Lenten pancakes with cherries and chocolate sauce

Vegan Pancakes with Sour Cherries and Chocolate Sauce

Who doesn't love pancakes? This versatile dessert has won the hearts of many, and today I will guide you step by step in preparing delicious vegan pancakes filled with juicy sour cherries and covered with a decadent chocolate sauce. This recipe is perfect for any time of the day, whether you serve these pancakes for breakfast, lunch, or even as dessert. Let’s get inspired by the natural flavors and start our culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the pancakes:
- 1 tablespoon coconut butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups Joya soy milk (or any other preferred plant-based milk)
- 1 cup sparkling water
- 2 cups flour
- 3 tablespoons shredded coconut (optional)

For the filling:
- 300 g frozen sour cherries
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the chocolate sauce:
- 500 ml soy milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla powdered sugar
- 200 g dark vegan chocolate

Preparing the pancakes:

1. Preparing the sour cherry filling: Start by placing the frozen sour cherries in a saucepan over medium heat. This is a crucial step, as the cherries need to thaw completely before adding the sugar. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once the cherries are fully thawed and have started to release their juice, add the brown sugar. Let them simmer for 2-3 minutes, then add the cornstarch dissolved in two tablespoons of cold water. Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens. Once the filling is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool.

2. Preparing the pancake batter: In a large bowl, add the melted coconut butter and brown sugar. Mix well until the sugar dissolves. Then, add the slightly warm soy milk and mix again. It is important that the milk is warm and not hot, to avoid coagulating the coconut butter. Start adding the flour, mixing with a whisk to avoid lumps. The batter should have a consistency similar to cream. If it is too thick, you can add more sparkling water or soy milk until you achieve the desired texture. Finally, add the salt and, if you wish, the shredded coconut for extra flavor.

3. Cooking the pancakes: Here comes the fun part! Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat or use two skillets, as I do, to shorten the cooking time. Pour a portion of batter into the skillet and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, until the edges start to turn golden. Flip the pancake with a spatula and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side. Continue making pancakes until the batter is finished, keeping them on a covered plate to stay warm.

Preparing the chocolate sauce:

1. Preparing the sauce: In a saucepan, add the soy milk and vanilla powdered sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes hot, but do not let it boil. Once the milk is warm, add the dark chocolate broken into small pieces. Stir continuously until the chocolate melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If you want a thinner sauce, you can add a little more soy milk.

Assembling the pancakes:

1. Filling the pancakes: Take a pancake, add a generous portion of the sour cherry filling on one side and fold the pancake. Place it on a plate and repeat the process with the remaining pancakes.

2. Serving: Serve the pancakes warm, generously drizzled with chocolate sauce. If you want to add a touch of refinement, you can sprinkle shredded coconut or chocolate pieces on top.

Helpful tips:

- Various options: You can experiment with different fillings, such as bananas, apples, or peaches, depending on the season and your preferences. Additionally, the chocolate sauce can be replaced with caramel sauce or dulce de leche.

- Serving options: These pancakes pair excellently with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or plant-based yogurt, to add a refreshing contrast.

- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of plant-based milk? Yes, you can replace soy milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk, depending on your preferences.
- How can I make the pancakes lower in calories? You can reduce the amount of sugar in the batter and filling. Additionally, you can omit the shredded coconut from the mixture.

Nutritional benefits:

These vegan pancakes are an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a delicious dessert without compromising a vegan diet. Sour cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, while soy milk provides plant-based proteins. Moreover, dark chocolate is a good source of flavonoids, known for their cardiovascular health benefits.

In conclusion, vegan pancakes with sour cherries and chocolate sauce are not only a delicious recipe but also a true culinary experience. Whether you prepare them for yourself or for loved ones, these pancakes will bring a touch of joy to every meal. So, put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and let’s enjoy a special dessert together! Enjoy your meal!