3cupsmixed berriesfresh or frozen (e.g., blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
2tbspcornstarch
¼cupgranulated sugaror maple syrup
1tbsplemon juice
For the Topping:
½cuprolled oats
½cupall-purpose flour(gluten-free blend optional)
¼cupbrown sugarpacked
¼cupvegan buttercold and cubed
½tspground cinnamon
Pinchsalt
Dessert 3: Peanut Butter Energy Bites
1cuprolled oats(gluten-free if preferred)
½cupnatural peanut buttercreamy or crunchy
⅓cupmaple syrupor agave
¼cupmini vegan chocolate chips
1tbspchia seeds
1tspvanilla extract
Pinchsalt
Instructions
Dessert 1: Decadent Chocolate Avocado Mousse
Step 1: Combine Ingredients. In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the pitted and scooped avocado flesh, unsweetened cocoa powder, maple syrup (or agave), plant-based milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Step 2: Blend until Smooth. Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the blender/processor as needed to ensure no lumps remain.
Step 3: Chill and Serve. Spoon the mousse into individual serving glasses or ramekins. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up. Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves before serving, if desired.
Dessert 2: Quick Berry Crumble
Step 1: Prepare Oven and Dish. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Berry Filling. In a large bowl, gently toss the mixed berries with cornstarch, granulated sugar (or maple syrup), and lemon juice until the berries are evenly coated. Pour the berry mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Crumble Topping. In a separate medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Add the cold, cubed vegan butter. Using your fingers or a pastry blender, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the berry mixture in the baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the berry filling is bubbly and thickened. Let the crumble cool slightly before serving warm.
Dessert 3: Peanut Butter Energy Bites
Step 1: Combine Ingredients. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, natural peanut butter, maple syrup (or agave), mini vegan chocolate chips, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Step 2: Mix Thoroughly. Mix all ingredients thoroughly with a spoon or your hands until everything is well combined and a firm, sticky, dough-like consistency is formed.
Step 3: Roll into Bites. Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls, approximately 1-inch in diameter. Place the energy bites on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Chill and Store. Refrigerate the energy bites for at least 15 minutes to allow them to firm up. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
For the Chocolate Avocado Mousse, ensure your avocados are very ripe for the best creamy, smooth texture. You can adjust the sweetness to your preference. The Quick Berry Crumble is wonderfully versatile; feel free to use any combination of fresh or frozen berries you have on hand. A scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream makes it extra special! The Peanut Butter Energy Bites are highly customizable; try adding shredded coconut, ground flax seeds, or chopped nuts for added texture and nutrients. All these desserts can be prepared ahead of time, with the Mousse and Bites storing well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, and the Crumble best enjoyed within 2-3 days.