This shortcake shows up with an almond crust like she knows she’s the main character—and honestly, she is. Rich mocha flavor? Check. Juicy strawberries? Yes, queen. That crust? Nutty, golden, and stealing scenes like it’s got something to prove. Vegan, obviously, because we’re not monsters. She’s sassy, layered, and low-key better than that guy you ghosted. You don’t need to be a pastry chef—just have a spatula and emotional support playlist. This dessert brings the drama without dairy and delivers a sugar rush worth writing home about. Let’s bake something bougie and totally snackable, shall we?

Mocha Strawberry Shortcake with Almond Crust
This vegan mocha strawberry shortcake features rich cocoa, bold espresso, juicy strawberries, and a buttery almond crust for an elegant twist.
Ingredients
For the Almond Crust:
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- ¼ cup coconut oil melted
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Mocha Shortcake Filling:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp espresso powder
- ½ cup coconut sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup almond milk
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- ⅓ cup neutral oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 1 ½ cups sliced fresh strawberries
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F and grease your tart pan like it owes you money.
- Step 2: In a bowl, mix almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt. Press into the tart pan base.
- Step 3: Bake the crust for 10 minutes until slightly golden. Cool it down—just like your texts to your ex.
- Step 4: In a large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa, espresso powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 5: In another bowl, combine almond milk, vinegar, oil, and vanilla. Stir wet into dry until smooth.
- Step 6: Pour the batter over the baked crust and spread it evenly. Bake for 20 minutes or until set.
- Step 7: Toss sliced strawberries with lemon juice and maple syrup. Let them sit and soak up the sass.
- Step 8: Once cooled, top the cake with strawberry mixture. Slice, serve, and prepare for applause.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 265
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)
- Iron: 12%
- Magnesium: 10%
- Calcium: 6%
- Vitamin C: 8%
- Folate: 5%
Any Additional Notes/Tips to Enhance the Flavor for the Recipe
- Chill before serving for a firmer, cheesecake-y vibe.
- Add a dash of cinnamon to the crust for warmth.
- Top with shaved dark chocolate or toasted almond slivers for dramatic flair.
- Use vanilla bean paste if you’re feeling high-maintenance in the best way.
- Pair with iced coffee for the ultimate brunch energy.