Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars

Introduction

These Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars are a delicious, plant-based take on the traditional British Bakewell tart. They feature layers of almond-flavored cake, tangy cherry jam, and a sweet glaze that perfectly balance nutty, fruity, and sweet flavors. Ideal for afternoon tea, a midday snack, or a special dessert, these bars capture all the classic charm of a Bakewell tart but without any animal products.

I’ve always been a fan of the original Bakewell tart, but once I tried this vegan version, it quickly became a favorite in my household. The almond cake is wonderfully soft and moist, and the cherry jam adds just the right amount of tanginess to balance the sweetness. Plus, the glaze on top gives it that perfect finishing touch, making every bite absolutely irresistible.

What I love most about these bars is how easy they are to make. You don’t need any complicated ingredients, and the preparation is a breeze. Just bake the cake base, spread the jam, and top it with a simple glaze for that signature sweetness. They’re perfect for any occasion and always impress when served at parties or gatherings. Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a lighter alternative to a classic treat, these Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars are a delightful and satisfying option that will have everyone coming back for more!

Perfect for:

• Afternoon tea or coffee breaks
• Gifting homemade treats
• Celebrating special occasions
• Vegan dessert lovers
• Snack time

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars are irresistibly delicious for several reasons:

• Vegan-Friendly: Made without any animal products, these bars are suitable for those following a plant-based diet or those simply seeking lighter alternatives.
• Balanced Flavors: The combination of almond cake, fruity cherry jam, and sweet glaze is a perfect harmony of flavors that will satisfy every sweet tooth.
• Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward, requiring only a few ingredients, making it perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros.
• Great for Gifting: These bars make an elegant gift, especially when packaged in a nice box or tin.
• Perfect for All Occasions: Whether you’re hosting a tea party, celebrating a birthday, or enjoying a cozy afternoon, these bars are versatile and always a hit.
• Nostalgic Twist: If you’re a fan of the traditional Bakewell tart, these bars offer all the nostalgic flavors but in a convenient, portable form.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: About 12-16 bars
• Calories per serving: Approximately 180-200 calories
• Key Nutrients: Carbs: 30g, Fat: 10g, Protein: 3g

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars:

• 1 1/2 cups plain flour
• 1/2 cup ground almonds
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted) or vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 cup cherry jam (make sure it’s vegan-friendly)
• 1/2 cup icing sugar (for glaze)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for glaze)
• Sliced almonds (for topping, optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Ground Almonds: These add a rich, nutty flavor and give the bars their signature almond taste, which is essential for this recipe.
• Cherry Jam: Choose a good-quality cherry jam or preserve for the best flavor. Make sure it’s vegan to ensure the recipe remains plant-based.
• Coconut Oil: This adds moisture to the cake while also providing a subtle coconut flavor. You can substitute with vegetable oil if preferred.
• Almond Extract: Adds a stronger almond flavor that complements the ground almonds and enhances the overall taste.
• Icing Sugar: Used to make the sweet glaze that finishes off the bars with a glossy, sugary topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars:

Prepare the Cake Base:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Add the coconut oil, almond milk, and almond extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
4. Pour the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
5. Bake the Base: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the base cool for about 10 minutes.

Add the Cherry Jam:

6. Spread the Jam: Once the base is slightly cooled, spread an even layer of cherry jam over the top, covering the cake almost to the edges.
7. Return to Oven: Return the pan to the oven for 5-10 minutes to allow the jam to set into the cake.

Make the Glaze:

8. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the icing sugar and lemon juice until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a tiny bit of water to reach your desired consistency.

Finish the Bars:

9. Drizzle the Glaze: Once the bars are completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the cherry jam layer in a zigzag pattern.
10. Add Almonds: Optionally, sprinkle sliced almonds over the glaze for added texture and a classic Bakewell topping.
11. Slice and Serve: Once the glaze has set, slice the bars into squares or rectangles and enjoy!

How to Serve

These Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars are best enjoyed fresh but can be served in many different ways. Here are some serving ideas:

• Tea Time: Serve with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Party Dessert: They make great additions to a dessert table at birthdays, weddings, or holiday parties.
• Snack for On-the-Go: Pack them in your lunchbox or take them along for a mid-day snack.
• With Plant-Based Ice Cream: Serve these bars alongside a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Gift-Worthy: These bars are perfect for wrapping in cellophane or placing in a decorative box to give as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to make your Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars even better:

• Use Homemade Jam: If you have time, making your own cherry jam will add an extra layer of flavor to these bars.
• Keep the Glaze Thin: Don’t make the glaze too thick; it should drizzle easily over the bars for a delicate touch.
• Use a Lighter Sweetener: If you prefer a lighter option, substitute the coconut sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
• Chill for Better Texture: For the best texture, allow the bars to cool completely in the fridge for a few hours before slicing.
• Try Different Fruit Jams: While cherry jam is traditional, feel free to experiment with raspberry, strawberry, or apricot jams for a different flavor.
• Top with Coconut: Add shredded coconut over the top for an extra touch of flavor and texture.
• Cut Into Smaller Pieces: If you’re serving these bars at a party, consider cutting them into smaller squares for easier sharing.
• Add a Dash of Almond Milk to Glaze: If you like your glaze thinner, add a splash of almond milk instead of water.
• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time.
• Try With a Sugar-Free Jam: If you’re looking for a low-sugar option, choose a sugar-free cherry jam for a healthier alternative.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 fun Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars variations to try:

• Raspberry Jam: Swap the cherry jam for raspberry for a slightly tart variation that still pairs perfectly with almond.
• Add Chopped Nuts: Stir chopped almonds or hazelnuts into the batter for an extra nutty crunch.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dairy-free chocolate over the bars for a chocolatey twist on the classic.
• Pineapple Jam: Use pineapple or another tropical fruit jam to create a fun and fruity variation.
• Add Lemon Zest: Stir in some lemon zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Maple Syrup Glaze: Swap the icing sugar glaze with a maple syrup glaze for a richer, maple-flavored topping.
• Use Flaked Almonds: Top the bars with flaked almonds instead of sliced almonds for a slightly different texture.
• Bramley Apple Jam: For a British twist, use Bramley apple jam instead of cherry for a unique Bakewell-inspired bar.
• Coconut Glaze: Use coconut milk in the glaze for a tropical flavor that pairs wonderfully with the almond base.
• Spiced Version: Add ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced version of the bars.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: To freeze, place the bars in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They can also be kept in the fridge for up to a week for extra freshness.

Special Equipment

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars easier:

• Baking Pan: An 8×8-inch baking pan is perfect for these bars, providing a good depth and ensuring even baking.
• Parchment Paper: Line your baking pan with parchment paper to prevent the bars from sticking and to make removal easy.
• Small Mixing Bowl: For preparing the glaze, use a small bowl for a quick whisk without making a mess.
• Spatula: A spatula is essential for spreading the batter evenly in the pan and for applying the cherry jam layer.
• Sifter or Sieve: Use a sifter to sift the dry ingredients, especially the flour, to ensure a smooth, airy batter.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of plant-based milk?
   Yes, any plant-based milk such as soy, oat, or rice milk can be substituted for almond milk.
2. Can I use a different jam flavor?
   Absolutely! Raspberry, strawberry, or apricot jam would work great as alternatives to cherry.
3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
   Yes, you can substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
4. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
   The bars are done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, you can double the recipe and use a larger baking pan to make more bars.
6. How do I make the glaze thicker?
   To thicken the glaze, simply add more icing sugar until it reaches your desired consistency.
7. Can I use a store-bought glaze instead of making my own?
   Yes, you can use a pre-made vegan glaze, but making your own allows for better flavor control.
8. How do I cut the bars into perfect squares?
   Wait for the bars to cool completely before slicing them to ensure clean cuts.
9. Can I add a filling inside the bars?
   Yes, you can add extra layers of jam or even some chopped fruit inside the batter for added texture.
10. How long do these bars last?
    These bars will stay fresh for up to 4 days at room temperature or up to a week if refrigerated.

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Conclusion

These Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars are a scrumptious, plant-based version of a British classic. With their sweet almond base, rich cherry jam, and glossy glaze, these bars offer the perfect treat for any occasion. The blend of almond and cherry flavors, combined with a soft, yet sturdy texture, makes them the perfect snack or dessert for tea time, gifting, or sharing at a party.

Whether you’re indulging in a quiet moment with a cup of tea, treating a friend to something special, or offering these bars at your next gathering, they’re sure to be a hit. The simple, easy-to-make recipe ensures you can whip up these vegan treats whenever you crave something sweet and satisfying. Enjoy the delicious flavors, and share the love with your loved ones! I can’t wait to see how your Vegan Cherry Bakewell Bars turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Happy baking!