Orange Cheesecake

Orange Cheesecake – A Refreshing and Delicious Dessert

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Introduction

Discover a delicious and refreshing orange cheesecake recipe, perfect for warm days or as a sweet surprise any time of the year. This dessert is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a healthy option, thanks to the natural and nutritious ingredients it uses. Our cheesecake is dairy-free and made from cashews, an ingredient rich in protein, healthy fats, and minerals. I invite you to explore this simple yet impressive recipe that is sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

The History of Cheesecake

It is said that cheesecake has been around since ancient times, appreciated in various cultures, but today we focus on a modern, raw vegan version that combines the fresh flavors of oranges with the creamy texture of cashews. This recipe not only blends tradition with innovation but also offers a healthy alternative to classic desserts.

Ingredients

*For the crust:*
- 200 g Brazil nuts
- 8 pitted dates
- 3 tablespoons cocoa (ground cacao beans)

*For the cream:*
- 2 cups raw cashews, soaked for 3-4 hours
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
- Zest of 1 orange
- Juice of 3 oranges

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the crust

1. Preparing the ingredients: Ensure that the Brazil nuts are fresh and that you have pitted dates. The latter will add natural sweetness to the crust, replacing refined sugar.

2. Mixing the ingredients: Place the Brazil nuts, dates, and cocoa in a food processor. Blend on medium speed until you achieve a homogeneous mixture that holds together easily between your fingers. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a few drops of water.

3. Forming the crust: Take a 26 cm diameter pan lined with parchment paper or greased with coconut oil. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan, ensuring it is compact to support the cream that will follow.

Step 2: Preparing the cream

1. Hydrating the cashews: Make sure the cashews have been soaked for 3-4 hours in water, then drain them well. This step is essential for achieving a smooth and creamy texture.

2. Blending the ingredients: In a powerful blender, add the soaked cashews, melted coconut oil, orange zest, and orange juice. Blend well until you obtain a smooth, homogeneous, and creamy mixture. Taste the cream and adjust the sweetness by adding more dates if you prefer a sweeter flavor.

3. Assembling the cheesecake: On the edge of the crust in the pan, arrange thin slices of orange. These are not only decorative but also add a fresh and aromatic taste. Pour the cashew cream over the crust, ensuring it spreads evenly.

Step 3: Chilling

- Cover the pan with plastic wrap and place the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. This chilling time will help the cream set and achieve the perfect texture.

Step 4: Serving

- Once the cheesecake is well chilled and set, carefully remove the edge of the mold. You can decorate with additional slices of orange or grated cocoa for an elegant look. Serve it with green tea or a fruit smoothie for a delicious and healthy combination.

Practical tips for a perfect cheesecake

- Ingredients: Choose fresh Brazil nuts for a more intense flavor. Buy quality cashews without additives to ensure a creamy texture.

- Hydrating the cashews: Don't skip this step, as soaked cashews will turn into a much smoother and creamier mixture.

- Tasting: Before pouring the cream into the pan, taste the mixture to ensure that the sweetness and freshness of the orange are to your liking. You can add a splash of vanilla for an extra flavor boost.

- Variations: You can experiment with other fruits, such as mango or peaches, instead of oranges. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to give your cheesecake a different twist.

Nutritional benefits

The orange cheesecake is an excellent nutritional choice. Brazil nuts are rich in selenium, an important antioxidant, while cashews provide protein and healthy fats. Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system. Additionally, the dessert is high in fiber, thanks to the dates and nuts, contributing to healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace cashews with another ingredient?
- While cashews provide a specific texture, you can try almonds or hazelnuts, but make sure to soak them properly.

2. Is this cheesecake vegan?
- Yes, the recipe is completely vegan, dairy-free, and egg-free.

3. Can I make it without added sugar?
- Absolutely! Dates provide natural sweetness, but you can adjust according to your taste preferences.

4. How can I store the cheesecake?
- The cheesecake stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-5 days.

This orange cheesecake can become your favorite among quick and healthy desserts. Enjoy it with your loved ones, and don’t forget to share your culinary experience! Enjoy your meal!