Peach Cheesecake Recipe

If you’re on a quest for a show-stopping summer dessert that just happens to be plant-based, look no further than this Peach Cheesecake. With a nutty, chewy crust, creamy tangy filling, and a sparkling crown of fresh, sweet peaches, every bite is pure sunshine. Whether you’re serving this at a backyard barbecue or simply indulging in a cozy night in, Peach Cheesecake delivers bright flavors, gorgeous texture, and a little luxury in each slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something truly special about simple, high-quality ingredients coming together to create magic. Each component of this recipe plays an important role: from the natural sweetness of dried fruit to the luscious freshness of peaches, and the creamy, dairy-free base that will surprise everyone who tastes it.

• Blanched almonds (or cashews): The backbone of your crust, offering a toasty flavor and hearty texture.
• Dried apricots: These add chewiness and natural sweetness, helping the crust hold together beautifully.
• Sea salt: Just a touch brings all the flavors to life and balances the sweetness.
• Cashews (soaked): Soaking softens them, making your filling ultra-creamy and rich without any dairy.
• Vegan cream cheese: Keeps the cheesecake extra luscious and tangy, mimicking traditional recipes.
• Vegan Greek-style yogurt (or Skyr): Adds protein and tang, plus a velvety texture that’s irresistible.
• Coconut oil: Helps set the filling and adds a subtle tropical hint.
• Peach preserves (or apricot preserves/jam): Amplifies the fruitiness of the filling and ties everything together.
• Lemon juice (freshly squeezed): Just a splash gives the cheesecake a vibrant, fresh kick.
• Vanilla bean paste: Real vanilla flavor runs through both filling and topping, for a bakery-worthy finish.
• Brown sugar: Brings a warm caramel note to both the filling and peach topping.
• Ground cinnamon: A whisper of spice that complements the peaches perfectly.
• Fresh peaches (pits removed): The star of the show, these add color, freshness, and plenty of natural sweetness.
• Cornstarch (or ground arrowroot): Thickens the peach topping just right for slicing.

How to Make Peach Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Soak the Cashews

Begin by soaking your cashews according to recipe notes—soft cashews are key for that dreamy-smooth filling! While they’re soaking, line a 9-inch loaf pan with parchment paper along the base and sides. This little extra effort will make unmolding so much easier later on, and ensures every slice looks picture-perfect.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a food processor, combine the blanched almonds (or cashews), dried apricots, and a pinch of sea salt. Blitz them together until the mixture clumps when pressed between your fingers. If it seems a bit dry, simply add a few more apricots—the natural stickiness is what binds the crust! Once it’s just right, press the mixture firmly and smoothly into the base of your lined pan. Pop it into the fridge so it can set while you prepare the next part.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Filling

Now comes the heart of our Peach Cheesecake—the filling. Grab your soaked cashews, vegan cream cheese, yogurt, coconut oil, peach preserves, freshly squeezed lemon juice, vanilla bean paste, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Blend everything together in a high-speed blender until silky-smooth with zero lumps—texture here is everything! Pour this velvety goodness over your waiting crust and refrigerate for at least five hours, or if you can muster the patience, overnight for the best results.

Step 4: Prepare the Juicy Peach Topping

Slice up your fresh peaches into neat wedges—eight per peach is just right—and place them in a saucepan. Sprinkle over the brown sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, cinnamon, and a little more vanilla bean paste. Stir so everything is nicely coated and let the fruit rest for 20 minutes. This waiting game allows the peaches to macerate, deepen in flavor, and release their delicious juices.

Step 5: Cook and Cool Your Peach Topping

Place the saucepan over low to medium heat and gently cook the peaches, stirring often. The goal is to soften them just until they’re tender but still hold their shape—nobody wants mushy peaches! Once perfect, remove from heat and let the topping cool to room temperature for about half an hour. This way, it’ll set nicely atop your cheesecake rather than sinking in.

Step 6: Assemble and Chill

Spread your cooled peach mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake base in a gorgeous, glistening layer. Return it to the fridge for another 30 minutes to an hour. This final chill allows all the layers to set together into something truly special—now, your Peach Cheesecake is ready for its spotlight!

Step 7: Slice and Serve

When you’re ready to serve, run a sharp, hot, wet knife around the edges and slice into decadent pieces. Marvel at those layers! Each bite promises a taste of peak summer and pure happiness.

How to Serve Peach Cheesecake

Garnishes

Finish your Peach Cheesecake with a flourish! Sprinkle over some toasted sliced almonds for crunch, a scattering of edible flowers for extra beauty, or even a dollop of coconut cream for a truly luxurious touch. Fresh mint leaves add a lovely color pop and a hint of cooling freshness.

Side Dishes

Pair your cheesecake with a glass of sparkling peach iced tea or freshly brewed coffee. For a celebration, a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream on the side is a match made in dessert heaven. A platter of mixed berries is also a wonderful, lightly tart contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual mini Peach Cheesecakes in small jars for picnics or parties, or try cutting the finished dessert into squares for finger-food fun. Drizzle a little extra peach jam on each plate, or build a dessert platter with other stone fruits and crunchy biscotti for a stunning finale to any meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Peach Cheesecake (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen as it rests, making it even more luscious for up to three days.

Freezing

For long-term storage, simply freeze slices in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to a month. When you’re ready for a treat, just transfer the slice to the fridge and let it thaw overnight. The texture and flavor will be nearly as perfect as day one.

Reheating

No need for reheating—this Peach Cheesecake is meant to be enjoyed chilled! If it’s just out of the freezer, let it thaw in the fridge overnight or for a couple of hours at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use canned or frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Absolutely! If fresh peaches are out of season or hard to find, canned or frozen peaches (thawed and well-drained) will work just fine. Just keep an eye on sweetness and adjust the sugar in your topping as needed.

Can I make this Peach Cheesecake gluten-free?

Great news: this recipe is completely gluten-free as written! The nut-and-fruit crust gives you all the satisfaction without any wheat. Always double-check your packaged ingredients just to be sure.

Is there a substitute for vegan cream cheese?

If vegan cream cheese isn’t available, you can swap in an equal amount of extra-thick vegan Greek-style yogurt or smooth silken tofu. The texture may vary slightly, but you’ll still get a scrumptious result.

How do I get super-smooth cheesecake filling?

The secret? Really blend those soaked cashews until absolutely smooth. A high-speed blender works best, and don’t hesitate to scrape down the sides a few times. The creamier your mixture, the dreamier your Peach Cheesecake will be!

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Just use a larger pan or even a springform for a more classic look. Keep in mind that chilling times may need to be extended for the bigger volume to set fully.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to experience just how delightful and easy Peach Cheesecake can be! With its creamy filling, jewel-bright topping, and wholesome crust, it’s a true celebration of summer flavors—and it just might become your new favorite dessert. Gather your ingredients and let’s get baking—your kitchen (and your friends) will thank you!

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