Protein is an important part of any diet. I know a lot of people can have a hard time fitting enough into their daily diets, especially when consuming. a vegan and/or plant based diet. I also know that a lot of us struggle with a sweet tooth. It can be tough not reaching for those sweet treats that always seem to creep their way into our daily lives (Hello work. Stop bringing donuts, k thanks). However, studies have shown that when you are consuming adequate amounts of protein in your daily diet, it can curb sugar cravings. So this recipe is kind of the best of both worlds.

Protein powders aren’t necessary. I use them as a supplement, when I’m in a rush, or when I just need a little protein kick. High quality plant-based protein powders however, can be a great additive to ones diet. I recently found a company called Tropeaka. I heard a lot of hype around their protein powders and decided to give it a try. I purchased their salted caramel lean protein flavor and YOU GUYS. I am obsessed. It’s clean, has minimal ingredients, & tastes amazing. I saw a recipe for a salted caramel protein cheesecake and immediately knew that I needed to re-create my own version. It’s super simple, raw, vegan, paleo – all that good stuff. But, let me warn you, these bad boys aren’t going to last in your freezer very long (;

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw cashews, soaked overnight
• 1/4 cup cacao butter, melted
• 3 Tbsp melted coconut oil
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup canned coconut milk (the thick part from the top of the can)
• Cashew milk (or any nut milk) if needed, to reach desired consistency
• 1/4 tsp pink Himalayan salt
• 1/2 cup Tropeaka Salted Caramel Protein (Or any protein powder you have on Hand)

Mix all ingredients (besides cashew milk) in high-speed blender until smooth. Add a tiny amount of cashew milk (1 tbsp at a time) if needed to thin, until desired consistency is reached. I topped with a peanut butter “Shell” by melting 2 tbsp peanut butter & 1 tsp coconut oil as well as chopped almonds & sea salt. YUM.