Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk)

This Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk) is a delightful dessert that everyone will adore. It’s perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or simply indulging yourself. With its creamy texture and refreshing strawberry sauce, this cheesecake stands out as a healthy yet delicious treat. Plus, it’s easy to make without any baking required!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This cheesecake requires no baking, making it simple for anyone to whip up.
• Delicious Flavors: The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy cashew filling creates a delightful flavor explosion.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual family dinner, this cheesecake is a hit!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it offers a guilt-free indulgence.
• Versatile Topping Options: Enjoy it plain or dress it up with various toppings like nuts or additional fruits.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready will make the experience more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Springform pan (6 or 7)
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Medium saucepan
• Immersion blender or potato masher

Importance of Each Tool

• Food Processor: Essential for blending ingredients smoothly for both the crust and filling.
• Springform Pan: Allows for easy removal of the cheesecake after it sets, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.

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Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2/3 cup pecans
• 1/3 cup walnuts
• 8-10 Medjool dates (see notes)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Filling

• 1 1/2 cups raw cashews (soaked in boiling water for 1 1/2 hours)
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/2 cup oat milk (see notes)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil (at room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

For the Strawberry Sauce

• 2 heaping cups fresh strawberries (hulled)
• 1/4 cup filtered water
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons coconut sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Additional Ingredients for the Base

• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup pecans
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons coconut oil (melted)
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

How to Make Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set the oven to 350 degrees and adjust the oven rack to the middle position. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Soak Cashews

Add cashews to a bowl and cover them with boiling hot water. Let set uncovered for 1 1/2 hours. Rinse and drain thoroughly after soaking.

Step 3: Prepare the Crust Mixture

In a large bowl, combine all crust ingredients. Pour onto your prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown throughout. Remove from oven and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Springform Pan

While the crust is baking, line the bottom of your springform pan with parchment paper (cut out a circle). Lightly oil the sides to help with easy removal later.

Step 5: Process Crust Ingredients

Combine nuts in your food processor and pulse until you get a coarse mixture. Add remaining crust ingredients; pulse several times until clumping together.

Step 6: Form the Crust in Pan

Transfer crust mixture into your springform pan. Press down evenly using your fingers to create an even base. If sticky, lightly wet fingers with warm water. Set aside.

Step 7: Blend Filling Ingredients

Add drained cashews and all filling ingredients into your food processor or high-speed blender. Process until creamy and smooth throughout, scraping down sides as needed. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as desired!

Step 8: Assemble Cheesecake

Pour filling over crust. Tap on counter to release air bubbles that may have formed. Cover lightly with plastic wrap; seal top with aluminum foil. Let set in freezer for 4-6 hours.

Step 9: Make Strawberry Sauce

In a medium saucepan, add all strawberry sauce ingredients. Simmer over low heat for about 15-20 minutes until very soft throughout. Use an immersion blender or potato masher to break down strawberries but leave some chunks. Cool before transferring to refrigerator.

Step 10: Serve Cheesecake

When ready to serve, pull out cheesecake from freezer and let sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. Top off with strawberry sauce before enjoying!

Now you have everything you need to create this delicious treat! Enjoy every bite of your Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk)!

How to Serve Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk)

This gluten free and vegan strawberry cheesecake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in several ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Top each slice with a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for added flavor and texture.

Drizzled with Coconut Cream

• A drizzle of whipped coconut cream adds a rich, creamy element that pairs perfectly with the cheesecake’s flavors.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• Fresh mint leaves not only add a pop of color but also provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cheesecake.

Accompanied by Vegan Ice Cream

• Serve alongside your favorite vegan ice cream for an extra indulgent treat, creating a delightful combination of textures.

On a Bed of Granola

• Present slices on a bed of granola for added crunch and flavor. This adds an unexpected twist that enhances the dessert experience.

How to Perfect Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk)

To ensure your gluten free and vegan strawberry cheesecake turns out perfectly, consider these simple tips.

• Soak cashews properly: Soaking the cashews in boiling water helps achieve a creamy texture in the filling.
• Adjust sweetness carefully: Taste your filling before pouring it into the crust. Add more lemon juice if it’s too sweet or more maple syrup for additional sweetness.
• Use quality ingredients: High-quality strawberries and pure maple syrup make all the difference in flavor and overall enjoyment.
• Let it set: Allowing the cheesecake to set properly in the freezer ensures it has the right texture when served.
• Serve at room temperature: Letting it sit out for 10-15 minutes before slicing improves its texture and flavor release.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk)

Pairing side dishes with your gluten free and vegan strawberry cheesecake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing complement to the richness of the cheesecake.
2. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding offers a unique texture that pairs well with the smoothness of cheesecake.
3. Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layer coconut yogurt with granola and berries for a deliciously creamy side dish.
4. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti serves as a delightful dipper for your cheesecake slices.
5. Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Rich and decadent, this mousse adds an indulgent touch without overpowering the main dessert.
6. Grilled Pineapple Slices: The caramelized flavors from grilled pineapple add a warm and sweet element that complements each bite of cheesecake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a gluten free and vegan strawberry cheesecake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the soaking step: Failing to soak the cashews can lead to a grainy texture. Always soak them in boiling water for at least 1.5 hours for a smooth filling.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect amounts can affect the taste and texture. Invest in a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure precision.
• Rushing the freezing time: If you don’t allow enough time for the cheesecake to set, it may crumble when sliced. Be patient and let it freeze for 4-6 hours.
• Ignoring crust binding: Not pressing the crust mixture firmly enough can result in a crumbly base. Make sure to pack it tightly into the pan using your fingers.
• Overcooking strawberry sauce: Cooking strawberries too long can turn them into mush. Monitor closely and remove from heat once they’re soft but still have some chunks.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep it covered with plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out.

Freezing Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk)

• Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until just softened.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power in short intervals of 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions regarding the Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake:

How do I make Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk) nut-free?

You can substitute nuts in the crust with crushed gluten-free cookies or seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

Can I use other plant-based milk instead of oat milk?

Yes! Almond milk or coconut milk can also work well in this recipe. Just choose one that suits your taste preference.

How do I know when my cheesecake is set?

The cheesecake should feel firm but slightly soft when touched. It will firm up more after being refrigerated.

Can I customize the fruit topping?

Absolutely! This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even a mix of seasonal berries.

Final Thoughts

This gluten free and vegan strawberry cheesecake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different fruits or adjust sweetness levels according to your taste. Give it a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!