Looking for a festive, adorable, and entirely plant-based dessert to impress your guests this spooky season? These Vegan Caramel Meringue Ghost Tarts are exactly what your Halloween dessert table needs. With a crisp biscuit base, rich caramel center, and fluffy vegan meringue piped into cute little ghosts, they’re equal parts eerie and irresistible.
Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party, prepping classroom treats, or simply want to indulge in a creative and wholesome vegan Halloween treat, this dessert is sure to cast a sweet spell over everyone who tries it.
Table of Contents
Why These Vegan Halloween Tarts Are a Spooky Sweet Treat
These ghost tarts are the ultimate Halloween dessert because they combine festive fun with high-end presentation and thoughtful ingredients. They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free—but you’d never guess it from the texture and flavor.
Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
- Completely plant-based and gluten-free
- No refined sugar in the biscuit or caramel
- Adorably ghost-shaped and perfect for Halloween
- Layers of flavor: buttery crust, creamy caramel, and fluffy meringue
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
They look like they came straight from a bakery but are surprisingly easy to put together at home!
Who These Vegan Caramel Meringue Tarts Are Perfect For
These spooky-sweet vegan Halloween desserts are ideal for:
- Parents looking for a kid-friendly, allergen-conscious dessert
- Vegan or dairy-free households
- Gluten-free party guests
- Halloween party hosts seeking themed yet elegant treats
- Anyone wanting to try a raw vegan Halloween treat alternative with no compromise on taste
They’re also a fun weekend project for bakers of all ages—and a hit with anyone who loves sweet, gooey caramel.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Vegan Caramel Meringue Ghost Tarts
Each component is made from scratch using clean, vegan-friendly ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Biscuit Base:
- 180g (1 ½ cups) gluten-free oats
- 2 tablespoons almond flour
- 2 tablespoons coconut sugar
- 4 tablespoons melted coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1–2 tablespoons plant-based milk (as needed)
For the Vegan Caramel:
- 100g (about ½ cup) smooth almond butter
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1–2 tablespoons plant milk (for thinning)
For the Vegan Meringue Ghosts:
- ½ cup aquafaba (liquid from a can of chickpeas)
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ¾ cup icing sugar (sifted)
- Black vegan food gel or melted dark chocolate for ghost faces
Optional for Decoration:
- Edible glitter or Halloween sprinkles
- A touch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the crust for warmth
Kitchen Equipment Needed for Halloween Vegan Tarts
To bring these vegan caramel meringue ghost tarts to life, you’ll need:
- Food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Tartlet pans or mini tart molds
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Piping bag and round tip (for ghost shapes)
- Baking tray
- Spatula and measuring tools
If you’re in the Halloween spirit, you might also enjoy our Halloween Slime Popcorn for a fun snack alongside these tarts.
How to Make Vegan Caramel Meringue Ghost Tarts: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Biscuit Base
In a food processor, pulse the oats into a coarse flour. Add almond flour, coconut sugar, coconut oil, and maple syrup. Blend until it forms a sticky dough. If too dry, add plant milk a tablespoon at a time.
Divide the dough into tartlet pans, pressing into the base and sides evenly. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until golden. Let cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegan Caramel
In a small bowl, whisk together almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Add a splash of plant milk to loosen the texture if needed. Spoon the caramel into the cooled tart shells and smooth out the tops.
Chill in the fridge for 20–30 minutes to set.
Step 3: Whip the Vegan Meringue
In a clean bowl, add the aquafaba and cream of tartar. Using an electric mixer, whip until foamy. Gradually add the sifted icing sugar while beating on high until stiff peaks form—this may take 8–10 minutes.
Transfer meringue to a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
Step 4: Create the Ghosts
Pipe meringue on top of each tart, forming tall ghost shapes. Use black vegan food gel or melted dark chocolate to dot on eyes and spooky mouths.
Chill again until ready to serve. The meringue holds well for several hours but is best served the same day.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Meringue and Caramel Every Time
- Use room-temperature aquafaba: It whips up faster and better than cold.
- Chill the crusts before baking: This prevents shrinking.
- Don’t overmix the caramel: Stir gently to keep it smooth.
- Pipe the meringue tall and steady for defined ghost shapes.
Want more seasonal vegan recipes? Try our Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl for a comforting fall twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Vegan Halloween Tarts
- Under-whipping the aquafaba: Be patient—stiff peaks take time.
- Oily caramel: Use smooth almond butter and stir gently.
- Too much moisture in the base: Add milk slowly to avoid soggy dough.
- Crust sticking to pans: Line pans or use non-stick tart tins.
Serving and Presentation Ideas for Vegan Halloween Treats
These ghost tarts are a showstopper, so plate them with style:
- Serve on a black platter with Halloween-themed decor
- Dust with powdered sugar for a ghostly effect
- Add spooky sprinkles or edible glitter
- Plate individually with mini forks for a party-friendly vibe
Planning a full dessert table? Add our No Bake Pumpkin Pie Balls and Buffalo Cauliflower Bites to balance sweet and savory.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips for Vegan Caramel Ghost Tarts
These tarts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored:
- In the fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Make ahead: Prep the crust and caramel a day in advance and pipe meringue before serving
- Freezer-friendly? Not ideal due to the aquafaba meringue texture
If transporting, chill first to keep them stable in transit.
Delicious Pairings for a Vegan Halloween Dessert Table
Round out your spooky menu with:
- Halloween Slime Popcorn
- Mini Taco Cups for savory bites
- No Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake
- Cucumber Mint Agua Fresca for a refreshing sip
Ingredient Substitutions and Allergen-Friendly Variations
Need to make adjustments? Try these:
- Nut-free: Swap almond butter for sunflower seed butter
- Oat-free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or rice flour in the base
- Low-sugar: Use monk fruit sweetener in place of icing sugar
- No coconut? Use vegan butter instead of coconut oil
These tips also work great if you’re making other vegan gluten free Halloween recipes for a diverse crowd.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Halloween Recipes
Can I use store-bought crusts?
Yes, just ensure they’re vegan and gluten-free if needed. It saves time!
Will the meringue hold its shape?
Yes! Whipped aquafaba is surprisingly stable. Chill after piping to help it set further.
Can I make a large tart instead of minis?
Absolutely. Use an 8–9 inch tart pan, slice before serving, and adjust piping accordingly.
Can kids help with this recipe?
Definitely! Let them pipe the ghosts or decorate with sprinkles and edible eyes.
Final Thoughts + Call to Action
These Vegan Caramel Meringue Ghost Tarts bring spooky charm and delicious layers to your Halloween dessert game. They’re elegant, allergy-friendly, and a creative way to celebrate the season without compromising on flavor—or fun!
If you loved this Halloween tart recipe, be sure to share it with your spooky squad and subscribe to our blog for more magical vegan Halloween desserts, fall recipes, and allergy-friendly treats!
PrintVegan Caramel Meringue Ghost Tarts
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 tarts
Description
Vegan Caramel Meringue Ghost Tarts are the ultimate spooky-sweet Halloween dessert. Featuring buttery vegan tart shells, silky caramel, and adorable aquafaba meringue ghosts, these treats are festive, dairy-free, and unforgettable.
Ingredients
For the Tart Shell: 150g plain flour (or gluten-free flour blend) 50g icing sugar Pinch of salt 100g vegan butter (cold, cubed) 1–2 tbsp dairy-free milk For the Vegan Caramel: 200g caster sugar 60ml water 100ml full-fat coconut milk 1 tbsp vegan butter Pinch of salt For the Meringue Ghosts: 120ml aquafaba (from canned chickpeas) 1/4 tsp cream of tartar 150g caster sugar 1/2 tsp vanilla extract Decoration: Black food gel or melted vegan chocolate (for eyes)
Instructions
1. In a bowl, mix flour, icing sugar, and salt. Rub in vegan butter until crumbly. Add dairy-free milk and form a dough. 2. Roll dough into tart tins. Prick bases, line with parchment, and fill with baking beans. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes. Remove beans and bake 5 more minutes. Cool completely. 3. In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to boil (no stirring) until amber. Remove from heat and slowly add coconut milk and vegan butter. Stir in salt. Pour into cooled tart shells and chill to set. 4. Whisk aquafaba and cream of tartar until soft peaks. Gradually add sugar and continue whipping to stiff, glossy peaks. Mix in vanilla. 5. Pipe meringue ghosts onto set caramel. Add eyes with black food gel or chocolate. Optional: torch for color. Serve chilled.
Notes
Use cold vegan butter for flaky tart shells. Ensure aquafaba is unsalted and from canned chickpeas. Add sugar slowly to aquafaba for stable meringue. Let caramel set before piping to avoid melting. Store assembled tarts in the fridge and consume within 3 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tart
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Vegan Halloween Dessert, Ghost Tart, Aquafaba Meringue, Vegan Caramel Tart, Dairy-Free Halloween Treat