Best Vegan American Cheese Recipe for Delicious Melts

Finding a plant-based alternative to classic American cheese that melts, stretches, and tastes amazing can feel like a challenge. But with this best vegan American cheese recipe, you no longer have to compromise on flavor or texture.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or simply looking to add more plant-based options to your kitchen, this recipe delivers that nostalgic cheesy goodness without any dairy. Made from wholesome ingredients like cashews, nutritional yeast, and a few secret elements, this cheese slices perfectly, melts beautifully, and has that unmistakable creamy tang that makes American cheese so beloved.

Perfect for sandwiches, burgers, grilled cheese, or even just a snack, this recipe is straightforward, customizable, and incredibly satisfying. Ready to elevate your vegan cheese game?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan American cheese recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it uses simple pantry staples that you can find easily and whip up quickly.

No need for complicated fermentation or specialty ingredients.

Second, it melts and stretches just like traditional American cheese, making it ideal for those gooey grilled cheese sandwiches or melty cheeseburgers. The texture is smooth, creamy, and firm enough to slice or cube.

Finally, it’s packed with flavor: the nutritional yeast adds that cheesy umami punch, while the combination of tapioca starch and agar agar gives it the perfect melt and set. You’ll be amazed at how closely this replicates the classic cheese experience — without any dairy or animal products.

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4 hours or overnight)
• 1/4 cup refined coconut oil (melted)
• 1/3 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 cup unsweetened plant milk (such as almond or soy)
• 2 tablespoons tapioca starch (for stretch and melt)
• 1 tablespoon agar agar powder (for firm setting)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder (for color, optional)

Equipment

• High-speed blender or food processor
• Small saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Silicone mold or small loaf pan
• Plastic wrap or parchment paper
• Whisk or wooden spoon

Instructions

1. Soak the cashews: Place the cashews in a bowl and cover with water. Let them soak for at least 4 hours or overnight to soften, then drain and rinse.
2. Blend the base ingredients: In your high-speed blender, combine the soaked cashews, plant milk, melted coconut oil, nutritional yeast, apple cider vinegar, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and turmeric (if using). Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
3. Prepare the agar agar mixture: In a small saucepan, whisk together the agar agar powder, tapioca starch, and a splash of water to make a slurry. Slowly add the remaining plant milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
4. Cook the agar mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes stretchy — about 3-5 minutes. This is crucial for the cheese’s melt and stretch.
5. Combine and heat: Pour the agar mixture into the blender with the cashew mixture. Blend quickly to combine everything smoothly. Pour the entire mixture back into the saucepan and heat gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to ensure it thickens evenly.
6. Mold the cheese: Immediately pour the hot, thickened mixture into a silicone mold or a small loaf pan lined with plastic wrap or parchment paper. Smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Chill to set: Refrigerate the cheese for at least 4 hours or until fully firm and set.
8. Unmold and serve: Carefully remove the cheese from the mold. Slice, melt, or cube as desired. Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to one week.

Tips & Variations

For a sharper taste, increase the nutritional yeast by a tablespoon. If you want a smokier flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke. To make it soy-free, stick to almond or oat milk. For a creamier texture, blend the cashews longer or add 1 tablespoon of vegan butter. If you don’t have agar agar, you can experiment with carrageenan or kappa carrageenan but the texture will vary slightly.

Try adding chopped jalapeños or herbs to the mixture before setting for a flavorful twist that pairs perfectly with vegan burgers or sandwiches. For a classic grilled cheese, slice thinly and layer between your favorite bread — it melts beautifully!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan American cheese is incredibly versatile. Use it to create the ultimate vegan grilled cheese sandwich by pairing it with thick slices of sourdough bread and your favorite tomato soup for dipping.

It’s also fantastic melted over vegan burgers, draped on top of crispy fries, or cubed into a vegan cheese platter alongside crackers, olives, and fresh fruit. You can even shred or dice it for use in vegan mac and cheese recipes or casseroles.

For more creative vegan cooking inspiration, try our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes or get cozy with a sweet treat like the Marzipan Challah Recipe. And if you’re curious about versatile doughs, be sure to check out our Magic Dough Recipe.

Conclusion

This vegan American cheese recipe is the perfect solution for anyone craving that iconic cheesy flavor and melt without the dairy. It’s simple to make, uses accessible ingredients, and yields a product that’s creamy, stretchy, and satisfying.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or new to plant-based cooking, this cheese will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Experiment with flavors, pair it with your favorite dishes, and enjoy the comfort of classic American cheese — all while embracing a compassionate and health-conscious lifestyle. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes like our Lump Of Coal Recipe for a savory treat or the Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe for a fresh, vibrant meal.

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