We’ve still got at least a month left of summer and that means there’s plenty of time to go outside and have some fun in the sun. Whether it’s a barbeque on the beach or a picnic in the park, summer is the perfect time to get together with the people you love and share some fantastic food.

Today, we wanted to take a moment to talk about some sweet vegan foods that are perfect for the warm weather. Just a trip to the shop and a little prep time in the kitchen, and you’ll be ready to head out for an easy-going afternoon of summer activities.

Eton Mess or Vegan Mess?

An old English classic, Eton Mess has stood the test of time for being simple and scrumptious all in one go. Named for the famous British boarding school, Eton Mess is a light, crisp - and most importantly - delicious dish that couldn’t be easier to prepare.

Just take some summer berries - strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and the like - and mix them up with some crushed meringue and a generous serving of cream.

What’s that you say? Not vegan?

While it’s true that a traditional Eton Mess is about as far from vegan as a desert can get, there are a few simple substitutes that can completely turn things around.

The cream is the easy part. There are so many great vegan substitutes for cream, that it’s hard to know where to start. We recommend coconut for its sweet flavour, though nut or soya-based creams can also work well.

Meringues are a little more complicated. If you love to cook, and you feel like going down a vegan recipe rabbit hole, then there are some great ideas out there for vegan meringues, most of which substitute the eggs for Aquafaba.

Alternatively, if you want the easy option, then you could always try crunching up some biscuits. There are loads of excellent vegan biscuit brands out there and, though they’re not exactly traditional, they’re a great way to add that sweet crunch for the vegan in a hurry. If that’s not your style, or you’re looking for something a little healthier, then you could try adding some granola for the same effect.

Vegan Chocolate Torte

If there’s one place where vegan substitutes always shine it’s chocolate. Contrary to popular belief, coco doesn’t need dairy to taste terrific, and nowhere is that more apparent than in a vegan dark chocolate torte.

With the light, cool texture of a cheesecake, and that deep, rich chocolate flavour, a chocolate torte is particularly perfect for garden parties. Just prep in advance and let it cool in the fridge, and by the time you’re ready to serve, your guests will hardly be able to restrain themselves.

If dark chocolate isn’t your thing, and you want to lighten this one up to have a more dairy-like flavor, you can always add some coconut milk.

Strawberry Smoothie Sundaes

Vegan ice cream has come a long way in the last few years, but you still don’t need it for a mouthwatering dessert. For a healthy alternative to an ice-cream Sunday, why not whip yourself up a dairy-free strawberry smoothie? Even better, make a whole jug and serve with chopped nuts on top.

Or, if you’re going out, why not freeze your smoothies in ice-lolly moulds for a strawberry sundae on the go?

However you like to treat yourself, the most important thing is that you enjoy the summer while it's here. So let's step out into the sun and enjoy the warm weather while we can!