Cacao & Hazelnut Cake Recipe (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Description
Cacao & Hazelnut Cake is a show-stopper to say the least!! Your friends and family will be so impressed by the look and taste of this cake they will have ZERO idea that it is a vegan, no-bake cake. There should be no reason that you can’t enjoy desserts without the guilt and this is a perfect way to do just exactly that!
Ingredients
Base;
1 cup almonds
1 cup hazelnuts
1 cup desiccated coconut
1 pinch salt
2 cups dates (soaked, drained & pitted)
1 tbsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp cacao powder
Filling;
2 cups cashews – soaked & drained (see notes)
½ cup coconut oil
1 tbsp agar agar (make paste with hot water) or ¼ cup irish moss paste
2 tbsp lecithin (optional – see notes)
1/4 cup rice syrup or coconut nectar
2 cups ripe banana
3 tbsp raw cacao
For the Topping;
2 tbsp raw cacao nibs
2 tbsp coconut flakes
3 hazelnuts
Instructions
For the base;
- In a food processor blend the nuts to chunky pieces then add the remaining ingredients and blend until sticky dough forms
- Press into the round cake tin lined with cling film that covers the edges and hangs over the top
- Place the base in the freezer for at least 15 minutes
For the filling;
- Process all ingredients in a blender until smooth then pour over the base, spread evenly
- Freeze overnight or place in the chiller to set for 3 hours (see notes)
For the Topping;
- Really up to you how you would like to decorate but I use coconut flakes around the edge, hazelnuts in the centre and in between the cacao nibs
Notes
I use a 9inch springform cake tin for this recipe
Soak cashews for a minimum of 3 hours – for maximum creaminess soak them overnight
The lecithin will help to make the cheesecake silkier but it’s not necessary to bind the ingredients. I personally like it but feel free to leave it out if you don’t have it.
If you freeze the cheesecake thaw in the refrigerator for 1 hour before serving
Play with your toppings, you have fun with different arrangements but they are not essential because it tastes great without them!
