Easy High-Protein Vegan Cheesecake with Unique Poppy Seed Layer

2 weeks ago

Inspired by: @david-

Craving a rich, creamy cheesecake that's also vegan and packed with protein? Look no further! This delightful recipe, shared by an abillion community favorite, David, transforms humble plant-based Skyr-style yogurt into a truly impressive dessert. Many have praised it, with comments like "It really looks like a cheesecake one would order at a restaurant!! This really impressive!!" and "Wow that looks incredible". It's remarkably "easy to make", as David himself noted, and boasts a unique poppy seed layer that elevates it from a simple treat to a showstopper.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a dairy-free, egg-free cheesecake that doesn't compromise on flavor or texture. Thanks to the high-protein Skyr-style yogurt, this cheesecake is denser and more satisfying than typical vegan alternatives, earning compliments like "No crackles!!! That’s the best part" – a true sign of a perfectly baked cheesecake!

Why You'll Love This Vegan Cheesecake

This cheesecake offers a perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and decadent flavor. It's an ideal choice for:

Vegans and those with dairy allergies: Enjoy a classic dessert without any animal products.
Health-conscious dessert lovers: The Skyr-style yogurt brings a higher protein content, making it a more satisfying treat.
Home bakers seeking simplicity: Described as "super easy" and "convenient", you don't need to be a pastry chef to achieve stunning results.
Anyone looking for a unique twist: The optional poppy seed layer adds an intriguing texture and flavor dimension that will surprise and delight. As one user aptly put it, "The poppy seed layer is genius."

Ready to bake a cheesecake that tastes even better than it looks? Let's get started!

Deliciously rich and creamy vegan cheesecake with a golden crust and distinct poppy seed layer, ready to be sliced.

Ingredients

For the Crust

2 cups oats
1 1/2 cups unsweetened coconut (shredded)
1 large ripe banana
1/4 cup maple syrup

For the Poppy Seed Layer (Optional)

1 cup poppy seeds
2/3 cups plant-based milk
2-3 tbsp sugar
1/2 tbsp cornstarch

For the Cheesecake Filling

2 containers Alpro Skyr Style vanilla yogurt (approx. 500g-600g total)
2 packages vanilla pudding powder
2 cups sugar
3/4 cup margarine

Equipment

Baking dish (springform pan recommended for easy removal)
Blender or food processor
Large mixing bowl
Whisk or electric mixer

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a blender or food processor, combine the oats, shredded coconut, ripe banana, and maple syrup.
Blend until all ingredients are well combined and form a sticky dough.
Press this mixture firmly and evenly into your chosen baking dish. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Poppy Seed Layer (Optional)

In a small bowl, combine the poppy seeds, plant-based milk, sugar, and cornstarch.
Mix well until smooth.
Carefully spread this poppy seed mixture over the prepared crust base.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Alpro Skyr Style vanilla yogurt, vanilla pudding powder, sugar, and margarine.
Mix very well until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. An electric mixer can help achieve the best consistency.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the poppy seed layer (or directly onto the crust if omitting the poppy seed layer) in your prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 45 minutes to one hour, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
Remove from oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Once cooled to room temperature, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight. This is crucial for the cheesecake to fully set and achieve its perfect dense texture.
Slice and enjoy your heavenly homemade vegan cheesecake!

A beautiful slice of vegan cheesecake with a prominent poppy seed layer, showcasing its dense and creamy texture.

Tips & Hacks for the Perfect Cheesecake

Achieving Smoothness: For the smoothest cheesecake filling, ensure your margarine is at room temperature. Use an electric mixer to thoroughly combine all ingredients, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Preventing Cracks: The original recipe yielded "no crackles!!! That’s the best part", indicating success. To help prevent cracks, avoid over-baking. The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight wobble. Rapid cooling can also cause cracks; let it cool gradually at room temperature before chilling in the fridge.
Firm Set: Chilling the cheesecake for a minimum of 4 hours (or overnight) is key for it to firm up properly. Patience truly pays off for that perfect slice!
Ingredient Substitutions: If Alpro Skyr Style vanilla yogurt isn't available, you can substitute with another thick, plain or vanilla-flavored plant-based yogurt (like soy, oat, or coconut-based Greek-style yogurt). For extra vanilla flavor, you can always add a dash of vanilla extract.

Variations & Adaptations

Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats for the crust.
Flavor Twists:
- Lemon Zest: Add the zest of one lemon to the cheesecake filling for a bright, citrusy note.
- Chocolate Swirl: Melt some vegan chocolate and swirl it into the cheesecake filling before baking for a marbled effect.
- Berry Topping: After chilling, top with fresh berries or a homemade berry compote.
Nut-Free Crust: If coconut is an issue, consider a simple oat and date crust, or use vegan graham crackers blended with vegan butter.
No Poppy Seed Layer: Simply omit the poppy seed layer and pour the cheesecake filling directly onto the crust. It will still be incredibly delicious!

This recipe proves that creating a restaurant-quality vegan dessert at home can be incredibly easy and rewarding. The unique combination of a high-protein plant-based yogurt and the delightful poppy seed layer makes this cheesecake a must-try.

Don't wait to try this fantastic recipe! Bake your own high-protein vegan cheesecake today and share your delicious results with the abillion community!

Looking for more delicious vegan dessert ideas or easy plant-based meals? Explore these other fantastic recipes: