Vegan chocolate cake with jam and hazelnuts

Vegan Brownies with Jam and Hazelnuts

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 12 servings

Who doesn't love a delicious dessert that brings a smile to their face? Vegan brownies with jam and hazelnuts are a perfect treat for anyone, whether you're fasting or just want to enjoy an intense flavor and a soft texture. This recipe is simple, quick, and most importantly, full of flavor!

The history of brownies is fascinating, with deep roots in pastry traditions. Over time, countless variations of this dessert have been created, each adapted to the tastes and available ingredients. Whether made with chocolate, caramel, or, as in this case, with jam and hazelnuts, brownies remain a symbol of comfort and culinary joy.

Ingredients:

- 12 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups sparkling water
- 4 cups freshly sifted white flour
- 5 tablespoons cherry or apricot jam
- 1 packet baking powder
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- 100 g coarsely chopped hazelnuts
- 4 tablespoons carob powder

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This is an essential step for even baking, so don't skip it!

2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, add the granulated sugar, sunflower oil, sparkling water, and jam. Use an electric mixer on low speed to combine the ingredients. This step is important as the sugar needs to dissolve well for a smooth texture.

3. Add dry ingredients: Once the mixture is homogeneous, add the chopped hazelnuts, vanilla sugar, baking powder, and carob powder. Gently mix with a spatula, being careful not to lose your enthusiasm – a mixture full of aromas will form!

4. Incorporate the flour: Finally, add the flour gradually. It should be integrated slowly, mixing gently so that the batter remains airy. The flour is the element that will give structure to your cake, so be careful not to overdo it!

5. Prepare the baking dish: Choose a deep baking dish and grease it well with oil, then dust it with flour. This will prevent the cake from sticking. You can also use parchment paper for extra safety.

6. Pour the mixture: Pour the batter into the dish, leveling it with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle the coarsely chopped hazelnuts on top for a more appetizing look and a crunchy texture in the end.

7. Bake the cake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 40-45 minutes. Test the cake with a toothpick – if it comes out clean, then it's ready!

8. Cool and portion: After removing the dish from the oven, let the cake cool in the dish for 15-20 minutes. Then, you can transfer it to a rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy every bite!

Practical tips:

- Choose the right jam: Cherry or apricot jam adds an intense fruity flavor, but you can also experiment with other flavors like raspberry or peach.
- Variety in texture: If you want to add extra crunch, you can sprinkle some pecans or chopped almonds over the batter before baking.
- Serving: These brownies pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Additionally, a warm chocolate sauce can turn the dessert into a true delight.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of oil? – Yes, you can use coconut oil or olive oil, but the flavor will be more pronounced. Choose a neutral-flavored oil for a more classic result.

2. Is this recipe vegan? – Yes, this brownie is a vegan recipe, so it contains no animal-derived ingredients.

3. Can I replace the white flour? – Absolutely! You can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but the batter may require adjustments in the liquid amount.

4. How can I keep the brownies fresh? – Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. You can freeze it to keep it longer.

Nutritional benefits:

These brownies are rich in fiber due to the hazelnuts and whole wheat flour (if you choose to use it), and the carob powder provides a natural chocolate flavor without adding unnecessary calories. Hazelnuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, proteins, and antioxidants, making this dessert not just a delicious choice, but also nutritious.

In conclusion, vegan brownies with jam and hazelnuts are more than just a simple dessert – they are a celebration of flavors that will bring you joy in every bite. Whether you serve them at a gathering with friends, at a family meal, or simply as a reward after a long day, this quick and simple recipe will surely become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, get ready to enjoy cooking, and savor every moment of this creative process! Enjoy!