Easy Vegan Chocolate Ganache Frosting

Nothing brings a chocolate dessert to life like a slathering of creamy ganache. That’s why you have to add this vegan chocolate ganache frosting recipe to your baking repertoire!

This soft, creamy, and oh-so-chocolatey plant-based ganache is the definition of indulgent, whether it’s layered onto chocolate cake or just eaten with a spoon (hey, we don’t judge!).

The best part is that it’s so easy to make and requires only TWO ingredients. Yep, just two – coconut cream and chocolate! 🥥🍫

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What is Ganache?

Hailing from France (where else!), ganache – also known as crème ganache – has been around for hundreds of years, and was first documented in 1869.

Ganache is normally made by heating equal parts of cream and chocolate, which results in a soft and creamy chocolate frosting.

While it tends to be made with dark chocolate, it can also be made with both milk chocolate and white chocolate.

Whatever chocolate variety you go for, ganache is surprisingly versatile and can be used as a traditional frosting, a filling, a dip (it’s perfect for strawberries 🍓), a sauce, a spread, or just eaten straight from the bowl!

Is Ganache Vegan?

The typical way of making ganache with dairy cream means that it is not traditionally vegan.

Thankfully, ganache is incredibly easy to veganize. We use coconut cream to replace the dairy, and this ingredient works wonderfully.

Is this Vegan Chocolate Ganache Frosting Gluten-Free?

Yes! This recipe features just two ingredients and neither contain any gluten.

What is Vegan Chocolate Ganache Frosting Made Of?

As you may have gathered by now, you need just two ingredients to make this ganache!

Here’s your tiny shopping list:

• Chocolate chips, semi-sweet
• Coconut cream

It is important to note that you need coconut cream, not coconut milk. Coconut cream is thick enough to make perfect ganache. You’ll be able to find it in a can at all good grocery stores.

When you open the can, you will find both thick cream and water. Drain the water away and only use the thick cream for this recipe.

How to Make Vegan Chocolate Ganache Frosting

Fill a small saucepan about a quarter full of water and place a heat-safe bowl over the top of the saucepan, creating a homemade double boiler. 

Add the chocolate chips into the top bowl, and bring the water in the saucepan to a boil. This will gradually melt the chocolate chips. Stir occasionally, until the chocolate is smooth. 

When the chocolate has melted, remove the bowl from the heat and add in the coconut cream. Use a spatula to fold the mixture together.

If it’s too firm at any point and difficult to stir (which will depend on the brand of coconut cream, the temperature, etc.), just microwave the mixture for a few seconds until it becomes easier to mix.

When the mixture is smooth and fluffy, it will spread easily on your favorite cakes. If you prefer, you can also transfer it to a piping bag and pipe it onto vegan chocolate cupcakes.

Here’s a step-by-step on how to make it:

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Tips for the Best Vegan Chocolate Ganache Frosting

• We have already mentioned this, but be sure to use coconut cream, not coconut milk. There is a difference and it will make or break your ganache!

• As there are just two ingredients in this recipe, choose the best quality you can afford. This is particularly important for the chocolate. Find a high-quality vegan chocolate and use that – it will really enhance the taste.

• Chop your chocolate before melting it. By doing this, it will melt quicker. Or use chocolate chips!

• This frosting firms up quickly so you don’t need to allow it to chill in the fridge. In fact, because it firms up so quickly after the chocolate had been melted, don’t wait long to add in the coconut cream!

• If at any point the ganache becomes too firm to mix, just microwave it for a few seconds and continue stirring. Use immediately for best results. 

FAQ

How to Store Vegan Chocolate Ganache Frosting

As mentioned, this frosting is pretty robust! It is sturdy enough to sit out at room temperature for a couple of hours.

If you have leftovers after frosting your cakes, transfer the ganache to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Can You Freeze Vegan Chocolate Ganache Frosting?

This ganache is best when fresh, although it will freeze well if you want to store it for longer.

Allow it to cool completely first, then transfer the ganache to an airtight, freezer-proof container for up to 2 months.

When you are ready to use it, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight, then whip it up to restore the consistency. You may need to put it in the microwave for around 30 seconds if you want a softer consistency.

Can You Make Vegan Chocolate Ganache Frosting Ahead of Time?

Indeed you can, but again – we recommend making this when you’re ready to frost your cake or cupcakes!

If you do need to make it ahead of time, though, for frosting a cake, you can make the ganache first, then let it sit on the counter at room temperature for a few hours until the cake is ready.

If you want to leave it longer, then keep the ganache in an airtight container in the fridge.

If at any point it becomes too firm, you can microwave it for a few seconds at a time until the texture is perfect.

How Long Does Vegan Chocolate Ganache Frosting Last?

In the fridge you can keep this ganache for up to 2 weeks, while it will last for up to 2 months when stored in the freezer.

Does Chocolate Ganache Frosting Harden?

Make this vegan chocolate ganache frosting and you will notice how its consistency changes quickly as time passes.

If at any point you want to soften the ganache, pop it in the microwave for around 30 seconds.

If you’re looking for some recipes to use this ganache with, check out:

Vegan Chocolate Cupcakes

Best Vegan Chocolate Cake

Vegan Chocolate Tart

If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag your photos with @healthiir on Instagram! 🙂