Add cashews to a bowl, cover with very hot water, and let soak 1 hour. Or cover with cool water and let soak for 6-8 hours or overnight. Drain well and set aside.
Add dates to a food processor and blend until small bits remain and it forms into a ball. Remove and set aside.
Next, add nuts and salt and process into a meal. Then add dates back in and blend until a loose dough forms β it should stick together when you squeeze a bit between your fingers. If itβs too dry, add a few more dates through the spout while processing. If too wet, add more chopped walnuts.
Line a standard pie, round cake dish, or 7-inch springform pan (I like this one!) with parchment paper (adjust number/size of pans if altering batch size). Then add crust mixture and carefully press with fingers to distribute.
To pack it down, use a flat-edged drinking glass lined with parchment paper and really press it down, pushing some crust up the sides. Place in the freezer to firm up.
Add all filling ingredients to a high-speed blender and blend until creamy and smooth, scraping down sides as needed. If it has trouble blending, add a bit more coconut milk.
Taste and adjust flavor/sweetness as needed, adding more coconut yogurt or lemon juice for tang, maple syrup for sweetness, or vanilla for vanilla flavor.
Pour the filling into the crust and tap a few times to release any air bubbles.
Cover loosely with plastic wrap and freeze until set β about 3-4 hours depending on size of dish. When set, it will be firm to the touch.
To serve, set out of the freezer until slightly soft to the touch β about 15-20 minutes. Then slice with a hot knife for easier slicing. Top with a touch of coconut whipped cream and fresh berries, or enjoy as is!
Once this cheesecake has been frozen, it can be stored in the refrigerator up to 3 days, but it will become quite soft. For this reason, I recommend storing it in the freezer and setting out for 15-20 minutes before slicing/serving to enjoy the best texture. Store leftovers in the freezer up to 1 month or the refrigerator up to 3 days.