Explaining the Connection: How Ariana Grande’s Music Inspired My Culinary Creations
Ever wondered how Ariana Grande’s pop beats could inspire a vegan feast? Well, it’s all in the vibes! Ariana’s music, ranging from the lively ‘Thank U, Next’ to the smooth rhythms of ‘Imagine’, encapsulates a fusion of emotions—a perfect muse for the delightful contrast in my brunch menu today. Using her album Sweetener as a touchstone, known for its eclectic mix of sweet vibes and fiery beats, I’ve cooked up a brunch that harmonizes these elements deliciously. Every dish is a note in this melody, creating a plush, vibe-filled culinary symphony, all while keeping it vegan—just like Ariana’s feel-good tunes.

Sweet Serenade: Crafting the “Sweetener” Maple-Pecan Cinnamon Rolls
Kicking off with a sweet rhythm, the “Sweetener” Maple-Pecan Cinnamon Rolls are a tribute to Ariana’s catchy, sweet tunes. Loaded with the luxurious taste of maple and the satisfying crunch of pecans, these rolls are about to bring a concert to your taste buds.
Maple-Pecan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups 260g all-purpose flour
- 1 cup 240ml warm almond milk
- 1/3 cup 75g vegan butter, melted
- 1 packet about 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup 50g granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup 100g brown sugar
- 1 cup 100g pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup 120ml maple syrup
Instructions
- In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm almond milk, add sugar, melted vegan butter, salt, and half the flour. Stir until smooth, then mix in remaining flour. Knead into a smooth dough.
- Let the dough rise in a greased bowl, covered, until it doubles—about 1 hour.
- Roll the dough out, sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, pecans, and drizzle half the maple syrup over. Roll up tightly, and cut into 12 rolls.
- Let the rolls rise again for 30 minutes in a baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) after drizzling with the remaining maple syrup, for about 25 minutes.
- Enjoy them warm, and maybe play “Sweetener” for those full-on cozy vibes!
Notes
Nutrition
Savory Symphony: Devising the “Side to Side” Savory Tomato Basil Tart
Changing the beat with Ariana’s ‘Side to Side’, the next dish swings into the savory spectrum. The “Side to Side” Savory Tomato Basil Tart marries juicy tomatoes with fragrant basil, each bite as bold and invigorating as the song itself.
Vegan Tomato Basil Puff Pastry Tart
Ingredients
- 1 vegan puff pastry sheet
- 2 tbsp 30ml olive oil
- 4 roma tomatoes thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup 15g fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup 30g nutritional yeast
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp 15ml balsamic reduction for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out pastry on a lined baking sheet.
- Sauté tomato slices in olive oil until soft, then layer on the pastry. Sprinkle with nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper.
- Bake until golden, around 20–25 minutes.
- Add fresh basil and balsamic reduction right before serving.
- Pair with a lively track to keep the brunch mood buzzing!
Notes
Setting the Brunch Scene: Matching Decor and Playlist Recommendations for a Complete Thematic Experience
Set the stage with pastel tablecloths and floral centerpieces that mimic Ariana’s sweet melodies, alongside sleek, neutral-toned dishes to balance her edgier hits. Adorn your space with soft pink and lavender balloons, creating that Instagram-perfect scene.

Don’t forget the tunes! An Ariana-inspired playlist featuring ‘7 Rings’, ‘NASA’, and ‘Break Free’ will complement the dishes, turning your brunch into a celebration of flavors and beats.
So grab your high ponytail and a comfy sweater, and dive into a vegan brunch that’s as delightful as Ariana Grande’s top charts. Here’s to good food and great music—Bon appétit!
If you enjoyed this recipe or have suggestions on how we can improve it, please leave us a comment below. Also, make sure to check out other dishes I’ve created or stories I’ve written about food culture – here.





