Guilt-Free Carrot Cashew Cheesecake Recipe for Hormone Health

The Story Behind the Cheesecake

Who says you can’t have your cheesecake and feel amazing too?

This luscious, no-bake carrot cashew cheesecake is your new go-to for guilt-free indulgence. Imagine the cozy spice of carrot cake meeting the creamy dreaminess of cheesecake, all without dairy, gluten, or refined sugar. Oh yeah! That’s my kind of treat.

It’s the perfect healthy dessert for when you want something that feels decadent without all the inflammation. This recipe is packed with hormone-loving healthy fats, plant-powered nutrients, and just the right touch of natural sweetness. And the best part? You can go fully raw or keep it classic with a quick steam, the choice is yours.

I actually created this version for a client who had just hit a major milestone, she’d lost about 40 pounds. At that point in our work together, we entered what I call a strategic pause, a moment to rest, regulate, and reconnect. It’s more than just a physical break; it’s a psychological reset too.

During her little breather, she shared how much she enjoyed discovering a carrot cheesecake during her downtime. It brought to mind a cashew-based version I had tucked away in my archives, and so I dusted it off, gave it a glow-up, and served it back with love. It’s supportive, healthy-ish, and most importantly, it feels indulgent.

This is a treat-worthy recipe. A delicious reminder that taking care of yourself doesn’t mean giving up the joy of eating well. In fact, when your food aligns with your goals, it’s not a cheat, it’s a choice.

Love this kind of indulgence? Don’t miss my Poached Pear Cheesecake, a reader favorite for good reason!

Full disclaimer: The photo shown isn’t mine, but it’s a close visual match to the actual cheesecake. Let’s just say it captures the delicious vibe a little better than I could!

Recipe: Carrot Cashew Cheesecake

What you need

Crust:

• 1 cup almonds (or walnuts/pecans)

• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

• 8 Medjool dates (pitted)

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• Pinch of sea salt

Filling:

• 2 cups raw cashews (soaked 4–6 hours or overnight, then drained)

• 1 cup carrots – either:

  • lightly steamed and cooled (for a smooth, classic texture), or

  • raw, finely grated (for a fresher, more textured feel)

• 1/3 cup coconut cream (from a chilled can of full-fat coconut milk)

• 1/3 cup maple syrup (or raw honey)

• 2 tbsp coconut oil (melted)

• 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• 1/4 tsp ginger

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/4 cup raisins or chopped pineapple (for that true carrot cake vibe)

• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (for crunch)

What you do:

1. Prepare the crust:

   • In a food processor, blend nuts and shredded coconut until fine.

   • Add dates, cinnamon, and salt. Pulse until mixture sticks together.

   • Press firmly into the bottom of a lined 8-inch springform pan. Place in freezer to set.

2. Make the filling:

   • In a high-speed blender, combine soaked cashews, cooked carrots, coconut cream, maple syrup, coconut oil, lemon juice, vanilla, and spices.

     • Tip: If using raw carrots, grate them finely before blending. For a smoother texture, soak the grated carrots in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain.

   • Blend until completely smooth and creamy (2–4 minutes). Scrape down sides as needed.

   • If adding raisins, pineapple, or walnuts, fold them in by hand.

3. Assemble and set:

   • Pour filling over the crust and smooth the top.

   • Freeze for 4–6 hours or until set.

   • Before serving, let thaw at room temp for 15–20 minutes.

4. Serve and enjoy:

   • Garnish with shredded carrots, crushed walnuts, or a dusting of cinnamon.

Final Thoughts on This Healthy Carrot Cheesecake

This healthy carrot cheesecake is proof that you can enjoy comfort food while still supporting your metabolism, hormones, and overall well-being, especially in midlife. Whether you’re following a dairy-free lifestyle, reducing sugar, or simply looking for a delicious way to fuel your body with intention, this recipe has you covered.

It’s a beautiful blend of flavor, function, and feel-good indulgence. Make it for yourself, your family, or bring it to your next gathering and watch it disappear. No one will believe it’s made with cashews and carrots!

If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to check out my other smart treats like the Poached Pear Cheesecake, and follow me on Instagram for more clean eating inspiration for midlife women.