Best Staples for Vegan Baking

If you're new to vegan baking, you may be wondering what basic ingredients you should have on hand to create delicious and healthy treats. The good news is that many vegan baking staples are affordable, easy to find, and versatile, making them perfect for a wide range of sweet and savory dishes.

Here are five base ingredients that every vegan baker should consider stocking up on:

1. Flour - Flour is a key ingredient in many baked goods, and there are several types that are suitable for vegan baking. Some of the most common types of flour used in vegan baking include all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, almond flour, and coconut flour. All-purpose flour is a great all-around flour that can be used for everything from cakes to cookies, while whole wheat flour is a healthier alternative that can add a nutty flavor to your baked goods. Almond flour and coconut flour are gluten-free options that work well in recipes that require a finer texture, such as macarons.

2. Plant-based milk - Plant-based milk is a great substitute for dairy milk in vegan baking. Some popular options include almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, and coconut milk. Almond milk is a great all-purpose milk that works well in most recipes, while soy milk is a good option for recipes that require a more robust flavor. Oat milk is great for adding richness and sweetness to your baked goods, and coconut milk can add a tropical flavor to your desserts.

3. Natural sweeteners - Vegan baking often relies on natural sweeteners like maple syrup, agave nectar, and coconut sugar. These sweeteners are healthier than traditional sugar and can add a unique flavor to your baked goods. Maple syrup is perfect for pancakes, waffles, and muffins, while agave nectar works well in cakes and cookies. Coconut sugar is a great all-purpose sweetener that can be used in everything from bread to granola.

4. Oil - Oil is a key ingredient in vegan baking, and there are several types that work well. Coconut oil is a popular option that can add richness and flavor to your baked goods, while canola oil is a neutral-tasting oil that can be used in most recipes. Olive oil is another option that can add a fruity flavor to your baked goods and is great for savory dishes like bread and pizza.

5. Baking powder and baking soda - Baking powder and baking soda are essential ingredients in vegan baking that help your baked goods rise and achieve a fluffy texture. Baking powder is a combination of baking soda, cream of tartar, and cornstarch, and is used in recipes that require a more delicate texture, such as cakes and muffins. Baking soda is a base that reacts with acidic ingredients to create carbon dioxide, which causes your baked goods to rise. It's perfect for recipes that require a denser texture, such as cookies and brownies.

These five ingredients are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to vegan baking, but they're a great starting point for anyone looking to create delicious and healthy baked goods. By stocking up on these staples, you'll be able to create a wide range of sweet and savory dishes that are sure to impress your friends and family. So go ahead, get baking, and enjoy all the delicious vegan treats that await!