Classic Vegan Cheesecake with Fresh Strawberry Sauce

INGREDIENTS

1 cup

raw whole almonds

1 cup

firmly packed chopped pitted dates, plus more as needed

3/4 cup

coconut oil (in liquid form)

1/2 cup

full-fat canned coconut milk (shake, then pour)

1/2 cup

fresh lemon juice

1/2 cup

pure maple syrup

3 cups

raw unsalted cashews, soaked

1 tsp

natural vanilla extract

natural salt

Coconut Cream, to serve (optional)

Optional boosters: 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest, plus more to taste and garnish and/or 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

1/4 cup

raw coconut water or filtered water

1/2 cup

firmly packed pitted dates, soaked

2 cups

hulled and halved fresh strawberries

1 tbsp

fresh lemon juice, plus more to taste

natural salt

Optional boosters: 1 teaspoon Grand Marnier, 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger, plus more to taste, or ¼ teaspoon natural vanilla extract