There’s nothing quite like the rich, gooey decadence of a Snickers-inspired dessert, and this Vegan and Gluten-Free Snickers Tart Recipe captures all those indulgent flavors in a way that’s kind to your body and the planet. Combining a crunchy peanut crust, luscious date caramel, and a silky vegan chocolate ganache, this tart is a true celebration of texture and taste. Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions or just craving something truly delicious, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic Snickers flavor profile with a wholesome twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavor and textures. Each component serves a special purpose, whether it’s adding crunch, creaminess, or that rich chocolate finish.
- 1 Cup (170g) natural unsalted peanuts: Provides the nutty base and crunch for the peanut crust.
- ⅓ Cup (40g) oats: Adds chewiness and helps bind the crust.
- ⅓ Cup (35g) cocoa powder: Infuses deep chocolate notes into the crust.
- ½ Cup (100g) packed dates: Naturally sweetens and helps the crust hold together.
- ½ cup boiling water: Softens the dates and helps blend the crust ingredients smoothly.
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil: Adds richness and helps firm up the crust once chilled.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste: Brings warm sweetness to enhance all flavors.
- 2 cups (400g) packed dates without pits: Forms the caramel layer, giving that classic Snickers gooeyness.
- 6 tablespoons natural peanut butter: Deepens the caramel’s nutty richness.
- 2-5 tablespoons dairy-free cream: Adjusts the caramel’s creaminess and texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste: Brightens and balances the caramel.
- 1 cup (150g) roasted salted peanuts: Adds crunch and saltiness inside the caramel layer.
- ¾ cup (150g) vegan chocolate chips: Melts into the luscious ganache topping.
- ½ cup (125 ml) dairy-free cream: Makes the ganache silky and spreadable.
How to Make Vegan and Gluten-Free Snickers Tart Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Crust
Start by soaking your ½ cup of boiling water with the packed dates until they soften and get nice and sticky. Meanwhile, pulse the peanuts, oats, and cocoa powder in a food processor until they break down slightly but still retain some texture. Add the softened dates, coconut oil, and vanilla paste, then blend again until everything forms a thick, sticky dough. Press this mixture evenly into your tart pan to create the perfect crunchy base and chill it for at least 30 minutes so it firms up nicely.
Step 2: Whip up the Date Caramel
Next, place the pitted dates, peanut butter, dairy-free cream, and vanilla paste into a blender or processor and blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the cream quantity to get a luscious, spoonable consistency — it should be thick but spreadable. Fold in the roasted salted peanuts for that signature salty crunch, then spread this caramel generously over your chilled peanut crust.
Step 3: Make the Vegan Chocolate Ganache
Heat your dairy-free cream gently on the stove until simmering, then pour it over the vegan chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to melt the chocolate, then whisk until silky, glossy, and perfectly smooth. Pour this ganache over the date caramel layer and spread it evenly to cover the whole tart top. Place the tart back in the fridge for another hour to allow everything to set perfectly.
How to Serve Vegan and Gluten-Free Snickers Tart Recipe
Garnishes
A quick sprinkle of chopped peanuts or a drizzle of additional peanut butter on top adds an irresistible finishing touch. For an extra pop of color and a hint of freshness, consider topping with a few fresh berries or edible flowers. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and bring out the nutty, chocolaty goodness of the tart.
Side Dishes
This tart is a dessert star on its own, but pairing it with a refreshing cup of herbal tea or a creamy coconut yogurt can balance its richness beautifully. A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream also pairs wonderfully, adding a cold creaminess that contrasts with the dense layers of caramel and chocolate.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, consider serving slices of this tart on elegant dessert plates with a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or a light dusting of cocoa powder around the edges. You could also create mini tart versions for bite-sized indulgence at parties or layer deconstructed elements in clear glasses for a trendy dessert twist that still delivers every glorious flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your tart is made, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 5 days, allowing the flavors to deepen and the layers to meld in the best way possible. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent the ganache from absorbing any fridge odors.
Freezing
You can freeze slices of the tart for longer storage. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen, they can last up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to maintain that perfect texture.
Reheating
This tart is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you prefer a softer ganache, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it may affect the texture and make the crust too soft.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of peanuts?
Absolutely! While peanuts provide that classic Snickers flavor, almonds or cashews could work for the crust and caramel layers if you have allergies or want a different twist. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will shift accordingly.
Is it possible to make this tart nut-free?
This recipe heavily relies on peanuts for its signature taste and texture, so it’s not suited as a nut-free dessert. However, experimenting with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds might yield a similar crunch in the crust if nuts must be avoided.
What kind of dates work best for the caramel?
Medjool dates are ideal because of their size, sweetness, and soft texture, which blend into a smooth caramel effortlessly. Make sure your dates are fresh and moist for the best results.
Can I replace the oats with something else?
If you need a completely gluten-free option, certified gluten-free oats are best. Alternatively, rice flakes or quinoa flakes might work but will change the texture slightly. Avoid regular oats if gluten sensitivity is a concern.
How rich is the tart — is it too sweet?
The tart balances natural sweetness from dates with the saltiness of peanuts and bittersweet chocolate, creating a nuanced flavor that is indulgent but not overly sugary. The dairy-free cream helps mellow the richness for a smooth finish.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Vegan and Gluten-Free Snickers Tart Recipe will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also make you realize how easy and rewarding healthy baking can be. Whip it up for a special occasion or as a delightful treat anytime — it’s bound to become a favorite shared among friends and family. Dive in and share the love one delicious slice at a time!
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Vegan and Gluten-Free Snickers Tart Recipe
This Snickers Tart is a decadent, vegan, and gluten-free dessert featuring a rich peanut crust, luscious date caramel, and a smooth vegan chocolate ganache topping. Perfect for those craving a healthier twist on the classic Snickers candy bar, this tart combines natural ingredients for a delicious and satisfying treat.
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients
Peanut Crust
- 1 Cup (170g) natural unsalted peanuts
- ⅓ Cup (40g) oats
- ⅓ Cup (35g) cocoa powder
- ½ Cup (100g) packed dates
- ½ cup boiling water
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
Date Caramel
- 2 cups (400g) packed dates, pitted
- 6 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 2–5 tablespoons dairy free cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
- 1 cup (150g) roasted salted peanuts
Ganache Topping
- ¾ cup (150g) vegan chocolate chips
- ½ cup (125 ml) dairy free cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Peanut Crust: In a food processor, combine the peanuts, oats, cocoa powder, and packed dates. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Carefully add boiling water and process until combined. Add coconut oil and vanilla paste, then blend until you achieve a sticky dough consistency suitable for pressing into a tart pan.
- Assemble the Crust: Press the peanut crust mixture firmly and evenly into the base and slightly up the sides of a tart pan to form the tart shell. Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while preparing the filling.
- Make the Date Caramel: In a blender or food processor, add the pitted dates, natural peanut butter, vanilla paste, and 2 tablespoons of dairy free cream. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more cream, one tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach a spreadable consistency.
- Add Roasted Peanuts: Fold the roasted salted peanuts gently into the date caramel to add texture and flavor.
- Fill the Tart: Spread the date caramel mixture evenly over the chilled peanut crust. Place back into the refrigerator to set and firm up.
- Prepare the Ganache Topping: Heat the dairy free cream over low heat until warm but not boiling. Pour the warm cream over the vegan chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Top the Tart: Pour the ganache evenly over the date caramel layer, spreading gently with a spatula to cover the tart completely.
- Chill the Tart: Place the tart in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until the ganache topping is set and the tart is firm for easy slicing.
- Serve: Remove from the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Slice and enjoy this delicious vegan and gluten-free Snickers Tart.
Notes
- Ensure to use soaked or very soft dates for a smoother caramel texture.
- If desired, substitute roasted salted peanuts with unsalted and add salt to taste.
- The tart should be stored refrigerated and is best consumed within 3-4 days.
- Adjust dairy free cream quantity depending on desired caramel thickness.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top of the ganache before chilling.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Vegan, Gluten-Free
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
