Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to the world of plant-based indulgence with these Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake Bars. This delectable dessert offers all the creamy, tangy goodness of traditional cheesecake but with a vegan twist that’s perfect for those following a plant-based diet. Rich in flavor and pleasing to the palate, these bars are not only cruelty-free but also gluten-free and refined sugar-free. Ideal for a summer treat, special occasions, or just a healthy dessert option, this recipe combines the freshness of strawberries with the luxurious texture of cheesecake in a delightful bar form.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups raw almonds (or any nut of your choice, such as cashews or walnuts)
  • 1 cup pitted dates (approximately 12-15 dates, for natural sweetness and binding)
  • 1/4 cup coconut flakes (unsweetened, for added texture)
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (for flavor)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 2 cups raw cashews (soaked for at least 4 hours or overnight for a creamy texture)
  • 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (canned, for richness)
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup (or agave nectar for a refined sugar-free option)
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed for tanginess)
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (for depth of flavor)
  • 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted, for a rich and smooth texture)
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced, or 1 1/2 cups frozen strawberries, thawed)

For the Strawberry Swirl:

  • 1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced, for a fresh burst of flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (for sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to enhance the strawberry flavor)

Instructions

Preparing the Crust:

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Start by gathering and measuring all the ingredients for the crust. Ensure the almonds are raw and the dates are pitted.
  2. Process the Nuts: Place the raw almonds in a food processor. Pulse until they are finely ground but not turned into flour. The texture should be coarse and crumbly.
  3. Add Dates and Mix: Add the pitted dates to the food processor with the ground almonds. Continue to process until the mixture starts to clump together. This may take 1-2 minutes, depending on the power of your food processor.
  4. Incorporate Coconut Flakes: Add the unsweetened coconut flakes and sea salt. Pulse a few more times until evenly combined.
  5. Press into Pan: Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper. Transfer the crust mixture into the pan and press it down firmly with the back of a spoon or your hands to create an even layer.
  6. Chill the Crust: Place the pan in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the cheesecake filling. This helps the crust firm up.

Preparing the Cheesecake Filling:

  1. Soak Cashews: Drain and rinse the soaked cashews. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.
  2. Blend Ingredients: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, coconut milk, maple syrup, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil.
  3. Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure an even texture.
  4. Prepare Strawberry Swirl: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of fresh strawberries with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Heat over medium heat until the strawberries break down and release their juices, about 5 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
  5. Create Swirl Effect: Once the strawberry mixture is slightly cooled, gently fold it into the cheesecake filling mixture. This creates a beautiful swirl effect. Do not over-mix; you want to retain the marbled look.

Assembling the Bars:

  1. Pour Filling Over Crust: Remove the crust from the refrigerator. Pour the cheesecake filling over the set crust, smoothing it out with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
  2. Add Strawberry Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry swirl mixture over the cheesecake filling. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the strawberry mixture into the cheesecake filling for a marbled effect.
  3. Smooth and Chill: Smooth the top with a spatula if necessary. Return the pan to the refrigerator and let the bars set for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the filling to firm up and the flavors to meld together.
  4. Cut and Serve: Once set, remove the cheesecake bars from the pan using the parchment paper. Place on a cutting board and cut into squares or bars. Serve chilled.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 bar (based on cutting into 16 bars)
Calories per Serving: 210
Total Carbohydrates: 22 grams
Net Carbohydrates: 14 grams
Protein: 4 grams
Fat: 14 grams
Sodium: 15 mg

SmartPoints® Value (WW): 8 points per serving (Note: SmartPoints® values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.)

Additional Tips

  1. Nutritional Variations: For a lower-calorie option, consider reducing the amount of maple syrup or using a lower-fat coconut milk. Adjust sweetness to taste.
  2. Crust Variations: Substitute almonds with other nuts like walnuts or pecans, or use seeds such as sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
  3. Flavor Variations: Experiment with different fruits for the swirl, such as raspberries or blueberries, to create unique flavor profiles.
  4. Storage: Store the cheesecake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
  5. Serving Suggestions: Garnish with additional fresh strawberries or a sprig of mint for a decorative touch. Serve with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for extra indulgence.
  6. Allergen Information: This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Ensure that all ingredients are verified to be free from allergens if serving to individuals with specific dietary restrictions.
  7. Kid-Friendly: The bars are a great option for children, offering a healthy, vegan dessert that’s both tasty and nutritious. For a fun twist, involve kids in the preparation process.

Conclusion

These Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake Bars offer a delectable way to enjoy a classic dessert in a plant-based format. With a crunchy, nutty crust and a creamy, fruity filling, they are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while adhering to a vegan diet. The recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing for customization with different flavors and ingredients. Enjoy the vibrant taste of strawberries combined with the rich texture of cheesecake, all while maintaining a commitment to healthy eating.