Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the almond extract, ground almonds, flour and corn starch (sifted), bicarbonate of soda, vanilla sugar and a pinch of salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Gently fold in the chopped cherries, rolled oats and almond flakes.
Move the dough to the fridge for 15-30 minutes.
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork or your palm. Sprinkle with some almond flakes (optional) and extra caster sugar.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Allow to cool down completely before enjoying the vegan cherry bakewell cookies.