Raw Peanut Butter and Chocolate Ganache Cheesecake with Raw Chocolate

Try this Raw peanut butter and chocolate ganache cheesecake with raw chocolate recipe.

Raw Peanut Butter and Chocolate Ganache Cheesecake with Raw Chocolate
Raw Peanut Butter and Chocolate Ganache Cheesecake with Raw Chocolate

Try this Raw peanut butter and chocolate ganache cheesecake with raw chocolate recipe.

  • Preparing Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Served Person: 0

Step-by-step

  • Process the oats and dates until they stick together.
  • Add the coconut oil, maple syrup and cacao powder. Continue to process until the mixture sticks together when pinched between your fingers. If it doesn’t, add another tbsp of coconut oil.
  • Press into the bottom of a spring form pan and put in the fridge whilst you make the cheesecake.
  • Place your drained cashews, lemon juice, coconut oil, coconut milk, maple syrup and peanut butter into your blender and mix until you have a really smooth and creamy mixture.
  • You need to make sure you get it really smooth so you get a nice silky, cheesecakey texture. If your mixture is too thick, add a bit more coconut milk or oil to help things blend a little easier.
  • As with all raw food, you can taste and adjust the amount of peanut butter or maple syrup to your preferences.
  • Pour on top of crust and gently bash the tin on top of your kitchen table to remove any air bubbles. You may need to do this a couple of times to make sure they’re all gone.
  • Place the cheesecake in the fridge whilst you make the chocolate ganache.
  • Place the coconut milk in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer on the hob.
  • Place the chocolate in a small bowl and pour the warm coconut milk over the top.
  • Leave for 4-5 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt.
  • Begin to stir gently until smooth. If the chocolate has not completely melted, boil some water in a kettle and pour boiling water into a large bowl. Place the bowl of chocolate and coconut milk into the larger bowl and stir until smooth.
  • Place ganache mixture into a jug and pour in a spiral shape into the peanut butter cheesecake filling mixture.
  • Using a toothpick, create spirals in the mixture until you have made a pattern you like.
  • Make chocolate mixture by stirring together the cacao, coconut oil and maple syrup.
  • Place 1 tbsp of the chocolate into the bottom of a small cupcake case. Make sure you put enough in to cover the bottom of each case.
  • Put the cases on a tray or plate and pop them in the fridge to harden while you make the filling.
  • Stir together all the ingredients for the peanut butter filling in a bowl.
  • Take the peanut butter cup cases out of the fridge, and put a small amount of the filling in the bottom of each case. Make sure it does not go right to the edges of the case.
  • Cover with the remaining chocolate and put them in the freezer to harden.
  • Place can of coconut milk in the fridge overnight. Scoop off the creamy layer on top and place in a bowl.
  • Stir in cacao and maple syrup until the mixture turns into a smooth, creamy and fluffy buttercream.
  • Adjust cacao and maple syrup to your taste.
  • Place a small amount of the mixture into a piping bag and slowly pipe small swirls around the edge of the cheesecake.
  • Chop some peanut butter cups up and place them on top.

A Raw Indulgence: My Peanut Butter Chocolate Cheesecake Journey

As a busy professional woman, juggling a demanding career and a desire for healthy living can be a real challenge. Finding time for anything beyond work often feels impossible, but I’ve discovered that even the most hectic schedules can accommodate moments of pure self-care – and sometimes, that self-care comes in the deliciously decadent form of a raw peanut butter and chocolate ganache cheesecake. This recipe isn't just a dessert; it's a journey, a testament to the power of finding balance and a little bit of sweetness in the midst of chaos.

The initial inspiration came from a desire to create something both indulgent and nutritious. I'm a huge fan of raw desserts; they're naturally sweet, vibrant, and packed with wholesome ingredients. This cheesecake embodies that philosophy perfectly. I started with a simple oat and date crust, a perfect foundation for the rich, creamy peanut butter filling. The process itself is meditative – the blending, the layering, the careful swirling of the ganache. It's a welcome pause in the rush of daily life, a moment to focus on the process and the eventual reward.

The Magic of Raw Ingredients: Raw foods are incredibly versatile. The cashews, soaked overnight to enhance their creaminess, form the heart of this cheesecake's filling. The peanut butter adds a nutty, earthy counterpoint, while the maple syrup provides a natural sweetness that never feels cloying. The chocolate ganache, made with rich dark chocolate and creamy coconut milk, is the perfect complement – bitter, sweet, and utterly irresistible. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, adding not only flavor but also texture and a sense of wholesome indulgence.

A Symphony of Textures: Beyond the flavor profile, this cheesecake is a textural masterpiece. The crunchy oat crust provides a satisfying contrast to the smooth, creamy filling, while the swirls of ganache add an element of visual and textural interest. The chopped peanut butter cups on top deliver a delightful final crunch, a perfect ending to every bite. I've experimented with adding cacao nibs for an extra layer of texture, but honestly, the cheesecake is wonderful on its own.

More than Just a Dessert: This cheesecake is about more than just the delicious taste and satisfying textures. It’s a testament to finding joy in simple pleasures and a way to inject creativity into the daily grind. The process is therapeutic; the result is a decadent treat that doesn't leave me feeling guilty. I encourage everyone, no matter how busy their lives may seem, to take some time for themselves to create something beautiful and delicious. It’s a small act of self-care that can have a significant impact on your overall well-being.

Tips and Variations: While I’ve provided a detailed recipe, feel free to experiment. Substitute different nuts or seeds in the crust, use a different type of liquid sweetener, or add your favorite fruits to the filling. The beauty of raw desserts is their adaptability; they’re a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. And don't be afraid to experiment with the ganache – add a pinch of sea salt, a dash of vanilla extract, or even a swirl of espresso for a richer flavor profile.

Beyond the Recipe: This isn’t just about a recipe; it's about creating moments of mindfulness and joy in a busy life. It's about the art of creating something beautiful and delicious from humble ingredients, and sharing that joy with others. So, take a deep breath, gather your ingredients, and embark on this culinary adventure. You deserve it. This cheesecake is a treat that’s both delicious and nourishing, a true testament to the power of mindful indulgence.

A Final Thought: Remember, baking (or in this case, assembling) this cheesecake is an experience in itself. Enjoy the process, savor the moments, and allow yourself to indulge in the delicious rewards of your efforts. The time spent making this cheesecake is an investment in your well-being; a moment of quiet creativity amidst the bustle of life.