Simply lovely. This easy raw and 100% plant-based dessert is a showstopper every time I serve it. It’s simple to make and can be made several days in advance if need be.
Not a fan of strawberries? No worries. Other berries also work great. Just keep in mind that some berries have larger seeds. Raspberries and blackberries come to mind. But if you don’t mind the extra crunch then raspberries make for a fantastic substitute!
Strawberry Ice Cream Cake
A raw and 100% plant-based showstopper – every time.
Ingredients
For the base layer:
- 8 Medjool dates
- 70 g raw almonds (About 1/2 cup)
- 50 g desiccated coconut (About 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the strawberry layer:
- 150 g raw cashew nuts (about 1 cup) Soaked for 8 hours or more
- 250 g frozen strawberries * Defrosted
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 heaping tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Fresh strawberries to serve
Instructions
- Line a 16cm spring-form with parchment- or baking paper. The size of the spring-form does not have to be exact.
To make the base layer:
- In a food processor, process the almonds until coarsely chopped. Add the dates, coconut, and lemon zest and process until everything is mixed well and sticks together nicely when pressed between a couple of fingers. If the mixture is too dry add a few drops of water and process again.
- Spread the mixture evenly on the bottom of the spring-form and press down firmly. Set aside
To make the strawberry layer:
- Place all the ingredients for the filling in a blender and blend until very smooth. This can be a bit of a slow process since the mixture is quite thick but with patience and a spatula to help you it is perfectly doable. Blend, stop, stir, blend, stop, stir… And if you feel it is simply impossible then add a little coconut milk or other plant milk and try again.
- Once the filling is completely smooth pour it over the prepared base. Even it out, cover, and place in the freezer for several hours.
To Serve:
- Take it out of the freezer some time before serving. The timing depends on how long it was left in the freezer to begin with and how soft you want it when you serve it. If completely frozen then it should be taken out at least half an hour before for a firm still somewhat frozen state. If you prefer it softer then take it out an hour before serving.Serve with fresh strawberries or other fruit.
Enjoy!
Notes
*You can substitute the strawberries for other types of fruit. Raspberries, blueberries, and mango all work well.
My all time favorite dessert!