Craving that rich, tangy cheddar flavor without any dairy? You’re in luck!
This best ever cheddar vegan slice cheese recipe offers a deliciously creamy, meltable, and sharp vegan cheese alternative that’s perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or even just snacking straight from the fridge.
Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply exploring plant-based options, this recipe will quickly become your go-to. It combines wholesome ingredients like nutritional yeast, coconut oil, and a blend of spices to replicate that classic cheddar taste and texture.
The best part? It slices perfectly and melts beautifully, making it ideal for grilled cheese or topping your favorite vegan dishes.
Plus, it’s easy to make with common pantry staples and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Say goodbye to store-bought processed slices and hello to a fresh, homemade vegan cheddar slice that’ll impress everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan cheddar slice recipe is a game-changer for plant-based cheese lovers. It’s packed with flavor and versatile enough to use in numerous dishes.
The texture is firm yet creamy, making it easy to slice, grate, or melt. Unlike many vegan cheeses that can be gritty or crumbly, this one holds together beautifully thanks to the combination of agar agar and coconut oil.
It’s also free from preservatives and artificial additives, so you know exactly what’s going into your food. Making it at home allows you to adjust the sharpness, saltiness, and spice level — giving you full control over your perfect slice of cheddar.
Plus, it stores well in the fridge for up to two weeks, making meal prep a breeze!
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4 hours or boiled for 15 minutes)
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for that cheesy flavor)
- 2 tbsp tapioca starch (for stretch and melt)
- 2 tbsp coconut oil (refined, for neutral flavor)
- 1 tbsp agar agar powder (natural gelling agent)
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (adds tang)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (for depth and color)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder (for color)
Equipment
- High-speed blender or food processor
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Square or rectangular mold (8×8 inches recommended)
- Parchment paper or silicone mold liner
- Refrigerator
- Sharp knife for slicing
Instructions
- Prepare the cashews: If you haven’t soaked your raw cashews, boil them for 15 minutes until soft. Drain and set aside.
- Combine ingredients: In a high-speed blender, add the soaked cashews, water, nutritional yeast, tapioca starch, coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and turmeric. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
- Cook agar agar: In a medium saucepan, whisk the agar agar powder into 3/4 cup of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, whisking constantly. Boil for 2 minutes until the agar dissolves completely and thickens slightly.
- Mix the cheese base: Pour the blended cashew mixture into the saucepan with the agar agar. Stir constantly over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. The mixture will thicken and become stretchy — this is your vegan cheese melting magic!
- Pour into mold: Quickly pour the hot cheese mixture into the prepared mold lined with parchment paper or silicone liner. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Set and chill: Let the cheese cool at room temperature for 10 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm.
- Slice and serve: Once fully set, remove the cheese from the mold and peel off the parchment. Use a sharp knife to cut slices of your desired thickness.
- Store leftovers: Keep the vegan cheddar slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Tips & Variations
For a sharper cheddar taste, add an extra tablespoon of nutritional yeast or a pinch of mustard powder.
If you prefer a smokier flavor, increase the smoked paprika or add a drop of liquid smoke.
Tapioca starch is key for stretchiness; don’t substitute it for cornstarch as the texture will differ.
You can also experiment by adding finely chopped jalapeños or herbs for a flavored cheese twist. For a soy-free option, this recipe works perfectly, but if you want to try soy-based vegan cheeses, check out our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes, which pair beautifully with vegan cheddar slices.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Slice (approx. 30g) |
---|---|
Calories | 90 kcal |
Fat | 7g |
Saturated Fat | 5g |
Carbohydrates | 3g |
Fiber | 0.5g |
Protein | 2g |
Sodium | 230 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan cheddar slice is incredibly versatile! Use it to enhance your favorite sandwiches, burgers, or wraps.
It melts beautifully on vegan grilled cheese sandwiches or sprinkled over vegan nachos. You can also cube it for salads or add slices to your favorite crackers for a quick snack.
Try pairing it with our tangy Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe for a fresh, flavorful lunch, or melt it over a homemade vegan pizza crust like the one in our Magic Dough Recipe for an extra cheesy delight. The possibilities are endless!
Conclusion
Making your own vegan cheddar slices at home is easier than you might think, and this recipe truly delivers on flavor and texture. From the creamy, nutty base to the perfect melt and slice consistency, it’s a fantastic dairy-free alternative for any cheese lover.
Plus, the ability to customize the flavor means you can make it just how you like it — sharper, smokier, or mild.
Whether you’re vegan, allergic to dairy, or just looking to experiment, this cheddar vegan slice cheese will elevate your meals and snacks. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade, wholesome, and delicious vegan cheese.
Don’t forget to explore more creative recipes like the Marzipan Challah Recipe for your next baking adventure!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Ever Cheddar Vegan Slice Cheese
Description: A creamy, flavorful vegan cheddar cheese slice perfect for sandwiches and snacking. Made with simple plant-based ingredients for a dairy-free delight.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 8 slices
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked 2 hours)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup tapioca starch
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
Instructions
- Drain and rinse soaked cashews.
- Blend cashews, nutritional yeast, tapioca starch, water, coconut oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and turmeric until smooth.
- Pour mixture into a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Cook until mixture thickens and becomes stretchy, about 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a lined mold and smooth the top.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours until firm.
- Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 | Protein: 4g | Fat: 9g | Carbs: 6g
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