Deliciously Easy Vegan Phyllo Dough Recipes: From Savory to Sweet

Vegan Phyllo Dough Recipes open a world of culinary possibilities, offering a light, flaky, and incredibly versatile base for both sweet and savory dishes. From crispy appetizers to decadent desserts, vegan phyllo dough can be used to create impressive dishes that are surprisingly simple to make.

This comprehensive guide will take you step-by-step through everything you need to know about working with vegan phyllo dough, from basic techniques to inspiring recipe ideas that will impress your family and friends.

Understanding Vegan Phyllo Dough

Traditional phyllo dough is made with thin sheets of dough brushed with melted butter. Thankfully, creating delicious vegan phyllo dough recipes is easier than you might think. Many store-bought phyllo dough brands are naturally vegan, or you can easily find vegan versions specifically labeled as such.

Choosing the Right Phyllo Dough

When selecting vegan phyllo dough, look for packages labeled as “vegan” or check the ingredient list to ensure it doesn’t contain any dairy products like butter or whey.

Vegan phyllo dough packages on a supermarket shelf

Thawing and Handling Phyllo Dough

Properly thawing and handling phyllo dough is crucial for preventing it from drying out and becoming brittle.

1. Thaw overnight: The best way to thaw phyllo dough is to transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
2. Room temperature: If you’re short on time, you can thaw the dough at room temperature for a few hours. However, avoid exposing it to direct heat or sunlight.
3. Keep it covered: Once the dough is thawed, keep it covered with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out while you work.

Thawed vegan phyllo dough covered with a damp towel

Essential Tips for Working with Vegan Phyllo Dough

Mastering a few key techniques will make working with vegan phyllo dough a breeze:

• Work quickly: Phyllo dough dries out quickly, so it’s important to work quickly and efficiently once you open the package.
• Use a pastry brush: A pastry brush is your best friend when working with phyllo dough. Use it to evenly brush melted vegan butter or oil between the layers, creating a crispy, flaky texture.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment: Phyllo dough is incredibly forgiving, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings, shapes, and cooking methods.

Savory Vegan Phyllo Dough Recipes

1. Crispy Vegan Spanakopita Triangles

Spanakopita, a classic Greek spinach pie, gets a delicious vegan makeover with this recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 package (16 ounces) vegan phyllo dough, thawed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 cup crumbled vegan feta cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup melted vegan butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the spinach, vegan feta cheese, dill, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough on a work surface and brush lightly with melted vegan butter. Top with another sheet of phyllo dough and brush with vegan butter.
5. Cut the stacked phyllo dough into 4 equal strips.
6. Place a spoonful of the spinach filling at the end of each strip. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle, then continue folding over itself to the end of the strip, creating a triangular pastry.
7. Repeat with remaining phyllo dough and filling.
8. Place the triangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with melted vegan butter.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.

Chef’s Tip: “For an extra flavorful Spanakopita, add a pinch of ground nutmeg to the spinach filling. It adds a warm, slightly sweet note that complements the other flavors beautifully.” – Chef Anya Green

Golden vegan spanakopita triangles arranged on a baking sheet

2. Savory Vegan Mushroom Tartlets

These savory tartlets are perfect for a light lunch or appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 package (16 ounces) vegan phyllo dough, thawed
• 1/4 cup melted vegan butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup vegan cream cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Grease a muffin tin with vegan butter.
3. Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough on a work surface and brush with melted vegan butter. Top with another sheet of phyllo dough and brush with vegan butter. Repeat with two more sheets of phyllo dough.
4. Cut the stacked phyllo dough into squares large enough to fit into the muffin cups.
5. Gently press the phyllo dough squares into the muffin cups.
6. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and onion and cook until softened, about 8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
7. Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
8. Reduce heat to low and stir in the vegan cream cheese and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Spoon the mushroom filling into the phyllo dough cups.
10. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

For more savory Mediterranean-inspired dishes, check out these amazing vegan greek food recipes.

Sweet Vegan Phyllo Dough Recipes

3. Easy Vegan Baklava Rolls with Pistachios and Walnuts

This simplified take on traditional baklava is just as delicious and much easier to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 package (16 ounces) vegan phyllo dough, thawed
• 1 cup chopped pistachios
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup melted vegan butter
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the pistachios, walnuts, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough on a work surface and brush lightly with melted vegan butter.
4. Sprinkle a thin layer of the nut mixture over the phyllo dough.
5. Starting at one of the shorter ends, roll the phyllo dough up tightly to form a log.
6. Cut the log into 2-inch pieces.
7. Repeat with the remaining phyllo dough and nut mixture.
8. Place the baklava rolls seam-down in a baking dish.
9. Brush the tops of the rolls with the remaining melted vegan butter.
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
11. While the baklava is baking, make the syrup: Combine the water, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
12. Pour the hot syrup over the hot baklava rolls.
13. Let the baklava cool completely before serving.

Vegan baklava rolls drizzled with syrup on a plate

4. Simple Vegan Apple Tart with Puff Pastry

This rustic apple tart is a delightful way to showcase seasonal fruit.

Ingredients:

• 1 package (14 ounces) vegan puff pastry, thawed
• 1/4 cup vegan butter
• 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon vegan milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a 12-inch rectangle.
3. Transfer the puff pastry to the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a large bowl, combine the melted vegan butter, sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Arrange the apple mixture over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the edges of the puff pastry over the apple filling, pleating as needed.
7. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with vegan milk.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.

Chef’s Tip: “For an extra touch of sweetness and a beautiful glaze, brush the warm apple tart with melted apricot jam.” – Chef Anya Green

Rustic vegan apple tart with puff pastry on a baking sheet

Conclusion: Explore the Versatility of Vegan Phyllo Dough

Vegan phyllo dough recipes offer a world of culinary possibilities, allowing you to create delicious and impressive dishes with ease. From savory appetizers to decadent desserts, the options are endless. With a little practice and these helpful tips, you’ll be a vegan phyllo dough master in no time!

FAQ: Vegan Phyllo Dough

1. Can I make vegan phyllo dough from scratch?

Yes, you can make vegan phyllo dough from scratch using simple ingredients like flour, water, and olive oil. However, it’s a time-consuming process that requires practice. For convenience, we recommend using store-bought vegan phyllo dough.

2. How do I prevent my phyllo dough from becoming soggy?

To prevent soggy phyllo dough, make sure to bake it at a high temperature until it’s golden brown and crispy. Additionally, avoid overfilling your pastries, as excess moisture can make the dough soggy.

3. Can I freeze baked vegan phyllo dough recipes?

Yes, many baked vegan phyllo dough recipes can be frozen for later enjoyment. Allow the pastries to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until warmed through.

4. What are some good substitutes for vegan butter in phyllo dough recipes?

If you don’t have vegan butter on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of melted coconut oil or olive oil. Keep in mind that using coconut oil may impart a slightly coconut flavor to your baked goods.

5. Can I use different nuts in vegan baklava?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and use your favorite nuts in vegan baklava. Walnuts, pecans, almonds, and hazelnuts all work beautifully.

6. What can I do with leftover phyllo dough?

Leftover phyllo dough can be used to make quick and easy snacks like crispy chips or twists. Simply brush the dough with melted vegan butter, sprinkle with your favorite seasonings, and bake until golden brown.

7. Can I make savory vegan baklava?

Yes, you can definitely make savory vegan baklava! Instead of sweet fillings, try using layers of sautéed vegetables, herbs, spices, and vegan cheese for a delicious and savory twist.