Jain Vegetarian Dessert Bars

Ingredients

In this Jain vegetarian adaptation, we replace the traditional ingredients like eggs and gelatin with suitable alternatives. The recipe is modified to exclude root vegetables, onions, garlic, and any other ingredients that are not permitted in Jain vegetarianism. Additionally, we ensure that all the ingredients used are free from any animal by-products. We alse have the original recipe for Dessert Bars, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1 cup (240ml) dairy-free milk 1 cup (240ml) dairy-free milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (200g) Jain-friendly chocolate chips 1 cup (200g) Jain-friendly chocolate chips
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut cream 1 cup (240ml) coconut cream
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 16g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 18g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the dairy-free milk and vanilla extract. Pour the mixture over the crust in the baking dish.
5. 5.
   In a saucepan, melt the chocolate chips over low heat. Stir in the coconut cream, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
6. 6.
   Pour the chocolate mixture over the crust in the baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture evenly over the top.
7. 7.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
8. 8.
   Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut cream — Ensure you use a thick and creamy coconut cream to achieve the desired texture in the filling.
• Dairy-free milk — Opt for unsweetened varieties like almond milk or soy milk for the best results.
• Jain-friendly chocolate chips — Look for chocolate chips that are free from any animal-derived additives or emulsifiers.

Tips & Tricks

• For a variation, add chopped nuts or dried fruits to the crumble topping.
• If you prefer a sweeter filling, increase the amount of brown sugar in the chocolate mixture.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean and neat slices.
• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Serve the bars with a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream or a scoop of vegan ice cream for an extra indulgence.

Serving advice

Serve the Jain Vegetarian Dessert Bars at room temperature or slightly warmed. They can be enjoyed as a standalone dessert or paired with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the bars on a dessert platter or individual serving plates. Dust them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Garnish with a fresh mint leaf or a drizzle of melted chocolate for added visual appeal.