Baobab stands out as a truly remarkable superfood. Its unique, zesty flavor profile is reminiscent of tart fruits like cranberries or citrus sherbet.
Orange, Fig and Baobab Cheesecake [Vegan & Raw]
Ingredients for Orange, Fig and Baobab Cheesecake
Base:
- ½ cup pitted dates
- ½ cup shredded coconut
- ½ cup flaked almonds
- A pinch of salt (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon coconut oil, melted
Filling:
- 1 ½ cups raw cashews, soaked for at least 4 hours or overnight prior to use
- 1 ripe banana (fresh)
- ¼ teaspoon orange zest (finely grated)
- 3 dried figs, rehydrated in warm water until softened
- 1 teaspoon baobab powder
- 3 tablespoons almond milk or unsweetened cashew milk (adjust to desired consistency)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted and cooled slightly beforehand
Preparation Instructions for Orange, Fig and Baobab Cheesecake
Base Preparation:
- Drain the soaked cashews. If doubling the recipe, ensure you have enough liquid to process.
- In a food processor, combine dates, shredded coconut, flaked almonds, and pinch of salt until finely ground.
- Add the melted coconut oil and pulse briefly just until combined into a sandy mixture.
- Press this base firmly onto the bottom of your prepared spring form pan. For optimal results, use a slight excess to ensure complete coverage.
Filling Preparation:
- Drain and rinse the soaked cashews (unless they were pre-soaked as part of the ingredient prep).
- Chop the banana into small pieces, then add to the food processor.
- Rinse the processor bowl thoroughly before reprocessing all filling ingredients except the coconut oil.
- Add the orange zest and baobab powder. Blend until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed for thorough incorporation.
- Pour in the melted coconut oil (at room temperature) and continue blending briefly just to combine.
- If the mixture seems too thick, add more almond milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired creamy consistency while still holding its shape.
Assembly & Setting:
- Gently pour the prepared filling over the evenly set base in the pan.
- Refrigerate uncovered for a minimum of 4 hours, and preferably 5-6 hours or overnight, to allow complete setting. Ensure it is fully firm before slicing.
Cooking Note:
This raw cheesecake requires patience in the refrigerator for proper setting due to its composition without heat processing. It keeps refrigerated for approximately 2-3 days when covered loosely with parchment paper or plastic wrap to prevent skin formation.