Best Vegan Mozzarella Recipe for Pizza That Melts Perfectly

If you’re craving that gooey, melty mozzarella cheese on your pizza but want to keep it 100% vegan, this best vegan mozzarella recipe is exactly what you need. Traditional mozzarella relies heavily on dairy, but this plant-based alternative delivers the same creamy texture and stretchiness without any animal products.

Made from simple, wholesome ingredients like cashews and tapioca starch, it’s perfect for elevating your homemade pizzas, calzones, or even caprese salads. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just exploring dairy-free options, this recipe is easy to make and will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Plus, it melts beautifully in the oven, providing that authentic pizza experience we’ve all been missing. No more compromise on taste or texture!

Let’s dive into why this recipe stands out and how you can make it at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan mozzarella is a game-changer for anyone who loves pizza. Not only is it entirely plant-based and free from common allergens like soy and gluten, but it also melts and stretches just like traditional mozzarella.

Made with simple ingredients like cashews and tapioca starch, it offers a creamy and slightly tangy flavor that complements any pizza topping perfectly.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can use it on your favorite pizza crust, in sandwiches, or even as a dip.

It’s quick to prepare, requiring just a few minutes on the stove, and stores well in the fridge for leftovers. If you’ve ever tried vegan cheeses that fall short on meltability or taste, this recipe will pleasantly surprise you.

Ready to impress your friends and family with a pizza that tastes just as good as the original? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in water for at least 4 hours or overnight
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons tapioca starch (also called tapioca flour)
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for creamier texture)

Equipment

• High-speed blender or food processor
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Bowl for soaking cashews

Instructions

1. Soak the cashews: Place cashews in a bowl and cover with water. Let soak for at least 4 hours or overnight to soften them for blending.
2. Drain and rinse cashews: After soaking, drain the cashews and rinse them under cold water.
3. Blend the base: In your blender, combine the soaked cashews, 1 cup of fresh water, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Blend on high until completely smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add olive oil if using, and blend again until incorporated.
4. Cook the mixture: Pour the blended mixture into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the tapioca starch and whisk constantly.
5. Stir until thick and stretchy: Keep whisking as the mixture heats. Within 3-5 minutes, it will start to thicken and become stretchy and gooey like melted cheese. This is the key step for that mozzarella texture.
6. Remove from heat: Once stretchy and thickened, remove the saucepan from heat immediately to prevent it from becoming too thick or rubbery.
7. Use immediately or chill: You can spread this vegan mozzarella directly on your pizza before baking or pour it into a container to cool and firm up for slicing later.
8. Bake and enjoy: If using on pizza, add your favorite toppings and bake as usual. The cheese will melt and brown slightly, creating that perfect vegan pizza experience.

Tips & Variations

For best melting results, use tapioca starch instead of cornstarch, as tapioca gives a better stretch and shine.

• Make it smokier: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the blend for a delicious smoky flavor.
• Nut-free option: Substitute cashews with cooked potatoes and carrots plus a little coconut cream for a different but tasty version.
• Storage: Store leftover mozzarella in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently to restore stretchiness.
• Herb infusion: Add fresh basil or oregano to the blender for an herby twist perfect for Italian-style pizzas.
• Spicy kick: Mix in a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you like a little heat.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan mozzarella is incredibly versatile and works well beyond pizza. Here are some tasty ideas to enjoy it:

• Spread it on a homemade Magic Dough Recipe pizza crust with your favorite veggies and herbs.
• Use it in vegan grilled cheese sandwiches for a melty, cheesy bite.
• Add dollops on top of vegan pasta dishes or lasagna, such as from the Kosher Lasagna Recipe, for extra creaminess.
• Try it as a dip for fresh breadsticks or roasted veggies.
• Top vegan calzones or strombolis with this cheese for an indulgent meal.

Conclusion

Making your own vegan mozzarella at home has never been easier or more delicious. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a creamy, stretchy cheese perfect for pizza and many other dishes.

It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the classic melty cheese experience without any dairy or animal products, allowing everyone at your table to indulge guilt-free.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this mozzarella will impress with its authentic texture and flavor. Don’t forget to check out other amazing recipes like the Magic Dough Recipe for the perfect crust or the Maui Zaui Pizza Recipe to complete your homemade pizza night.

Happy cooking and enjoy every cheesy bite!

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