Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk)

This Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk) is a delightful treat that perfectly balances creamy textures and fresh strawberry flavors. It’s an excellent choice for various occasions, from summer picnics to holiday gatherings. This no-bake dessert is easy to prepare and offers a deliciously healthy twist on a classic favorite, making it a must-try for both vegan and non-vegan eaters alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-Bake Delight: This cheesecake requires no baking, making it simple and quick to whip up.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy cashews and fresh strawberries creates a decadent dessert experience.
• Health-Conscious Option: Made with wholesome ingredients, this cheesecake is both gluten free and vegan, catering to dietary needs.
• Versatile Topping: Feel free to customize the strawberry sauce or use other fruits based on availability or preference.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual family dinner, this cheesecake will impress your guests.

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Tools and Preparation

To create this marvelous dessert, you will need some essential tools that make the process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: It ensures that your crust and filling blend smoothly for a creamy texture.
• Springform pan: This allows for easy removal of the cheesecake once set, maintaining its shape beautifully.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for preparing the strawberry sauce while allowing even heating for flavor enhancement.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk):

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

For Additional Elements

• 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 Fahrenheit. Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Soak Cashews

Add cashews to a bowl and cover them with boiling hot water. Let them soak uncovered for about 1 1/2 hours. After soaking, rinse and drain thoroughly.

Step 3: Prepare the Crust Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the crust ingredients together. Pour this mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 15–20 minutes until golden brown throughout. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 4: Line Springform Pan

While your crust is baking, line the bottom of your springform pan with parchment paper by cutting out a circle. Lightly oil the sides of the pan to help release the cheesecake later on.

Step 5: Blend Crust Ingredients

In your food processor, combine nuts and pulse until you achieve a coarse mixture. Add in all remaining crust ingredients and pulse several times until it starts clumping together.

Step 6: Pack Crust into Pan

Transfer your crust mixture into the lined springform pan. Use your fingers to press it down evenly into the bottom of the pan. If it gets sticky, wet your fingers with warm water as needed. Set aside.

Step 7: Blend Filling Ingredients

Add drained cashews along with all filling ingredients into your food processor or high-speed blender pitcher. Process or blend until completely smooth, scraping down sides as necessary. Taste your mixture; adjust sweetness with more lemon juice or maple syrup as desired!

Step 8: Assemble Cheesecake

Pour filling over crust in pan. Tap gently on counter to release air bubbles that may have formed. Cover lightly with plastic wrap then seal top with aluminum foil. Place in freezer for about 4–6 hours until set.

Step 9: Make Strawberry Sauce

To prepare strawberry sauce, combine all sauce ingredients in a medium saucepan over low heat. Simmer for about 15–20 minutes until strawberries are very soft throughout. Use an immersion blender or potato masher to break down strawberries while leaving some chunks intact. Allow cooling before transferring to refrigerator.

Step 10: Serve Your Cheesecake

Once ready to serve, take out cheesecake from freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before slicing. Top each slice with chilled strawberry sauce before serving!

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

Serving your Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake is an opportunity to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will impress your guests.

Fresh Strawberry Garnish

• Top each slice with fresh strawberries for a burst of color and freshness.

Coconut Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for added creaminess and a tropical twist.

Mint Leaves

• Add a few mint leaves on top for a refreshing aroma and contrast to the sweetness.

Chocolate Drizzle

• A light drizzle of dairy-free chocolate sauce can elevate the dessert with rich flavors.

Crushed Nuts

• Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts on top for a crunchy texture that complements the cheesecake.

Oat Milk Ice Cream

• Pair with a scoop of oat milk ice cream for an indulgent treat that keeps it vegan-friendly.

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

To ensure your cheesecake turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• Pre-soak cashews: Soaking cashews in boiling water for 1.5 hours softens them, making your filling creamy and smooth.

• Check sweetness: Taste the cheesecake filling before pouring it over the crust. Adjust sweetness by adding more maple syrup or lemon juice as needed.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Let coconut oil and other ingredients come to room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smoother consistency.

• Tap out air bubbles: After pouring the filling onto the crust, tap the pan on the counter to release trapped air bubbles for a perfect slice.

• Don’t rush cooling: Allowing it to set in the freezer for 4-6 hours ensures it holds its shape when sliced.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and complements the rich cheesecake flavors.

2. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy, plant-based pudding pairs well with fruity desserts and adds nutritional benefits.

3. Vegan Cookies: Serve alongside your favorite vegan cookies for added texture and sweetness.

4. Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of nutty granola provides crunchiness that contrasts beautifully with the smooth cheesecake.

5. Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, can cleanse the palate after indulging in dessert.

6. Dark Chocolate Bark: A few pieces of dark chocolate bark bring an extra layer of richness to your dessert spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk), there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the outcome of your dessert.

• Ignoring soaking cashews – Failing to soak cashews long enough can result in a gritty texture. Make sure to soak them in boiling water for at least 1.5 hours for a creamy filling.
• Skipping the crust prep – Not properly preparing the crust can lead to a dry or crumbly base. Ensure you pulse until it’s clumping together and press it firmly into the pan.
• Overbaking the oat crumble – Baking the oat crumble too long can make it too hard. Keep an eye on it, and remove it when it’s golden brown for the perfect crunch.
• Not adjusting sweetness – If you don’t taste and adjust the filling, it might be too sweet or bland. Always check and balance flavors with lemon juice or more maple syrup as needed.
• Freezing without proper wrapping – Wrapping the cheesecake improperly can lead to freezer burn. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

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

• You can freeze slices of cheesecake for up to 2 months.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.

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

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop – Use a pan over low heat, covering with a lid, reheating for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk).

Can I use different nuts for the crust?

You can substitute pecans or walnuts with almonds or hazelnuts for varied flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this cheesecake stores well, making it ideal for meal prep throughout the week.

How do I make this gluten free & vegan strawberry cheesecake nut-free?

Replace nuts in the crust with seeds like sunflower seeds or oats blended into flour.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw them first and drain excess liquid before using them in the sauce.

Final Thoughts

The Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk) is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize flavors as you like. Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this cheesecake is sure to impress. Try adding different fruits or toppings to suit your taste!