Quick & Creamy Vegan Cashew Cream: Your Ultimate Dairy-Free Condiment & Sauce

2周前

Are you searching for a versatile, healthy, and incredibly easy-to-make vegan condiment that can transform any meal? Look no further than homemade cashew cream! This plant-based staple is a game-changer for anyone seeking dairy-free alternatives that don't compromise on flavor or texture. It's packed with protein and healthy fats, offering a nutritious boost without any added sweeteners.

The abillion community absolutely loves the versatility of cashew cream! One user raved, "🤤🤤🤤🤤🤤🤤🤤🤤," while another exclaimed, "Delicious!!!! Love" The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability – it effortlessly transitions from a rich sauce to a creamy dressing or a delightful spread. As Charlotte from abillion cleverly suggests, you can even repurpose any leftover cashew cream into a luscious dairy-free pasta sauce!

Whether you're a seasoned vegan, exploring plant-based options, or simply looking for healthier homemade alternatives, this quick and easy cashew cream recipe is designed for you. It's perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or enhancing your favorite holiday dishes. Say goodbye to store-bought alternatives and hello to a fresh, vibrant, and incredibly useful addition to your culinary repertoire!

Why You'll Love This Cashew Cream

This recipe solves a common dilemma for plant-based eaters: finding a rich, creamy, and versatile alternative to dairy. It’s perfect for those who want:

A healthy dairy-free substitute: Made from whole cashews, it's naturally free from dairy, lactose, and cholesterol.
A protein and healthy fat boost: Cashews provide essential nutrients, making your meals more satisfying.
Incredible versatility: Use it as a sauce, dip, dressing, or even a base for creamy soups.
A naturally sweet or savory base: You control the flavor profile without needing added sugars.
An easy, no-cook solution: Simply blend and enjoy!

Ingredients

1 cup raw cashews
1/2 cup water (or more, depending on desired consistency)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Equipment

High-speed blender or food processor
Measuring cups and spoons
Airtight container for storage

Instructions

Soak Cashews: Place raw cashews in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. For an even creamier result, soak overnight in cold water.
Drain and Rinse: Drain the cashews and rinse them thoroughly under cold water.
Blend: Transfer the soaked and drained cashews to a high-speed blender or food processor. Add 1/2 cup water, lemon juice, and salt.
Process Until Smooth: Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This may take 2-3 minutes, depending on your blender. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure all cashews are incorporated.
Adjust Consistency: If the cream is too thick, add water, one tablespoon at a time, until your desired consistency is reached. For a thinner dressing, add more water. For a thicker dip, use less.
Taste and Season: Taste your cashew cream and adjust salt or lemon juice as desired. You can also add other seasonings at this stage.
Serve or Store: Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.

Tips for Perfect Cashew Cream

Achieving Ultimate Smoothness: A powerful high-speed blender is key. If you don't have one, extend the soaking time for cashews (up to 4 hours in hot water or overnight in cold water) to soften them completely, making them easier to blend.
Hot Water Soak Hack: If you're short on time, cover cashews with boiling water and let them sit for just 15-20 minutes. This quick soak works wonders for softening.
Experiment with Sweetness: For a sweet cashew cream, omit the salt and add a touch of maple syrup or agave syrup. This transforms it into a fantastic base for desserts or breakfast bowls.
Prevent Graininess: Ensure you blend for long enough! If it's still grainy, add another tablespoon of water and keep blending until silky smooth.

Versatile Ways to Enjoy Your Cashew Cream

This simple dairy-free cream is incredibly adaptable! Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

Creamy Pasta Sauce: Thin it slightly with more water or vegetable broth, add garlic powder, nutritional yeast, and stir into your favorite pasta for a quick, rich vegan alfredo.
Savory Dip: Thicken it slightly and add herbs like chives or dill, onion powder, or a dash of smoked paprika for a delicious dip for vegetables or crackers.
Tangy Salad Dressing: Thin it out with more lemon juice and water, maybe a touch of apple cider vinegar, for a creamy, zesty dressing.
Breakfast Bowl Topping: For a sweet variation, blend in a date or a splash of maple syrup. Drizzle over fruit, oatmeal, or a smoothie bowl.
Sour Cream Alternative: Add a bit more lemon juice and a pinch of apple cider vinegar to create a tangy dairy-free sour cream perfect for tacos or baked potatoes.
Soup Thickener: Stir a dollop into pureed vegetable soups to add a rich, creamy texture without any dairy.

Ready to try this amazing vegan staple? Whip up a batch of this quick & creamy cashew cream today and share your favorite ways to use it on abillion! We can't wait to see your creations.

Ingredients for homemade cashew cream laid out with a bowl of finished cream.