21 Tofu Desserts So Good You’ll Want To Eat The Whole Pan


Updated: 18 Jun 2023

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21 Tofu Desserts

Forget everything you thought you knew about tofu – these sweet treats turn the savory staple into a tofu dessert recipe wonderland. From decadent chocolate mousse to light and fluffy cakes bursting with fruit flavor, we’ve transformed the humble soybean into 21 mind-blowing confections.

One taste of our creamy no-bake blueberry cheesecake or our rich peanut butter brownies and you’ll see why these magical desserts are in a class of their own. So expand your culinary horizons and dive spoon-first into the best tofu recipes that will astonish your senses and leave your whole family begging for more!

What is tofu?

Tofu is a jiggly, gelatinous ingredient with an identity crisis – it can transform into anything! Made from creamy soy milk curds pressed into solid white blocks, this chameleon food soaks up flavors like a sponge.

Tofu goes sweet or savory, blending into smoothies and shakes as easily as tacos and stir-fries. Seemingly bland on its own, add spices, sauces, or seasonings and mild-mannered tofu becomes a superhero protein able to mimic cheesy, eggy, or meaty flavors and textures with its magical blank canvas quality. This incredible soy shapeshifter fools even the most discerning palates.

Why use tofu in desserts?

More than a savory staple, tofu’s blank canvas quality allows sweet mix-ins to transform it into luscious no-bake cheesecakes, airy chocolate chiffon cakes, and other delightful dairy-free desserts. From texture to taste, tofu’s chameleon-like abilities give it a magical new life in the realm of sweet confections.

21 Tofu-Based Dessert Recipes

1. Tofu Chocolate Mousse

Tofu Chocolate Mousse

Transport your tastebuds to decadent chocolate bliss with this luscious yet wholesome tofu mousse. Creamy sprouted tofu whips into rich dark chocolate luxury studded with bits of cherry.

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz sprouted silken tofu, drained
  • 1⁄3 cup blackstrap molasses
  • 1⁄3 cup dark cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp real vanilla bean seeds
  • 1⁄8 tsp Himalayan pink salt
  • 1⁄3 cup chopped Rainforest Alliance-certified chocolate
  • 1⁄4 cup chopped organic cherries

Instructions:

  1. Place the drained tofu into a food processor or blender. Blend until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
  2. Add in the cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend again until combined.
  3. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or on the stovetop, then mix into the blended tofu mixture.
  4. Pour mousse into 4-6 small serving dishes and smooth the tops.
  5. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, until chilled and set.
  6. Garnish with berries or whip coconut cream before serving if desired. Enjoy this rich and fudgy plant-based mousse!

2. Berry Tofu Smoothie

 Berry Tofu Smoothie

This refreshing smoothie is a perfect breakfast or snack on the go. Frozen mixed berries, bananas, and vanilla tofu get blended into a creamy, fruity drink.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup frozen mixed berries
  • 1 medium banana, sliced
  • 1/2 cup vanilla-flavored silken tofu
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1 tbsp. Honey

Instructions:

  1. Add all the ingredients to a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth consistency with no large fruit chunks.
  3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

3. Tofu Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping

Tofu Cheesecake with Strawberry Topping

This easy no-bake cheesecake uses silken tofu for a smooth, creamy texture. Topped with juicy strawberries, it’s a fresh and fruity dessert.

Ingredients:

For Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 5 tbsp.tbsp melted butter

For Filling:

  • 12 oz. silken tofu
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1 tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 cups sliced strawberries

Instructions:

  1. Mix graham crumbs with melted butter and press firmly into a pie dish to form the crust.
  2. Blend filling ingredients except strawberries in a food processor until smooth.
  3. Pour filling over the crust and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  4. Top with sliced strawberries before serving.

4. Tofu Coconut Pudding

Tofu Coconut Pudding

Creamy coconut milk and smooth tofu create this rich, dairy-free pudding. Top with tropical mango for a flavorful treat.

Ingredients:

  • 1 package silken tofu (12 oz)
  • 1 can coconut milk (13.5 oz)
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 2 tbsp. lime juice,
  • 1/2 tsp. vanilla
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup mango chunks

Instructions:

  1. Blend tofu, coconut milk, sugar, lime juice, vanilla, and salt in a blender until very smooth.
  2. Divide pudding between 4 ramekins or small bowls.
  3. Chill for at least 2 hours.
  4. Top with mango chunks before serving.

5. Peanut Butter Banana Tofu Popsicles

 Peanut Butter Banana Tofu Popsicles

These creamy popsicles taste just like a peanut butter and banana sandwich in frozen dessert form.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe banana
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup vanilla soy milk
  • 1/2 cup silken tofu
  • 2 tbsp. honey

Instructions:

  1. Slice the banana and add to a blender with the remaining ingredients. Blend until smooth.
  2. Pour into popsicle molds. Add popsicle sticks and freeze until solid, at least 4 hours.
  3. Run molds under warm water to remove them before eating.

6. Tofu Lemon Bars

Tofu Lemon Bars

These tangy, refreshing bars have a shortbread crust with a bright, lemony tofu filling. The perfect balance of sweet and tart

Ingredients:

For Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups flour
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For Filling:

  • 12 oz. silken tofu
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 2 tbsp. lemon zest
  • 2 tsp. vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Mix crust ingredients and press into an 8×8 pan. Bake for 15 minutes.
  2. Blend filling ingredients until smooth. Pour over the hot crust.
  3. Bake for 20 more minutes. Chill before cutting into bars.

7. Chocolate Peanut Butter Tofu Pie

Chocolate Peanut Butter Tofu Pie

Creamy peanut butter and chocolate come together in this easy no-bake pie with a tofu base. A crowd-pleasing flavor combo!

Ingredients:

For Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups Oreo cookie crumbs
  • 3 tbsp. melted butter

For Filling:

  • 12 oz. silken tofu
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Mix cookie crumbs and melted butter; press into a pie pan to form a crust.
  2. Blend filling ingredients until completely smooth.
  3. Pour filling into crust and chill pie for at least 2 hours before serving.

8. Tofu Chocolate Avocado Mousse

Tofu Chocolate Avocado Mousse

This rich mousse is dairy-free, with extra creaminess from avocado. A healthy chocolate dessert that’s full of flavor

Ingredients:

  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 12 oz. silken tofu
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 1 tsp. vanilla

Instructions:

  1. Scoop avocado flesh into a blender. Add remaining ingredients.
  2. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
  3. Spoon mousse into 4 small bowls or ramekins.
  4. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

9. Vegan Tofu Brownies

Vegan Tofu Brownies

These fudgy brownies are egg-free thanks to the magic of tofu! Top with chocolate chips or nuts for extra decadence.

Ingredients:

  • 1 block of firm tofu
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp. vanilla
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Blend tofu, sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
  2. Add cocoa, flour, baking powder, and salt. Blend briefly to combine.
  3. Fold in chocolate chips, then pour batter into a greased 8×8 pan.
  4. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool before cutting.

10. Baked Tofu Donuts with Glaze

Baked Tofu Donuts with Glaze

These baked donuts are perfectly moist with a sweet glaze. A healthy breakfast treat or snack!

Ingredients:

For Donuts:

  • 1 block of firm tofu
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup applesauce
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • 1 1/2 cups flour
  • 2 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp. cinnamon
  • Pinch of nutmeg

For Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tbsp. soy milk

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Blend tofu, sugar, applesauce and vanilla.
  2. Mix in flour, baking powder, cinnamon and nutmeg.
  3. Spoon into a greased donut pan and bake for 10-12 minutes.
  4. Whisk powdered sugar and soy milk for the glaze. Dip donuts and enjoy!

11. Chocolate Tofu Pudding

Chocolate Tofu Pudding

Rich, chocolatey, and dairy-free, this easy stovetop pudding is ready in minutes. Silken tofu lends a smooth, creamy texture.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups unsweetened soy milk
  • 1/3 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp. cornstarch
  • Pinch of salt
  • 8 oz. silken tofu

Instructions:

  1. Whisk soy milk, cocoa, syrup, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until thickened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Remove from heat and blend in tofu until smooth and creamy.
  3. Divide between 4 bowls and chill for 1 hour before serving.

12. Tofu Banana Bread

 Tofu Banana Bread

This classic quick bread gets a nutrition boost from protein-rich tofu. The perfect treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack

Ingredients:

  • 1 block of firm tofu
  • 1/2 cup mashed banana (about 1 large)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp. coconut oil, melted
  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 1 3/4 cups flour
  • 1 tsp. baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a blender, puree tofu, banana, syrup, oil, and vanilla until smooth.
  2. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt.
  3. Add wet ingredients to dry and mix just until combined.
  4. Pour batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes.

13. Tofu Pumpkin Pie

Tofu Pumpkin Pie

This classic fall dessert uses silken tofu for a perfectly smooth, creamy filling with fewer eggs and dairy.

Ingredients:


For Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 5 tbsp. melted butter

For Filling:

  • 1 15oz can pumpkin puree
  • 12 oz. silken tofu
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Mix the crust and press into a pie dish. Bake for 8 minutes.
  2. Blend filling ingredients until smooth. Pour into a hot crust.
  3. Bake for 45 min. Chill for at least 2 hours before slicing.

14. Strawberry Tofu Ricotta Cream

Strawberry Tofu Ricotta Cream

This bright dip or spread tastes just like the classic Italian ricotta but uses tofu instead of dairy. Perfect with fresh strawberries or on toast.

Ingredients:

  • 15 oz. extra firm tofu
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup chopped strawberries

Instructions:

  1. Drain and crumble the tofu in a food processor. Add lemon juice, oil, garlic, and salt.
  2. Process until completely smooth and creamy.
  3. Fold in chopped strawberries. Chill for 1 hour before serving.

15. Tofu Key Lime Pie

Tofu Key Lime Pie

A refreshing lime pie with a crisp Graham cracker crust and smooth, tangy tofu filling Top with whipped coconut cream.

Ingredients:


For Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 5 tbsp. melted coconut oil

For Filling:

  • 14 oz. silken tofu
  • 1/2 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • Zest of 2 limes
  • Pinch of salt

For Topping:

  • 1 can full-fat coconut milk, chilled

Instructions:

  1. Mix the crust and press into a pie dish. Bake at 350°F for 8 minutes.
  2. Blend filling ingredients until smooth. Pour into the crust. Chill pie for at least 2 hours.
  3. Whip chilled coconut milk into stiff peaks. Top the pie with whipped cream before serving.

16. Tofu Frosting & Cupcakes

Tofu Frosting & Cupcakes

Fluffy vanilla cupcakes made extra moist with tofu are topped with a creamy chocolate tofu frosting.

Ingredients:

For Cupcakes:

  • 1 block of firm tofu
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups flour
  • 2 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For Frosting:

  • 8 oz. silken tofu
  • 1/3 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 tsp. vanilla

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Blend the first 4 cupcake ingredients. Mix in flour, baking powder and salt.
  2. Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full and bake for 20 minutes until done.
  3. For frosting, blend ingredients until smooth—pipe onto cooled cupcakes.

17. Tofu Fudge

Tofu Fudge

This rich chocolate fudge has a smooth, creamy texture thanks to the addition of silken tofu. A crowd-pleasing treat!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 8 oz. silken tofu
  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp. sea salt

Instructions:

  1. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave. Mix in peanut butter and maple syrup until smooth.
  2. Blend in tofu, vanilla, and salt until fully incorporated.
  3. Pour fudge into a parchment-lined dish and refrigerate for 1 hour until firm. Cut into squares.

18. Vegan Tofu Tiramisu

Vegan Tofu Tiramisu

This dairy-free version of the Italian classic uses tofu instead of mascarpone. Coffee-soaked ladyfingers layered with creamy vanilla and cocoa

Ingredients:

  • 16 oz. silken tofu
  • 2 tbsp. maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp. vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp. cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
  • 24 ladyfingers

Instructions:

  1. Blend tofu, syrup, and vanilla until very smooth. Transfer half to a shallow dish and mix in cocoa powder.
  2. Dip ladyfingers in coffee, then layer in a dish with vanilla and cocoa mixtures to create rows.
  3. Chill for 2 hours before slicing and serving.

19. Tofu Fruit Custard

Tofu Fruit Custard

This easy stovetop custard is thickened with cornstarch and eggs and replaced by protein-packed tofu for a creamy texture.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups plain soy milk
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 3 tbsp. cornstarch
  • Pinch of salt
  • 8 oz. silken tofu
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • 2 cups mixed fruit like mango, berries, or peaches

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, whisk soy milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Heat over medium, stirring often, for 5 minutes until thick.
  2. Remove from heat. Blend in tofu and vanilla until smooth.
  3. Divide among 4 bowls. Top with fruit before serving.

20. Tofu Napoleon with Raspberries

Tofu Napoleon with Raspberries

Layers of creamy vanilla and chocolate tofu mousse between crispy puff pastry, topped with fresh raspberries

Ingredients:

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
  • 8 tbsp. silken tofu
  • 2 tbsp. maple syrup
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • 2 tbsp. cocoa powder
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Cut the pastry into 3 long rectangles. Bake for 15 minutes until crispy.
  2. Make vanilla mousse by blending tofu, syrup, and vanilla. Make chocolate mousse by blending tofu, syrup, vanilla, and cocoa powder.
  3. Stack alternating layers of vanilla mousse, chocolate mousse, and puff pastry on a plate. Top with fresh raspberries.

21. Vegan Tofu Ice Cream

Vegan Tofu Ice Cream

Creamy coconut milk and smooth tofu make the perfect base for dairy-free ice cream. Customize it with your favorite flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 2 (13.5 oz) cans coconut milk
  • 16 oz. silken tofu
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp. vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Refrigerate cans of coconut milk overnight. Scoop out solid cream into a blender, reserving liquid.
  2. Add tofu, syrup, and vanilla to the blender. Blend until completely smooth.
  3. Add reserved coconut water as needed to blend.
  4. Pour into an ice cream maker and process according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Tips for Using Tofu in Dessert

1. Choose the Right Tofu Texture

  • Silken tofu works best in smooth desserts like mousse, pudding, and custard. It is creamy and smooth.
  • Firm or extra-firm tofu is better for baking cookies, cakes, or brownies. It holds its shape when mixed with other ingredients.

2. Balance Flavors

  • Tofu has a mild, nutty flavor. Pair it with bold ingredients like chocolate, peanut butter, lemon, and coconut.
  • Add extracts like vanilla or almond to give tofu desserts more flavor.
  • Sweeten with maple syrup, honey, or fruit puree instead of sugar.

3. Replace Eggs and Dairy

  • In baking, substitute sub-silken tofu for eggs. Use 1/4 cup tofu per egg.
  • Use soft tofu in place of ricotta, mascarpone, or cream cheese for fillings.
  • Replace milk or cream with soy, almond, or coconut milk beverages.

4. Experiment with Textures

  • Blend tofu smooth or leave chunks in batters for varied textures.
  • Mix ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, fruit, or crushed cookies.
  • Top pies, cakes, and puddings with crunchy elements like nut brittle and toasted coconut.

5. Chill and Garnish

  • Chill tofu desserts for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to blend.
  • Garnish with fruits, drizzles, nuts, or whipped coconut cream before serving.

Conclusion

With its supernatural ability to absorb flavors and mimic textures both airy and rich, tofu reveals epic sweet side powers perfect for making delightful dairy-free desserts. One mouthwatering bite will have you looking at tofu’s unassuming blocks in a whole new way.

So go on – leap into the uncharted dessert territory of this incredible plant protein. Blend up a creamy peach pie smoothie, whip together lemon cupcakes light as clouds, or try your hand at coconut kanafah.

Through these magical recipes, discover just how ingeniously tofu’s blank canvas quality can transform into luscious bites beyond your wildest imagination!

FAQs

Can you turn tofu into dessert?

You bet! With some sweet ingredients and creativity, tofu transforms into luscious cakes, creamy pudding, frosty ice cream, and more mouthwatering treats.

What does tofu add to desserts?

Tofu has a smooth, creamy texture and a neutral base that takes on other flavors easily. It adds nutrition from protein, calcium, and iron that sweets often lack.

Is tofu just for savory Asian food?

Not at all! Although great in stir fries, tofu can also become sweet pie, chocolate mousse, cheesecake and so much more. It’s a dessert game-changer.

Can you bake with tofu?

Absolutely! Blended silken tofu makes great no-bake fillings. Firm tofu can be baked into cakes, brownies, and breads for moisture. Get baking!

Is unflavored tofu sweet?

Plain tofu has a mild, nutty taste. It needs sweeteners like chocolate, fruit, maple syrup, or vanilla to taste dessert delicious. But with the right ingredients, it shines in sweets.

Can you replace eggs and dairy with tofu?

Yes! Silken tofu can stand in for eggs in baking. Soft tofu substitutes nicely for cream cheese or ricotta in fillings and frostings.

Is dessert tofu healthy?

Desserts made smartly with tofu deliver extra nutrition from protein, minerals, and other compounds found in soy. A sweet treat that’s good for you!


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Sam Walker

Sam Walker

Hey there, I'm Sam and I'm thrilled to share my passion for Japanese cuisine and cooking here at Hibachi Foods. Our chefs expertly grill up hibachi favorites like fried rice and noodles right at your table. We also serve fresh, hand-rolled sushi every day. Beyond the restaurant, I share quick and easy recipes to help you cook delicious Japanese food at home using everyday ingredients. With my tips, anyone can cook flavorful teppanyaki and sushi - no fancy skills needed!

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