Black cake with jam and nuts (vegan)

Chocolate Brownie with Jam and Nuts (Vegan)

If you are looking for a delicious, simple, and quick cake that brings back childhood memories, you have come to the right place! Chocolate brownie with jam and nuts is a vegan dessert that perfectly combines the intense flavors of chocolate with the sweetness of jam and the crunchiness of nuts. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also uses accessible ingredients, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Number of servings: 12

History of the Cake

Brownie is a dessert that has gained popularity in many cultures, appreciated for its moist texture and intense chocolate flavor. Over time, it has evolved from a simple cake recipe, adapting to different preferences and ingredients. This vegan version adds a nostalgic element, reminding us of moments spent with loved ones. It is a recipe that brings together simplicity and the joy of cooking, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup oil (preferably sunflower or canola)
- 2 cups water
- 1 jar of jam (400g, any flavor you prefer)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vinegar (to activate the baking soda)
- 3 tablespoons high-quality cocoa powder
- Flour, as needed (approximately 2-3 cups)
- 1 cup ground nuts (or coconut flakes, as preferred)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. It is important to measure the ingredients with the same cup/glass/jar to ensure the correct proportions.

2. Mixing the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, add sugar, oil, water, and jam. Mix well with a whisk to combine the ingredients. Then add the cocoa powder and the baking soda activated with vinegar – this step will give the cake a fluffy texture.

3. Adding the flour: Begin to add flour, spoon by spoon, constantly mixing with the whisk. Continue adding flour until the mixture reaches the consistency of thin sour cream. It is essential not to add too much flour, otherwise the cake will be dry.

4. Preparing the baking pan: Line a high-sided baking pan (approximately 20x30 cm) with parchment paper. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to remove from the pan.

5. Adding the nuts: Pour the mixture into the pan and sprinkle the ground nuts on top. The nuts will add extra flavor and texture to your cake.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pan on the middle rack and bake the cake for about 50 minutes. It is ready when it passes the toothpick test; insert a toothpick in the middle of the cake, and if it comes out clean, it means it is baked.

7. Cooling: After removing the cake from the oven, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Serving and Variations

Chocolate brownie with jam and nuts can be served warm or cold, alone or with a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top. You can experiment with different types of jam (peach, apricot, or berry) for interesting flavors. If you want to add a touch of originality, you can mix in some chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or even marshmallows for a playful texture.

Useful Tips

- Choosing the jam: Choose a quality jam without additives for the best flavor.
- Enriching the mixture: If you like hazelnuts, you can add a cup of ground hazelnuts to the cake mixture for added crunch.
- Storage: Keep the cake sealed in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and moisture.

Nutritional Benefits

This brownie recipe is not only tasty but also healthier than many other desserts due to the use of simple and natural ingredients. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while the jam adds natural sweetness without needing extra sugar. However, moderation is key, considering that each serving can contain around 200 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of oil?
Yes, you can use any type of vegetable oil, but avoid oils with strong flavors that could affect the cake's taste.

2. What can I do if I don't have baking soda?
You can replace baking soda with baking powder, but you need to adjust the quantity. Use about 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder instead of 1 teaspoon of baking soda.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
You can experiment with spices like cinnamon or vanilla to add extra flavor. Also, chocolate chips or dried fruits can be a delicious choice!

4. How can I improve the cake's appearance?
A chocolate glaze or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can transform the cake into a real festive dessert.

In conclusion, chocolate brownie with jam and nuts is the perfect choice for any dessert lover looking for an easy-to-make, delicious, and slightly healthier cake. Don't hesitate to share this recipe with your friends, as nothing compares to the joy of cooking together and enjoying a delicious dessert! Enjoy!