Cashew Less Vegan Cheese Wheel Recipe Made Easy

If you’ve been craving a rich, creamy, and tangy vegan cheese but want to avoid cashews due to allergies or personal preference, this cashew-less vegan cheese wheel recipe is a game-changer. Traditional vegan cheeses often rely on cashews for their creamy texture, but here, we use wholesome, plant-based ingredients to create a delicious cheese that’s just as satisfying.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a dairy-free, nut-free, and oil-free alternative without compromising flavor or texture.

Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a cheese board, or just want a tasty snack, this vegan cheese wheel is a versatile addition to your kitchen. It’s simple to make, uses easy-to-find ingredients, and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices.

Let’s dive into crafting this delightful, cashew-free vegan cheese that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cashew-less vegan cheese wheel offers a creamy, tangy, and slightly tangy flavor that mimics traditional cheese without any nuts or dairy. It’s perfect for those with nut allergies or anyone avoiding cashews but still wanting to enjoy a plant-based cheese.

The recipe uses simple ingredients like soaked sunflower seeds and coconut cream to achieve a smooth texture. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can add herbs, spices, or even a smoky flavor to tailor it to your tastes.

It also sets firmly into a wheel, making it ideal for slicing or spreading.

With minimal prep time and no complicated equipment, this recipe fits easily into your busy lifestyle. It’s also a great conversation starter at gatherings, impressing guests with your homemade vegan cheese skills!

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw sunflower seeds (soaked overnight and drained)
• 1/2 cup full-fat coconut cream
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon agar agar powder
• 1/4 cup water
• Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh chives or dill, finely chopped

Equipment

• High-speed blender or food processor
• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Cheese mold or small round bowl (about 4-5 inches diameter)
• Plastic wrap or parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Soak the sunflower seeds: Place raw sunflower seeds in a bowl and cover with water. Soak overnight or for at least 8 hours to soften. Drain and rinse well before use.
2. Prepare the agar agar: In a small saucepan, combine 1 teaspoon agar agar powder with 1/4 cup water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until the agar agar dissolves completely. Set aside.
3. Blend the cheese base: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the soaked sunflower seeds, coconut cream, nutritional yeast, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, sea salt, and lemon juice. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. This may take 2-3 minutes depending on your blender’s strength.
4. Add agar agar mixture: With the blender running on low speed, slowly pour the warm agar agar mixture into the blended cheese base. Continue blending for another 30 seconds to incorporate evenly.
5. Add herbs (optional): If using fresh herbs like chives or dill, fold them gently into the cheese mixture using a spatula.
6. Mold the cheese wheel: Line your cheese mold or small bowl with plastic wrap or parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the cheese mixture into the mold, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Chill to set: Refrigerate the cheese wheel for at least 4 hours or until firm. The agar agar will help it set into a sliceable, firm texture.
8. Serve and enjoy: Once set, carefully remove the cheese wheel from the mold. Slice, spread, or crumble as desired.

Tips & Variations

For a smokier flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to the cheese mixture before blending.

If you prefer a tangier cheese, increase the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice by 1 teaspoon.

To make this cheese nut-free and allergy-friendly, sunflower seeds are ideal, but you can also substitute with pumpkin seeds.

If you don’t have agar agar, you can experiment with other vegan gelling agents like carrageenan, but agar agar offers the best firm set for this recipe.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This cashew-less vegan cheese wheel is incredibly versatile. Serve it sliced on a vegan charcuterie board with crackers, fresh fruits, and olives.

It also melts beautifully on warm toast or sandwiches for a creamy, cheesy addition.

Try spreading it on roasted vegetables or use it as a dip for crisp veggies and chips. For an elevated appetizer, pair it with our Halibut Dip Recipe or incorporate it into your vegan cheese platter alongside recipes like Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes.

For those interested, it also pairs well with fresh breads, such as the Honey Raisin Challah Recipe, lending a sweet contrast to the tangy cheese.

Conclusion

This cashew-less vegan cheese wheel recipe offers a delightful alternative to traditional nut-based vegan cheeses. It’s creamy, flavorful, and sets firmly, making it perfect for a variety of culinary uses.

Whether you’re allergic to nuts, avoiding cashews, or simply curious about new vegan cheese options, this recipe delivers on taste and texture.

With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a wonderful addition to your plant-based cooking repertoire. Experiment with herbs and spices to make it your own, and impress your friends and family with a homemade vegan cheese that’s both allergy-friendly and delicious.

For more plant-based inspiration, check out our Harvest Hash Recipe or explore our collection of vegan recipes for more wholesome ideas.

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