Strawberry Orange Cheesecake with Coconut Crust (Gluten Free, Paleo + Vegan)
This Strawberry Orange Cheesecake with Coconut Crust is a delightful treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious! The combination of bright citrus flavors and a subtly sweet coconut crust makes for an unforgettable dessert experience. If you’re looking for more vibrant, fruity desserts, you might also enjoy our Zesty Gluten-Free Lemon Bars with Almond Crust.
Perfect for those following gluten-free, paleo, or vegan diets, this cheesecake offers a guilt-free indulgence. The creamy texture paired with the tangy fruit notes will leave you wanting more. For another creamy and dreamy dessert, be sure to check out our Silky Smooth Gluten-Free Panna Cotta with Berry Sauce.
One of the keys to successful gluten-free baking is finding the right balance of flavors and textures. This recipe achieves that with its unique coconut macaroon-inspired crust, adding a satisfying chewiness that complements the smooth filling. Speaking of crusts, our The Best Gluten-Free Cheesecake with a Crunchy Crust recipe offers another fantastic crust option worth exploring!
Let’s dive into the details of how to create this stunning and flavorful cheesecake!
Strawberry Orange Cheesecake with Coconut Crust (Gluten Free, Paleo + Vegan)
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own vibrant and delicious Strawberry Orange Cheesecake with Coconut Crust. This recipe is gluten-free, paleo, and vegan-friendly!
Coconut Crust Instructions
- Prepare: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease a 6-inch springform pan with coconut oil. Alternatively, line a 6-inch cake pan with parchment paper strips for easy removal and grease well with coconut oil. Set the prepared pan aside.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine ¼ cup (24g) almond flour, 1 cup (80g) unsweetened shredded coconut, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add ¼ cup (78g) maple syrup, ¼ cup (60g) melted coconut butter, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and the zest of one lemon to the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Press and Bake: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool: Remove the crust from the oven and let it cool completely while you prepare the filling.
Cheesecake Filling Instructions
- Soak Cashews: Ensure 2 cups of raw cashews have been soaked in cold water for at least four hours, or preferably overnight. Drain and rinse them well.
- Blend Filling Ingredients: In a food processor or high-powered blender, combine the soaked cashews, ¼ cup canned full-fat coconut milk (shaken), ¼ cup melted and slightly cooled cacao butter or coconut oil, ⅓ cup (104g) maple syrup, ⅓ cup fresh orange juice, 1 tablespoon orange zest, and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend the mixture for about 2 minutes, or until it is silky smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the blender as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Soften Goji Berries: Soak 1 tablespoon of goji berries in hot water for 10 minutes to soften. Drain before adding to the filling.
- Divide Filling: Pour 2/3 of the blended filling into the prepared pan, over the cooled coconut crust. Smooth out the top and tap the pan firmly against the counter a few times to release any air bubbles.
- Create Strawberry Layer: Add ½ cup fresh strawberries and ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries to the remaining 1/3 of the filling in the blender. Blend until well combined, creating a strawberry-infused layer.
- Layer Strawberry Filling: Spread the strawberry filling evenly over the orange layer in the pan.
- Freeze to Set: Place the cheesecake in the freezer to set for at least 3 hours, or until completely firm.
Topping and Serving Instructions
- Garnish: Before serving, garnish the cheesecake as desired with candied orange slices, fresh strawberries, and fresh orange slices.
- Serve: Serve the cheesecake frozen, or let it thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Cutting Tip: For clean slices, run your knife under hot water to warm it up before each cut. Wipe the knife clean between slices.
- Storage: Store any leftover cheesecake in the freezer for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Enjoy your beautiful and delicious Strawberry Orange Cheesecake with Coconut Crust! This dessert is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Coconut Crust
- ¼ cup (24g) almond flour
- 1 cup (80g) unsweetened shredded coconut
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup (78g) maple syrup
- ¼ cup (60g) coconut butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice + zest of one lemon
For the Filling
- 2 cups raw cashews, soaked in cold water for at least four hours or preferably overnight
- ¼ cup canned full-fat coconut milk, shaken
- ¼ cup cacao butter, or coconut oil, melted and cooled slightly
- â…“ cup (104g) maple syrup
- â…“ cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon goji berries, soak in hot water for 10 minutes to soften
- ½ cup fresh strawberries
- ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, for flavor and color
For the Toppings
- Candied orange slices
- Fresh strawberries
- Fresh orange slices
Nutrition Insights for Gluten-Free Bakers
This Strawberry Orange Cheesecake with Coconut Crust is a delightful treat that caters to gluten-free, paleo, and vegan diets. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional benefits:
- Gluten-Free Goodness: Made with almond flour and shredded coconut, this cheesecake is entirely gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Healthy Fats: The coconut crust features coconut butter, a source of healthy fats that provide sustained energy and promote satiety. The filling also includes cacao butter or coconut oil, contributing to a creamy texture and additional healthy fats.
- Natural Sweeteners: Maple syrup is used as a natural sweetener, offering a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugars. This helps in managing blood sugar levels, making it a better choice for those watching their sugar intake.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Cashews are a great source of magnesium, zinc, and iron, while strawberries and oranges provide vitamin C and antioxidants. These nutrients support overall health and well-being.
- Fiber-Rich: Almond flour and shredded coconut contribute to the fiber content, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you customize this recipe to fit your dietary needs and preferences:
- Nut-Free Option: Replace almond flour with a gluten-free oat flour or sunflower seed flour for a nut-free crust. Ensure all ingredients are processed in a nut-free facility if you have severe allergies.
- Sweetener Alternatives: If you prefer a different sweetener, try using agave syrup or coconut nectar instead of maple syrup. Adjust the amount to taste, keeping in mind the sweetness level of your chosen alternative.
- Citrus Variations: Feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits like grapefruit or mandarin oranges for a unique twist on the flavor profile. Adjust the juice and zest quantities to match the intensity of the fruit.
- Berry Medley: Substitute or add other berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries to the filling or toppings for a mixed berry cheesecake.
- Lower Fat Option: Replace some of the cacao butter or coconut oil with applesauce or mashed avocado to reduce the fat content while maintaining a creamy texture.
- Make it Ahead: This cheesecake can be made several days in advance and stored in the freezer. Just thaw it slightly before serving for the best texture.
- Serving Suggestions: Garnish with edible flowers, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for an elegant presentation.
Enjoy creating this delicious and nutritious Strawberry Orange Cheesecake with Coconut Crust! It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a delightful combination of flavors and health benefits.
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
To prepare this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Mixing Bowls – A set of mixing bowls in various sizes is crucial for preparing ingredients separately.
Find Mixing Bowls on Amazon - Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements are key to a successful recipe.
Find Measuring Cups and Spoons on Amazon - Baking Sheets – Needed for baking the main components of the recipe.
Find Baking Sheets on Amazon - Whisks – Essential for whipping and combining ingredients smoothly.
Find Whisks on Amazon - Spatulas – Perfect for folding and mixing ingredients.
Find Spatulas on Amazon - Food Processors – Speeds up the preparation process.
Find Food Processors on Amazon - Saucepans – For cooking sauces.
Find Saucepans on Amazon - Chef’s Knives – A sharp knife is essential for chopping vegetables.
Find Chef’s Knives on Amazon - Cutting Boards – To protect your work surface.
Find Cutting Boards on Amazon