Vegan Black Forest Brownies: A Decadent Delight

Introduction: Indulging in desserts is not just about satisfying cravings; it’s about embarking on a flavorful journey. These Vegan Black Forest Brownies encapsulate the essence of indulgence, weaving together the richness of chocolate with the tartness of cherries. As you delve into each bite, you’re transported to a world where every flavor harmonizes into a symphony of delight.

Ingredients:

For the Brownie Batter:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/2 cup plant-based milk (e.g., almond milk, soy milk, oat milk)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Black Forest Filling:

  • 1 (14-ounce) can of pitted cherries (in water or syrup), drained
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon water

For the Chocolate Ganache:

  • 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup plant-based milk
  • 1 tablespoon vegan butter

Instructions:

Preparation:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Black Forest Filling:

  1. In a small saucepan, mix the drained cherries with cornstarch and water until well combined.
  2. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens and becomes glossy. Set aside to cool.

Brownie Batter:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  2. Add the unsweetened applesauce, plant-based milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain.

Assembly:

  1. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
  2. Spoon the cooled Black Forest Filling over the first layer of batter, distributing it evenly.
  3. Pour the remaining brownie batter on top of the filling layer and spread it carefully to cover the cherries.

Baking:

  1. Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
  2. Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan.

Chocolate Ganache:

  1. In a microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan, combine the dairy-free chocolate chips, plant-based milk, and vegan butter.
  2. If using a microwave, heat the mixture in short intervals, stirring in between until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. If using a stovetop, heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Finishing Touches:

  1. Pour the chocolate ganache over the cooled brownies, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  2. Optionally, garnish the top with additional cherries or chocolate shavings.
  3. Allow the ganache to set by placing the brownies in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Once the ganache is firm, remove the brownies from the pan using the parchment paper and cut them into squares.

Conclusion: Savor each moment as you bite into these Vegan Black Forest Brownies. Let the fusion of flavors dance on your palate, reminding you that indulgence knows no bounds when it comes to creating delightful treats. Enjoy every morsel and share the joy with friends and family, for these brownies are not just desserts but tales of culinary bliss.