Vegan cheesecake is a delicious dairy-free and egg-free alternative to traditional cheesecake. It’s made with plant-based ingredients to achieve a creamy and flavorful dessert. Here’s a recipe for making a vegan cheesecake:
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups vegan graham cracker crumbs (or other vegan cookie crumbs)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil (or other vegetable oil)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
For the filling:
- 2 cups raw cashews, soaked in water overnight and drained
- 1/2 cup coconut cream (the thick part from a can of full-fat coconut milk)
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil (or other vegetable oil)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the topping:
- Fresh berries, fruit compote, or vegan whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup for the crust. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, then remove and set aside to cool.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked and drained cashews, coconut cream, melted coconut oil, maple syrup or agave nectar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt for the filling. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the filling mixture over the cooled crust in the springform pan.
- Smooth the top with a spatula and tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Place the cheesecake in the refrigerator and let it set for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Once the cheesecake is set, remove it from the refrigerator and carefully remove the sides of the springform pan.
- Slice the vegan cheesecake into desired portions and serve.
- If desired, top each slice with fresh berries, fruit compote, or vegan whipped cream for added flavor and decoration.
Enjoy this creamy and indulgent vegan cheesecake as a delicious dessert that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions!