Agar Cheesecake Recipe Vegan Delight Made Easy

Updated On: October 4, 2025

If you’re searching for a delicious vegan dessert that combines creamy texture with a light, refreshing finish, this agar cheesecake recipe is just what you need. Traditional cheesecakes rely heavily on dairy and gelatin, but with agar, a natural seaweed-based gelling agent, you can easily create a plant-based alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor or consistency.

This recipe is perfect for those who follow a vegan lifestyle, have dietary restrictions, or simply want to try something new and exciting in the kitchen.

The beauty of this agar cheesecake lies in its simplicity and versatility. It sets beautifully without the need for eggs or heavy cream, and you can customize it with various toppings and crust options.

Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this cheesecake is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a great gateway for those who miss the classic cheesecake experience but want to avoid animal products.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan agar cheesecake offers a perfect balance of creamy richness and lightness, thanks to the unique properties of agar agar. Unlike gelatin, agar sets at room temperature and is completely plant-based, making the cheesecake suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

It’s also incredibly easy to make, requiring no complicated techniques or specialized ingredients. With a simple crust and a luscious filling, this cheesecake is a hit for dessert lovers and health-conscious eaters alike.

Plus, it’s an excellent alternative to heavy dairy desserts if you’re aiming for something lower in fat but still indulgent.

Lastly, this recipe is adaptable—you can incorporate different flavors like lemon, vanilla, or berries, making it a versatile base for your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients

  • For the crust:
    • 1 ½ cups vegan digestive biscuits or graham crackers, crushed
    • 5 tbsp melted coconut oil
    • 2 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar
  • For the filling:
    • 1 ¼ cups raw cashews, soaked for 4 hours or overnight and drained
    • 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
    • ½ cup powdered sugar or coconut sugar
    • 2 tbsp agar agar powder
    • 3 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • Pinch of salt
  • Optional toppings:
    • Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
    • Fruit compote or jam
    • Chopped nuts or shredded coconut

Equipment

  • Blender or food processor
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Small saucepan
  • 8-inch springform pan or any similar cake pan
  • Spatula
  • Refrigerator

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: In a bowl, mix the crushed vegan biscuits with melted coconut oil and maple syrup until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the base of your springform pan to create an even crust layer. Place it in the fridge to chill while you make the filling.
  2. Soak the cashews: If you haven’t already, soak your raw cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. This softens them and ensures a creamy filling.
  3. Make the filling: Drain the soaked cashews and add them to your blender along with coconut milk, powdered sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. This may take up to 2-3 minutes depending on your blender.
  4. Prepare the agar agar: In a small saucepan, combine the agar agar powder with 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes until the agar is fully dissolved.
  5. Combine agar with filling: Pour the hot agar mixture into the blender with the cashew filling and blend immediately for 10-15 seconds to combine thoroughly. This ensures the agar is evenly distributed so the cheesecake sets perfectly.
  6. Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
  7. Set the cheesecake: Transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or until completely firm. Agar sets faster than gelatin but needs sufficient time to achieve the perfect texture.
  8. Add toppings and serve: Once set, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Decorate with fresh berries, fruit compote, or nuts as desired. Slice and enjoy your vegan agar cheesecake!

Tips & Variations

“To get a smooth crust base, make sure your vegan biscuits are finely crushed. Using a food processor makes this easier!”

Tip: If you want a tangier cheesecake, increase the lemon juice by 1 tablespoon. For a sweeter version, add more powdered sugar or drizzle maple syrup on top before serving.

Variation Ideas:

  • Berry Swirl: Blend in fresh or frozen berries into the filling before adding agar for a beautiful swirl effect.
  • Chocolate Cheesecake: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the filling for a rich chocolatey twist.
  • Tropical Flavors: Replace lemon juice with lime juice and add shredded coconut on top for a tropical vibe.
  • Nut-Free Version: Swap cashews with soaked silken tofu for a nut-free alternative, though texture may vary slightly.

For more vegan dessert inspiration, check out our Brazil Nut Fruit Cake Recipe and Blackberry Juicing Recipes.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1/8 of cheesecake)
Calories 280 kcal
Fat 18 g
Saturated Fat 11 g
Carbohydrates 25 g
Fiber 3 g
Sugar 12 g
Protein 5 g
Calcium 20 mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on ingredients used and portion size.

Serving Suggestions

This vegan agar cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled and makes a fantastic centerpiece for any dessert table. Pair it with a cup of fresh herbal tea or a glass of chilled sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a refreshing contrast.

For added indulgence, serve with a dollop of coconut whipped cream or a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce. You can also create a fruit compote topping by simmering fresh berries with a little sugar and lemon juice until thickened.

Looking for more savory dishes to balance your meal? Try our Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe or if you want a lighter option, the Blackstone Lo Mein Recipes offer flavorful vegan sides that complement desserts beautifully.

Conclusion

This vegan agar cheesecake recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a creamy, tangy dessert without any animal products. Thanks to agar’s unique gelling power and the richness of soaked cashews and coconut milk, you get a luscious cheesecake that sets perfectly and tastes incredible.

It’s a wonderful treat for vegans, those with dietary restrictions, or anyone seeking a lighter alternative to traditional cheesecake.

With simple ingredients, basic equipment, and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Plus, its versatility means you can experiment with flavors and toppings to make it your own.

Give this recipe a try at your next gathering or whenever a sweet craving strikes—you won’t be disappointed!

📖 Recipe Card: Agar Cheesecake Recipe Vegan

Description: A creamy and smooth vegan cheesecake made with agar agar as a natural gelatin substitute. Perfectly set and deliciously light, ideal for any occasion.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 200g vegan cream cheese
  • 400ml coconut milk
  • 100g silken tofu
  • 100g digestive biscuits (vegan)
  • 50g coconut oil, melted
  • 80g sugar
  • 10g agar agar powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Crush the digestive biscuits into fine crumbs.
  2. Mix the biscuit crumbs with melted coconut oil and press into a cake pan to form the base.
  3. In a blender, combine vegan cream cheese, coconut milk, silken tofu, sugar, vanilla, lemon juice, and salt until smooth.
  4. Dissolve agar agar powder in 100ml water and bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
  5. Add hot agar mixture to the blender and blend again briefly.
  6. Pour the filling over the biscuit base and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.
  7. Slice and serve chilled.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 22 g | Carbs: 25 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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