The holidays are here, time to splurge on a rich tiramisu or a luscious chocolate bread pudding with a creamy brandy sauce. Or maybe you dream of cannoli, with a velvety chocolate-studded filling. Thanks to the magic of soy and a new trick with tofu, these spectacular desserts can all be made without butter, whipped cream, or cheese.

The secret to a creamy consistency is in pureeing the tofu, then draining it, as you would a yogurt cheese. Texture is further refined by adding a bit of tofu cream cheese to the mix. In the Cran-Apple Crumble, a non-hydrogenated spread and soy milk give buttery richness.

Here are recipes for four elegant desserts and one creamy topping, which can all be made well ahead of time-allowing you to enjoy the holidays along with your guests.