This pumpkin cheesecake may look (and taste) sinfully delicious, but it’s not your typical dessert. It’s made with real food ingredients that make this a healthier holiday indulgence.

Check out some of the benefits:

Pecans are loaded with age-defying antioxidants, protein, and fiber.

Dates contain fiber & nutrients making them one of the best ways to add sweetness.

Cashews are rich in magnesium and other minerals, as well as healthy fats.

Pumpkin is high in Vitamin A, a nutrient needed for blemish-free skin.

Here’s the recipe:

Pumpkin Cheesecake with Maple Cinnamon Soaked Pecans

Serves 12

Ingredients:

MAPLE PECAN TOPPING

2 tsp. maple syrup

¼ tsp. cinnamon

¾ cup pecans, chopped

CRUST

2 ½ cups pecans

1 cup dates

¼ inch piece ginger (optional)

¼ tsp. pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon

pinch of salt

¼ cup dried, unsweetened shredded coconut

CHEESECAKE FILLING

1 ¼ cups raw cashews, that have been soaked in water at least 4 hours or overnight

1 ¼ cups pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)

¼ inch piece ginger (optional)

1/2 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice

½ cup liquid coconut nectar

¾ cup coconut oil

1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

1 tsp. vanilla extract

water, as needed to blend

Instructions:

For the topping, mix maple syrup and cinnamon in a small bowl. Add chopped pecans, mix well, and set aside.

For the crust, whiz pecans in high-speed blender until they make a powder, then add dates, ginger, pumpkin pie spice, and salt and process again until combined. The mixture should stay together when squeezed in your hand. Line the bottom of a 6-inch spring form pan with shredded coconut, then press pecan mixture into bottom and up sides.

For the filling, drain cashews, and then throw all ingredients into a blender and process on high for about 2 minutes, until completely smooth. If well soaked, you likely won’t need additional water, but if your blender isn’t powerful enough, add as little water as necessary to blend and create creamy texture. Pour mixture on top of crust.

Spoon maple soaked pecans on top.

Cover and place in freezer for two hours, to firm up before serving. When you are ready to serve, thaw in fridge for at least an hour. Will then last in refrigerator for up to 3 days, and in the freezer, about 5 days.