Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk)

This Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk) is a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. It’s creamy, rich, and packed with fresh strawberries. This no-bake cheesecake is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cheesecake will impress everyone with its vibrant flavors and velvety texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With a straightforward process, this cheesecake comes together quickly without any baking required.
• Deliciously Creamy: The combination of soaked cashews and oat milk creates a rich and smooth filling that melts in your mouth.
• Fresh Strawberry Flavors: Topped with homemade strawberry sauce, this cheesecake bursts with fruity goodness.
• Plant-Based Delight: It fits perfectly into vegan diets while being gluten-free to accommodate various dietary needs.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in—everyone will love it!

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect gluten-free and vegan strawberry cheesecake, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• 6 or 7 springform pan
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Medium saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Essential for achieving a smooth filling and finely ground crust.
• Springform pan: Makes it easy to remove the cheesecake once it’s set without damaging it.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup after baking the crust.

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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)
– 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 crust ingredients:
– 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 and adjust the oven rack to the middle position. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare Cashews

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

Step 3: Bake Crust Ingredients

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

Step 4: Prepare Springform Pan

While baking, line the bottom of your springform pan with parchment paper cut into a circle. Lightly oil the sides to facilitate easy removal later.

Step 5: Make Crust Mixture

In your food processor, combine pecans and walnuts until they form a coarse mixture. Add in the rest of the crust ingredients and pulse several times until it starts clumping up.

Step 6: Press Crust into Pan

Transfer the crust mixture into your prepared springform pan. Use your fingers to press it evenly into the bottom of the pan. If it’s sticky, wet your fingers slightly with warm water.

Step 7: Blend Filling Ingredients

Add drained cashews along with all other filling ingredients into your food processor or high-speed blender pitcher. Process until creamy and smooth throughout; scrape down sides as needed. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as desired.

Step 8: Assemble Cheesecake

Pour the filling over the prepared crust. Tap gently on the counter to release any air bubbles that may have formed. Cover lightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Freeze for about 4–6 hours until set.

Step 9: Prepare Strawberry Sauce

In a medium saucepan, add all strawberry sauce ingredients and simmer over low heat for about 15–20 minutes until very soft. Use an immersion blender or potato masher to break down strawberries while leaving some chunks intact. Allow cooling before refrigerating completely.

Step 10: Serve Your Cheesecake

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

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

Serving your Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake can elevate the dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this creamy treat.

Classic Presentation

• Serve slices on individual dessert plates, garnished with fresh strawberries for a pop of color.

With a Drizzle

• Add a drizzle of maple syrup or extra strawberry sauce on top for added sweetness and flavor.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Pair with coconut whipped cream for a rich, fluffy texture that complements the cheesecake perfectly.

On a Bed of Berries

• Arrange mixed berries around the cheesecake slice for a refreshing contrast and added fruitiness.

With Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy alongside a cup of herbal tea or coffee to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.

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

Perfecting your Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Soak cashews properly: Soaking raw cashews in boiling water helps achieve that ultra-creamy filling texture. Aim for at least 1.5 hours.

• Use fresh strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries enhance the flavor of your sauce, making it vibrant and delicious. Avoid frozen strawberries if possible.

• Adjust sweetness: Taste the filling before pouring it into the crust. Add more maple syrup or lemon juice as needed to balance flavors.

• Let it set longer: For better slicing, allow the cheesecake to set in the freezer for up to 6 hours, ensuring it holds its shape when cut.

• Garnish creatively: Experiment with toppings like crushed nuts or edible flowers for an elegant touch that impresses guests.

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

Complement your Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake with these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall dessert experience.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the richness of the cheesecake.
2. Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and berries, this dish adds a creamy texture and crunchy contrast.
3. Chia Seed Pudding: Made with almond milk or coconut milk, this pudding is nutritious and pairs well with fruity desserts.
4. Nutty Granola Bars: These bars offer a satisfying crunch and are perfect for snacking alongside your cheesecake.
5. Chocolate Avocado Mousse: A rich, creamy mousse made from avocados and cocoa powder adds depth to your dessert table.
6. Homemade Sorbet: A light sorbet made from blended fruits offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of cheesecake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk) can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using unsoaked cashews: Not soaking the cashews properly can lead to a grainy texture in the cheesecake filling. Always soak them in boiling water for at least 1.5 hours for a creamy consistency.
• Overbaking the crust: Baking the crust too long can make it hard instead of crunchy. Keep an eye on it and remove from the oven once it’s golden brown, typically around 15-20 minutes.
• Skipping the chilling time: Failing to let the cheesecake set in the freezer will result in a runny filling. Ensure you freeze it for at least 4-6 hours before serving for best results.
• Not adjusting sweetness: Every palate is different; don’t forget to taste your filling and adjust sweetness with more maple syrup or lemon juice as needed.
• Ignoring the strawberry sauce cooling time: Serving the sauce warm can affect the cheesecake’s texture. Allow it to cool completely before drizzling over your cheesecake.
• Using low-quality ingredients: The flavor of your cheesecake relies heavily on high-quality ingredients, especially fresh strawberries and pure maple syrup. Opt for organic and fresh whenever possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

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

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat slices in short intervals (15-20 seconds) until just warm. Be careful not to overheat as it may change texture.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat to gently warm slices, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk)?
This dessert is a creamy, no-bake cake made without animal products or gluten, featuring oat milk and fresh strawberries.

How do I make this cheesecake nut-free?
You can substitute nuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds in the crust. Ensure they are finely ground for texture.

Can I use another non-dairy milk?
Yes! Almond milk or coconut milk can be used as alternatives to oat milk while still keeping it vegan and delicious.

How do I enhance flavor without using alcohol?
Adding more vanilla extract or citrus zest will enhance flavors without needing alcohol-based ingredients.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This cheesecake stores well, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time for gatherings or snacks throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Gluten Free & Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake (with Oat Milk) is not only indulgent but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or toppings based on your preferences. It’s an excellent dessert choice that everyone will love!