Easy Vegan Cheesecake Recipe for Delicious Desserts

Updated On: September 29, 2025

Craving a dessert that’s creamy, rich, and utterly delightful without any animal products? You’re in the right place!

This easy vegan cheesecake recipe brings together the luscious texture of classic cheesecake with wholesome, plant-based ingredients. Perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers looking for a cruelty-free treat, this cheesecake is smooth, tangy, and sweet with just the right amount of firmness.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or simply want to enjoy a healthier dessert, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Using simple pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up this cheesecake without the hassle of complicated steps or hard-to-find items. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings and flavors.

If you love recipes that combine ease and indulgence, this vegan cheesecake will not disappoint. Ready to impress your friends or satisfy your sweet tooth?

Let’s dive into this creamy delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan cheesecake is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to make—no fancy equipment or rare ingredients needed.

The base uses wholesome nuts and dates for natural sweetness and texture, while the filling features creamy cashews blended with coconut milk and a hint of lemon for that classic cheesecake tang.

It’s also nutrient-dense compared to traditional cheesecakes, offering healthy fats, fiber, and plant-based protein. And because it’s free from dairy and eggs, it’s suitable for vegans and those with common allergies.

Not to mention, it freezes beautifully, making it an excellent choice for preparing ahead for parties or special occasions.

If you enjoy other vegan desserts, you might also like our Vegan Halloween Dessert Recipes That Will Wow Your Guests or our rich and creamy Vegan Chocolate Milk Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide. And for a savory twist to balance your dessert, try our Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity Notes
Raw cashews 1 ½ cups (about 225g) Soaked for at least 4 hours or overnight
Medjool dates 8-10 large Pitted, for natural sweetness
Shredded coconut (unsweetened) ⅔ cup (about 50g) For crust and subtle flavor
Almond flour 1 cup (about 100g) Helps bind the crust
Coconut oil ⅓ cup (75ml), melted Use refined for neutral flavor
Canned full-fat coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) Well shaken
Lemon juice ¼ cup (60ml) Freshly squeezed for tang
Maple syrup ⅓ cup (80ml) Adjust to taste
Vanilla extract 1 tsp Pure for best aroma
Salt ¼ tsp Balances sweetness

Equipment

  • Food processor or high-speed blender – essential for a smooth filling
  • 8-inch springform pan – for easy removal of the cheesecake
  • Mixing bowls – for crust and filling prep
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula – for smoothing the filling
  • Refrigerator and freezer space – to set the cheesecake properly

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cashews: Place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for at least 4 hours or overnight to soften. Drain and rinse before using.
  2. Make the crust: In a food processor, combine dates, shredded coconut, almond flour, and melted coconut oil. Pulse until the mixture sticks together when pressed. If too dry, add a teaspoon of water.
  3. Press the crust: Transfer the crust mixture to your springform pan. Press firmly and evenly into the bottom and slightly up the sides. Place in the freezer while you prepare the filling.
  4. Prepare the filling: In a clean food processor or blender, add soaked cashews, coconut milk, lemon juice, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend on high until completely smooth and creamy. This may take 2-3 minutes depending on your appliance.
  5. Pour and smooth filling: Remove the crust from the freezer and pour the filling over it. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
  6. Chill and set: Place the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. For a firmer texture, freeze for 2-3 hours before serving.
  7. Release and serve: Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing for easier cuts.

Tips & Variations

“For an ultra-smooth filling, peel the skins off the soaked cashews by rubbing them between your fingers.”

If you want to switch up this recipe, consider adding a handful of fresh berries or blending in some melted vegan dark chocolate for a rich twist. You can swap the almond flour in the crust for ground walnuts or pecans for a different nutty flavor.

For an extra tangy cheesecake, add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or swap half the lemon juice for lime juice.

Want to make mini cheesecakes? Use muffin tins lined with cupcake liners and reduce the chilling time slightly.

You can also top the cheesecake with fruit compote, vegan whipped cream, or toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1/12th of cheesecake)
Calories 280 kcal
Fat 18g
Saturated Fat 10g
Carbohydrates 26g
Fiber 4g
Sugars 18g (natural sugars from dates and maple syrup)
Protein 6g
Sodium 50mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegan cheesecake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries. You can also drizzle it with a homemade fruit coulis or a vegan caramel sauce to make it extra special.

For a festive occasion, sprinkle chopped nuts or vegan chocolate shavings on top.

Serve chilled with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. If you love experimenting with flavors, try our Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade to make a savory snack before dessert, or explore other vegan dessert options like our Vegan Beignet Recipe: Easy, Fluffy, and Delicious Treat for a light and airy complement.

Conclusion

This easy vegan cheesecake recipe is the perfect combination of indulgence and wholesome ingredients, offering a creamy, luscious dessert that everyone can enjoy. Its simplicity makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels, and its adaptability means you can tailor it to your taste with endless variations.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a guilt-free dessert, this cheesecake delivers on flavor and texture without any dairy or eggs.

Don’t let the word “vegan” intimidate you; this recipe shows how plant-based ingredients can come together to create a decadent and satisfying dessert. Try it out, customize it with your favorite toppings, and enjoy a slice of pure bliss.

For more delicious vegan recipes and inspiration, be sure to check out our extensive collection of plant-based dishes!

📖 Recipe Card: Easy Vegan Cheesecake

Description: A creamy and delicious vegan cheesecake made with cashews and coconut milk. Perfect for a dairy-free dessert that everyone will love.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT20M

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups raw cashews (soaked for 4 hours)
  • 1/2 cup coconut cream
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups vegan graham cracker crumbs
  • 3 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted coconut oil, and salt; press into a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
  2. Drain soaked cashews and add to a blender with coconut cream, maple syrup, lemon juice, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
  3. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  4. Pour filling over crust and smooth the top.
  5. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.
  6. Let cheesecake thaw for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 | Protein: 6g | Fat: 24g | Carbs: 22g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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