There’s something truly special about finding a dessert that satisfies every craving without the guilt—especially one that captures the nostalgia of a beloved candy bar. Enter my Luscious No-Bake Vegan Snickers Cheesecake! As the creamy layers of peanut butter, luscious caramel, and rich chocolate melt on your tongue, you’ll be transported back to childhood moments of savoring those iconic flavors.
What makes this cheesecake even more enticing is how simple it is to whip up. With just a handful of whole-food ingredients, this dessert is not only vegan and gluten-free but also refined sugar-free. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself to a delightful indulgence after a long day, this cheesecake is the perfect solution. So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into making a dessert that will leave everyone wondering how something so decadent can also be so wholesome!
Why is Vegan Snickers Cheesecake a must-try?
Indulgent yet Healthy: This Vegan Snickers Cheesecake is rich in flavor and texture while being entirely guilt-free.
No-Bake Ease: With minimal prep time and no oven required, you can whip this up in barely a heartbeat.
Decadent Layers: The combination of creamy cheesecake, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate makes this dessert a showstopper.
Wholesome Ingredients: Made from whole-food components, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free—perfect for any dietary preference!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this cheesecake will have everyone asking for seconds!
Expert tip: For more delectable creations, check out our guide on easy vegan desserts.
Vegan Snickers Cheesecake Ingredients
• Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful dessert!
For the Base Layer
- Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – The foundation of your crust; can be substituted with any crunchy cookie or nut-based crust.
- Almonds – Provides texture and flavor; substitute with pecans or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
- Maple Syrup – Sweetens the base; agave nectar works well as a substitute if desired.
- Coconut Oil – Binds everything together while adding healthy fats; feel free to use ghee or regular butter for a non-vegan touch.
For the Cheesecake Layer
- Cashews – The key for creaminess; remember to soak them in hot water for at least 20 minutes for the best texture.
- Peanut Butter – Infuses that classic Snickers richness; swap for almond or cashew butter if preferred.
- Coconut Milk – Gives a creamy texture; opt for full-fat for a richer taste or light alternatives for lower fat.
- Coconut Yogurt – Ensures a silky finish; Greek yogurt is a great alternative for non-vegan diets.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the entire flavor profile beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth and warmth to the flavor.
- Sea Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the caramel layer.
For the Caramel Layer
- Coconut Sugar – Provides sweetness and a unique flavor; can be replaced with brown sugar if you need it.
- Chopped Peanuts – Adds a delightful crunch on top of the caramel; adjust to your liking!
For the Chocolate Layer
- Chocolate Chips – Essential for that rich chocolate finish; choose dairy-free chips to keep it fully vegan.
- Coconut Oil – Helps melt the chocolate smoothly and provides extra richness.
Feel free to use this list to gather your ingredients for the Vegan Snickers Cheesecake, and let’s create something irresistibly scrumptious together!
How to Make Vegan Snickers Cheesecake
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Prepare Base Layer: Grease an 8” springform pan. In a food processor, combine rolled oats, almonds, maple syrup, and melted coconut oil. Process until a dough forms, then press into the bottom of a lined 9” pie pan and set aside.
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Make Cheesecake Layer: Blend soaked cashews, peanut butter, coconut milk, coconut yogurt, maple syrup, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth. Pour over the prepared base and freeze for 40 minutes to an hour until firm.
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Prepare Caramel Layer: In a pot over medium heat, combine coconut milk, coconut sugar, and coconut oil. Boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring often until thickened. Let cool slightly, pour over the cheesecake layer, and sprinkle with chopped peanuts if desired. Freeze again for 30 minutes.
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Create Chocolate Layer: Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in a heatproof bowl, stirring until smooth. Pour over the cooled caramel layer, spreading evenly, and sprinkle with sea salt. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing.
Optional: Serve with additional chopped peanuts or a dollop of coconut whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Snickers Cheesecake layers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the base and cheesecake layers up to 24 hours in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator. Simply blend the soaked cashews with the other cheesecake layer ingredients, pour it over the set crust, and refrigerate. You can also make the caramel layer up to 3 days ahead; just ensure it cools completely before pouring it over the cheesecake. For the smoothest finish, melt the chocolate layer just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, add the final layers and freeze for at least 4 hours for a decadent dessert that saves you time and effort!
Vegan Snickers Cheesecake Variations
Feel free to make this delightful cheesecake your own with these fun twists!
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Nut-Free: Swap almonds for sunflower seeds and use sunflower seed butter for a deliciously nut-free alternative.
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Flavored Yogurt: Experiment with coconut or vanilla-flavored yogurt in the cheesecake layer for a boost of unique taste.
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Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the cheesecake layer for a richer chocolate flavor that enhances the overall decadence.
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Caramel Twist: Drizzle with vegan caramel sauce on top for an extra layer of gooey goodness that truly embodies the Snickers spirit.
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Fruit-Infused: Top with fresh bananas or strawberries to add a fruity twist that complements the creamy layers beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper in the chocolate layer for a surprisingly delightful heat that balances sweetness.
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Cookie Crust: Instead of oats, use crushed gluten-free cookies for the base to add a different flavor and texture profile.
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Experiment with Butters: Try almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a deliciously different flavor experience that remains creamy and rich.
Expert Tips for Vegan Snickers Cheesecake
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Firmness is Key: Ensure the cheesecake layer is completely set before adding the caramel; otherwise, you risk melting and a messy layer.
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Blender Matters: Use a high-speed blender for the cheesecake layer to achieve that velvety smooth texture. You want it creamy, not chunky!
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Thaw for Perfection: For the ultimate indulgence, let your Vegan Snickers Cheesecake thaw at room temperature for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This brings out all the flavors!
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Base Consistency: If your base mixture is too crumbly, don’t hesitate to add a tablespoon of water. Process again to help it hold together better.
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Flavor Swap: Experiment with nut butters! While peanut butter is classic, almond or cashew butter can add a delightful twist to your Vegan Snickers Cheesecake.
Storage Tips for Vegan Snickers Cheesecake
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Room Temperature: This cheesecake is best stored in the freezer but can sit out for about 10 minutes before serving to enhance its flavors. Avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours.
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer a firmer texture, it’s best to keep it in the freezer.
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Freezer: Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
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Reheating: No need to reheat. Simply allow the Vegan Snickers Cheesecake to soften at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavors.
What to Serve with Vegan Snickers Cheesecake?
Complete your indulgent dessert experience with these delightful pairings that enhance the flavors of this luscious cheesecake.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this topping adds a fresh and creamy touch that beautifully contrasts the cheesecake’s richness.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries offer a burst of tartness, balancing the sweetness of the cheesecake while adding a vibrant pop of color.
- Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola sprinkled on top provides delightful texture and an extra layer of flavor that complements the creamy layers below.
- Mint Tea: A soothing, herbal drink that refreshes the palate after each rich bite, making it perfect for enjoying with this dessert.
- Espresso: The bold and intense flavor of espresso elevates the indulgent experience, creating an exquisite pairing that coffee lovers will adore.
- Chia Seed Pudding: Creamy yet light, the seed pudding brings a nutritious balance to the dessert table and can be flavored with vanilla or cocoa.
- Chocolate-Dipped Fruit: Fresh fruit like bananas or strawberries dipped in chocolate echoes the flavors of the cheesecake while offering a sweet and satisfying crunch.
- Small Dark Chocolate Squares: A bite of high-quality dark chocolate allows you to savor the depth of cocoa flavor, enhancing the rich chocolate layer of the cheesecake.
- Toasted Coconut Flakes: Subtle sweetness combined with crunch, these flakes can be sprinkled on top of the cheesecake for an added tropical touch.
- Herbal Iced Tea: Refreshing and lightly sweetened, iced tea infused with herbs completes the dessert experience, balancing flavors and adding a cooling element.
Vegan Snickers Cheesecake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness for the ingredients?
When selecting cashews for the cheesecake layer, opt for fresh, plump cashews without any discoloration or an off smell. For the bananas in any variations, they should be ripe but firm, as too mushy ones can affect the texture of your cheesecake.
What are the best storage methods and duration for this cheesecake?
Store your Vegan Snickers Cheesecake in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. For shorter durations, it can last in the fridge for 3 days. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap to maintain its taste and texture!
Can I freeze the cheesecake? How should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your Vegan Snickers Cheesecake, ensure it’s completely set. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for optimal texture—this will allow the layers to remain intact while softening beautifully.
What should I do if the cheesecake layer doesn’t set properly?
If you find your cheesecake layer is too soft, chances are it wasn’t blended long enough or the cashews weren’t soaked sufficiently. For the next attempt, be sure to soak the cashews for at least 20 minutes in hot water. Blend until completely smooth, and remember to freeze the layer for at least an hour before adding the caramel layer to ensure stability.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! This Vegan Snickers Cheesecake is naturally gluten-free and refined sugar-free, making it a healthier alternative for many. However, if you’re serving it to guests with nut allergies, simply substitute the nuts with seeds like sunflower seeds or use nut-free alternatives as discussed in the ingredient list. Always double-check for individual allergies when serving.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time for an event?
Very! This cheesecake is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. You can whip it up two days in advance and keep it stored in the freezer until you’re ready to serve it. Just remember to take it out to thaw for about 10 minutes at room temperature before slicing so it’s perfectly creamy!
Irresistible Vegan Snickers Cheesecake You Can’t Resist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Base Layer: Grease an 8” springform pan. In a food processor, combine rolled oats, almonds, maple syrup, and melted coconut oil. Process until a dough forms, then press into the bottom of a lined 9” pie pan and set aside.
- Make Cheesecake Layer: Blend soaked cashews, peanut butter, coconut milk, coconut yogurt, maple syrup, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth. Pour over the prepared base and freeze for 40 minutes to an hour until firm.
- Prepare Caramel Layer: In a pot over medium heat, combine coconut milk, coconut sugar, and coconut oil. Boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring often until thickened. Let cool slightly, pour over the cheesecake layer, and sprinkle with chopped peanuts if desired. Freeze again for 30 minutes.
- Create Chocolate Layer: Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in a heatproof bowl, stirring until smooth. Pour over the cooled caramel layer, spreading evenly, and sprinkle with sea salt. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing.