For those with a persistent sweet tooth who refuse to compromise their fitness goals, the search for a ‘clean’ dessert often ends in disappointment. However, model, actor and content creator Vandana Pandit Nidadavolu may have just found the holy grail of healthy indulgence. Also read | Kala chana protein brownies recipe that’s ‘healthy and seriously delicious with each serving packing in 24 g of protein’
In an Instagram video shared on March 14, Vandana unveiled her recipe for a ‘vegan, gluten-free, refined sugar-free tiramisu made with simple ingredients’. The recipe aims to provide a nutrient-dense alternative to the classic Italian dessert without the heavy mascarpone or processed sugars.
The ‘healthier’ biscuit base
Unlike traditional ladyfingers made with refined flour and eggs, Vandana’s version uses ragi flour, a gluten-free millet known for its high calcium and fibre content.
“Mash the banana well,” Vandana instructs, serving as the natural sweetener for the base – add ragi flour and baking powder and mix. Add water gradually until a smooth batter forms. To achieve the classic tiramisu structure, she advises people to ‘pipe or spread the batter onto a lined baking tray in finger shapes’. The biscuits are then baked at 180°C for 15 minutes until set.
The heart of a tiramisu is its cream. To keep it vegan and refined-sugar-free, Vandana swaps heavy cream for a cashew blend with natural sweeteners. The assembly follows the traditional method but with a mindful twist. To ensure the ragi biscuits maintain the right texture, she suggests a quick soak. For the best results, she recommends a final chill, advising dessert lovers to ‘refrigerate for at least 60 minutes before serving’.
Why this recipe can work for you
This recipe addresses three major concerns for healthy eaters: refined sugar, gut health, and satiety. It uses bananas and honey/maple syrup to reduce its glycemic impact, incorporates ragi, which is easier on the digestive system for those with gluten sensitivities, and the healthy fats from the cashews mean you’ll feel satisfied with a smaller portion compared to traditional, sugar-heavy desserts. Whether you are a seasoned vegan or just someone trying to ‘eat clean’ while enjoying the finer things in life, this simple take on a classic is a must-try.
Here is Vandana’s step-by-step recipe for ‘vegan, gluten-free, refined sugar-free tiramisu’:
Ingredients and instructions for biscuits
• 1 ripe banana
• ½ cup ragi flour
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• Water (to adjust consistency)
Mash the banana well. Add ragi flour and baking powder and mix. Add water gradually to form a smooth batter (like shown in the reel). Pipe or spread the batter onto a lined baking tray in finger shapes (as shown in the video). Bake at 180°C for 15 minutes. Let them cool.
Ingredients and instructions for cashew cream
• ½ cup cashews (soaked in hot water for 20 minutes)
• 3 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• ½ tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp vanilla essence
• A pinch of salt
Blend everything until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Assembly
• ½ cup espresso or strong instant coffee
• Cocoa powder for dusting
Dip the biscuits lightly in coffee. Layer biscuits and cashew cream in a bowl. Repeat the layers and finish with a dusting of cocoa powder on top.
Refrigerate for at least 60 minutes before serving
