Balsamic Vegan Cheese Recipe for Delicious Plant-Based Snacks

Discover the delightful world of vegan cheese with this easy and flavorful balsamic vegan cheese recipe. Perfect for those who love rich, tangy flavors combined with creamy texture, this recipe offers a sophisticated twist on traditional cheese.

Made with simple plant-based ingredients, it’s ideal for vegans, lactose-intolerant individuals, or anyone looking to explore delicious dairy-free alternatives. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a gourmet snack, this balsamic vegan cheese will impress your taste buds and your guests alike.

Not only does it taste amazing, but this cheese also packs a punch of wholesome nutrition without any preservatives or artificial additives. The balsamic vinegar adds a unique depth and slight sweetness, balancing the savory nuttiness of the base ingredients.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to make at home with minimal fuss. Ready to elevate your vegan cheese game?

Let’s dive right into this fantastic recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This balsamic vegan cheese recipe is a game-changer for anyone who’s tired of bland vegan cheeses. Here’s why it stands out:

• Rich and Creamy Texture: Thanks to soaked cashews and coconut oil, it melts in your mouth like traditional cheese.
• Bold Flavor: The balsamic vinegar gives it a tangy, sweet, and complex flavor profile that’s truly addictive.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with easily accessible pantry staples without any hard-to-find products.
• Nutritious: Packed with healthy fats, plant-based proteins, and antioxidants.
• Versatile: Use it as a spread, dip, or even melted on your favorite vegan pizza or sandwiches.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups raw cashews, soaked in water for at least 4 hours or overnight
• ¼ cup refined coconut oil, melted
• 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon sea salt, adjust to taste
• ½ cup water (or as needed for blending)
• 1 teaspoon agar-agar powder (for setting the cheese)
• Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (optional, like chives or thyme for garnish)

Equipment

• High-speed blender or food processor
• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cheese mold or small container lined with parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare the cashews: Drain the soaked cashews and rinse well under cool water. This helps soften them for blending.
2. Blend the base: In your blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, melted coconut oil, nutritional yeast, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add ½ cup of water and blend on high until smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides a few times. Adjust water quantity to achieve a thick but blendable consistency.
3. Prepare agar-agar: In a small saucepan, whisk the agar-agar powder into ¾ cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 2-3 minutes, whisking constantly until the agar dissolves completely.
4. Combine agar and cashew mixture: Quickly pour the hot agar mixture into the blender with the cashew base. Blend immediately for 15-20 seconds to evenly combine. The agar will begin to set as it cools, so act fast.
5. Mold the cheese: Pour the mixture into your prepared mold or container lined with parchment paper. Smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Chill and set: Transfer the mold to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 3-4 hours, or until firm and sliceable.
7. Serve: Once set, unmold the cheese carefully, slice or crumble as desired, and garnish with fresh herbs if using.

Tips & Variations

For a nuttier flavor, toast the cashews lightly in a dry pan before soaking.

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the blender for a subtle kick.
• Herbed cheese: Mix in finely chopped fresh basil, rosemary, or dill before setting for an herbal twist.
• Use different vinegars: Substitute balsamic with red wine vinegar or sherry vinegar for varied flavor profiles.
• Make it softer: Reduce agar-agar slightly if you prefer a creamier, less firm cheese.
• Storage: Keep the cheese wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This balsamic vegan cheese is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Try it as a spread on crusty bread or crackers for a simple appetizer.

It also melts beautifully over a warm vegan Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe, creating a savory treat.

For a more indulgent option, crumble it over fresh salads with walnuts and dried cranberries to add a tangy, creamy element. It’s also a perfect addition to vegan grilled sandwiches or paninis, pairing wonderfully with roasted vegetables.

If you enjoy experimenting with baked goods, try incorporating cubes of this cheese into your next savory pastry or flatbread.

Looking for a sweet and savory combo? Pair the cheese with balsamic-glazed fruits or figs for an elegant appetizer.

And don’t forget to check out our recipe for Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe to round out a cozy dinner featuring this cheese.

Conclusion

Making your own balsamic vegan cheese at home is not only rewarding but also opens up a world of flavor possibilities that are both healthy and delicious. This recipe combines the creamy richness of cashews with the tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar, creating a unique dairy-free cheese that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting friends, preparing snacks, or looking for a nutritious addition to your meals, this vegan cheese will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and plenty of room for customization, you can tailor this cheese to suit your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to explore different herbs, spices, and serving ideas to keep this recipe exciting.

For more creative vegan recipes, check out our refreshing Green Goodness Juice Recipe or satisfy your sweet tooth with our Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe. Happy cooking!

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