Vegan Diet: What It Really Means and How It Affects Your Desserts

When you hear vegan diet, a way of eating that avoids all animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, and even honey. Also known as plant-based eating, it’s not just about skipping cheese—it’s about choosing foods that align with ethics, health, or environmental values. But here’s the thing: a vegan diet doesn’t automatically mean you’re getting everything your body needs. Many people jump into vegan desserts because they sound healthier, but then wonder why they feel tired, sluggish, or just plain off. That’s because desserts—no matter how plant-based—don’t fix nutrient gaps. You can eat a whole tray of vegan brownies and still be low on B12, iron, or omega-3s.

That’s where the real work begins. A vegan dessert, a sweet treat made without any animal ingredients like milk, butter, or eggs. Also known as dairy-free baking, it’s not just about swapping butter for coconut oil—it’s about understanding what those swaps leave out. Eggs give structure. Milk adds creaminess. Honey is a natural preservative. When you remove them, you’re not just changing flavor—you’re changing the science of baking. And if you’re not replacing the nutrients those ingredients provided, you’re setting yourself up for long-term issues. Studies show vegans are at higher risk for B12 deficiency, which affects energy, brain function, and even mood. Iron from plants isn’t absorbed as easily as from meat. Omega-3s? Most vegan sources like flaxseed don’t give you the same type your body uses directly. You need fortified foods or supplements to fill those holes.

That’s why the posts here aren’t just recipes. They’re fixes. You’ll find out why M&Ms, a popular chocolate candy that contains dairy despite looking like it might be vegan. Also known as non-vegan chocolate, it’s one of the most common traps for new vegans. You’ll learn which fruits come coated in beeswax or shellac—things you’d never guess are non-vegan. You’ll see why rice flour alone won’t make a good cake and how xanthan gum helps hold things together. You’ll even find out what nutrients you’re truly missing when you cut out dairy and eggs—and how to get them back without going back to animal products. This isn’t about perfection. It’s about awareness. You don’t have to be a nutritionist to bake well as a vegan. But you do need to know what’s missing from your plate. The posts below give you those missing pieces—clear, simple, and straight from real baking experience.