There’s an undeniable allure when chocolate, yogurt, and cherries come together in a single dessert. Imagine the moment you slice into a rich, velvety Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice, its luscious layers beckoning from the plate. After a long week filled with hectic schedules and takeout dinners, I found solace in creating this delightful treat that offers a harmonious balance of flavors. The beauty of this vegan dessert lies not only in its indulgent taste but also in its simplicity—perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or satisfying your sweet tooth during a cozy night in.
As I developed this recipe, I wanted something that was both decadent and guilt-free, leading me to combine creamy yogurt with a fudgy chocolate base—an unexpected yet delicious pairing that has become a favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re trying to shy away from rich dairy desserts or simply seeking a new flavor experience, this Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice is here to elevate your dessert game. Get ready to indulge!
Why is Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice perfect?
Decadent flavor: The irresistible blend of chocolate, yogurt, and cherries creates a symphony of tastes that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Vegan delight: Enjoy every indulgent bite without dairy guilt, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dessert in no time, perfect for busy schedules.
Crowd-pleaser: Impress your family and friends with a stunning dessert that’s both visually appealing and delicious.
Versatile options: Feel free to swap cherries for other fruits like raspberries or strawberries to cater to your cravings. Check out our other dairy-free dessert ideas for more sweet inspiration!
Ingredients for Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice
• This delightful dessert is rich in flavor and easy to assemble!
For the Chocolate Base
- Vegan Butter/Margarine – Provides moisture and richness; can substitute with coconut oil for a lighter taste.
- Flour – Forms the structure of the slice; all-purpose flour works best, but almond flour is a gluten-free option.
- Sugar – Sweetens the base; coconut sugar makes for a healthier alternative.
- Cocoa Powder – Delivers a deep chocolate flavor; ensure it’s unsweetened for the best results.
- Plant-Based Milk – Adds moisture; almond or oat milk complements the chocolate nicely.
- Baking Powder (Original Backin) – Acts as a leavening agent; make sure it’s fresh for proper rise.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; sea salt brings out the sweetness beautifully.
- Vanilla Sugar – Infuses sweetness and aroma; can be substituted with vanilla extract.
For the Yogurt Layer
- Vegan Skyr/Yogurt – Essential for the creamy layer; you can use coconut yogurt for a tropical twist.
- Vegan Whipping Cream – Adds lightness to the yogurt layer; coconut cream is an excellent alternative if preferred.
- Agave Syrup – Serves as a sweetener; feel free to swap with maple syrup for a fun twist.
For the Cherry Layer
- Cherry Juice – The flavor foundation of the cherry layer; opt for 100% cherry juice for optimal health benefits.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth to the cherry layer; this is optional based on your taste preference.
- Cherries (from a jar) – Perfect for topping; fresh cherries can be used when in season for a fresher taste.
- Vegan Gelling Agent (LoVE it!) – Crucial for setting the layers; necessary for achieving stability in the slice.
How to Make Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice
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Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C). Grease a springform pan and dust it lightly with flour to prevent sticking—this makes for easier removal later.
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Make the Chocolate Base:
- Melt the vegan butter in a pot over low heat, allowing it to become liquid.
- Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, sugar, salt, and vanilla sugar in a bowl until well combined.
- Combine the melted butter and plant-based milk with the dry ingredients, mixing gently with a hand mixer briefly until everything is just incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow it to completely cool once baked.
- Prepare Yogurt Layer:
- Whip the vegan cream until fluffy; set aside.
- Mix the vegan Skyr/yogurt with agave syrup in a bowl. Heat a portion of this mixture with the gelling agent until it reaches a gentle boil.
- Combine the heated mixture back into the remaining Skyr/yogurt and carefully fold in the whipped cream until smooth.
- Spread this creamy layer over the cooled chocolate base and chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to set.
- Prepare Cherry Layer:
- Boil the cherry juice in a saucepan with the gelling agent, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Distribute the cherries evenly over the yogurt layer, then pour the cherry mixture over the cherries, creating a beautiful glaze.
- Final Chill: Refrigerate the layered cake for at least one hour to ensure all layers are set before slicing and serving.
Optional: Garnish with fresh fruits or a sprig of mint for an eye-catching presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to promote better mixing, which leads to a smoother batter for your Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice.
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Whipping Cream Caution: Avoid overwhipping the vegan cream to maintain a light, airy yogurt layer. Stop once fluffy, then gently fold it with the yogurt mixture.
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Cooling Time: Be patient and let the chocolate base cool completely before adding the yogurt layer. This prevents melting and ensures a perfect texture for your dessert.
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Gelling Agent Precision: Follow the instructions on your vegan gelling agent carefully for the cherry layer to achieve the right consistency and stability in your Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice.
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Creative Swaps: Feel free to change fruits or types of yogurt based on your taste preferences, personalizing your slice while keeping it equally delicious!
What to Serve with Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice?
As you prepare to indulge in this delightful dessert, consider these perfect accompaniments to create a cherished meal experience.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or blueberries adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing the flavors of the chocolate and cherry medley.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: This light and fluffy topping complements the slice beautifully, adding creaminess while keeping it vegan and guilt-free.
- Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint not only elevates the presentation but also infuses a refreshing herbal note that balances the rich chocolate.
Pair this decadent Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice with a fragrant herbal tea for a warm and cozy dessert experience. Or enjoy it with a chilled glass of almond milk for a lovely afternoon treat.
For a finishing touch, consider a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream next to your slice. The creaminess will counterbalance the texture of the yogurt layer for a perfect spoonful!
Variations & Substitutions for Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice
Feel free to experiment and personalize this delightful dessert to your taste buds!
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Berry Bliss: Swap cherries for raspberries or strawberries to introduce a delightful burst of tartness. This twist brings fresh, fruity flavors to your slice, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in crushed nuts or chocolate chips into the chocolate base for added texture. The combination of creamy, crunchy, and fudgy layers creates an irresistible mouthfeel.
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Coconut Cream: Substitute vegan whipping cream with whipped coconut cream for a tropical vibe. This change adds a rich coconut flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
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Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or a gluten-free blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities. The almond flour provides a subtle nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
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Maple Syrup Swap: Replace agave syrup with maple syrup for a deeper, earthy sweetness in the yogurt layer. The unique flavor twist elevates the overall profile of the dessert.
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Spiced Sweetness: Add a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg to the yogurt mixture for an unexpected warm spice. This subtly complex flavor enhances the dessert’s cozy feel.
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Chocolate Lovers: Increase the cocoa powder in the chocolate base for a more intense chocolate flavor. This change will cater to those who revel in the rich chocolate experience.
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Fruit Layer Swap: Try using a blend of fruit juices, like blueberry or pomegranate, instead of cherry juice to create a colorful and zesty topping. This will add vibrant hues and fresh flavors to your slice.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice desserts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the chocolate base and the yogurt layer up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the chocolate base, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The yogurt layer can also be made ahead; whip the ingredients and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble. Just before serving, layer the yogurt over the chocolate base and prepare the cherry topping. This way, you can enjoy all the decadent flavors of this dessert with minimal effort on the day of your gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice
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Fridge: Store leftover Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps the layers fresh and delicious for your later enjoyment.
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Freezer: You can freeze individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to 2 months.
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Thawing: To enjoy frozen slices, simply transfer them to the fridge to thaw overnight, or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
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Serving after Storage: Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds if desired, or enjoy chilled directly from the fridge for a refreshing treat.
Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing cherries, look for fruits that are shiny and plump, avoiding any that have dark spots or are overly soft. They should be vibrant and smell sweet and fragrant. Fresh cherries will bring an added burst of flavor, so pick the best you can find!
How should I store leftover Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice?
After you savor this delicious dessert, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you’re making it ahead of time, it’s great to know this treat can taste just as wonderful after a day in the fridge!
Can I freeze the Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice?
Yes! You can freeze individual slices of Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice by wrapping each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They will hold up beautifully in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply move a slice to the fridge to thaw overnight or let it sit at room temperature for around 30 minutes before enjoying.
What should I do if the yogurt layer doesn’t set?
If the yogurt layer doesn’t set, it’s usually due to not enough gelling agent being used or a rapid mixing of the vegan cream, which can incorporate too much air. To troubleshoot, ensure you’re using the right quantity of the vegan gelling agent according to package instructions. If the layer is runny, consider chilling it for a longer period or adding a bit more gelling agent to the next batch.
Are there any allergens I should be aware of for this dessert?
While this recipe is vegan and dairy-free, it still uses various plant-based ingredients which may contain allergens. For example, those with nut allergies should be cautious with almond milk or nut-based yogurts. Always check product labels to ensure safety, especially for items like vegan butter and gelling agents that may contain traces of allergens.
Can I substitute the agave syrup with another sweetener?
Very! If you’re looking to swap out agave syrup, maple syrup works wonderfully for this dessert and adds its own unique depth of flavor. You can also consider using a stevia or erythritol substitute if you’re keeping an eye on sugar intake, but take care to adjust quantities according to the sweetness level of the substitute.
Irresistible Chocolate Yogurt Cherry Slice You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C). Grease a springform pan and dust with flour to prevent sticking.
- Melt the vegan butter in a pot over low heat.
- Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, sugar, salt, and vanilla sugar in a bowl until well combined.
- Combine melted butter and plant-based milk with dry ingredients, mixing gently until just incorporated.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely after baking.
- Whip the vegan cream until fluffy and set aside.
- Mix the vegan Skyr/yogurt with agave syrup in a bowl, heating a portion with the gelling agent until it boils.
- Combine heated mixture back with remaining Skyr/yogurt and carefully fold in whipped cream.
- Spread yogurt layer over the cooled chocolate base and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Boil cherry juice with gelling agent until it thickens.
- Distribute cherries over the yogurt layer, then pour the cherry mixture creating a glaze.
- Refrigerate the layered cake for at least one hour before slicing and serving.