut oil, salt and cinnamon, until you achieve a crumbly texture. When you squeeze the mixture, it should hold its shape.

Press this mixture evenly into small glasses. I like to use cocktail glasses and spread the love as you get just enough of a bite sized amount of gorgeousness. But make sure it's packed tightly.

Chill the crust in the fridge while you move on to the toffee filling.

Making the Creamy Toffee Filling

For the toffee layer, soak the dates in the boiling water for 15 mins until softened. After which, place the mixture in the food processor, along with the nut butter and vanilla extract, and blend until smooth and creamy.

Pour the toffee mixture over the crust and then add the sliced bananas.

Preparing the Whipped Topping

If you're making you're own whipped cream, scoop out the solid top layer of the chilled can of coconut cream, into a mixing bowl, discarding the watery part. Use a hand mixer or whisk to whip the coconut cream until it is light and fluffy. Gradually add a bit of maple syrup and vanilla extract for flavour, mixing until well combined.

Or layer the yoghurt instead of the whipped coconut cream over the top of the toffee layers.

Final Touches

Now, it's time to add the finishing touches. Sprinkle dairy-free dark chocolate shavings for that rich finish.

Chilling and Serving

When their fully assembled, return them to the fridge. Let it chill for about an hour to allow the layers to firm up and blend beautifully.

Enjoy these bite sized layers of flavours and textures.

Nutrition Benefits

This vegan banoffie pie is not just a treat—it's packed with nutritional benefits.

• Dates: Rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, dates are a natural sweetener and provide essential energy. A serving of dates can offer 65% of your daily fibre needs.

  
  

• Coconut Cream: High in healthy fats, coconut cream brings a creamy texture and a hint of tropical flavour, delivering energy without the downsides of dairy.

  
  

• Nuts: Almonds are a fantastic source of protein, healthy fats, and important nutrients like vitamin E. Just a handful can contribute significantly to your daily protein intake.

  
  

This pie allows you to enjoy a delightful dessert while also feeling good about your choices, all without the guilt associated with traditional sweets.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Dessert does not need to compromise your dietary goals. This vegan, dairy-free, and no refined sugar banoffie pie recipe provides a classic favourite while supporting a healthier lifestyle.

With its luscious layers of creamy toffee, rich whipped topping, and fresh bananas, you can enjoy a treat that satisfies your sweet cravings without the guilt.

Perfect for gatherings or simple moments at home, bound to impress and keep you feeling great about indulging.

Happy baking!