No-Bake Pitaya Goji Berry Cheesecake

Featured in: Sweet Endings and Treats

Transform exotic superfoods into a stunning no-bake cheesecake with this vegan and gluten-free recipe. The dessert features three distinct layers: a nutty date and almond crust, a vibrant pink pitaya layer studded with fresh blackberries, and a dramatic black goji berry top layer. Each tier is crafted from a base of creamy cashews, naturally sweetened with agave syrup, and enhanced with coconut oil for the perfect texture. This healthier take on cheesecake doesn't compromise on flavor or visual appeal, making it perfect for special occasions. The combination of superfood powders not only creates beautiful colors but also adds nutritional benefits. Best of all, it requires no baking - just time to set in the freezer.
A smiling woman in a chef's jacket stands in a commercial kitchen, looking at the camera with various food containers and utensils in the background.
Updated on Mon, 17 Feb 2025 18:01:23 GMT
Vibrant pitaya cheesecake with black goji berries, a colorful and exotic dessert. Pin it
Vibrant pitaya cheesecake with black goji berries, a colorful and exotic dessert. | tasteofcook.com

Experience the vibrant fusion of exotic superfoods in this stunning layered vegan cheesecake. The combination of pink pitaya and black goji berries creates not only a visually striking dessert but also delivers an array of antioxidants and nutrients. This raw, gluten-free creation proves that healthy desserts can be both beautiful and indulgent, offering a silky smooth texture that rivals traditional cheesecake.

Throughout my journey developing plant based desserts, I've discovered that the key to perfect raw cheesecake lies in proper ingredient preparation and temperature control. This recipe has consistently amazed guests who can't believe it's dairy free.

Essential Ingredient Selection

  • Raw cashews: Choose whole, unroasted cashews for the creamiest texture. Look for uniform color indicating freshness
  • Pink pitaya powder: Select organic powder with vibrant color and no additives for pure flavor
  • Black goji berry powder: Source premium quality powder that maintains its rich, dark color
  • Fresh coconut oil: Choose unrefined, cold pressed oil for optimal nutritional benefits
  • Pure agave syrup: Select light agave for clean sweetness that won't overpower delicate flavors
  • Medjool dates: Choose soft, fresh dates with glossy skin for best binding properties
  • Organic almonds: Fresh roasted nuts provide the best flavor foundation
  • Gluten free rolled oats: Select thick cut oats for proper texture

Creating Perfect Layers

Base Development:
Begin with precisely measured ingredients at room temperature. Process nuts until reaching a coarse meal texture before adding dates.
Cashew Preparation:
Soak cashews in filtered water for exactly 4 hours, changing water halfway through. Drain and rinse thoroughly before blending.
Layer Construction:
Work quickly with each layer while maintaining optimal temperature. Freeze between layers to ensure clean separation.
Color Integration:
Add superfood powders gradually, adjusting for desired color intensity while maintaining smooth texture.
Final Setting:
Freeze completed cake for minimum 5 hours to ensure proper structure development.
Black goji berry and pitaya cheesecake topped with fresh fruit and edible flowers Pin it
Black goji berry and pitaya cheesecake topped with fresh fruit and edible flowers | tasteofcook.com

My exploration of raw desserts began when seeking healthier alternatives that didn't sacrifice visual appeal or taste. This recipe represents the perfect balance of nutrition and indulgence.

Artistic Presentation Approaches

Transform this cheesecake into an Instagram-worthy masterpiece by creating deliberate garnish patterns. Arrange fresh berries in concentric circles, alternating blackberries and raspberries for color contrast. Dust one quarter of the surface with additional pitaya powder using a paper stencil for geometric precision. Create an artistic drizzle pattern using warmed coconut butter, and finish with edible flowers strategically placed to enhance the cake's natural color gradient.

Creative Adaptations

Experiment with seasonal variations while maintaining the core technique. Replace pitaya with blue spirulina for an ocean-inspired layer, or use butterfly pea powder for a magical purple hue. Add textural elements by incorporating crushed freeze-dried berries between layers, or create a marble effect by gently swirling the two layers together.

Preservation Perfection

Store this raw cheesecake in the freezer, well-wrapped in parchment paper and sealed in an airtight container to prevent frost formation. When serving, allow exactly 30-45 minutes thawing time at room temperature for optimal texture development. If making ahead, the cake maintains perfect quality for up to one month when properly stored.

Pitaya cheesecake swirled with goji berry flavor for a stunning presentation. Pin it
Pitaya cheesecake swirled with goji berry flavor for a stunning presentation. | tasteofcook.com

Through years of developing raw desserts, I've learned that this cheesecake represents more than just a beautiful treat. It showcases the incredible potential of plant based ingredients to create sophisticated, nutritious desserts that please both the eye and palate. The way the creamy layers melt on your tongue while delivering subtle flavor notes makes every careful step worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why do the cashews need to soak for so long?
Soaking cashews for 4 hours ensures they blend into a perfectly smooth and creamy consistency, crucial for the cheesecake texture.
→ Can I substitute the superfood powders?
Yes, you can use other natural colorants like beetroot powder for pink or activated charcoal for black, though the flavor profile will change.
→ Why does the cake need to freeze for 4-5 hours?
This time allows the coconut oil to fully set, giving the cheesecake its firm, sliceable texture.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it up to a week ahead and keep it frozen. Just remember to thaw for 40-45 minutes before serving.
→ What if I can't find pitaya or goji berry powder?
Fresh pitaya (dragon fruit) can be used instead of powder, though you'll need to adjust the liquid ratios. Alternative superfood powders can also work.

Pitaya & Black Goji Cheesecake

Create this beautiful layered vegan cheesecake featuring pink pitaya and black goji berries for a nutritious and refreshing summer dessert.

Prep Time
300 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
300 Minutes


Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Fusion

Yield: 8 Servings

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Crust

01 Roasted almonds, 80g
02 Gluten-free rolled oats, 20g
03 Dates, soaked for 1 hour, 70g

→ Pitaya Layer

04 Cashews, soaked for 4 hours, 150g
05 Agave syrup, 40ml
06 Coconut oil, 40ml
07 Lemon juice, 20ml
08 Pitaya powder, 2 teaspoons
09 Rice or almond milk at room temperature, 20-30ml (as needed)
10 Fresh blackberries, 100g

→ Black Goji Berry Layer

11 Cashews, soaked for 4 hours, 100g
12 Agave syrup, 30ml
13 Coconut oil, 30ml
14 Lemon juice, 10-20ml
15 Black Goji berry powder, 1-2 teaspoons
16 Rice or almond milk at room temperature, 20ml (as needed)

Instructions

Step 01

Line a 12x10cm panettone mold (12cm diameter, 10cm height) with baking paper.

Step 02

Process soaked and drained dates with roasted almonds and oats until mixture sticks together. Press evenly into prepared mold and refrigerate.

Step 03

Blend soaked cashews with coconut oil, lemon juice, and agave until creamy. Add pitaya powder and blend until colored. Layer half the mixture, add blackberries, then cover with remaining mixture.

Step 04

Blend soaked cashews with coconut oil, lemon juice, and agave. Add black goji powder and blend until colored. Pour carefully over pitaya layer.

Step 05

Freeze for 4-5 hours until firm. Thaw for 40-45 minutes before serving and top with fresh blackberries.

Notes

  1. Can adjust sweetness to taste in each layer
  2. Add coconut oil if crust is too dry, or coconut flour if too moist
  3. Must be thawed properly before serving for best texture

Tools You'll Need

  • Food processor
  • Panettone mold (12x10 cm)
  • High-speed blender
  • Silicone spatula

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains tree nuts (almonds, cashews)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 501
  • Total Fat: 37 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 38 g
  • Protein: 11 g