If you are someone who loves to indulge in sweet treats but doesn’t want to consume dairy-based products, then vegan cheesecake is the perfect dessert option for you. Vegan cheesecake, made without any animal products, tastes just as delicious as traditional cheesecake and is often healthier too. With a variety of nut-based and tofu-based recipes, the options for creating vegan cheesecake are endless. In this article, we will explore some mouth-watering vegan cheesecake recipes that are easy to make and will tantalize your taste buds.
What Is Vegan Cheesecake
Vegan cheesecake is a delicious dessert that is made without the use of any animal products, including cheese, cream, and eggs. Instead, vegan cheesecake recipes typically use ingredients like cashews, silken tofu, coconut cream, or nondairy cream cheese to create a smooth, creamy filling that tastes remarkably similar to traditional cheesecake but is entirely plant-based.
Benefits of Vegan Cheesecake
Choosing to make or consume vegan cheesecake instead of traditional cheesecake has a range of benefits for your health, the environment, and animal welfare. Here are a few of the top benefits:
- Health: Vegan cheesecake is typically lower in saturated fat and calories than traditional cheesecake, making it a healthier alternative. It can also be a good source of protein and fiber when made with nuts or other plant-based ingredients.
- Environment: Traditional dairy production can have a significant impact on the environment through greenhouse gas emissions, land use, and water pollution. Choosing vegan cheesecake made from plant-based ingredients can help reduce your carbon footprint and support sustainable agriculture.
- Animal welfare: Many people choose to follow a vegan diet to support animal welfare and reduce animal suffering. By choosing vegan cheesecake, you can enjoy a delicious dessert without contributing to animal exploitation or cruelty.
Benefits of Making Vegan Cheesecake
Making vegan cheesecake at home is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional cheesecake that usually includes dairy and animal products. Here are some of the benefits of making vegan cheesecake:
Cost-Efficient
Store-bought cheesecakes can be quite expensive, especially if you’re looking for a high-quality, gourmet option. Making your vegan cheesecake at home can save you a considerable amount of money. Most ingredients used in vegan cheesecake recipes are affordable and can be easily found at your local grocery store. Additionally, making your own vegan cheesecake allows you to make larger quantities, which can provide you with leftovers for the week, reducing the need to buy more snacks.
Healthier
Vegan cheesecake recipes contain ingredients that are naturally healthier for you than traditional cheesecakes. For instance, most vegan cheesecake recipes use nuts and seeds for the crust, which provides healthier fats, proteins, and fiber than a traditional graham cracker crust. Vegan cheesecake recipes also don’t include dairy or artificial ingredients, making it easier to digest for many people and reducing the number of calories consumed.
If you’re looking to control your calorie intake or want to focus on more plant-based proteins, vegan cheesecakes might be the perfect dessert option for you. It has fewer calories compared to regular cheesecakes, and the cheesecake tastes just as delicious. Additionally, vegan cheesecake recipes are usually richer in fiber and antioxidants than traditional cheesecakes, which can help to maintain your weight and reduce the risk of developing any chronic disease.
More Ethical and Environmentally-Friendly
Making vegan cheesecake is an ethical and environmentally-friendly choice. Many traditional cheesecake recipes require milk, which can come from cows that are treated poorly and subjected to inhumane conditions. Additionally, traditional cheesecake production can be energy-intensive, which contributes to climate change.
Making your vegan cheesecake at home ensures that you’re using ingredients that align with your ethical values. Furthermore, vegan cheesecake recipes require minimal energy consumption and reduce your carbon footprint. By switching to vegan cheesecakes, you’re also contributing to mitigating climate change, creating a cleaner and more sustainable world.
How to Make Vegan Cheesecake
Vegan cheesecake is a no-bake, animal-free version of the classic dessert that is perfect for those following a plant-based diet or those with lactose intolerance. Making vegan cheesecake requires simple tools, ingredients, and techniques. In this article, we’ll show you step-by-step instructions on how to make vegan cheesecake with ease.
Tools and Ingredients needed:
Before you start, gather the following tools and ingredients:
- A food processor or blender
- Springform pan or baking dish
- Parchment paper
- 1 1/2 cups of mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, and walnuts)
- 1/2 cup of pitted Medjool dates
- 1/4 cup of shredded coconut
- 2 cups of raw cashews soaked overnight or for at least 6 hours
- 1/2 cup of melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup of maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1/2 cup of coconut cream
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cover the springform pan or baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, pulse the mixed nuts, pitted Medjool dates, and shredded coconut until they form a crumbly texture. Pour this mixture into the bottom of the pan and press it down with a spoon or your fingers to create a crust. Put it in the freezer while you make the filling.
- Drain the soaked cashews and add them to the food processor or blender. Pulse them until they form a creamy texture. Add in the melted coconut oil, maple syrup or agave nectar, coconut cream, and vanilla extract. Blend until all the ingredients are well-combined, and a smooth consistency is achieved.
- Take the pan with the crust out of the freezer and pour the filling onto the crust.
- Smooth out the top with a spatula and place it back in the freezer for at least 4 hours or overnight to set. When ready to serve, remove the pan from the freezer and let it thaw for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Congratulations, you have now learned how to make vegan cheesecake! Enjoy your delicious dessert that is not only tasty but also healthy.
Flavors and Variations of Vegan Cheesecake
If you’re a vegan with a sweet tooth, you don’t have to miss out on indulging in creamy, delicious cheesecake. With vegan cheesecake recipes, you can enjoy all the richness and flavor of traditional cheesecake without any animal products. Here are some of the popular flavors and variations of vegan cheesecake you can try at home:
Chocolate Vegan Cheesecake
Chocolate lovers rejoice! You can make a rich and decadent chocolate cheesecake without eggs or dairy. This recipe typically calls for vegan cream cheese, cocoa powder, non-dairy milk, and sugar. You can also add chocolate chips to the batter for an extra dose of chocolatey goodness. Serve this cheesecake chilled with fresh berries or whipped cream on top.
Caramel Vegan Cheesecake
For those who love the sweet and buttery taste of caramel, vegan caramel cheesecake is a great option. Its sweetness comes from a homemade caramel sauce that uses coconut milk instead of cream. The vegan cheesecake filling usually contains ingredients such as vegan cream cheese, non-dairy yogurt, and maple syrup. Top it with more caramel sauce and crushed nuts for added texture.
Blueberry Vegan Cheesecake
Blueberry cheesecake is a classic flavor that can be easily made vegan. Use vegan cream cheese, lemon juice, and maple syrup for the filling and fresh or frozen blueberries for a fruity twist. Top it with blueberry sauce or compote and whipped cream for a beautiful presentation.
Raspberry Vegan Cheesecake
Raspberry cheesecake is another popular flavor that you can make vegan. You can use fresh or frozen raspberries to make the cheesecake filling along with vegan cream cheese, maple syrup, and lemon juice. Adding some raspberry jam on top of the cheesecake can give it an extra layer of flavor.
Lemon Vegan Cheesecake
Lemon cheesecake is a refreshing and tangy dessert that’s perfect for warmer weather. Use vegan cream cheese, non-dairy yogurt, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice to make the filling. Pair it with a graham cracker crust and lemon curd topping for a zesty dessert.
Pumpkin Vegan Cheesecake
Pumpkin cheesecake is a delightful dessert that is perfect for fall and holiday gatherings. Use vegan cream cheese, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg to make the filling. Pair it with a ginger snap or graham cracker crust and a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
Experiment with Crusts, Toppings, and Decorations
In addition to different flavors, you can also experiment with various crusts, toppings, and decorations to make your vegan cheesecake unique. For the crust, you can use a classic graham cracker crust, or you can explore other options such as gluten-free crust, oatmeal crust, or even a chocolate crust. When it comes to toppings, the possibilities are endless. You can use fresh berries, canned fruit, chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or even vegan whipped cream. Lastly, for decorations, you can use fresh herbs, edible flowers, or grated vegan chocolate to make your cheesecake look as good as it tastes.
Vegan Cheesecake Recipe Examples
Vegan cheesecake is a delicious and cruelty-free dessert that can satisfy any sweet tooth. Here are some easy and delicious vegan cheesecake recipes to try.
No-Bake Vegan Blueberry Cheesecake
This no-bake vegan cheesecake is perfect for those who don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Made with cashews and coconut cream, it is a rich and creamy dessert that will please everyone. The crust is made with almonds and dates, and the topping is made with blueberries. Serve it chilled for the best experience.
Vegan Chocolate Cheesecake
This vegan chocolate cheesecake is a treat for all chocolate lovers out there. Made with silken tofu, cocoa powder, and vegan cream cheese, it is a creamy and rich dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth. It has a chocolate crust and a silky chocolate filling. Serve it chilled with fresh berries for garnish.
Vegan Pumpkin Cheesecake
This vegan pumpkin cheesecake is perfect for the fall season. Made with pumpkin puree, cashews, and warm spices, it is a delicious and aromatic dessert that will make you feel cozy. The crust is made with pecans and dates, and the topping is made with coconut whipped cream. Add some roasted pecans as garnish for a crunchy texture.
Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake
This vegan strawberry cheesecake is a light and fruity dessert that is perfect for the summer season. Made with cashews and coconut cream, it has a creamy and tangy filling that is complemented by fresh strawberry topping. The crust is made with almonds and dates, and the topping is made with fresh strawberries. Serve it chilled for the best experience.
Vegan Turtle Cheesecake
This vegan turtle cheesecake is inspired by the classic American dessert and is perfect for any occasion. Made with cashews, vegan cream cheese, and vegan caramel sauce, it has a rich and indulgent filling that is complemented by a chocolate crust and pecans. The topping is made with more caramel sauce and chocolate chips. Serve it chilled for the best experience.
Vegan Lemon Cheesecake
This vegan lemon cheesecake is a tangy and refreshing dessert that is perfect for the spring season. Made with cashews, coconut cream, and fresh lemon juice, it has a creamy and tart filling that is complemented by a crunchy graham cracker crust. The topping is made with lemon zest and thinly sliced lemon wedges for that extra zing.
FAQs about Vegan Cheesecake Recipes
Cheesecakes are one of the most loved desserts in the world, but if you’re vegan, you might think you have to miss out on this delicious treat. However, vegan cheesecakes are a thing, and they are just as yummy as the original. Below are some frequently asked questions about vegan cheesecake recipes answered for you.
Can vegan cheesecake be frozen or stored?
Yes, like the traditional cheesecake, vegan cheesecake can be frozen or stored in the refrigerator. Before storing or freezing, make sure that the cheesecake has cooled down to room temperature, then cover it with foil or plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. You can also store individual slices wrapped in plastic and then freeze them. Cheesecake stored this way can last up to two months in the freezer and five days in the refrigerator.
What are some vegan substitutes for cream cheese?
Some vegan substitutes for cream cheese include:
- Vegan cream cheese: You can purchase vegan cream cheese from most grocery stores.
- Cashew cream cheese: You can make this by blending soaked cashews, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and salt in a blender.
- Tofu cream cheese: This is made by blending tofu, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and salt in a blender.
Can you substitute cashews with other nuts in vegan cheesecake?
Yes, you can use other nuts such as macadamias, almonds, or pine nuts as a substitute for cashews. However, keep in mind that using different nuts will change the flavor and texture of the cheesecake.
How do I prevent cracks in my vegan cheesecake?
Cracks in cheesecakes are caused by overbaking or sudden temperature changes, so to prevent them from happening, you should:
- Avoid overbaking your cheesecake, and check it regularly while it’s baking.
- Bake your cheesecake in a water bath, as this will help regulate the temperature and prevent sudden changes that could cause cracking.
- Cool your cheesecake gradually. Once it’s done baking, turn off the oven and crack the door open. Leave the cheesecake in the oven to cool down slowly for about an hour before removing it.
Can I bake vegan cheesecake?
Yes, you can bake vegan cheesecake, and it will turn out just as delicious as the no-bake version. However, note that baking vegan cheesecake might take longer than traditional cheesecake since your ingredients are not the same. To make sure the cheesecake is baked through, insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, your cheesecake is done.
How long does vegan cheesecake last?
Vegan cheesecake stored in the refrigerator can last up to five days, while one stored in the freezer can last up to two months. Ensure that the cheesecake is stored in an airtight container and has cooled down before storing it. Before consuming refrigerated vegan cheesecake, check that it is not showing any signs of spoilage like mold or a sour smell.
Happy Cheesecake Baking!
Thanks for hanging out with us today and discovering some delightful vegan cheesecake recipes. We hope these recipes inspired you to get creative in the kitchen and enjoy all the delicious flavors the vegan food movement has to offer. Don’t forget to come back and visit us for more scrumptious vegan recipes and inspiration. Until next time, happy baking!