Some recipes just get it right. Creamy, naturally sweet, vibrant purple swirls - and yet somehow packed with fibre, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. The Blueberry Cashew Swirl is one of those rare treats that tastes indulgent but actually supports your body.
And yes, you can absolutely have it for breakfast. We won't judge!
P.S. This recipe comes from Julie Stewart, a our in-house registered nutritionist.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic here is in the base: soaked cashews blended until silky smooth. Cashews are naturally high in healthy fats and give this dessert its rich, creamy texture without any dairy. Combined with dates for gentle sweetness (no refined sugar needed), a splash of lime for brightness, and antioxidant-rich blueberries for that gorgeous colour - you've got something that looks as good as it tastes.
Ground flaxseed adds a quiet boost of omega-3s and fibre, while the vanilla brings warmth to every spoonful. It's simple. It's satisfying. And it's entirely plant-based.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups cashew nuts, soaked and drained
- ¼ cup dried dates, soaked (keep the soaking water)
- 3 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
- 3 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (save some for the base and garnish)
- Oat granola for topping
Method
1. Soak your cashews and dates
Pop both into separate bowls of water and leave for at least a couple of hours (or overnight if you're planning ahead). This softens them and makes for a smoother blend.
2. Blend the base
Drain your cashews, then add them to a high-speed blender along with the soaked dates (including the date water), lime juice, ground flaxseed, and vanilla extract. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
3. Create the swirl
Transfer half of your cashew mixture to a separate bowl. Add the blueberries to the remaining mixture in the blender and blend until you have a beautiful purple cream.
4. Assemble
Drop a few whole blueberries into the bottom of your serving glasses. Layer the vanilla and blueberry cashew mixtures, alternating to create that signature swirl effect. Top with oat granola and a few extra blueberries.
5. Chill
Pop your glasses in the fridge for a few hours to let everything set. The wait is worth it.
A Note on Omega-3s
Ground flaxseed is a brilliant plant-based source of ALA omega-3s - but your body needs to convert ALA into EPA and DHA to get the full benefits. If you're looking to support brain function, heart health, or reduce inflammation, pairing recipes like this with a direct source of DHA (like our algae-based Omega-3s) can help bridge that gap.
Make It Your Own
- Swap the berries: Raspberries or blackberries work beautifully here too.
- Add greens: A small handful of spinach in the vanilla layer adds nutrients without changing the flavour.
- Go tropical: Swap blueberries for mango and add a pinch of turmeric for a golden twist.
More about Julie
Balancing her time between private clients and NHS commitments, Julie offers support for those seeking evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle guidance for a wide range of chronic conditions, including weight management and gut health.