Note that if you purchase something via one of our links, including Amazon, we may earn a small commission.
Print
No-Bake Silken Tofu Cheesecake
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
This basic New York–style cheesecake has a classic lemon-kissed flavor, but you can flavor it by adding any extract, other citrus zest, or spices like cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice. Top it with one of the below topping suggestions, or let your own creativity be your guide.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups finely crushed graham cracker crumbs, chocolate wafer crumbs, or other cookie crumbs
- 1/4 cup + 1/3 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 6 Tbsps plant-based butter, melted
- 1 lb silken tofu, drained
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 3/4 cup raw cashews, soaked for 8 hours and drained
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tsps agar agar powder (see notes)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp finely grated lemon zest
- 1/8 tsp salt
- Toppings of choice (see box)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the cookie crumbs and 1/4 cup of sugar. Pour the melted butter in and stir until the mixture resembles moist sand. Firmly press the crust into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie plate. Chill until firm, about 30 minutes.
- In a blender, purée the remaining sugar, silken tofu, milk, cashews, cornstarch, agar agar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and salt until very smooth.
- Heat the filling over medium-high heat, whisking often, until bubbling and thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes, whisking occasionally.
- Scrape the filling into the prepared crumb crust. Refrigerate until set, at least 6 hours, or up to 24 hours. Add your favorite toppings before serving, or allow guests to dress up their own slice from a few options.
Notes
- Agar agar is a gelatin replacement made from seaweed and it helps set custard and jelly desserts. You can get it in health food stores or online.
- For more plant-based cooking ideas, see our full Cheat Sheet for Less Meat.
Choose Your Own Toppings
This recipe is a great base for whatever toppings you already have on hand. Here are some of our favorite ideas:
- Fresh berries
- Sliced peaches, plums, or apricots
- Warmed canned pie filling
- Whipped coconut cream or homemade Sweet Cashew Cream
- Grated or shaved dark chocolate
- Fruit coulis or syrup
