Vegan Cream Cheese
Smooth, creamy and with that bit of tanginess you’d expect to find in regular cream cheese, this vegan cream cheese recipe is one you’ve got to try out. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of kitchen time to put it together, this is one recipe you definitely can’t go wrong with.
But before you get right into it, here’s all you need to know about making it the right way.
What is Vegan Cream Cheese?
Vegan cream cheese is exactly what it sounds like- a vegan, non-dairy version of the classic cream cheese crafted using tofu or any other creamy ingredients.
Why We Love This Vegan Cream Cheese Recipe
The simplicity of this recipe is what has us hooked. It uses just a few ingredients that are easily available to make the creamy, delicious vegan cheese.
Can I Use Silken Tofu Instead?
This vegan cream cheese recipe calls for the use of firm tofu, which is then blended into a smooth mixture. You can, however, use silken tofu as well- if that’s what you have at hand.
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What Can I Use Instead of Tofu?
Looking for an alternative to tofu? Cashews are the next best thing. They are unbelievably creamy and rich when blended together with a bit of water and apple cider vinegar. Just remember to soak the cashews in hot water for an hour, so that they soften a bit, and then use them for the recipe.
What Else Can I Add?
The best part about making this vegan cream cheese is that you can totally customize it based on your personal taste preference. Throw in some chives to get a mild flavor and texture or a small sliced jalapeño to bring in a little heat.
You can also add a bit of onion powder into the blended cheese and use it as a spread for any of your favorite sandwiches.
How Do I Store Vegan Cream Cheese?
Your cream cheese can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just remember to use a clean airtight container or glass container for best results.
Tips for Making Dairy Free Cream Cheese
Making this recipe might be super easy, but having these little tips and tricks handy can really help you get the texture and flavor right.
- Want to add an extra element of creaminess to the cheese? Add a spoonful of non-dairy yogurt into the mixture.
- Remember to limit the amount of water you’re adding into the mixture while blending it.
- If the blended the dairy free cream cheese mixture seems a bit too runny, you can let it chill in the refrigerator overnight to help firm it up.
- If the mixture still doesn’t feel firm enough, blend it again with some refined coconut oil and allow it to chill again. The fat will help firm up the mixture and get it to the perfect, spreadable consistency you want.
- To add an extra punch of flavor and healthy boost, consider adding just a teeny bit of nutritional yeast into the mix.
- Add-ons like sun dried tomatoes, basil and olives can also be added to the cream cheese mixture to give it some extra flavor.
Serving Ideas & Suggestions
This vegan version can be the perfect replacement for regular cream cheese- team it up with crackers, veggie sticks and bagels or spread it on your sandwiches.
You can also add it to your pasta sauce if you want to add a bit of creaminess to it- it can be an excellent healthier replacement for cheddar cheese in this creamy chicken pasta recipe.
More Delicious and Easy Recipes to Make
- Instant Pot Cauliflower Soup (WW and Keto)
- Keto Bacon Wrapped Jalapeños
- Oven Roasted Vegetables
- Butternut Squash Alfredo
Vegan Cream Cheese
This vegan cream cheese is packed full of yummy flavor! Add in your favorite seasonings to elevate the flavor.
Ingredients
- 16 oz firm tofu
- ½ cup refined coconut oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Chop the tofu into small pieces for easy processing. Add them into a food processor and blend for 2 minutes.
- Add the lemon juice and apple cider vinegar. Let it curdle for about 5 minutes.
- Add melted refined coconut oil and place it into the food processor then add the salt.
- Blend everything for 2-3 minutes until it is a smooth consistency.
- Enjoy on a fresh toasted bagel!
Notes
This recipe makes a great base for other cream cheese flavors. Once this is made, you can also mix in sun dried tomatoes, garlic, herbs, or even fruit if you want a sweeter flavor.
Unrefined coconut oil can work too, it will just have a stronger coconutty taste.