Vegan Cream Cheese: A Delicious Dairy-Free Alternative

Vegan cream cheese has quickly become a favorite among plant-based eaters and those looking to explore dairy-free options. This versatile and creamy spread offers all the richness of traditional cream cheese, without the dairy. Whether you’re spreading it on a bagel, using it as a dip, or incorporating it into your favorite recipes, vegan cream cheese is a game-changer in the kitchen.

What is Vegan Cream Cheese?

Vegan cream cheese is a plant-based alternative made without animal-derived ingredients. Instead, it’s typically crafted from nuts like cashews or almonds, soy, coconut cream, or even oats. These ingredients are blended to achieve the creamy texture and tangy flavor that mimics traditional cream cheese.

Why Choose Vegan Cream Cheese?

  • Health Benefits: Vegan cream cheese is often lower in saturated fat and cholesterol compared to dairy-based options, making it a heart-friendly choice. Many versions also provide a good dose of healthy fats and plant-based protein.
  • Dietary Needs: Ideal for those with lactose intolerance, milk allergies, or anyone following a vegan lifestyle.
  • Ethical and Sustainable: Opting for vegan cream cheese supports a more sustainable food system and aligns with values of compassion and respect for animals.


    • How to Use Vegan Cream Cheese
    The possibilities with vegan cream cheese are endless! Here are a few ideas:

    • Breakfast Spread: Smear it on a toasted bagel or your favorite bread and top with fresh herbs or fruit.
    • Dips and Sauces: Blend with herbs and spices to create a flavorful dip for veggies or chips.
    • Desserts: Use it as a base for vegan cheesecakes or frosting for cakes and cupcakes.
    • Savory Dishes: Incorporate it into pasta sauces or stuffed mushrooms for a creamy twist.

    Making Your Own Vegan Cream Cheese


    Creating homemade vegan cream cheese is simple and cost-effective. Blend soaked cashews, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Adjust the flavor with garlic, dill, or other spices to suit your taste.

    Recipe:

    Cream Cheese 2

    Vegan cream cheese

    Serves 2 cups

    2 cups cashews soaked in water overnight

    ½ cup water

    2 cloves garlic

    2 tbsp lemon juice

    2 tbsp nutritional yeast

    1.5 tbsp apple cider vinegar

    ¾ tsp salt

    1/8 tsp black pepper

    Instructions:

    Place cashews in a bowl and cover with 2 to 3 inches of water. Soaking for at least 8 to 12 hours. Drain the cashews and rinse them well, stirring with your hands to help remove any jelly coating on the nuts.

    Add all ingredients in a blender or food processor. Mix on medium to high speed until smooth and creamy, about 1 to 2 minutes scaping down the sides of the blender.

    If too thick add a tbsp of water as needed until the mixture is completely smooth.

    You could in theory just stop there and place in the fridge for at least 4 hours until thickened. I personally take the extra step to make the cheese more like cream cheese. This first step is great as a dip or added on toast.

    By doing this next step we’re leveling up the cheese to what I think tastes and feels like cream cheese. You could also add in any herbs you wish to make the cheese next level. This next step also makes the cheese meltable so is great on pizza’s too. Just saying.

    Cream Cheese 1

    Vegan Cream Cheese part deux

    Serves 2 cups

    1 cup cream cheese you just made

    ¾ cup water

    ½ cup tapioca powder

    1 tsp nutritional yeast

    ½ cup cooking coconut oil

    1 ½ tsp salt

    Instructions:

    Place all the ingredients in a bowl of a blender and blend for 1 to 2 minutes until everything is incorporated well scrape down the sides as needed. You could also add herbs of your choice at this point. I use dill for an added burst of flavor.

    Transfer the mixture to a saucepan.

    Heat on medium heat, stirring constantly. The cheese will thicken after a couple minutes.

    Continue heating and stirring until the cheese becomes a lump. The coconut oil may separate at this point continue to heat until bubbles form around the edges.

    Place it all back in the blender carefully the mixture is hot so you may need to make the blender bowl is also hot to prevent cracking.

    Blend in blender for a few seconds until mixture is well incorporated.

    Transfer to a heat proof bowl of dish loosely cover and let stand for a at least 45 mins. Then place in the fridge for at least 4 hours to firm up.

    Use it like cream cheese on bagels/toast or added to pizza’s just add a spoonful on the pizza where you like.

    You’ll be happy you took the extra step to make this.

    Vegan cream cheese proves that going dairy-free doesn’t mean compromising on flavor or versatility. With endless culinary applications and a commitment to sustainability, it’s an excellent addition to any plant-based kitchen.