Inspired by: @theveganent
Are you searching for a delicious, dairy-free spread that perfectly complements your morning toast or bagel? Look no further! This easy homemade vegan cashew cream cheese recipe offers a wonderfully creamy texture and a rich, tangy flavor, making it an ideal plant-based alternative to traditional cream cheese. Whether you're a long-time vegan, exploring dairy-free options, or simply seeking a healthier, budget-friendly spread, this recipe is designed for you.
Imagine starting your day with a satisfying bite of toasted bread generously slathered with this smooth vegan cream cheese, topped with a dollop of sweet fig jam. It’s a delightful combination that brings a burst of flavor and a comforting richness to any breakfast. This recipe solves the common problem of finding a truly satisfying vegan spread that rivals its dairy counterpart. It's incredibly versatile and comes together with minimal effort, making it a staple for anyone looking for quick and easy vegan breakfast ideas.
Why You'll Love This Homemade Vegan Cream Cheese
This recipe is a game-changer for your plant-based kitchen. It's not just a spread; it's a versatile foundation for countless meals and snacks. Making your own vegan cream cheese gives you complete control over the ingredients, ensuring a fresh, wholesome, and preservative-free product. Plus, it's often more cost-effective than store-bought options!
Ingredients
To create this luscious, plant-based spreadable cheese, you'll need just a few simple ingredients. The quality of your raw cashews is key to achieving the creamiest texture.
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked
- 1/2 cup cold water (or more, as needed)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon himalayan salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Equipment
- High-speed blender
Instructions: How to Make Creamy Vegan Cashew Cream Cheese
Making your own dairy-free cream cheese is surprisingly simple and requires minimal cooking. Follow these steps for a perfect batch every time:
- Soak the Cashews: Place raw cashews in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or for best results, soak overnight in cold water. This step is crucial for achieving a super smooth and creamy texture.
- Drain and Rinse: Once soaked, drain the cashews thoroughly and rinse them under cold water.
- Blend Ingredients: Transfer the soaked cashews to a high-speed blender. Add the cold water, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. It should have the consistency of soft cream cheese. If it’s too thick, add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- Chill: Transfer the cashew cream cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the cream cheese to firm up slightly, making it even more spreadable.
Tips for the Perfect Vegan Spreadable Cheese
- Soaking is Key: Don't skip the soaking step! It softens the cashews, leading to an incredibly smooth, lump-free spread.
- Adjust Consistency: If your cream cheese is too thick after chilling, you can thin it out by adding a tiny bit more water and stirring well. If it's too thin, you can try adding a few more soaked cashews and re-blending, or let it chill longer.
- Longer Shelf Life: Store your homemade cream cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. It can also be frozen for up to one month.
Variations & Adaptations
This basic vegan cream cheese recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different flavor profiles to suit your taste or occasion:
- Herby Cream Cheese: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of fresh chopped herbs like chives, dill, parsley, or a mix of all three after blending.
- Garlic & Herb: Add an extra clove of fresh garlic (or 1/4 teaspoon more garlic powder) and your favorite dried Italian herbs for a savory twist.
- Spicy Kick: Blend in a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a fiery spread.
- Sweet Cream Cheese: For a sweeter version, omit the garlic and onion powder, and add 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup or agave nectar. This is perfect for fruit bagels or dessert recipes.
- Nut-Free Option: While the texture will differ slightly, you can try substituting sunflower seeds (soaked) for cashews if you have a nut allergy.
- Serving Ideas: Beyond toast and bagels, this cream cheese makes a fantastic spread for sandwiches and wraps, a creamy base for vegetable dips, or a flavorful addition to savory tarts.
Elevate Your Vegan Breakfast
This quick and creamy vegan cashew cream cheese is a delightful addition to any breakfast or brunch. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a winning recipe for busy mornings or leisurely weekend meals. Don't limit it to breakfast; it's also a fantastic addition to lunchboxes or as a snack spread!
Craving more delicious plant-based inspiration? Explore these related articles on abillion for more easy and delicious vegan recipes:
- Check out another fantastic spread: Easy Vegan Zucchini Onion Spread
- Discover more dairy-free "cheese" alternatives with: The Easiest Life-Changing Dairy-Free Nacho Cheese Sauce
- For more breakfast ideas, try this: Creamy Vegan Avocado Toast
- Explore the ultimate plant-based morning meal with: Ultimate Vegan Breakfast: Flavor-Packed Tofu Chickpea Scramble Recipe
We'd love to hear from you! Try out this homemade vegan cashew cream cheese and share your delicious creations on abillion. What's your favorite way to enjoy it? Let us know in the comments below!
