Description
These no-bake, dairy-free, and gluten-free mini cheesecake bites feature a creamy cashew and coconut filling with a sweet pecan and date crust. Perfect for fall gatherings and baby showers, they are portable, elegant, and free from common allergens.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups (280g) raw unsalted cashews
- 1 can (400ml) full-fat coconut milk, chilled overnight
- 1/3 cup (110ml) pure Grade B or dark maple syrup
- 1.5 cups (150g) raw or dry-roasted pecan halves
- 4–5 large pitted Medjool dates
- 2 tbsp (30ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Parchment paper liners for mini muffin tin
Instructions
- Soak raw cashews in boiling water for at least 1 hour (or overnight in cold water). Drain and rinse well.
- In a food processor, pulse pecans until finely chopped. Add dates and a pinch of salt; process until the mixture clumps together like wet sand.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the pecan mixture into each parchment-lined mini muffin cup. Press down firmly to create a compact crust.
- In a high-speed blender, combine drained cashews, thick coconut cream (scooped from the chilled can), maple syrup, lemon juice, and vanilla.
- Blend on high for 2-3 minutes, stopping to scrape sides, until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy.
- Spoon the filling into the prepared crusts, filling to the top.
- Place the tin in the freezer for 1 hour to set the tops, then transfer to the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully firm.
- Gently peel back parchment liners. Garnish with pecan halves and a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
- Serve chilled. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
Ensure cashews are soaked thoroughly to avoid a gritty texture. Use full-fat canned coconut milk, not carton beverage. The lemon juice is essential for the ‘cheesecake’ tang. These bites freeze well and can be transported in a cooler for events.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini bite
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 9
- Sodium: 15
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 3
Keywords: dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, no-bake, cashew cheesecake, maple pecan, fall dessert, baby shower, nut-free option, healthy dessert