Vegan Cheese Recipe Ideas has surged in popularity, thanks to a growing awareness of dietary preferences, lactose intolerance, and the environmental benefits of reducing dairy consumption. Many people are turning to plant-based options that cater to their health, ethical, and environmental concerns without sacrificing taste or texture. Vegan cheeses are no longer just a substitute; they have evolved into a delicious and versatile ingredient, perfect for everything from creamy dips and spreads to melt-in-your-mouth pizzas and comforting pastas. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just exploring plant-based eating, these cheese recipes will show you just how easy and satisfying it is to enjoy cheese without the dairy!
Vegan Cheese Recipe Ideas
1. Cashew Cream Cheese
Description:
Cashew cream cheese is a rich, creamy, and tangy spread that’s perfect for bagels, crackers, or veggie sticks. Its smooth texture and versatile flavor make it a must-try for any vegan cheese lover.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 2-4 hours or boiled for 10 minutes)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish or added flavor)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 80
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 6g (mostly healthy fats from cashews)
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
2. Smoky Almond Cheese
Description:
Smoky almond cheese is a flavorful and rich vegan cheese with a hint of smokiness that pairs beautifully with crackers, fresh veggies, or as part of a charcuterie board. Its firm texture makes it perfect for slicing, while its bold taste leaves a lasting impression.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw almonds (soaked overnight or boiled for 10 minutes)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional, for extra smokiness)
- 1/4 cup water (adjust for blending consistency)
- Salt to taste
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 90
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 7g (healthy fats from almonds)
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 140mg
3. Vegan Mozzarella
Description:
Vegan mozzarella is stretchy, melty, and perfect for pizza, lasagna, or even grilled cheese sandwiches. Its mild and creamy flavor mimics traditional mozzarella, making it a fantastic plant-based alternative for all your cheesy cravings.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 2-4 hours or boiled for 10 minutes)
- 1/4 cup tapioca starch (for stretchiness)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup water
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 70
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
4. Garlic Herb Vegan Cheese Spread
Description:
This garlic herb vegan cheese spread is smooth, creamy, and packed with fresh, savory flavors. It’s perfect as a dip for crackers, a spread for bagels, or a flavorful addition to wraps and sandwiches. The combination of garlic and fresh herbs makes it irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 2-4 hours or boiled for 10 minutes)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 clove garlic (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons water (adjust for consistency)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon chives (chopped)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 85
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 6g (healthy fats from cashews and olive oil)
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
5. Spicy Jalapeño Vegan Cheese Sauce
Description:
This spicy jalapeño vegan cheese sauce is creamy, zesty, and has a fiery kick. It’s perfect for nachos, tacos, burgers, or as a dip for fries and veggies. The combination of jalapeños and plant-based ingredients creates a bold and flavorful sauce that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 2-4 hours or boiled for 10 minutes)
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (e.g., almond, soy, or oat)
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1-2 fresh jalapeños (seeded for less heat, or keep seeds for extra spice)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (for added heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (for a smoky flavor)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 80
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 6g (from cashews)
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
6. Vegan Parmesan
Description:
Vegan Parmesan is a simple yet flavorful alternative to traditional Parmesan cheese. It’s nutty, salty, and packed with umami, making it perfect for sprinkling over pasta, salads, soups, or roasted vegetables. Best of all, it requires just a few ingredients and minimal effort to make!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw cashews (or almonds, if preferred)
- 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for added zing)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 1 tablespoon):
- Calories: 50
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 4g (healthy fats from nuts)
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 70mg
7. Vegan Brie
Description:
Vegan Brie is a creamy, rich, and indulgent plant-based alternative to traditional brie. Its buttery texture and mild flavor make it perfect for serving on a cheese board, spreading on crackers, or pairing with fruits and nuts. This recipe delivers all the elegance of brie without the dairy.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups raw cashews (soaked for 2-4 hours or boiled for 10 minutes)
- 1/2 cup coconut cream (scooped from a can of chilled coconut milk)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon agar-agar powder (for setting)
- 1/2 cup water (for activating the agar-agar)
Optional Add-ins:
- A pinch of white pepper for extra flavor
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 90
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 7g (mostly from cashews and coconut cream)
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
8. Vegan Cheddar Block
Description:
This vegan cheddar block is firm, sliceable, and bursting with the tangy, sharp flavor you’d expect from cheddar. It’s perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or shredding over baked dishes like casseroles or vegan mac and cheese.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 2-4 hours or boiled for 10 minutes)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (e.g., almond or soy)
- 2 tablespoons tapioca starch (for stretchiness)
- 2 teaspoons agar-agar powder (for firmness)
- 1/4 cup water (to activate the agar-agar)
Optional Add-ins:
- A pinch of turmeric for vibrant color
- A dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 85
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 6g (healthy fats from cashews)
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 140mg
9. Sunflower Seed Cheese
Description:
Sunflower seed cheese is a delicious and allergy-friendly alternative to nut-based cheeses. It has a creamy texture and a mild, nutty flavor that makes it perfect for spreading on crackers, using as a dip, or even adding to salads. It’s a great option for those avoiding nuts while still enjoying a tasty, vegan cheese experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sunflower seeds (soaked for 2-4 hours or boiled for 10 minutes)
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water (adjust for consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Fresh herbs (optional, such as parsley or chives, for garnish)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 60
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 4g (healthy fats from sunflower seeds)
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
10. Vegan Ricotta
Description:
Vegan ricotta is a creamy and crumbly cheese alternative made from tofu or cashews, with a mild, slightly nutty flavor. It’s perfect for stuffing into pasta like ravioli or lasagna, dolloping on pizzas, or mixing into baked goods for added richness. This plant-based ricotta can easily replace dairy ricotta in most recipes.
Ingredients:
- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu (pressed to remove excess water)
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for creaminess)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 50
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 3g (healthy fats from olive oil, optional)
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
FAQ
1. Are these vegan cheeses suitable for people with lactose intolerance?
Yes, all of the vegan cheese recipes are dairy-free, making them a great option for those with lactose intolerance or anyone following a plant-based diet.
2. Can I substitute the nuts in these recipes for seeds?
Yes, many of these recipes can be adapted with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds if you’re looking for a nut-free alternative, especially for options like sunflower seed cheese or cashew-based recipes.
3. How long do these vegan cheeses last in the fridge?
Most homemade vegan cheeses can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-7 days. For optimal freshness, it’s best to consume them within this timeframe.
4. Can I freeze these vegan cheeses for later use?
Yes, many of these vegan cheeses can be frozen, especially the ones with firm textures like vegan cheddar block or vegan mozzarella. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container, and defrost in the fridge before use.
I’m Priscilla Swahn, a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutritional sciences. With over a decade of experience in holistic nutrition, I specialize in creating delicious keto recipes to help you enjoy a healthy lifestyle. On iKetoMom, you’ll find a variety of recipes for every meal—hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, mouthwatering dinners, indulgent desserts, and refreshing drinks. My recipes make keto living easy and enjoyable for the whole family. Featured in EatingWell and MindBodyGreen, I also collaborate with health centers and corporate companies to share my expertise. Join me and discover the joy of keto cooking!