If you’re a fan of rich, indulgent desserts that happen to be completely plant-based, you’re going to flip for this Vegan Snickers Cheesecake Recipe. It packs all the creamy, caramel-y, chocolate-y goodness of a traditional Snickers bar into a luscious cheesecake that’s made without any dairy. When I first tried this, I was blown away by how decadent and satisfying it is — and trust me, once you make it, your friends and family will be begging for seconds. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to nail this at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadently Vegan: All the Snickers flavor you crave, but 100% plant-based and cruelty-free.
- Layered Perfection: It combines a crunchy oat-nut base, creamy cashew cheesecake, indulgent caramel, and rich chocolate.
- Impressively Easy: Despite the layers, the process is straightforward with clear steps anyone can follow.
- Make Ahead Friendly: A great dessert to prepare in advance — perfect for entertaining or special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Vegan Snickers Cheesecake Recipe uses wholesome, simple ingredients that come together beautifully. I recommend using quality nuts and coconut products, as they really make the flavors pop. If you’re nut-free, there are easy substitutions you’ll appreciate too.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: They add chewy texture and a whole-grain base that holds together nicely.
- Almonds (or other nuts): Provide healthy fats and a subtle crunch; I love pecans too, and sunflower seeds work for nut-free.
- Maple syrup: Natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the caramel and peanut butter flavors.
- Coconut oil: Melts smoothly to bind ingredients and gives richness.
- Cashews: Soaked for creaminess in the cheesecake layer—this is your secret to that velvety texture.
- Peanut butter: Essential for mimicking the classic Snickers taste.
- Full-fat or light canned coconut milk: Adds creaminess in the cheesecake and makes the caramel wonderfully rich.
- Coconut yogurt: I use unsweetened vanilla for tang and balance; Greek yogurt is a fine substitute if you’re not vegan.
- Lemon juice and vanilla extract: Bring brightness and depth to the cheesecake layer.
- Coconut sugar: Deepens the caramel’s flavor with a lovely hint of molasses.
- Peanuts: Chopped for that authentic crunchy Snickers feel.
- Chocolate chips: Dark or semi-sweet work well; coconut oil helps make the chocolate layer silky.
- Sea salt: The finishing touch enhancing every sweet layer.
Variations
I love that you can tailor this Vegan Snickers Cheesecake Recipe to match whatever you have on hand or your dietary preferences—feel free to make it your own!
- Nut-Free Version: Swap almonds for sunflower seeds in the base to keep it allergy-friendly without sacrificing crunch.
- Lower Sweetness: If you’re watching sugar, reduce maple syrup and coconut sugar slightly or try adding a splash of vanilla stevia.
- Switch Up the Nuts: Pecans or walnuts in the base add a richer flavor; pistachios surprisingly complement the caramel well!
- Alternative Caramel: Use date caramel made with blended soaked dates, coconut oil, and a pinch of salt for a different take.
How to Make Vegan Snickers Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Crafting the Perfect Base
Start by greasing an 8-inch springform pan to avoid any sticky situations later. In your food processor, toss in the rolled oats, nuts, maple syrup, and melted coconut oil. Blend until everything sticks together into a dough — this usually takes about 1-2 minutes. If it’s crumbly or dry, add a tablespoon or two of water and pulse again. Once it holds, press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your lined pan. This base will provide that essential crunch you expect, so don’t skimp on pressing it firmly; it’ll help keep everything intact when you slice the cheesecake.
Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Layer
This is where magic happens. Combine soaked cashews, peanut butter, canned coconut milk, coconut yogurt, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt in a blender. Blend on high for about a minute until it’s silky smooth. I like to pause and taste here—if you want it a bit sweeter or tangier, feel free to adjust. Pour this luscious mixture over your prepared base and pop the pan into the freezer for about an hour. This step firms up the cheesecake to help keep those neat layers later.
Step 3: Slow-Cook Your Vegan Caramel
While the cheesecake chill out, start your caramel. Pour the full-fat coconut milk, coconut sugar, and coconut oil into a small pot over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle boil while stirring often to prevent burning. Then, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring frequently—the mixture will thicken and darken to a luscious caramel consistency. Patience here is key! After it cools slightly, stir in your chopped peanuts or reserve them for sprinkling on top later. Pour the caramel evenly over the cheesecake layer and sprinkle with peanuts if you didn’t mix them in. Freeze again for 30 minutes so the caramel sets just right.
Step 4: Finish with a Chocolate Dream
For the grand finale, melt your chocolate chips gently with the optional coconut oil in short 20-second bursts in the microwave, stirring after each, until smooth. Pour this glossy chocolate layer over the chilled caramel and quickly spread it out. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt here elevates the flavor and ties the layers together. Return the cheesecake to the freezer for at least 4 hours—or better yet, overnight—before slicing. Trust me, this pause is worth it for the perfect cut and taste.
Pro Tips for Making Vegan Snickers Cheesecake Recipe
- Soak Cashews Well: I always soak mine for at least 20 minutes in hot water, sometimes longer if I’m short on time, to achieve that ultra creamy texture.
- Simmer Caramel Low and Slow: Don’t rush the caramel—stir often and keep the heat low to avoid burning; it really develops flavor this way.
- Use a Springform Pan: It makes releasing the cheesecake so much easier, preserving those beautiful layers intact.
- Chill Between Layers: Freezing between adding layers helps them firm up and keeps the textures distinct, especially before adding caramel and chocolate.
How to Serve Vegan Snickers Cheesecake Recipe

Garnishes
I love topping slices with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a few extra chopped peanuts for crunch. Sometimes I drizzle a bit of warmed peanut butter or a smear of vegan whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch. These little garnishes really highlight the flavors and textures.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a bright fresh fruit salad to cut through the richness—think juicy berries or sliced kiwi. A cup of strong black coffee or a nutty chai tea is also my go-to beverage to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I’ve served this Vegan Snickers Cheesecake Recipe in mini jars layered with extra caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt on top—an easy crowd-pleaser that’s both pretty and portable. A dusting of edible gold dust or chopped roasted peanuts on top also makes it party-ready.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cheesecake keeps beautifully stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week. I slice it first for easy serving, then keep the pieces wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or parchment paper in a sealed container to avoid freezer burn.
Freezing
Because this recipe is no-bake and frozen to set, it’s naturally freezer-friendly. Just be sure to thaw slices in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to bring out the best creamy texture.
Reheating
Since it’s best served chilled, I don’t recommend reheating this cheesecake. Instead, just let your slices thaw in the fridge or at room temperature for a bit before eating. This keeps the layers firm but creamy—plus, no melty mess!
FAQs
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Can I make this Vegan Snickers Cheesecake Recipe nut-free?
Yes! To make it nut-free, substitute the almonds in the crust with sunflower seeds, and opt for a seed-based butter instead of peanut butter if needed. The texture and flavor will still be delicious, just with a slightly different nutty profile.
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Do I have to use full-fat canned coconut milk for the caramel?
Full-fat coconut milk gives the richest caramel, but you can use light canned coconut milk for a lighter, less intense version. Just know the caramel won’t be quite as thick or creamy, though still tasty.
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How long should I soak the cashews for the cheesecake layer?
At minimum, soak cashews in hot water for about 20 minutes to soften them for blending. If you have more time, soaking for an hour or even overnight makes the cheesecake even silkier.
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Can I use regular yogurt instead of coconut yogurt?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt works well here if you’re not strictly vegan. Just choose an unsweetened vanilla flavor to keep the balance in the cheesecake layer.
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How long does the cheesecake need to freeze before serving?
After assembling all layers, freeze the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture and easiest slicing. This ensures the layers set properly so your slices hold their shape.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Snickers Cheesecake Recipe is one of those desserts that feels like a special occasion treat, but it’s really approachable to make at home. I love how every bite captures the classic Snickers vibe—salty, sweet, creamy, and crunchy—all without dairy or guilt. If you love layered desserts or have been searching for a vegan cheesecake that doesn’t compromise on flavor, give this a try. I can almost guarantee it’ll become a favorite in your recipe rotation, just like it did in mine!
Print
Vegan Snickers Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: Vegan, American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Vegan Snickers Cheesecake is a luscious, plant-based dessert featuring a crunchy oat and nut base, a creamy vegan cashew cheesecake layer, a rich homemade coconut caramel with peanuts, and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfect for those seeking a dairy-free, indulgent treat reminiscent of classic Snickers flavors but completely vegan and free from refined sugars.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup almonds (or other nuts such as pecans; sunflower seeds can be used for nut-free option)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted
Cheesecake Layer
- 1 1/3 cups cashews (soaked in hot water for at least 20 minutes)
- 1/3 cup peanut butter
- 3/4 cup full-fat or light canned coconut milk
- 1/3 cup coconut yogurt (or Greek yogurt, preferably unsweetened vanilla)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Caramel Layer
- 1 can full-fat canned coconut milk
- 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp coconut sugar
- 1 1/2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Good pinch of sea salt
- 1/2 cup peanuts, chopped
Chocolate Layer
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, to thin the chocolate)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Grease an 8-inch springform cake pan. Add rolled oats, almonds (or chosen nut/seed), maple syrup, and melted coconut oil to a food processor. Process until the mixture becomes a sticky dough. If it doesn’t hold together, add 1-2 tablespoons of water and process again. Press this dough firmly into the bottom of a lined or greased 9-inch pie pan and set aside.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: Combine soaked cashews, peanut butter, coconut milk, coconut yogurt, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt in a blender. Blend on high for about a minute until the mixture is very smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness if desired. Pour this cheesecake batter over the prepared base. Freeze for about an hour until the cheesecake layer firms up to the touch.
- Prepare the Caramel Layer: While the cheesecake is setting, add full-fat coconut milk, coconut sugar, and coconut oil to a small pot over medium heat. Stir frequently and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring often to avoid burning, until the mixture thickens and darkens to a rich caramel consistency. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes; it will thicken further as it cools. Stir in half the chopped peanuts or reserve for sprinkling on top.
- Assemble the Caramel Layer: Pour the caramel over the firm cheesecake base, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining chopped peanuts on top if they were not mixed in. Return the pan to the freezer for about 30 minutes to allow the caramel layer to firm.
- Prepare the Chocolate Layer: Place chocolate chips and optional coconut oil in a heat-proof bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and quickly spread evenly. Sprinkle with a little sea salt for finishing.
- Freeze and Set: Place the assembled cheesecake in the freezer for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow all layers to fully set and firm up before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the base with any crunchy cookie of your choice.
- The coconut oil in the recipe can also be replaced with ghee, vegan butter, regular butter, or avocado oil for different flavor profiles.
- For the caramel, light canned coconut milk can be used but will yield a less rich caramel; it remains tasty though.
- Soaking cashews in hot water for 20 minutes helps achieve a smooth and creamy cheesecake texture.
- To avoid melting the cheesecake layer when pouring caramel, ensure the cheesecake is well chilled or slightly frozen.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of cake)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg

