Raw Vegan Black Forest Brownies

I've got a lot of German in me, in case having the last name of Otto didn't tip you off to that! And what German girl doesn't love a nice slice of black forest cake? Cherries are one of my favorite fruits and I am ecstatic that they are finally in season. They are great on their own of course, but finishing a dessert with them is just, well, the cherry on top! Had enough of my horrid puns for the day? Okay then, on to the recipe!

Side note: Be careful with the pits... I almost took out my mother-in-law's tooth by forgetting one!

 
Brownie Layer

1 cup brazil nuts
12 dates, pitted
1 tablespoon coconut butter
1 teaspoon coconut oil
1/4 cup cacao powder
1/4 cup carob powder
dash of salt

Cream Frosting Layer

meat from 1 young coconut
1/2 cup coconut water
1/2 cup coconut butter
juice from 1/2 a lemon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 tablespoon liquid sweetener (coconut nectar, honey, agave or maple syrup)

Fruit Layer

1 cup cherries
1 teaspoon liquid sweetener (coconut nectar, honey, agave or maple syrup)
1 tablespoon cacao nibs

In a food processor combine all brownie layer ingredients and blend until evenly tacky. Scoop out mixture and pat down into a pan to make an even layer. Next combine all frosting layer ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Scoop out frosting and evenly coat brownie layer. (Frosting layer may rise slightly.) Slice and pit cherries and place evenly on top of frosting. Sprinkle with cacao nibs and coat with a drizzle of your favorite sweetener. Slice carefully and enjoy!