33 Plant-Based Comfort Foods That Carry You Through Long Winter Nights

Long winter evenings become more enjoyable with 33 plant-based comfort foods ready for those extra-chilly days. After a full day, everyone looks forward to a dinner that’s both hearty and easy to make. Having plant-based choices means there’s something for everyone at the table. Nothing beats winding down with a meal that checks all the boxes in terms of ease and comfort.

A baked casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with fresh herbs. — Vegetable Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

A baked casserole with Brussels sprouts and a crispy, golden-brown topping, garnished with chopped parsley. — Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Roasted flavors and a creamy finish make this Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole feel perfect for chilly nights. Even people unsure about sprouts have been known to reach for seconds. I like saving some for cozy next-day lunches. Conversations usually circle back to how unexpectedly good this recipe tastes in the winter.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

Vegan Chocolate Cake

A slice of chocolate cake with chocolate frosting on a plate, with a small piece broken off and crumbs scattered around. — Vegan Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Every winter evening feels more special with a slice of this Vegan Chocolate Cake. Rich, moist texture keeps people coming back for just one more bite. I wrap individual pieces for late-night treats. There’s usually surprise at how plant-based desserts can be this decadent.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chocolate Cake

Lentil Bolognese

A pot of pasta with a tomato-based sauce, lentils, mushrooms, and vegetables on a light surface beside a bowl of grated cheese. — Lentil Bolognese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Steaming bowls of this Lentil Bolognese are a comfort when days feel long and cold. Hearty lentils make every bite stick-to-your-ribs good. I often double the recipe for easy weeknight dinners. Friends ask what gives this dish so much depth without any meat at all.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Bolognese

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Orange color and gentle sweetness draw attention to this Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole at any winter gathering. Warm, creamy layers offer just the right amount of comfort. I keep leftovers for quick snacks. Usually, people compliment the way this dish brightens up a gray evening.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Veg Winter Stew

A bowl of lentil stew with potatoes and carrots, garnished with sliced green onions and parsley, accompanied by slices of crusty bread. — Veg Winter Stew. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Blustery weather calls for big bowls of this Veg Winter Stew, loaded with soft veggies and comforting broth. Eating it feels like bundling up in your favorite sweater. I store extra portions in jars for days when time runs short. Most people mention how good it feels to slow down with a bowl of something hearty.
Get the Recipe: Veg Winter Stew

Marry Me Chickpeas

Skillet with creamy chickpeas, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, garnished with herbs. — Marry Me Chickpeas. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Lunchtimes never get dull thanks to this Marry Me Chickpeas recipe, which balances richness and a pinch of spice. Each bite offers a little bit of warmth that lingers. I often tuck spoonfuls into wraps for something different. Guests rave about how chickpeas can taste so bold.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chickpeas

5 Ingredient Vegan Chocolate Coconut Mousse

A bowl of chocolate mousse with raspberries and mint. — 5 Ingredient Vegan Chocolate Coconut Mousse. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Sweet cravings end in five minutes with this 5 Ingredient Vegan Chocolate Coconut Mousse. The silky texture has fooled more than a few people into thinking it’s full of cream. I serve it in tiny cups for special treats. Compliments usually focus on the rich flavor and simplicity.
Get the Recipe: 5 Ingredient Vegan Chocolate Coconut Mousse

Mushroom Bolognese

A plate of tagliatelle pasta topped with tomato sauce and chopped herbs, with a black fork resting on the side. — Mushroom Bolognese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Even the meatiest eaters are surprised by the heartiness of this Mushroom Bolognese. Each bowl pairs perfectly with thick noodles on cold nights. I save extra sauce to ladle over potatoes. Discussions often shift to how mushrooms can make a plant-based dish feel so robust.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Bolognese

Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip

Warm dip fresh from the oven turns every winter snack time into an event thanks to this Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip. Creamy layers keep everyone returning with chips. I put any leftover dip on sandwiches for a fun surprise. Many are amazed at how satisfying this classic feels with no dairy.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip

Vegan Lasagna

Close-up of a slice of vegetable lasagna showing layers of pasta, assorted vegetables, ricotta cheese, and tomato sauce with a breadcrumb topping. — Vegan Lasagna. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Generous helpings and stretchy layers make this Vegan Lasagna an all-time favorite at the table. Baking a pan fills the kitchen with cozy aromas. I freeze single pieces for simple lunches. Comments always circle how rich each serving feels without cheese or meat.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Lasagna

Vegan Chili

Close-up of a bowl of chili, topped with chopped cilantro, sliced red onions, and a dollop of sour cream. The chili contains beans, tomatoes, and other visible vegetables. — Vegan Chili. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Stew season isn’t complete without piping hot bowls of this Vegan Chili. Spice and chunky beans transform cold nights into something worth looking forward to. I take extra along in a thermos for long winter walks. Most people marvel at how warming a no-meat chili can be.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chili

Vegan Apple Crisp

A bowl of apple crisp topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, with a spoon placed in the bowl. — Vegan Apple Crisp. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Holiday desserts brighten up with this Vegan Apple Crisp as the finale. Soft fruit and crunchy topping win everyone over after a chilly day. I make extra crumble for breakfast toppings. Friends ask for this recipe every winter, hoping for bite after bite of sweet comfort.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Apple Crisp

Vegan Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy dish with a spoon, likely consisting of mashed potatoes or a similar textured food. The mixture appears smooth and slightly chunky. — Vegan Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Classic comfort arrives without a hint of dairy in this Vegan Mac and Cheese. Silky sauce clings to the noodles just right. I pop leftovers into the oven for crispy reheats. People ask how it’s possible for plant-based versions to taste this creamy.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese

Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with browned breadcrumbs and chopped parsley, with a serving spoon inside. — Vegan Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Mornings feel more inviting when this Vegan Hashbrown Casserole joins the table. Crispy on top and fluffy inside, each serving warms you right up. I stash pieces for quick breakfasts throughout the week. People often mention how much it reminds them of classic brunches, minus the heavy feeling.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

Caribbean Rice and Beans

A bowl of cooked rice mixed with kidney beans, garnished with chopped herbs on top, placed on a light-colored surface with fresh greens on a wooden board in the background. — Caribbean Rice and Beans. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bored of heavy winter food? This Caribbean Rice and Beans adds brightness with its mix of color and filling grains. I box up leftovers for easy desk lunches. Most folks comment on how this dish brings a ray of sunshine to dark days.
Get the Recipe: Caribbean Rice and Beans

Vegan Mashed Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with chopped chives and black pepper. — Vegan Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Fluffy comfort lands in every bowl with this Vegan Mashed Potatoes recipe. The smooth texture surprises people used to traditional recipes. I keep a batch on hand to pair with winter stews. Comments often highlight how easy it is to love mashed potatoes made plant-based.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies

Several peanut butter cookies topped with coarse salt are arranged on a wooden surface. — Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Baking these Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies fills the house with a sweet, nutty aroma. Each cookie crumbles just so, perfect with a cup of cocoa. I tuck a few into lunches for school or work treats. Friends can’t believe they skip eggs and butter but still deliver all the fun.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies

Vegan Potato Soup

A bowl of chunky potato soup with herbs, diced vegetables, and broth, garnished with chopped parsley and sprinkled with black pepper. — Vegan Potato Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Creamy soup becomes the meal you’ve been wishing for when you serve this Vegan Potato Soup. Each spoonful is thick and comforting without feeling too heavy. I pour leftovers into jars for simple microwaving. Most people say it quickly becomes a cold-day favorite.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Potato Soup

Marry Me Lentils

A pan of lentil dish with spinach, fresh basil, tomato sauce, and melted cheese, garnished with lemon wedges. — Marry Me Lentils. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Cozy bowls of these Marry Me Lentils steal the show at the winter table. The rich sauce clings to every lentil, keeping you coming back. I turn leftovers into wraps with greens for a fresh change. Guests talk about their surprise at how craveable this meal can get.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Lentils

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

A baked sweet potato casserole topped with a crunchy pecan and oat crumble, with a serving scooped out, revealing the orange filling. — Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A crispy top and creamy filling make this Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole stand out at potlucks or gatherings. Bright color and gentle sweetness grab everyone’s attention. I always keep some for lunches later in the week. People enjoy learning about the air fryer twist that keeps things light and quick.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

Vegan Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies

After-school snacks get an upgrade with these Vegan Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies. Soft centers and melty chips mean each bite is as comforting as the classics. I pop leftovers into the freezer for passing cravings. Most folks admit these cookies win over even the pickiest eaters.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baked Mushroom Rice

A plate of mushroom baked rice served next to a cast iron skillet. — Baked Mushroom Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Cozy grains and earthy mushrooms combine in this Baked Mushroom Rice for a gentle, warming meal. Each forkful feels perfect for nights spent indoors. I set aside portions for easy reheating. Friends seem amazed at how something so simple can be so filling and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice

Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Close-up of a layered dish with melted cheese, corn, beans, diced tomatoes, and green onions. — Vegan Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Layering tortillas and spicy sauce, this Vegan Enchilada Casserole brings the heat to cold winter suppers. Each scoop tastes a bit like a celebration. I plan for leftovers on purpose since it gets better with time. Questions come up about how it’s possible to capture all that flavor without meat or cheese.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Peanut Butter Bliss Balls – Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free

Energy dips in winter get solved with these Peanut Butter Bliss Balls – Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free. Bite-sized and a bit sweet, they are just right for on-the-go snacks. I keep a stash in the fridge for busy afternoons. People like how the burst of peanut flavor wakes up the day.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Bliss Balls – Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free

Red Lentil Soup

A bowl of lentil curry garnished with chopped cilantro and a swirl of cream, with a spoon in the bowl. — Red Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Hearty and bright, this Red Lentil Soup helps you power through the longest nights. A warm bowl in your hands makes everything feel a little softer. I freeze single portions for emergency comfort food. There’s always talk about how the bright color cheers up any gray day.
Get the Recipe: Red Lentil Soup

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Even classic sides get a winter reboot with this Vegan Green Bean Casserole. Crunchy toppings give way to creamy insides for a perfect blend of comfort and fun. I like preparing an extra batch for quick reheating. Comments center on how this recipe makes the holidays feel fresh and new.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Vegan Crinkle Cookies

A stack of powdered sugar-coated chocolate crinkle cookies, with one cookie on top showing a bite taken out, next to a light-colored cup. — Vegan Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Powdered sugar and soft middles make these Vegan Crinkle Cookies sparkle at every cold-weather party. The cracked pattern gets everyone talking. I slip some in cookie boxes for little gifts. People are usually surprised by just how much they love the soft, fudgy texture.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Crinkle Cookies

Vegan Pot Pie

Flaky crust and a humble filling make this Vegan Pot Pie the ultimate winter comfort food. Each slice delivers warmth that lasts long after the meal is over. I store slices for lunch, and reheating is simple. Most find it hard to believe vegetables can taste this homey and rich.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pot Pie

Stuffed Acorn Squash

A roasted acorn squash half filled with a stuffing of couscous, apples, nuts, raisins, and fresh herbs sits on a plate. — Stuffed Acorn Squash. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Deep flavor settles into each Stuffed Acorn Squash, bringing a little color to gray winter meals. The roasted shell and filling blend perfectly. I set aside half to brighten up days all week. Guests always ask how something so simple can look so beautiful.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Acorn Squash

Ultimate Vegan Burger

A close-up of a plant-based burger with layers of creamy sauce, sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a brioche bun. — Ultimate Vegan Burger. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Grilled patties and all the classic fixings make this Ultimate Vegan Burger dream-worthy even on the coldest nights. Every bite carries crunch, juiciness, and fun. I prep extra patties for leftovers. Feedback regularly centers around the pure comfort a burger can deliver, even plant-based.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Vegan Burger

Vegan Pizza

Close-up of vegetable pizza with artichokes, mushrooms, zucchini, and red peppers on a baked crust, garnished with fresh herbs. — Vegan Pizza. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Winter movie nights improve instantly with this Vegan Pizza. Each slice bubbles over with cozy toppings. I like making a double batch because leftovers taste even better cold. Friends talk about how plant-based pizza feels just as good as the original.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pizza

Muhammara with Pita Bread

A bowl of tomato-based dip garnished with chopped parsley and walnuts, with pita bread pieces on the side. — Muhammara with Pita Bread. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Spreads get a winter makeover thanks to this Muhammara with Pita Bread, packing smoky flavors and a hint of heat. Scooping it up is almost as fun as eating it. I serve it alongside other dips for a bright, shareable meal. Curiosity usually settles on what makes this dip so fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Muhammara with Pita Bread

Vegetable Casserole

Colorful layers and gentle seasonings give this Vegetable Casserole a permanent place on the winter table. Soft vegetables meld together for a cozy meal that keeps you full. I package leftovers for healthy lunches. People share stories about how veggie casseroles can make winter feel less long.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole