Best Vegan Almond Cheddar Cheese Recipe Made Simple

If you’ve been searching for the perfect vegan cheese that combines creaminess, a rich almond flavor, and a sharp cheddar bite, your quest ends here. This best vegan almond cheddar cheese recipe is a game-changer for plant-based cheese lovers and those wanting to experiment beyond store-bought options.

Crafted from simple, wholesome ingredients, this almond-based cheddar captures the essence of traditional cheese without any dairy. Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or just curious, this recipe delivers creamy, tangy, and slightly nutty flavors that melt beautifully and hold up well in cooking.

It’s perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or even melting on your favorite dishes.

What makes this almond cheddar ideal is its balance of texture and flavor — firm enough to slice yet smooth enough to spread. Plus, it’s packed with nourishing ingredients that are good for you and the planet.

Ready to impress friends and family with your homemade vegan cheese skills? Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan almond cheddar cheese recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses whole almonds as the base, which provide a rich, buttery flavor and a satisfying texture that mimics traditional cheddar cheese very well.

Unlike many vegan cheeses that rely on processed starches or artificial flavors, this recipe embraces natural ingredients, making it a healthier option.

Second, it’s incredibly versatile. You can slice it for sandwiches, melt it on vegan grilled cheese, crumble it over salads, or use it in cooking for a cheesy boost.

It also keeps well in the fridge and can be made ahead for easy snacking or meal prep.

Finally, it’s easy to customize. You can adjust the smokiness, sharpness, or creaminess with simple ingredient swaps or additions.

This makes it ideal for anyone looking to experiment with plant-based cheese flavors in their kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups raw almonds (soaked overnight or for at least 8 hours)
• ½ cup water (plus more for soaking)
• ⅓ cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
• 2 tablespoons refined coconut oil (melted, for creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for that classic cheddar smokiness)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon tapioca starch (optional, for stretchiness)
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder (for color)
• Probiotic capsule powder or 1 tablespoon vegan yogurt (optional, for tanginess and fermentation)

Equipment

• High-speed blender or food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Nut milk bag or fine mesh strainer (optional, for almond pulp removal)
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Cheese mold or small loaf pan lined with parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Soak the almonds: Place raw almonds in a bowl and cover with water. Soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. This softens them and makes blending easier.
2. Drain and rinse: After soaking, drain the almonds and rinse them well under cold water.
3. Blend the base: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine soaked almonds, ½ cup fresh water, nutritional yeast, melted coconut oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and turmeric powder. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. This may take 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Add stretchiness (optional): In a small saucepan, whisk tapioca starch with ¼ cup water until dissolved. Heat over medium heat while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes stretchy, about 3-4 minutes. Quickly stir this into the almond cheese mixture to add a stretchy, melty texture.
5. Incorporate probiotics or yogurt (optional): For a slightly tangier, more fermented flavor, add the contents of a probiotic capsule or a tablespoon of vegan yogurt to the mixture and blend briefly.
6. Pour into mold: Transfer the cheese mixture into a lined cheese mold or small loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Chill and set: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm enough to slice.
8. Serve and enjoy: Once set, remove from mold and slice or crumble as desired.

Tips & Variations

“For a sharper cheddar flavor, increase the nutritional yeast to ½ cup and add a pinch more smoked paprika for depth.”

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked chipotle powder for a smoky heat.
• Use different nuts: Substitute cashews for almonds if you prefer a creamier consistency.
• Fermentation boost: Allow the mixture to ferment at room temperature for 12-24 hours before chilling for a more complex flavor.
• Firmness level: Adjust the amount of tapioca starch or omit it for a softer cheese perfect for spreading.
• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This almond cheddar cheese is incredibly versatile and can elevate many dishes. Try it sliced on a vegan sandwich or burger for a sharp, nutty flavor boost.

Crumble it over fresh salads or roasted vegetables for added texture and taste.

It melts beautifully, so don’t hesitate to use it in vegan grilled cheese sandwiches or on top of your favorite pasta for a cheesy finish. You can also pair it with crackers or fruit for an easy snack or cheese board addition.

For more creative vegan recipes to pair with this cheese, check out our Magic Dough Recipe or try the Lump Of Coal Recipe for a unique flavor experience. If you want something sweet afterward, the Marzipan Challah Recipe is a perfect treat.

Conclusion

This vegan almond cheddar cheese recipe is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make dairy-free alternative that everyone can enjoy. Its rich almond base combined with nutritional yeast and spices delivers a satisfying depth of flavor, making it a standout in the world of plant-based cheeses.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe offers a simple way to bring cheesy goodness into your kitchen without compromising on taste or texture.

Experiment with the variations to find your perfect balance, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who love good food. Homemade vegan cheese has never been this accessible or tasty — it’s time to elevate your meals with this almond cheddar masterpiece!

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