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:

  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.
  2. Prepare the Black Forest Filling:
    • In a small saucepan, mix the drained cherries with cornstarch and water until well combined.
    • Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens and becomes glossy. Set aside to cool.
  3. Prepare the Brownie Batter:
    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
    • 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.
  4. Assemble the Black Forest Brownies:
    • Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
    • Spoon the cooled Black Forest Filling over the first layer of batter, distributing it evenly.
    • Pour the remaining brownie batter on top of the filling layer and spread it carefully to cover the cherries.
  5. Bake the Brownies:
    • 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).
    • Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan.
  6. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
    • In a microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan, combine the dairy-free chocolate chips, plant-based milk, and vegan butter.
    • 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.
  7. Top the Brownies:
    • Pour the chocolate ganache over the cooled brownies, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
    • Optionally, you can garnish the top with additional cherries or chocolate shavings.
  8. Allow the ganache to set by placing the brownies in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes.
  9. Once the ganache is firm, remove the brownies from the pan using the parchment paper and cut them into squares.

Enjoy your scrumptious Vegan Black Forest Brownies! These indulgent treats are perfect for satisfying your chocolate and cherry cravings.