Vegan Buddha’s Hand Fruit Cheesecake Recipe

To create a Vegan Buddha’s Hand Fruit Cheesecake, you’ll utilize the unique flavor of Buddha’s Hand citron, which adds a fragrant citrus note to the dessert. Below is a step-by-step recipe that combines a raw crust with a creamy filling, perfect for showcasing this aromatic fruit.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 cup medjool dates, pitted
• 1 cup raw almonds
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Filling

• 1.5 cups raw cashews, soaked (overnight or in hot water for 1 hour)
• 3/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup full-fat coconut cream
• Zest and juice of 1 Buddha’s Hand citron (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Soak the Dates: If your dates are not soft, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes.
2. Blend the Crust: In a food processor, combine the pitted dates, raw almonds, shredded coconut (if using), vanilla extract, and salt. Process until the mixture is crumbly yet sticky enough to hold together.
3. Form the Base: Line an 8-inch springform pan with parchment paper. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to create an even layer. Place it in the freezer while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Blend Cashews: Drain and rinse the soaked cashews. In a high-speed blender, combine them with maple syrup, coconut cream, zest and juice of Buddha’s Hand, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as necessary. Adjust sweetness or acidity by adding more maple syrup or lemon juice if desired.
3. Pour Filling: Remove the crust from the freezer and pour the filling over it. Smooth out the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Set and Serve

1. Freeze: Place the cheesecake in the freezer for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
2. Slice and Garnish: Once set, remove from the springform pan and slice into pieces. Optionally, garnish with additional Buddha’s Hand zest or fresh fruits before serving.

Incorporating Buddha’s Hand citron into a cheesecake can elevate your dessert with its unique flavor and aroma. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to do so, along with suggestions for complementary fruits, nut substitutions, and tips for using Buddha’s Hand zest in baking.

How to Incorporate Buddha’s Hand Citron into a Cheesecake

1. Use the Zest: Grate the outer yellow rind of the Buddha’s Hand citron and mix it into the cheesecake filling. This will impart a bright citrus flavor.
2. Add the Juice: Squeeze fresh juice from the fruit and blend it into your cheesecake mixture for added tanginess.
3. Infuse the Cream: If using a cream cheese base, you can infuse it with Buddha’s Hand zest by letting the zest steep in the cream cheese for several hours before mixing it into your cheesecake filling.
4. Garnish: Use thin slices of Buddha’s Hand as a decorative garnish on top of your cheesecake, adding both visual appeal and an aromatic element.

Fruits That Pair Well with Buddha’s Hand Citron

Buddha’s Hand citron has a unique flavor profile that complements various fruits. Consider pairing it with:

• Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries can add sweetness and acidity.
• Tropical Fruits: Pineapple, mango, or passion fruit can enhance the exotic notes of Buddha’s Hand.
• Citrus Fruits: Oranges, lemons, or limes can create a refreshing citrus medley.
• Stone Fruits: Peaches or apricots can provide a juicy contrast to the tartness of the citron.

Nut Substitutes for Cashews in Cheesecake

If you want to avoid cashews in your cheesecake recipe, several alternatives can provide similar creaminess:

• Macadamia Nuts: These nuts are rich and buttery, making them an excellent substitute for cashews in both flavor and texture.
• Almonds: Blanched almonds can be soaked and blended to achieve a creamy consistency. They have a slightly nuttier flavor than cashews.
• Sunflower Seeds: A great nut-free option, sunflower seeds can be soaked and blended to create a creamy base similar to cashews.
• Coconut Cream: For a rich texture without nuts, coconut cream is an ideal substitute that adds a hint of coconut flavor.

Best Ways to Use Buddha’s Hand Citron Zest in Baking

1. In Cakes and Muffins: Incorporate zest into batter for cakes or muffins to add brightness.
2. In Frosting or Glazes: Mix zest into frosting or glazes for cakes to enhance flavor profiles.
3. In Cookies: Add zest to cookie dough for an unexpected citrus twist.
4. As a Flavoring Agent: Combine zest with sugar to create flavored sugar that can be used in various baked goods.

Making a Vegan Cheesecake Without Baking

To prepare a no-bake vegan cheesecake:

1. Base Ingredients: Use blended nuts (like almonds or macadamias) or crushed cookies mixed with coconut oil as the crust.
2. Filling Ingredients: Blend soaked cashews (or substitutes like silken tofu or coconut cream) with sweeteners (like maple syrup), lemon juice, vanilla extract, and any desired flavorings (such as Buddha’s Hand zest).
3. Set in the Fridge: Pour the filling over the crust in a springform pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.
4. Serve Chilled: Once firm, remove from the pan, slice, and serve chilled.

This cheesecake is not only vegan but also showcases the aromatic qualities of Buddha’s Hand citron beautifully. Enjoy your refreshing dessert!