A delightful aroma wafts through the kitchen as I pull my tray of Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos from the oven. This blissful twist on a childhood favorite offers something truly special—each roll features a soft chocolate Swiss cake filled with a luscious cashew vanilla filling that melts in your mouth. Not only are these treats packed with rich chocolate goodness, but they’re also entirely plant-based and gluten-free, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Whether you’re preparing for an afternoon snack or hosting friends, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they can be made ahead and stored for a quick sweet fix anytime. Who wouldn’t want a slice of happiness that’s both satisfying and healthy? Ready to learn how to make your own batch?
Why Are Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos Awesome?
Pure Indulgence: Treat yourself to the ultimate chocolate experience with these Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos. Each bite is rich and flavorful, combining nostalgic childhood memories with modern dietary needs.
Easy to Make: The step-by-step instructions ensure you can whip these up without any fuss, perfect for both novice and seasoned chefs looking to impress.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve these at parties, and they’ll be the talk of the table! Everyone will be eager to try a chocolate treat that fits into their dietary preferences.
Versatile Options: Customize your filling or toppings! Try using different non-dairy milk or sweeteners to create your unique version that suits your taste.
Guilt-Free Pleasure: Enjoy the decadent flavors without compromising your values—these Ho Hos are 100% vegan and gluten-free, allowing everyone to indulge without worry!
Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos Ingredients
For the Filling
• Raw Cashews – Provides creaminess and richness; remember to soak overnight for optimal texture.
• Coconut Cream – Adds creaminess; may substitute with full-fat coconut milk if needed.
• Maple Syrup – Acts as a natural sweetener; feel free to substitute with agave syrup.
• Melted Coconut Oil – Contributes richness; can be replaced with a neutral vegetable oil.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; always opt for pure extract for the best taste.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the filling’s flavor; can be omitted if you prefer a more subtle taste.
For the Cake
• White Rice Flour – Provides structure and stability; can substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour.
• Brown Rice Flour – Adds a nutty flavor; other gluten-free flours can be used but may impact texture.
• Tapioca Starch – Offers elasticity and chewiness; can swap with arrowroot starch if needed.
• Coconut Sugar – Sweetens the chocolate roll; brown sugar serves as a suitable alternative.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Imparts a rich chocolate flavor; make sure not to substitute with sweetened cocoa.
• Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Essential for leavening; ensure they are fresh for best results.
• Xanthan Gum – Important for elasticity in gluten-free baking; can be swapped with guar gum at double the amount.
For the Batter
• Almond Milk – Provides moisture to the mix; can easily replace it with any non-dairy milk.
• Applesauce – Adds moisture and a touch of sweetness; mashed banana can also be used in its place.
For Dipping
• Dark Chocolate for Dipping – Creates a delicious coating; aim for 70% dark chocolate or higher for richness, and consider mixing with cocoa butter for a thinner shell.
These Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos ingredients come together to create a beautifully balanced chocolate treat that’s not only indulgent but also aligns with your dietary preferences!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos
Step 1: Prepare Vanilla Cream Filling
Begin by blending your soaked cashews, coconut cream, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a high-speed blender. Process until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Once done, transfer the vanilla cream to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 5 hours, or overnight, to allow it to firm up to the perfect piping consistency.
Step 2: Bake Chocolate Roll
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the white rice flour, brown rice flour, tapioca starch, coconut sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and xanthan gum until well combined. Gradually add almond milk, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and applesauce, stirring until the batter is smooth. Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared pan and bake for about 16 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 3: Assemble Ho Hos
Once the chocolate roll has cooled for about 5-10 minutes, carefully remove it from the pan using the parchment paper edges. Cut the cake into 12 equal squares, each roughly the size of your hand. Spread a thin layer of the chilled vanilla cream filling on each square. Tightly roll each square from one end to the other, ensuring the filling is secure inside, and place the rolled Ho Hos in the refrigerator to firm up for about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Dip in Chocolate
While the filled Ho Hos chill, melt dark chocolate (and cocoa butter, if using) in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth. Once melted, remove the rolls from the refrigerator and dip each one into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off and place the Ho Hos on a lined baking sheet to cool completely, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
What to Serve with Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos
Indulging in these chocolatey delights opens up a world of delightful pairings that elevate your dessert experience.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries adds a refreshing contrast that brightens the sweetness of the Ho Hos.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: This light, fluffy alternative enhances the creaminess without overpowering the chocolate. Perfect for those who love a little extra indulgence!
- Mint Tea: The cool, refreshing flavor of mint tea complements the rich chocolate, providing a soothing end to your meal.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy non-dairy vanilla ice cream serves as a luscious accompaniment that melts beautifully alongside the rolls.
- Chai Latte: The warm spices in a chai latte balance the sweetness of the Ho Hos, creating a cozy pairing perfect for any occasion.
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle: For those who can’t get enough chocolate, a simple drizzle of dark chocolate adds an elegant touch and amplifies the richness.
- Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy granola on top offers a delightful texture contrast, making each bite even more satisfying.
- Espresso: The bold flavor of a shot of espresso cuts through the sweetness, creating a decadent combination that coffee lovers will appreciate.
- Almond Milk: A chilled glass of unsweetened almond milk provides a smooth, nutty backnote that refreshes the palate beautifully.
Variations & Substitutions for Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos
Feel free to play around with these delicious twists on the classic Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos recipe!
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Nut-Free Cream: Swap out the cashew cream with thick coconut cream or a nut-free cream cheese spread for a nut-free option. This maintains the lusciousness while catering to those with nut allergies.
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Dairy-Free Chocolate: If you’re looking for a sweeter coating, consider using dairy-free white chocolate chips mixed with a little cocoa powder. It adds a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate roll!
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Alternative Flours: If you don’t have white rice flour, try using gluten-free all-purpose flour to give your Ho Hos the right structure without compromising texture.
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Flavor Infusion: Boost the flavor by adding a splash of almond or mint extract to the vanilla cream filling. These subtle variations can transform your Ho Hos into a uniquely flavored dessert.
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Sweetener Swaps: Replace maple syrup with agave syrup for a different sweetness profile. Each sweetener brings its own character, so feel free to experiment!
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Texture Twists: For a crunchier experience, fold in some mini vegan chocolate chips or nuts into the vanilla cream filling before spreading. This adds an exciting texture contrast.
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Fruity Enhancement: Consider mixing in finely chopped fresh strawberries or raspberries into the vanilla cream for a delightful berry surprise within the roll. The fruit pairs beautifully with the chocolate!
Gather your ingredients and let your creativity run wild! With these substitutions and variations, your Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos can be uniquely yours while still delivering that blissful chocolatey goodness everyone loves.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos
Fridge: Store your Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Ho Hos wrapped individually in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container. They can keep well for up to 2 months.
Thawing: To enjoy, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving, allowing the flavors to come back to life.
Reheating: If you’d like to enjoy them warm, gently heat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat, as this may melt the chocolate coating.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the vanilla cream filling up to 24 hours in advance by blending the soaked cashews, coconut cream, and other ingredients, then refrigerating it overnight to ensure a smooth texture. Additionally, you can bake the chocolate roll ahead of time and store it (wrapped in plastic wrap) at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to assemble, simply cut the cooled cake into squares, spread the filling, roll them up, and refrigerate for 30 minutes before dipping in chocolate. This way, you’ll have delightful treats on hand for whenever you need a sweet fix, saving you time on busy nights!
Tips for the Best Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos
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Soak Cashews: Soaking cashews overnight ensures a creamy filling. Skipping this step may lead to a grainy texture that won’t pipe well.
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Check Freshness: Make sure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh. Old leavening agents can compromise the cake’s rise, leading to a dense roll.
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Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to easily lift the cake out post-baking. This prevents sticking and maintains the cake’s shape.
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Proper Cooling: Allow the chocolate roll to cool slightly before cutting. A warm roll can break apart, making it difficult to achieve the perfect squares for rolling.
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Chill Before Dipping: Refrigerating the assembled Ho Hos for about 30 minutes before dipping in chocolate helps keep the filling intact, preventing spills during the coating process.
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Mind the Coating: For the best results, let your melted chocolate cool slightly. A cooler temperature helps achieve a thinner, smoother chocolate shell on your Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos.
Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos Recipe FAQs
What type of cashews should I use for the filling?
Absolutely, it’s best to use raw cashews for the cream filling. They must be soaked overnight for optimal creaminess and richness. Avoid roasted or salted cashews, as they can alter the flavor and texture of your filling.
How can I store Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos?
To keep your Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they are wrapped individually to maintain their freshness and prevent them from sticking together.
Can I freeze Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos?
Yes! For longer storage, freeze the Ho Hos individually wrapped in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
What should I do if my chocolate coating is too thick?
If you find your chocolate coating is too thick, consider mixing in a small amount of cocoa butter for a thinner consistency. This will help create a smoother coating. Additionally, letting the melted chocolate cool slightly before dipping can help it achieve the right texture.
Are these Ho Hos safe for people with nut allergies?
While these Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos are predominantly plant-based, they do contain cashews. For a nut-free option, substitute the cashew filling with a thick coconut cream or a nut-free cream cheese spread. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they’re safe for your dietary needs.
Delicious Vegan Gluten-Free Ho Hos for Chocolate Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend soaked cashews, coconut cream, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a high-speed blender until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 5 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Whisk together flours, tapioca starch, coconut sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and xanthan gum. Gradually add almond milk, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and applesauce until smooth. Spread batter and bake for about 16 minutes.
- Once cooled for 5-10 minutes, cut the cake into 12 squares. Spread a thin layer of cream filling on each square, roll tightly, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
- Melt dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Dip each roll in the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place on a lined baking sheet to cool completely for 15-20 minutes.
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