VEGAN CLASSIC CHERRY DELIGHT
Ingredients:
For the Cherry Layer:
- 4 cups frozen cherries, pitted
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Crust/Base:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (use vegan graham crackers)
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil or vegan butter
For the Cream Layer:
- 1 (14-ounce) can coconut cream or full-fat coconut milk, chilled in the fridge overnight
- 2-3 tablespoons powdered sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cherry Layer:
- In a saucepan, combine the frozen cherries, maple syrup or agave nectar, cornstarch or arrowroot powder, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the cherries soften. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Make the Crust/Base:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with melted coconut oil or vegan butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press this mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish to form the crust layer. Place it in the refrigerator to set while preparing the cream layer.
- Prepare the Cream Layer:
- Open the chilled coconut cream or milk can without shaking it and scoop out the thick cream from the top into a mixing bowl. Reserve any remaining liquid for other use.
- Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the coconut cream until it becomes fluffy.
- Add powdered sugar or maple syrup and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
- Assemble the Cherry Delight:
- Once the crust has set, spread the cooled cherry mixture evenly over the crust layer in the baking dish.
- Next, carefully spread the whipped coconut cream layer over the cherry mixture.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the assembled cherry delight for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set.
- Before serving, slice into squares and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Approximate values per serving, assuming 9 servings):
- Calories: Around 300-350 calories per serving
- Total Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Saturated Fat: Varies based on coconut oil/butter and coconut cream used
- Total Carbohydrates: Around 30-35g
- Dietary Fiber: Approximately 2-4g
- Sugars: Around 20-25g (from cherries and sweeteners)
- Protein: Approximately 2-3g
- Sodium: Varies based on ingredients