Vegan Cherry Almond Brownies Recipe: A Decadent Plant-Based Treat

Introduction

If you’re on the hunt for a rich, chocolatey dessert with a delightful fruity twist, these Vegan Cherry Almond Brownies are calling your name. Packed with the sweetness of glacé cherries, a hint of nuttiness from ground almonds, and the deep, satisfying flavor of dark chocolate, these brownies deliver indulgence in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just venturing into vegan baking, this easy recipe is bound to become a favorite. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing—if you can resist eating them all yourself!

Looking for more chocolatey treats? Check out my Chocolate Covered Pretzels Recipe or this indulgent Chocolate Fondue with Fruit for your next dessert spread.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Simple Ingredients: No hard-to-find items here—just pantry staples that are likely already in your kitchen.
• Beginner-Friendly: Clear, easy-to-follow steps make this recipe perfect for all skill levels.
• Versatile: Ideal for potlucks, afternoon tea, or as a sweet treat after dinner.

Taste & Texture

Imagine sinking your teeth into a fudgy, chocolatey brownie with a burst of sweet cherry and a subtle almond undertone. These brownies strike the perfect balance between chewy and tender, with a glossy top that’s just irresistible.

Dietary Attributes

• Vegan: Completely plant-based, using flaxseeds as a clever egg replacement.
• Dairy-Free: Perfect for those with lactose intolerance or a dairy-free lifestyle.
• Nutty Goodness: Ground almonds add richness and a hint of natural sweetness.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 80g vegan margarine (plus extra for greasing)
• 2 tbsp ground flaxseeds
• 120g dark chocolate
• ½ tsp coffee granules
• 125g self-raising flour
• 70g ground almonds
• 50g cocoa powder
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• 250g golden caster sugar
• 1½ tsp vanilla extract
• 70g glacé cherries (rinsed and halved)

Notes on Quality

• Chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) for a deeper flavor.
• Almonds: Freshly ground almonds provide a better texture and flavor than pre-packaged ones.
• Cherries: Use good-quality glacé cherries to ensure they complement the brownies without tasting overly sugary.

Possible Substitutions

• Flour: Swap self-raising flour with all-purpose flour and an additional ½ tsp of baking powder.
• Sugar: Substitute golden caster sugar with coconut sugar for a more natural sweetener.
• Cherries: Dried cherries or fresh pitted cherries can be used for a different texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

• Preheat your oven to 170°C (150°C fan/gas 3½). Grease a 20cm square baking tin and line it with baking parchment.
• In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseeds with 6 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for at least 5 minutes to thicken.
• In a small saucepan, gently melt the chocolate, coffee granules, margarine, and 60ml water over low heat. Stir until smooth, then allow it to cool slightly.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ground almonds, cocoa powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
• Add the sugar to the cooled chocolate mixture and whisk until smooth and glossy. Stir in the flaxseed mixture, vanilla extract, and glacé cherries.

• Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. The batter will be thick—this is normal! Mix until just combined.
• Spoon the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
• Allow the brownies to cool completely in the tin before slicing them into squares. Enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Achieve the Perfect Glossy Top: Whisk the sugar into the chocolate mixture thoroughly to dissolve it completely.
• Even Baking: Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.

Common Mistakes

• Under-mixing: Ensure the batter is thoroughly combined, but avoid overmixing, which can make the brownies dense.
• Overbaking: Check for doneness early to prevent the brownies from drying out.

Time-Saving Tips

• Use a microwave-safe bowl to melt the chocolate mixture for quicker preparation.
• Prepare and measure all ingredients beforehand to streamline the process.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

• Serve with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent dessert.
• Pair with fresh cherries for an extra fruity touch.

Presentation Ideas

• Dust the brownies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish.
• Arrange on a decorative platter with a garnish of sliced almonds.

Beverage Pairings

• Complement these brownies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a robust red wine, such as Merlot or Pinot Noir.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped brownies for up to 3 months.

Reheating Methods

• Warm individual brownies in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore their gooey texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

• Can I make these gluten-free?
  Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and add an extra ½ tsp of baking powder.
• Can I omit the cherries?
  Absolutely! You can leave them out or replace them with nuts, chocolate chips, or another dried fruit.

Troubleshooting

• Why are my brownies too dry?
  They may have been overbaked. Check for doneness around the 35-minute mark.
• Why is the batter so thick?
  This is normal for brownie batter—don’t be tempted to add extra liquid.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Nut-Free: Replace ground almonds with an equal amount of oat flour or additional cocoa powder.
• Oil-Free: Use applesauce in place of margarine for a healthier alternative.

Flavor Twists

• Add a splash of almond extract for extra almond flavor.
• Sprinkle in vegan chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture.

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• Christmas: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the batter for festive warmth.
• Valentine’s Day: Use heart-shaped cutters for a themed presentation.

Conclusion

These Vegan Cherry Almond Brownies are everything you want in a dessert—rich, fudgy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it out and let me know how it goes in the comments below!

Want more chocolate-inspired recipes? Don’t miss my Chocolate Dipped Strawberries Recipe or explore my Pinterest board for more ideas: Cooking with Callie on Pinterest.

Don’t forget to share your creations on social media—tag me so I can see your delicious results! 😊

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