Name: Easy Vegan No Bake Orange Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Total time: 6 h 40 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 batch (500 g) vegan orange curd (see recipe link); 150 g (5.3 oz) vegan cookies (such as ginger or orange-flavored); Zest of 1 orange; 45 g (3 tablespoons) unsalted vegan butter (block-style); ¼ teaspoon sea salt; 150 g (1 cup + 2 tablespoons) cashews (soaked ahead of time); 300 g (10.5 oz) vegan cream cheese; 80 g (⅓ cup) vegan Greek-style yogurt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (or agave/sugar, optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 29 reviews

If you’re craving a dessert that’s bursting with bright citrus flavor, silky smooth texture, and absolutely no fuss, then this Easy Vegan No Bake Orange Cheesecake Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture luscious orange creamsicle filling layered over a zesty ginger cookie crust, topped with a tangy vegan orange curd that’s impossible to resist. It comes together without turning on your oven, making it perfect for warmer days or when you simply want a delightful treat without the wait or hassle. Trust me, once you try this cheesecake, it will become your go-to dessert for impressing friends, family, or just indulging yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up top view of a clear food processor bowl filled with finely ground orange-colored mixture. The mixture has a crumbly texture spread evenly around the sides and bottom of the bowl. A metallic blade is visible in the center, partially covered by the mixture. The background features whole and halved oranges placed on a white marbled surface, with a hint of a bottle blurred in the back. The lighting emphasizes the bright and fresh look of the orange mixture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to unlocking the magic of this cheesecake. Each element contributes a unique note, from the crunchy, aromatic crust to the creamy, citrus-kissed filling and the glossy, tangy topping that’ll pull everything together beautifully.

Vegan orange curd (500g): Serves as both the luscious filling base and the bright topping for that distinct, fresh orange flavor.
Vegan cookies (150g): The foundation for the crust, these give texture and a subtle spice if you choose ginger or cinnamon flavors.
Orange zest of 1 orange: Adds an extra burst of citrus aroma and taste.
Unsalted vegan butter (45g): Helps bind the crust ingredients while keeping it rich and buttery without dairy.
Sea salt (¼ tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the dessert’s bright flavors.
Cashews, soaked (150g): Soaked cashews create that wonderfully creamy texture in the filling without dairy, turning it silky and smooth.
Vegan cream cheese (300g): Gives the cheesecake a tangy, rich base that melts in your mouth.
Vegan Greek-style yogurt (80g): Adds creaminess and a slight tartness, perfect for balancing the orange sweetness.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Deepens the flavor profile and complements the citrus notes beautifully.
Maple syrup or agave (1 tbsp, optional): Adds just a touch of sweetness if you like your dessert a bit sweeter without overpowering the orange flavor.

How to Make Easy Vegan No Bake Orange Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Orange Curd

Start by making the vegan orange curd ahead of time—it’s the star ingredient here! This curd packs that perfect citrus punch and creamy texture that transforms this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. You can prepare it up to two days ahead and keep it refrigerated so it’s ready when you need it.

Step 2: Soak Your Cashews

The cashews give the cheesecake its ultra-creamy body. Soak them in water for at least 4 hours to soften or, if you’re short on time, simmer them for 30 minutes. This step ensures a smooth, velvety filling with no graininess—trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Step 3: Make the Crust

Grab your vegan cookies, zest of orange, butter, and salt, then blitz everything together in a food processor until the mixture sticks together perfectly. Press this fragrant, zesty crust firmly into the base of a lined 9” loaf pan. Chilling the crust while you make the filling helps it set up nicely, supporting that creamy layer that comes next.

Step 4: Blend the Filling

Add half of your orange curd along with soaked cashews, vegan cream cheese, vegan yogurt, vanilla, and optional syrup into a high-speed blender. Blend until the filling is perfectly smooth and creamy with no lumps—this luscious layer is what you’ll fall in love with first bite.

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

Pour the creamy filling over the chilled crust and pop the whole thing into the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight. This no bake cheesecake needs time to firm up and develop that delightful sliceable texture.

Step 6: Add the Orange Curd Topping

Warm the remaining orange curd gently until it spreads easily, then smooth it over the chilled cheesecake with a spatula. Chill for another hour (or freeze for 30 minutes if you’re eager to slice) so the topping sets beautifully for that flawless finish.

How to Serve Easy Vegan No Bake Orange Cheesecake Recipe

A rectangular dessert with three visible layers sits on white parchment paper over a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a light brown crust that looks firm and crumbly. Above this crust is a thick, creamy white middle layer with a smooth texture. The top layer is a bright orange, glossy jelly-like layer that covers the entire surface evenly. Around the dessert, there are orange and blood orange slices and whole oranges with dark green leaves. A woman's hand is gently touching the left side of the dessert. In the background, there is a blurred white jar and a jar filled with a red-orange liquid. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Brighten each slice with a few orange zest curls, thin slices of fresh orange, or even finely chopped candied ginger for a spicy-sweet contrast. These small touches not only add stunning visual appeal but also layer in complementary flavors that elevate every bite.

Side Dishes

Pair this cheesecake with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries, or a dollop of coconut whipped cream to balance the citrus zing with creamy richness. These sides enhance the overall experience without stealing the show from your star cheesecake.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in clear jars or dessert glasses layered with crumbled cookie crust and curd drizzles. Or try topping slices with crushed toasted nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added texture and warmth. Presentation can turn a simple vegan cheesecake into a show-stopping centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This cheesecake keeps beautifully in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Its flavors actually deepen as it sits, making leftovers just as delicious—if not more so—than the first slice.

Freezing

You can freeze this Easy Vegan No Bake Orange Cheesecake Recipe for up to a month. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container, then thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Since it’s a no bake cheesecake, reheating isn’t necessary. Simply allow frozen slices to defrost in the fridge and enjoy chilled or at room temperature for that perfect creamy bite.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?

Cashews are preferred for their neutral flavor and creamy texture, but macadamia nuts or blanched almonds can work in a pinch. Just expect slight changes in texture and taste.

How do I make the vegan orange curd?

The recipe includes a link to a simple vegan orange curd recipe using fresh orange juice, vegan butter, and a thickener like cornstarch. It’s easy to prepare ahead and can be refrigerated until needed.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be, if you choose gluten-free vegan cookies for the crust. Always double-check your ingredient labels to ensure everything fits your dietary needs.

Can I substitute the vegan cream cheese for something else?

Vegan cream cheese provides the ideal tang and texture, but silken tofu or cashew-based cream can work, though the flavor might be less tangy and slightly different in texture.

How long does it take to set?

The cheesecake should chill for at least 6 hours or overnight for best results, allowing it to firm up properly for clean slicing and rich, creamy flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Vegan No Bake Orange Cheesecake Recipe is truly a gem that combines simplicity with bursting fresh flavors and luxurious texture. It’s a joyful dessert to make for yourself or share with loved ones, bringing sunshine to any table without the stress of baking. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to celebrate citrus in vegan form!