Best Vegan Cheddar Recipe for Delicious Dairy-Free Cheese

If you’ve been searching for a rich, creamy, and tangy vegan cheddar cheese that melts beautifully and tastes just like the real deal, you’re in the right place! This best vegan cheddar recipe combines wholesome plant-based ingredients with a few kitchen tricks to deliver a cheesy delight perfect for sandwiches, sauces, or just snacking straight from the fridge.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply looking to cut down on dairy, this recipe offers a delicious alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.

Say goodbye to bland vegan cheeses and hello to a vibrant, sharp cheddar flavor with a smooth, sliceable finish. Plus, it’s easy to make, requires no fancy equipment, and you can customize it to your taste.

Ready to impress your friends and family or elevate your homemade comfort food? Let’s dive into this flavorful journey!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan cheddar recipe is a game-changer because it uses simple, natural ingredients to replicate the complex flavor and texture of traditional cheddar cheese. The use of cashews and nutritional yeast creates a creamy base packed with umami and sharp notes, while carrots add the perfect color and subtle sweetness.

It sets firmly, making it perfect for slicing, shredding, or melting. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — great for vegan mac and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, or even cheese boards.

Best of all, it’s free from preservatives, additives, and artificial flavors found in many store-bought vegan cheeses.

So whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious about plant-based cheese, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for at least 4 hours or overnight)
• 1/2 cup peeled and chopped carrots (steamed until soft)
• 1/4 cup refined coconut oil (melted)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1/4 cup tapioca starch (for stretch and melt)
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for smoky depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder (for sharpness)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for color, optional)

Equipment

• High-speed blender or food processor
• Steamer or pot for steaming carrots
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Loaf pan or mold (lined with parchment paper)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl

Instructions

1. Prepare the cashews: Drain the soaked cashews and rinse them well. This softens them for blending and ensures a creamy texture.
2. Steam the carrots: Steam peeled and chopped carrots until very soft, about 10-12 minutes. This adds natural sweetness and color to the cheese.
3. Blend the base: In your blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, steamed carrots, melted coconut oil, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, mustard powder, and turmeric. Blend until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
4. Make the cheese sauce: Transfer the blended mixture to a medium saucepan. Whisk in the tapioca starch and water until fully combined and smooth.
5. Cook and thicken: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Continuously whisk for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll notice the mixture start to thicken and become stretchy — this is the tapioca starch working its magic!
6. Pour and set: Quickly pour the thickened mixture into your prepared loaf pan or mold. Smooth the top with a spatula. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until completely firm.
7. Slice and enjoy: Once set, remove the vegan cheddar from the mold. Slice it thin or thick depending on your preference. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Tips & Variations

For a sharper cheese, increase the nutritional yeast by 1-2 tablespoons or add a splash more apple cider vinegar.

If you want a smokier flavor, experiment with smoked salt instead of regular salt or add a tiny pinch of liquid smoke.

For extra creaminess, soak your cashews longer or even overnight.

Try substituting tapioca starch with arrowroot powder if unavailable.

You can also customize this recipe by adding herbs like chives or a bit of jalapeño for a spicy kick. This cheese melts exceptionally well, making it perfect for vegan grilled cheese sandwiches or creamy sauces.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan cheddar is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in so many ways. Try it sliced over your favorite crackers or sandwiches for a dairy-free twist on classic grilled cheese.

Melt it on top of nachos or baked potatoes for a luscious, cheesy topping.

Use it as a creamy base in vegan mac and cheese or blend it into dips for parties. It’s also excellent crumbled over salads or stirred into soups to add depth and richness.

For more delicious vegan comfort food ideas, be sure to check out our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes for hearty plant-based meals, or warm up with a fresh batch of Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe. If you love baking, don’t miss the Magic Dough Recipe for perfect vegan breads and pastries!

Conclusion

Creating a delicious vegan cheddar cheese at home is easier than you might think, and this recipe proves it with its creamy texture, sharp flavor, and meltability. By using natural, plant-based ingredients like cashews, carrots, and nutritional yeast, you get a wholesome cheese alternative that’s perfect for a variety of dishes.

Plus, it’s free from preservatives and artificial additives commonly found in store-bought vegan cheeses.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the classic taste of cheddar while embracing a plant-based diet or reducing dairy intake. Once you try it, you’ll be amazed at how satisfying and versatile vegan cheese can be.

Give it a try today, and don’t forget to explore other amazing recipes on our site to keep your kitchen exciting and delicious!

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