Vegan Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe

If you love the bold combination of chocolate and citrus, then this Vegan Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe is going to become your new obsession. It’s a rich, creamy, and utterly indulgent dessert that manages to feel fresh and vibrant thanks to the bright burst of orange zest and juice. Crafted without any dairy or eggs, this cheesecake offers a luscious, plant-based twist on a classic favorite, featuring a satisfyingly nutty oat crust and a smooth, velvety filling that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re vegan or just looking to treat yourself to something special, this recipe brings together simplicity and elegance in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just a handful of wholesome, easy-to-find ingredients sets you up for success with this cheesecake. Each component plays an important role to yield that perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color—ensuring every slice is as good as the last.

• Rolled oats: Forms the hearty, toasted crust with a rustic and nutty foundation.
• Medjool dates: Natural sweeteners that help bind and add chewiness to the base.
• Cacao powder: Brings deep chocolate flavor and richness to both crust and filling.
• Sea salt: Enhances all the sweet and tangy components subtly but effectively.
• Non-dairy milk or water: Provides moisture to help combine the crust ingredients smoothly.
• Raw cashews: The creamy backbone of the filling when soaked and blended to perfection.
• Full fat coconut milk: Adds luscious creaminess and smooth texture.
• Maple syrup: Natural sweetness that complements the orange notes beautifully.
• Melted coconut oil: Helps solidify the cheesecake while enriching its silky texture.
• Orange zest and juice: Infuses the filling with the bright, refreshing citrus character.
• Lemon juice: Balances sweetness and adds a subtle tang to brighten flavors.
• Vanilla extract: Provides warm, comforting undertones to the dessert.
• Oat Milk Baking Chocolate: The finishing touch for a glossy, decadent melted chocolate swirl.

How to Make Vegan Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Toasted Oat Crust

Start by toasting the rolled oats lightly in a dry pan over medium heat until they smell nutty and golden. Then, combine the toasted oats, soft Medjool dates, cacao powder, and sea salt in a food processor. Pulse while gradually adding the non-dairy milk or water until the mixture sticks together when pressed. Press this mixture firmly into the base of your springform pan to create a sturdy crust and place it in the fridge while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Soak and Drain Cashews

For the creamiest filling, soak your raw cashews in bottled or filtered water for at least 4 hours or overnight if you can. This softens them enough for a perfectly smooth texture when blended. Once soaked, drain and rinse them thoroughly.

Step 3: Blend the Cheesecake Filling

In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked cashews, full fat coconut milk, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, orange zest, orange juice, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cacao powder, and sea salt. Blend until you achieve a silky, thick, and homogeneous mixture without any grainy bits. This is where all the luscious flavors come together!

Step 4: Melt the Oat Milk Baking Chocolate

Gently melt the oat milk baking chocolate over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently to avoid burning. This melted chocolate will be swirled into the filling to add a rich, glossy finish and extra chocolate intensity.

Step 5: Assemble the Cheesecake

Pour about two-thirds of the filling over the chilled oat crust, then drizzle the melted chocolate over the top. Using a skewer or a knife, swirl the chocolate lightly through the filling to create beautiful marbled patterns. Pour the remaining filling over the top and smooth it out evenly. Refrigerate the cake for at least 6 hours or overnight until completely set.

How to Serve Vegan Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, consider garnishing with fresh orange slices, a sprinkle of finely grated orange zest, or even some cacao nibs for crunch. A few fresh mint leaves can add a delightful pop of color and subtle freshness that complements the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a bright berry compote, which balances the richness with natural tartness. For a cozy touch, serve alongside a cup of rich espresso or your favorite herbal tea to round out the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning effect, serve individual slices with a drizzle of warm vegan chocolate sauce or layer the cheesecake cut-outs over a thin layer of cacao crumb for contrast. Another fun idea is to create mini cheesecakes in ramekins using this recipe, ideal for parties and impressing guests with style and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cheesecake tightly covered in the refrigerator. Stored properly in an airtight container, it will stay fresh and maintain its creamy texture for up to 4 days—perfect for enjoying a few indulgent bites throughout the week.

Freezing

This Vegan Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe freezes beautifully. Slice it into portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, followed by foil, and place in an airtight freezer bag. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for an easy, stress-free dessert.

Reheating

Since this is a no-bake, chilled cheesecake, it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature rather than reheated. Simply let it sit out for 20-30 minutes before serving if it’s too firm from the fridge or freezer.

FAQs

Can I substitute cashews with another nut?

Cashews are ideal due to their creamy texture when soaked and blended, but if you have allergies, macadamia nuts are a good alternative. Keep in mind the flavor and consistency might vary slightly.

Do I need a food processor or blender?

A high-speed blender helps create the silkiest filling and a food processor is perfect for the crust. If you don’t have both, a strong blender alone can usually handle the job, but you may need to process ingredients in batches.

Can I make this cheesecake nut-free?

Removing nuts is tricky since they are the filling’s base, but using silken tofu or soaked sunflower seeds offers a possible alternative, though the flavor and texture will differ from the original.

How long does the cheesecake need to set?

Chilling for at least 6 hours is crucial to firm up the filling. For best results, let it set overnight to ensure perfect slicing and a rich mouthfeel.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Using rolled oats that are certified gluten-free makes this cheesecake safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend this Vegan Chocolate Orange Cheesecake Recipe enough for anyone looking to impress with something decadent yet wonderfully fresh and vibrant. It’s a joy to make, a delight to eat, and perfect for sharing with friends or family. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your dessert rotation forever!

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