If you are looking for a dessert that bursts with vibrant flavors and textures, this Vegan Cranberry Pomegranate Tart Recipe is sure to become your new favorite. Combining the tartness of fresh cranberries and juicy pomegranate seeds with a rich, spiced buckwheat crust, this dessert is a celebration of natural sweetness and plant-based goodness. It’s not only visually stunning but also packed with wholesome ingredients that come together to create a creamy, tangy, and slightly crunchy experience that leaves you wanting more. Whether you want to impress guests at a dinner party or simply enjoy a seasonal treat at home, this tart is as delightful as it is nourishing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Vegan Cranberry Pomegranate Tart Recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients, each chosen carefully to build the perfect balance between freshness, flavor, and texture. From the nutty, toasted buckwheat base to the luscious coconut milk-infused filling, every element plays a vital role.
- 1 cup roasted buckwheat: Provides a wholesome, nutty flavor and a sturdy base for your tart crust.
- ½ cup pecans: Adds crunch and richness while complementing the buckwheat’s earthiness.
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the natural flavors and balances sweetness.
- 3 tablespoons coconut sugar: A subtle sweetness with a rich caramel note that deepens the crust’s flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Offers a gentle warmth and spice with a fragrant aroma.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds cozy spice that pairs beautifully with cranberries and pomegranate.
- 1 ½ tablespoons coconut oil (solid): Binds the crust ingredients and adds a smooth texture and tropical hint.
- 1 tablespoon water: Helps bring the dough together for pressing into the tart pan.
- 2 ½ cups fresh cranberries: Bursting with tartness, they are the star fruit in the filling.
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds: Adds juicy sweetness and stunning jewel-like pops of color.
- ½ cup pure maple syrup: Sweetens the filling naturally, balancing tart flavors perfectly.
- 1 400ml can full fat coconut milk: Provides creamy richness without any dairy.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste: Infuses the filling with deep, aromatic sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon agar-agar: Plant-based thickener that sets the filling beautifully.
- ½ cup vegan-friendly white chocolate or cacao butter: Creates a silky smooth texture and subtle sweetness in the filling.
- Fresh cranberries and fresh pomegranate: For the pretty, fresh topping that finishes the tart perfectly.
How to Make Vegan Cranberry Pomegranate Tart Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tart Base
Start by lining the base of your 9.5-inch springform tart pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later. Blitz the roasted buckwheat in a food processor until it reaches a coarse flour consistency. Add in the pecans, sea salt, cinnamon, ginger, and coconut sugar, then pulse again until the mix becomes floury. Finish by blending in the solid coconut oil and water until the dough holds together. Press this mixture evenly into the tart pan, making sure to compact it firmly along the base and sides. Pop it into the fridge while you prepare the filling so it can firm up nicely.
Step 2: Make the Cranberry-Pomegranate Filling
Place the cranberries, pomegranate seeds, and maple syrup into a saucepan and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and allow it to cool for about 5 to 10 minutes to avoid overheating the blender later. This fresh, fruity jam will serve as the luscious base for your tart filling.
Step 3: Blend the Filling Smooth
Transfer the warm cranberry-pomegranate mixture into a blender. Add the coconut milk, vanilla bean paste, and agar-agar. Blend until the mixture becomes velvety smooth. To ensure a silky texture and remove any solids, strain the filling through a fine sieve back into a clean saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer for 5 minutes with continuous stirring, activating the agar-agar to set the filling perfectly.
Step 4: Combine with White Chocolate or Cacao Butter
In a separate heatproof bowl, add the vegan-friendly white chocolate or cacao butter. Pour the hot cranberry-pomegranate mixture over it and whisk with enthusiasm until fully combined. This step enriches your filling, making it luxuriously creamy with an irresistible sheen. Let the mixture cool on the counter for about 10 minutes before pouring into your prepared tart crust.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill
Pour the filling into the chilled tart base, then gently tap the tart pan on your workspace to remove any trapped air bubbles. This ensures a smooth, even set. Refrigerate the tart for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up to a luscious consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Just before serving, garnish the tart with fresh cranberries and pomegranate seeds to add a bright splash of color and a fresh burst of flavor. This last touch transforms the dessert into a stunning centerpiece for any occasion.
How to Serve Vegan Cranberry Pomegranate Tart Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh fruit toppings bring this tart to life visually and tastefully. Generous sprinkles of fresh cranberries and pomegranate seeds add a vibrant jewel-like appearance and a juicy contrast to the creamy filling. For extra flair, try a light dusting of powdered coconut sugar or a few edible flowers to wow your guests.
Side Dishes
This tart pairs beautifully with simple vegan whipped cream or a scoop of coconut vanilla ice cream to complement the tartness with smooth richness. A lightly brewed herbal tea or a sparkling water with citrus slices also enhances the refreshing fruity notes. For a brunch setting, serve alongside fresh fruit salads or vegan yogurt for a complete spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this Vegan Cranberry Pomegranate Tart Recipe in individual tartlet pans makes for a charming presentation at holiday parties or gatherings. Another idea is placing slices on a bed of mint leaves or edible flowers for an elegant plate. If you are feeling festive, drizzle a bit of melted vegan white chocolate over the top or add finely chopped pistachios for an added textural surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover tart in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keeping it chilled preserves the creamy texture and fresh fruit topping perfectly, ensuring each slice tastes as vibrant as when first made.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but takes some care. Wrap the tart tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and freeze for up to one month. Allow it to thaw completely in the fridge overnight before serving, as this helps the texture return to its ideal creamy state.
Reheating
Since this tart is best served chilled, reheating is generally not recommended. However, if you prefer a slightly softer filling, let the tart sit out at room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying. Avoid microwaving, as this can cause the filling to separate and lose its lovely texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries or pomegranate seeds in this Vegan Cranberry Pomegranate Tart Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work well if fresh ones are unavailable, but allow them to thaw and drain excess liquid to avoid making the filling too watery. Pomegranate seeds are best fresh for texture, but frozen can also be used if necessary.
Is agar-agar the only vegan thickener I can use for the filling?
Agar-agar is ideal because it sets firmly and stays stable when chilled. Alternatives like cornstarch or arrowroot can work but may result in a softer filling. Using agar-agar ensures your tart holds its shape beautifully.
Can I substitute the white chocolate or cacao butter?
Yes, you can replace white chocolate or cacao butter with vegan cream cheese or coconut cream for a different texture. Just keep in mind this will alter the flavor slightly and might affect how firmly the filling sets.
How long will the tart keep its freshness?
This Vegan Cranberry Pomegranate Tart Recipe stays fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. Beyond that, the fruit topping may lose its brightness, and the crust might soften, so enjoy it within that window for best results.
Can I make this tart nut-free?
To make the crust nut-free, try substituting pecans with sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious. Always ensure that any substitutions fit your dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
Embracing the festive flavors of cranberries and pomegranates in a creamy vegan setting makes this Vegan Cranberry Pomegranate Tart Recipe a true standout dessert. Its blend of tangy fruit, warming spices, and a crumbly yet smooth base creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Don’t hesitate to try this joyful recipe—you might just find it becomes your new signature dessert for every special occasion.
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Vegan Cranberry Pomegranate Tart Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes (plus 4+ hours chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Vegan Cranberry Pomegranate Tart is a delicious and vibrant dessert featuring a nutty buckwheat crust and a luscious, fruity filling made from fresh cranberries and pomegranate seeds. Sweetened naturally with maple syrup and coconut sugar, and enriched with creamy coconut milk and vegan-friendly white chocolate or cacao butter, this tart is both refreshing and satisfying. Perfect for festive occasions or a special treat, it is entirely plant-based and requires no baking, making it a great option for a healthy, vegan dessert.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup roasted buckwheat
- ½ cup pecans
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 3 tablespoons coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ tablespoons coconut oil (solid)
- 1 tablespoon water
Filling
- 2 ½ cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- ½ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 400ml can full fat coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 1 teaspoon agar-agar powder
- ½ cup vegan-friendly white chocolate or cacao butter
Garnish
- Fresh cranberries
- Fresh pomegranate seeds
Instructions
- Prepare tart pan: Line the base of a 9.5-inch springform tart pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make crust flour: Add the roasted buckwheat to a food processor and blitz for a couple of minutes until it reaches a coarse flour consistency.
- Combine crust ingredients: Add pecans, sea salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and coconut sugar to the food processor and blend until the mixture becomes floury. Finally, add the solid coconut oil and water, blending again until a dough forms.
- Form crust base: Press the dough evenly into the tart pan, compacting it firmly into the base and sides using a spatula. Chill in the fridge while preparing the filling.
- Cook fruit filling: In a saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, pomegranate seeds, and maple syrup. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15 minutes, until cranberries have popped and softened. Remove from heat and let cool for 5-10 minutes.
- Blend filling: Transfer the cooked fruit mixture to a blender. Add coconut milk, vanilla bean paste, and agar-agar powder. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pass and activate agar-agar: Strain the blended mixture through a sieve back into a clean saucepan. Heat gently to a simmer, stirring continuously for 5 minutes to activate the agar-agar, ensuring the filling will set properly.
- Incorporate chocolate: Place vegan white chocolate or cacao butter in a large heat-proof bowl. Pour the hot cranberry-pomegranate mixture over it and whisk until fully combined. Allow to cool for about 10 minutes.
- Assemble tart: Pour the filling into the chilled tart crust. Gently tap the tart tin on your work surface to release any air bubbles. Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours or preferably overnight to set firmly.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, decorate the tart with fresh cranberries and pomegranate seeds for a vibrant, festive look.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Notes
- The crust is made without gluten-containing flours, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets if cross-contamination is avoided.
- Agar-agar is a vegan gelatin substitute; ensure it is activated properly by simmering the filling to allow setting.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- Ensure the white chocolate or cacao butter used is vegan-friendly.
- This tart is best served chilled and should be kept refrigerated to maintain texture and flavor.
- Adjust sweetness according to taste by modifying the amount of maple syrup and coconut sugar.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan

