Ingredients
Carrot Halwa Base
- 1 tablespoon vegan butter (or use oil)
- 4 cups grated carrots
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 tablespoon flax meal
- 2 tablespoons raisins (soaked in warm water for at least 10 minutes, then drained)
- 1/8 teaspoon salt (for cooking)
Cheesecake Layer
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for at least 15 minutes)
- 15-ounce can full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 drops almond extract
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon refined coconut oil (optional)
Topping
- 2 tablespoons pistachios (chopped very finely)
- 1 tablespoon pecans (chopped very finely)
Instructions
- Make the carrot halwa: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the vegan butter and add the grated carrots with 1/8 teaspoon salt. Cook for about 3 minutes until the carrots change color. Stir in the maple syrup, sugar, and ground cardamom; continue cooking for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the base further: Add almond flour and mix well. If the mixture appears too dry, cover with a lid for short intervals, then stir and cook uncovered for another 7 to 8 minutes until carrots are caramelized and starting to brown on the edges. Taste to check doneness.
- Add raisins and flax meal: Stir in the drained raisins and immediately switch off the heat. Mix in the flax meal and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8- or 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper or use a springform pan. Press the cooled carrot halwa mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan.
- Make the cheesecake layer: In a blender, combine the soaked cashews and all cheesecake ingredients including coconut milk, vanilla, almond extract, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and optional coconut oil. Blend for one minute, then let sit for 5 minutes. Blend again for one minute. Repeat blending until the mixture becomes very smooth. Adjust sweetness and tanginess if needed.
- Assemble the cheesecake: Pour the smooth cheesecake mixture evenly over the carrot halwa base in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle finely chopped pistachios and pecans on top, decorating as desired.
- Chill to set: Place the assembled cheesecake in the freezer for about 1 to 2 hours to allow the cheesecake layer to firm up and set properly for clean slices.
- Serve: Remove from freezer, slice with a sharp warm knife for clean cuts, and serve immediately.
- Storage: Store leftover slices in the freezer for up to 2 months. Before serving, let the slice sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes until soft and creamy.
Notes
- Use a sharp warm knife to slice the cheesecake smoothly.
- If you prefer a sweeter cheesecake layer, adjust sugar to taste after blending.
- Ensure the cashews are well soaked to achieve a creamy texture in the cheesecake layer.
- Refined coconut oil is optional but helps create a firmer set in the cheesecake layer.
- Soak the raisins to soften them and prevent dryness in the carrot base.
- This recipe is vegan and dairy-free.
- Keep the cheesecake frozen until ready to serve for best texture and sliceability.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion (Indian-inspired)
- Diet: Vegan