Coconut milk chocolate cake with cherries and walnuts, vegan

Coconut milk brownie with sour cherries and walnuts – a delicious and healthy combination, ideal for those who want to enjoy a refined dessert without using animal-derived ingredients. This recipe will not only enrich your holiday or weekend meals but will also bring a touch of exoticism to your kitchen. Let's discover together how to prepare this soft and aromatic brownie, step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 servings

Ingredients:
- 400 ml coconut milk (make sure to shake it well before opening)
- 150 g sugar (preferably unrefined sugar for a richer taste)
- 60 ml oil (coconut oil is an excellent choice)
- 12 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa (high-quality cocoa powder for an intense flavor)
- 3 teaspoons of rum essence (adds a depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice (for a fresh taste)
- 1/2 cup pitted sour cherries (for a delicious contrast)
- A handful of walnuts (lightly toasted and coarsely chopped)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by lightly toasting the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Then, let them cool and chop coarsely. This step is essential as toasting the nuts brings their flavors to life!

2. Liquid mixture: In a large bowl, add the coconut milk and sugar. Use a whisk to mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved. It’s important that the coconut milk is well shaken before opening, as it tends to be denser.

3. Adding the oil: Gradually add the oil while continuing to whisk. If you choose coconut oil, make sure it is melted but not hot.

4. Dry ingredients: Sift the flour and cocoa over the liquid mixture. This helps prevent lumps from forming. Gently fold with a spatula until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated.

5. Activating the leavening agents: In a small bowl, combine the baking powder with the baking soda and lemon juice. This reaction will help the brownie rise and provide a fluffy texture. Add this mixture to the main batter and mix well.

6. Flavoring: Finally, fold in the rum essence and the chopped walnuts. The rum flavor will add a warm and pleasant note to the dessert.

7. Preparing the pot: Grease the Crock-Pot with margarine and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step is essential to ensure the brownie will come out easily after cooking.

8. Assembling: Pour the batter into the prepared pot and gently place the sour cherries, pressing them slightly into the batter. The cherries will add a pleasant acidity, balancing the sweetness of the dessert.

9. Cooking: Place the lid on the Crock-Pot, plug it in, set it to ‘Slow’ mode, and time for 2 hours and 30 minutes. Make sure to do the toothpick test at the end; it should come out clean.

10. Cooling: Once the brownie is done, carefully remove it from the pot and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This will help stabilize the texture.

11. Serving: Once cooled, dust the brownie with powdered sugar for an elegant look and enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s a perfect dessert to be savored in the company of loved ones!

Practical tips:
- If you don’t have fresh sour cherries, you can use frozen or canned sour cherries, but make sure to drain them well to avoid adding water to the batter.
- You can experiment with other fruits, such as raspberries or cherries, for a different version.
- If you want a more intense chocolate flavor, add some dark chocolate chips to the batter.

Nutritional information:
This coconut milk brownie with sour cherries and walnuts is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Coconut milk provides healthy fats, while sour cherries are rich in antioxidants. A serving of brownie has about 220 calories, offering a good source of energy and natural sweetness.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace coconut milk with another type of milk?
- Yes, you can use any type of plant-based milk, but the taste will be different. Almond or oat milk are interesting alternatives.

2. How can I store the brownie?
- The brownie stores well at room temperature, covered, for 2-3 days. You can freeze it to enjoy later.

3. What drinks pair well with the brownie?
- A cup of aromatic coffee or a fruit tea are excellent choices. Additionally, a sweet wine could perfectly complement the flavors.

This coconut milk brownie with sour cherries and walnuts is not only a delicious option but also an example of how simple ingredients can create a sophisticated dessert. Be creative, experiment with flavors, and share this recipe with friends! Enjoy your meal!