Recipe Vegan Cheese Made Easy: Delicious Homemade Ideas

If you’ve ever craved the rich, creamy texture and tangy flavor of cheese but follow a plant-based lifestyle, you’re in for a treat. Making your own vegan cheese at home is not only rewarding but also allows you to customize flavors to your liking.

Unlike store-bought alternatives that can be loaded with preservatives and artificial ingredients, homemade vegan cheese is fresh, wholesome, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a spreadable cheese for your crackers, a meltable option for pizzas, or a firm block to slice, this recipe will guide you through the basics of crafting delicious vegan cheese from scratch.

Using simple, natural ingredients like cashews, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice, this cheese delivers a delightful tang and cheesy umami that even dairy lovers will appreciate. Plus, it’s free from lactose, cholesterol, and animal products, making it perfect for vegans, lactose-intolerant individuals, or anyone seeking a healthier alternative.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your friends and family with your very own homemade vegan cheese!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan cheese recipe stands out because it’s incredibly versatile and quick to prepare. You don’t need any fancy ingredients or equipment, just a few pantry staples and a blender or food processor.

It’s naturally gluten-free, soy-free, and packed with nutrients.

Unlike many vegan cheeses that can taste bland or artificial, this recipe has a perfect balance of tanginess from lemon juice and a savory depth from nutritional yeast. It’s creamy yet firm enough to slice, making it ideal for sandwiches, salads, or cheese boards.

Additionally, making cheese at home means you can customize the flavors by adding herbs, spices, or even smoked paprika for a unique twist. It’s also budget-friendly compared to specialty vegan cheeses in stores.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder why you ever bought vegan cheese from the supermarket!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups raw cashews (soaked in water for at least 4 hours or overnight)
• ¼ cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• ½ cup water (or unsweetened plant milk for creamier texture)
• 2 tablespoons refined coconut oil (melted, for firmness)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (adds tang)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• 2 teaspoons agar agar powder (for setting the cheese)

Equipment

• High-speed blender or food processor
• Small saucepan (to dissolve agar agar)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese mold or small container (lined with parchment paper for easy removal)
• Spoon or spatula

Instructions

1. Soak the cashews: Place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover with water. Let them soak for at least 4 hours or overnight to soften. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth, creamy texture.
2. Prepare the agar agar: In a small saucepan, combine the agar agar powder with ¾ cup of water. Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Blend the cheese base: Drain the soaked cashews and add them to your blender or food processor along with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, plant milk or water, melted coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Process until smooth: Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. This may take 2-3 minutes depending on your blender.
5. Combine agar agar with cashew mixture: With your blender running on low speed, slowly pour in the hot agar agar mixture. Blend just enough to combine everything evenly.
6. Pour into mold: Immediately transfer the mixture into your prepared mold or container. Smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Chill to set: Place the mold in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the cheese to firm up.
8. Unmold and serve: Carefully remove the cheese from the mold. Slice, spread, or crumble as desired.

Tips & Variations

For a sharper flavor, increase the nutritional yeast or add a splash of white miso paste.

Try mixing in fresh herbs like chives, dill, or basil before setting for a delightful herbed cheese.

If you want a creamier cheese for spreading, reduce the agar agar to 1 teaspoon and increase the water slightly.

To make a smoked version, add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke.

If you don’t have agar agar, you can experiment with other setting agents like carrageenan or even gelatin substitutes, but results will vary.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan cheese is incredibly versatile. It can be sliced and served on a charcuterie board alongside your favorite crackers, olives, and fruits.

Spread it generously on toasted baguettes or bagels for a delicious snack.

It melts beautifully, so try it on homemade vegan pizzas or grilled sandwiches for a gooey, cheesy experience. You can crumble it over salads or pasta dishes to add a savory punch, or use it as the base for creamy vegan dips and sauces.

For more creative vegan meal ideas, check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or try pairing it with the Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners. For a tasty bread accompaniment, you might enjoy our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Conclusion

Making your own vegan cheese at home is a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors and textures of traditional cheese without compromising your dietary choices. This recipe is simple, customizable, and uses wholesome ingredients that nourish your body while satisfying your cravings.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned plant-based foodie, this cheese is a fantastic addition to your kitchen repertoire. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavor profile, and share this delicious creation with friends and family.

Homemade vegan cheese proves that plant-based eating can be indulgent, flavorful, and fun. Give it a try and discover how easy and delightful dairy-free cheese can be!

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