PLACE raw cashews in a large bowl and pour hot water over the cashews (enough so all cashews are submerged) and let soak for one hour
PREHEAT oven to 350F, grease the bottom of a spring form pan, line with parchment paper
WHISK the egg (depending on crust recipe using), vanilla and melted butter/oil in a large bowl; add the cookie mix to the wet ingredients; stir until combined
PRESS cookie dough evenly on the bottom of the spring form pan, bake for 12 minutes and then set aside to let cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling
STRAIN cashews and place them in a blender with the coconut oil, maple syrup, cocoa powder, lemon juice, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, milk and sea salt; blend on high until smooth
POUR cheesecake filling in to the spring form pan and then place in the freezer for 5-6 hours or overnight
MELTthe chocolate in the microwave or over a double boiler and let cool to room temperature, pour evenly over the cheesecake and place back in the freezer
SIT cheesecake out at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving and top with crushed peppermint if desired