Vegan cherry Bakewell bars, a plant-based take on a beloved treat
I still remember the first time I attempted to make Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and the kind of day that just begged for something sweet and comforting. I thought, “What could go wrong? It’s baking; it’s practically science!” Spoiler alert: my kitchen transformed into a cherry-infused war zone of flour, almond extract, and scattered utensils that day. I was convinced I’d created a monster, but after a surprisingly successful bake-off, I ended up with a tray of delicious Cherry Bakewell Bars that somehow turned out better than I expected. The taste was heavenly, and the mess? Well, that’s just proof of a great adventure, right?
Fast forward to today, and making these bars has become one of my favorite weekend treats. I know what you might be thinking: “But will they taste as good as the original?” Oh, honey, they definitely will! These bars are like a hug in dessert form, just waiting to warm your soul, and you’ve got to love how they’re vegan!
Every bite takes me back to cozy afternoons with friends sipping tea. It became a ritual, sharing these moist, dreamy bars topped with a heavenly layer of almond icing. Trust me; your friends and family will wonder what kind of magic you’ve conjured up in your kitchen! Now, let’s dive into why this recipe is so fantastic.
Why This Recipe Is Great
- It’s surprisingly easy to make – Seriously, if you’ve got a bowl and a spoon, you’re already halfway there! No complicated techniques or top-secret processes needed. Just mix it all up and pop it in the oven. It’s like magic, but with less wizardry.
- It’s impressively delicious – I mean, does anyone need convincing that sweet almond flavor combined with cherries is a gift from the dessert gods? Your friends might think you’ve hired a personal pastry chef, and who’s to say you haven’t?
- It’s comforting – Eating these bars feels like being wrapped in a cozy blanket on a rainy day. They radiate love and warmth, and every bite takes you a step closer to dessert heaven.
- It’s plant-based goodness – Even if you’re a staunch carnivore, you won’t miss out with these. Who knew that vegan treats could hit the spot? Make your heart (and taste buds) happy with plants!
- Perfect for sharing – These beauties are perfect for get-togethers, picnics, or spontaneous gatherings. You’ll soon become the dessert diva in your social circle, armed with your trusty tray of Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars!
Preparation & Cooking Time
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 9 bars
- Calories per serving: Approximately 180 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 28g, Fat: 7g
Ingredients You Need
- 1 cup of almond flour – The star of the show, bringing that nutty goodness we love.
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour – The essential companion to our nutty friend, making sure everything holds together.
- 1 cup of pitted cherries (fresh or frozen) – Sweet, juicy, and oh-so-delicious!
- 1 cup of maple syrup – The magic ingredient that adds a touch of sweetness and love.
- 1/2 cup of coconut oil – The secret weapon for moist bars. Coconut is always a winner!
- 1 teaspoon of almond extract – Because who can resist the lovely scent of almond?
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder – To give our bars just the right amount of fluffiness.
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt – Because what’s baking without a pinch of salt?
- 1 cup of powdered sugar (for icing) – The finishing touch, turning our bars from delightful to downright delightful!
- 1-2 tablespoons of plant-based milk (for icing) – To help with that smooth icing texture.
Ingredient Highlights & Variations
Almond Flour: Did you know almond flour is packed with protein and healthy fats? It’s like a two-for-one deal for your taste buds and your body! Plus, it lends a rich flavor that’s hard to resist. You can substitute it with other nut flours if you’re in a daring mood.
Maple Syrup: Not just for pancakes! Maple syrup provides a rich sweetness that helps keep these bars vegan. If you want to get cheeky, try using agave nectar or even mashed bananas for a twist on sweetness. Just be cautious of the liquid ratios.
Coconut Oil: This magical oil not only brings a tropical vibe to your bars but also keeps them moist and delicious. Want to experiment? Use olive oil for a different flavor profile or even vegan butter—go wild!
Pitted Cherries: Fresh or frozen, cherries are where the party unfolds—sweet and tart, the duo you didn’t know you needed. Feel free to swap them with other fruits too, like raspberries or blueberries. Each fruit brings its personality!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) – This is a crucial step. We don’t want to throw our batter into a cold oven; it won’t feel the love!
- Prepare your baking dish. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This is going to save you from a sticky situation later on.
- In a large bowl, mix almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This is where the dry party begins. Give it a good stir; no one wants clumpy bits of baking powder!
- In another bowl, combine melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and almond extract. Watch the magic occur as they blend together; it will look like a sweet potion!
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and mix it all up like you’re creating a beautiful doughy embrace.
- Fold in the pitted cherries. Make sure they are evenly distributed; we want every bite to scream cherry bliss.
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking pan and smooth the top. A spatula works like a charm here.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. It might be hard to resist the heavenly aroma wafting through the kitchen, but patience is a virtue!
- Let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare your almond icing by mixing powdered sugar with plant-based milk until you reach the desired consistency. Drizzle it over the cooled bars, and don’t be shy; this is the best part!
- Cut into squares, and enjoy your delicious Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars with a smile and maybe a cozy cuppa!
How to Serve It
I always serve these bars with a touch of flair. After patiently waiting for your masterpiece to cool, cut them into cute squares or rectangles, and place them on a nice serving plate. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a few extra chopped cherries on top or sift a bit of powdered sugar for a sprinkle effect that says, “Look at me, I’m posh!”
Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for that perfect afternoon indulgence. Feel free to serve with a small scoop of vegan ice cream on the side if you’re looking to treat yourself a little more. You can elevate the whole experience by creating a cozy atmosphere with soft lighting and some good tunes.
Lastly, take a picture of these beauties before they disappear. Trust me; the world deserves to see your Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars.
FAQ
Can I use regular cherries instead of pitted ones? Well, you could try, but I wouldn’t want you to have a surprise crunch in your bites. Save that for your next adventure in cooking!
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Just remember to use a larger pan if you do. No one should be deprived of these bars.
What if I don’t have almond extract? You can use vanilla extract in its place. Just know you’ll be missing that signature almondy goodness, but it will still be delicious!
Can I make this gluten-free? Yup! Just use all almond flour and a gluten-free flour blend instead of wheat flour.
How should I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If they last that long (which might be a stretch, considering how tasty they are).
Conclusion
So there you have it, my dear friends—a delightful recipe for Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and warm your heart. I invite you to try this recipe, make it your own, and share your experiences. Whether you get creative with toppings or share a funny mishap from the kitchen, I want to hear it all! These bars are not just a treat; they’re an experience, and I love enjoying them with family and friends. Making, sharing, and indulging in these bars will surely bring a smile to your face, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out in your kitchen adventures!
