The Happy Dairy-Free Vegan Cheesecake Recipe (No tofu or nuts)

Creamy, dreamy cheesecake without tofu or nuts sounds like a dessert fairy tale, but this vegan cheesecake recipe makes the impossible possible.

Skeptics might doubt the potential of plant-based ingredients to create such a luscious treat.

Silky smooth textures and rich flavors emerge from unexpected components that challenge traditional baking norms.

Each slice promises a decadent experience that defies dairy-free limitations.

The secret lies in clever ingredient swaps that deliver remarkable taste and texture.

This recipe breaks all the rules while staying true to delicious dessert principles.

You won’t believe how simple and satisfying a completely plant-based cheesecake can be.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 min

Cook Time: 45 min

Total Time: 55 min

Calories: 239 kcal

Servings: 9

Everything That Goes into Vegan Cheesecake (No Tofu or Nuts)

• Graham Crackers: Creates a classic, crumbly foundation that adds delightful texture and traditional cheesecake character.
• Vegan Butter: Binds the crust ingredients together and provides rich, smooth melting properties.

• Vegan Cream Cheese: Delivers creamy, tangy base that mimics traditional cheesecake's signature richness without dairy.
• Sugar: Balances flavors and provides sweet undertones to complement the creamy texture.
• Cornstarch: Helps stabilize and thicken the filling, ensuring a smooth and consistent set.
• Plant-Based Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a silky, spreadable consistency.
• Lemon Juice: Introduces bright, zesty notes and helps activate the setting process.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor profile with warm, aromatic sweetness.

• Fresh Berries: Adds vibrant color, fresh burst of flavor, and elegant presentation to the cheesecake.
• Powdered Sugar: Creates delicate, decorative dusting that elevates visual appeal.

Kitchen Equipment for Vegan Cheesecake (No Tofu or Nuts)

• Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining all cheesecake ingredients smoothly and efficiently.
• Electric Mixer: Perfect for beating cream cheese and creating a creamy, lump-free texture.
• 8-inch Pie Pan: Ideal for holding and baking the cheesecake base.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Crucial for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Spatula: Handy for spreading the cheesecake mixture evenly in the pan.
• Oven: Necessary for baking the cheesecake to perfection.

Preparing Vegan Cheesecake Without Tofu or Nuts

• Pie Crust Preparation

Set up an 8-inch pan with a smooth pie crust ready for filling. Warm the oven to a cozy 180°C.

• Cream Cheese Blend

Grab your vegan cream cheese and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Gently mix until the texture becomes silky and luxurious.

• Flavor Infusion

Add cornstarch, milk, zesty lemon juice, and sweet vanilla extract to the creamy mixture. Whip everything together on low speed, then increase to high for a perfect, smooth consistency.

• Crust Filling

Pour the dreamy cheesecake mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly to create a beautiful, smooth surface.

• Baking Magic

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes until the edges look slightly golden and the center sets.

• Cooling and Chilling

Let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, pop it into the refrigerator and allow it to chill for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight for the most amazing texture and flavor.

Vegan Cheesecake: Tips for Better Results

• Enhance the cheesecake's taste by adding a splash of almond extract or zesting fresh orange peel into the filling for a subtle, aromatic twist.
• Experiment with different cookie bases like graham crackers, gingersnaps, or chocolate cookies to create unique flavor combinations that complement the creamy filling.
• Top the chilled cheesecake with a quick homemade berry compote or fresh seasonal berries to add a vibrant, tangy contrast to the smooth, rich dessert.
• Prepare the cheesecake up to 3 days in advance and store covered in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify for an even more delicious dessert.
• Create a stunning presentation by drizzling melted dark chocolate, caramel sauce, or a quick fruit glaze over the top just before serving to add visual appeal and extra flavor.

How to Serve Vegan Cheesecake (No Tofu or Nuts)

• Fruit Topping Extravaganza: Elevate your vegan cheesecake with a colorful array of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Arrange them in a beautiful pattern or scatter them casually for a rustic, mouthwatering presentation.
• Chocolate Drizzle Delight: Create a luxurious finish by melting vegan dark chocolate and drizzling it elegantly over the chilled cheesecake. The rich chocolate contrast will make each slice look irresistible and add depth to the dessert's flavor profile.
• Caramel Crunch Surprise: Sprinkle some crushed vegan caramel or graham crackers around the edges of the cheesecake. This adds a delightful crunch and texture that complements the smooth, creamy filling, making each bite more interesting and satisfying.
• Seasonal Garnish Magic: Depending on the time of year, top your cheesecake with seasonal fruits like sliced peaches in summer, poached pears in autumn, or candied citrus in winter. This approach keeps the dessert exciting and connected to the current season.

Storage Tips for Vegan Cheesecake (No Tofu or Nuts)

• Fridge Storage Magic: Keep your vegan cheesecake covered in an airtight container to maintain its smooth, creamy texture and prevent absorption of other refrigerator odors.
• Chilled Delight Lifespan: Enjoy your delectable dessert within 5-7 days when stored properly in the refrigerator, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor.
• Freezing Freedom: Wrap individual slices or the entire cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in the freezer for up to 2 months for a make-ahead dessert option.
• Temperature TLC: Always serve the cheesecake chilled, allowing it to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before slicing to achieve the perfect creamy consistency and easy cutting experience.

Silky Vegan Cheesecake

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4.9 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 55 min
• Yield: 9 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy vegan cheesecake emerges as a delightful dessert without tofu or nuts. Rich cashew-free ingredients blend seamlessly, offering you a luxurious slice of plant-based indulgence.

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Ingredients

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• 1 8-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• 16 oz (454 g) vegan cream cheese, room temperature
• ⅔ cup (133 g) sugar
• 2 tbsps cornstarch (or tapioca starch or arrowroot starch)
• 3 tbsps milk of choice (such as almond milk)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Crust Preparation: Meticulously line an 8-inch circular baking vessel with graham cracker crust, ensuring seamless and uniform coverage across the base and sides.
2. Oven Calibration: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F), establishing ideal baking environment for the delicate dessert.
3. Cheesecake Base Creation: In a spacious mixing bowl, whip vegan cream cheese and granulated sweetener until achieving a silky, luxurious consistency, incorporating cornstarch, plant-based milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract with smooth, deliberate strokes.
4. Mixture Refinement: Elevate mixing speed, transforming ingredients into a velvety, homogeneous blend that promises rich, creamy texture and balanced flavor profile.
5. Baking Process: Gently pour the refined mixture into prepared crust, distributing evenly and carefully transferring to preheated oven for 40-45 minutes until surface develops a delicate golden sheen with a subtle center wobble.
6. Cooling and Setting: Remove from oven and allow complete temperature reduction at room temperature, then refrigerate for minimum four hours or preferably overnight, enabling optimal flavor development and structural solidification.

Notes

• Chill for Perfection: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to develop rich, creamy texture and allow flavors to meld completely.
• Watch Baking Carefully: Golden edges and a slight center wobble indicate the cheesecake is perfectly baked – avoid over-baking to maintain a silky smooth consistency.
• Smooth Mixing Matters: Ensure cream cheese is fully softened and blend ingredients gently to prevent air bubbles and create a luxuriously creamy filling.
• Room Temperature Magic: Let the cheesecake cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating to prevent cracking and maintain ideal texture.

• Prep Time: 10 min
• Cook Time: 45 min
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 9
• Calories: 239
• Sugar: 15 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 31 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg