If you’re a cheese lover who has chosen a plant-based lifestyle, you might think creamy, decadent brie is off the table. But what if I told you that you can enjoy a luscious, spreadable vegan brie that’s just as satisfying as the classic French favorite?
This vegan brie recipe replicates the rich texture and subtle tang of dairy-based brie using wholesome, accessible ingredients. It’s perfect for a cheese board, a picnic, or as a show-stopping appetizer at your next dinner party.
Homemade vegan brie is surprisingly simple to make and requires no fancy aging process. The combination of soaked cashews, creamy coconut milk, and tangy probiotics creates a cheese that’s both indulgent and nourishing.
Plus, this recipe is free from dairy, gluten, and soy, making it a crowd-pleaser for nearly any dietary need. Let’s dive into how to make your own vegan brie that will wow even the most devoted cheese aficionados!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this vegan brie recipe. Here are just a few:
- Incredible Creaminess: Thanks to soaked cashews and coconut milk, this cheese is outrageously creamy and spreadable.
- Authentic Flavor: Probiotics and lemon juice create the complex, slightly tangy flavor that brie is known for.
- Simple Ingredients: All you need is a handful of pantry staples and a bit of patience.
- Customizable: This recipe is easy to tweak—add herbs, truffle oil, or even a bloomy rind effect for extra flair.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve it on a cheese board or baked in pastry for a truly memorable appetizer.
- Allergy-Friendly: This brie contains no dairy, gluten, or soy, so it’s suitable for many diets.
Tip: Homemade vegan brie is perfect for entertaining. Your guests won’t believe it’s not real cheese!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for your homemade vegan brie. Gather these ingredients for the best results:
Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
Raw cashews | 1 1/2 cups (225g) | Soaked in hot water for 2 hours, then drained |
Full-fat coconut milk | 1/2 cup (120ml) | Canned, well-stirred |
Coconut oil | 1/4 cup (60ml) | Refined for neutral flavor |
Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | Freshly squeezed |
Nutritional yeast | 2 tbsp | For cheesy depth |
Miso paste | 1 tbsp | White or chickpea miso |
Apple cider vinegar | 1 tsp | For tang |
Salt | 1 tsp | To taste |
Probiotic capsules | 2 capsules | For culturing (vegan, unflavored) |
Agar agar powder | 2 tsp | Sets the cheese |
Water | 1/2 cup (120ml) | For activating agar |
Equipment
- High-speed blender or food processor (for silky-smooth texture)
- Medium mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Cheese mold or small round container (4-5 inch diameter works well)
- Plastic wrap or parchment paper (for easy removal)
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon
- Refrigerator
Instructions
-
Soak the Cashews:
Place raw cashews in a heatproof bowl and cover with boiling water. Let soak for at least 2 hours, or overnight for extra creaminess.
Drain and rinse before using.
-
Blend the Base:
In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine soaked cashews, coconut milk, coconut oil, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, miso paste, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Blend on high until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
-
Add Probiotics:
Open the probiotic capsules and sprinkle the powder into the blender. Blend on low just to incorporate (do not overblend, as heat can damage probiotics).
-
Ferment the Cheese:
Transfer cashew mixture to a clean bowl. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a clean towel.
Let ferment at room temperature (ideally 75-80°F/24-27°C) for 16-24 hours. The cheese should develop a mild tangy aroma, but not smell unpleasant.
Note: Fermentation time may vary based on room temperature and brand of probiotics. Taste after 16 hours and let go longer if you prefer a stronger tang.
-
Prepare the Mold:
Line your cheese mold or small round container with plastic wrap or parchment paper, leaving enough overhang to lift out the cheese later.
-
Activate the Agar:
In a small saucepan, whisk agar agar powder into water. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until agar is completely dissolved and mixture thickens slightly.
-
Mix and Pour:
Quickly add the hot agar mixture to your fermented cashew base. Stir or blend thoroughly to combine.
Immediately transfer the mixture into your prepared mold and smooth the top with a spatula.
-
Chill and Set:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set and firm. For best flavor and texture, let the vegan brie chill overnight.
-
Unmold and Serve:
Carefully lift the cheese from the mold using the liner. Peel away the wrap or parchment.
Place on a serving plate. Let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the creamiest texture.
Tips & Variations
- Bloomy Rind: For a more “authentic” brie appearance, dust the cheese with a thin layer of white vegan cheese mold powder (Penicillium candidum, available online) before fermenting. This is entirely optional but can be fun for advanced home cheesemakers!
- Herb-Infused: Mix in chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives before pouring into the mold for a fragrant, herby twist.
- Truffle Brie: Fold in a teaspoon of truffle oil or finely chopped truffle for a luxurious flavor upgrade.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute raw sunflower seeds for cashews, but keep in mind the flavor and color will be slightly different.
- Mini Bries: Use silicone muffin cups or ramekins to create individual brie rounds—perfect for parties or meal prep.
- Texture Tips: For a softer, more gooey brie, use a little less agar agar (start with 1 1/2 teaspoons). For a firmer brie, increase to 2 1/2 teaspoons.
“Letting your vegan brie warm up slightly before serving really brings out its creamy, spreadable nature—just like the real thing!”
Nutrition Facts
This vegan brie is rich, satisfying, and surprisingly nutritious. Here’s an approximate breakdown per 1-ounce (28g) serving:
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 90 |
Fat | 7g |
Saturated Fat | 3g |
Protein | 2g |
Carbohydrates | 4g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sugar | 1g |
Sodium | 120mg |
Note: Nutrition will vary based on precise ingredients used and serving size.
Serving Suggestions
Vegan brie is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways:
- Serve on a plant-based cheese board with fresh fruit, dried apricots, grapes, nuts, and artisan crackers.
- Try it with homemade vegan flour tortillas for a unique twist on a classic cheese wrap.
- Spread onto crusty vegan bread or a freshly baked baguette.
- Top with caramelized onions, fig jam, or cranberry sauce for a sweet-savory pairing.
- Bake inside puff pastry for a vegan brie en croute—a stunning holiday centerpiece.
- Pair with a glass of wine or serve as part of a Mediterranean-inspired platter alongside olives, roasted vegetables, and dips.
- Make it the star of your next veggie quesadilla or enjoy as a creamy layer in vegan Cuban-inspired dishes.
Hosting a party? Vegan brie is the ultimate conversation starter—no one will guess it’s dairy-free!
Conclusion
Making vegan brie at home might sound intimidating, but with a bit of planning and the right ingredients, you can create a cheese that’s rich, creamy, and impressively authentic. Whether you’re serving it to vegan friends or skeptical omnivores, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for special occasions and everyday snacking alike.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors, textures, and creative serving ideas. Once you master this vegan brie, you’ll be inspired to try other plant-based cheeses—or even incorporate it into your favorite recipes.
If you enjoyed this recipe, check out our Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe and Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious for more tasty ideas, or explore Vegan Cuban Recipes for globally inspired plant-based meals.
With this vegan brie recipe in your repertoire, you never have to miss out on the joys of cheese again. Happy cheesemaking!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Brie
Description: A creamy, tangy vegan brie made from cashews and coconut oil, perfect for spreading or baking. Enjoy this dairy-free cheese alternative at your next gathering.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT2H30M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups raw cashews (soaked 4 hours, drained)
- 1/4 cup refined coconut oil, melted
- 1/3 cup unsweetened plain coconut yogurt
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon tapioca starch
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Blend soaked cashews, coconut oil, coconut yogurt, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, garlic powder, tapioca starch, and water until very smooth.
- Transfer mixture to a small saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a small round mold lined with parchment paper.
- Smooth the top and let cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Remove from mold, slice, and serve.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 4g | Fat: 15g | Carbs: 8g
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