Are you looking for Vegan Substitutes For Cheese? You’re in luck! There are plenty of tasty and nutritious options available for those following a plant-based diet.
There are 2 types of vegan substitutes for cheese. Homemade and store-bought. Store-bought vegan cheese can be a convenient option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based products into their diet. However, homemade vegan cheese has several benefits that store-bought options may not offer.
For one, making homemade dairy-free cheeses allows you to control the ingredients and ensure that they are fresh and of high quality. Additionally, homemade vegan cheese often has a more authentic, creamy texture and can be customized to your personal taste preferences.
On the other hand, store-bought vegan cheese can be more expensive and may contain preservatives or artificial ingredients. Ultimately, the choice between plant-based cheese that is store-bought and homemade vegan cheese comes down to personal preference and availability.
Types Of Cheese And What To Use As A Vegan Alternative
We will start with homemade vegan dairy-free cheese alternatives and recipes.
Cheese Sauce Alternative
A cheese sauce, also known as a cheese dip or cheese spread, is a creamy and savory sauce made primarily from cheese and other ingredients such as butter, milk, flour, and seasonings. It typically has a smooth texture and a rich, cheesy flavor.
With the growing popularity of plant-based diets, there’s also a demand for dairy-free alternatives to traditional cheese sauce. One popular option is a Simple Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe, which replaces dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives.
Made with vegan butter, plant-based milk, and shredded vegan cheese, this sauce offers a creamy and flavorful alternative suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance. It can be used in the same ways as traditional cheese sauce, providing a delicious and satisfying option for those seeking a dairy-free alternative.
Queso Vegan Cheese Alternative
Queso is a type of cheese that is commonly used in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. It is typically made from cow’s milk and has a creamy, melted consistency. There are several vegan alternatives to queso that can be used in recipes calling for cheese. This one is perfect to dip your tortilla chips in!
Nut-based queso: Blend soaked nuts, such as cashews or almonds, with water, tomato paste, and spices to produce a creamy, queso-like consistency. This one tastes even better than the real thing & it’s dairy free.
Tofu queso: Blend tofu with nutritional yeast, tomato paste, and various spices to create a vegan queso cheese alternative.
Coconut milk queso: Blend coconut milk with tomato paste, nutritional yeast, and spices to create a vegan queso cheese alternative.
Cheese Fondue Alternative
Cheese fondue is a classic dish that combines melted cheese with seasonings and wine, creating a warm, creamy dip perfect for sharing. Traditionally served with bread cubes, vegetables, and other dippable treats, it’s a comforting and social dining experience.
For those seeking a plant-based option, a Vegan Cheese Fondue Recipe provides all the creamy, rich flavors of the original without any dairy. Made with wholesome, vegan-friendly ingredients like plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, and spices, this fondue is both delicious and inclusive, ideal for vegans or anyone avoiding dairy. Whether it’s for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ricotta Vegan Cheese Alternative
Ricotta is a soft, creamy cheese that is traditionally made from cow’s milk whey. However, there are several vegan alternatives to ricotta that can be used in recipes calling for cheese. Crumbled tofu has been seasoned with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and a variety of herbs and spices to give it a flavor similar to ricotta. You can also use cashew. This is made by blending soaked cashews with water, lemon juice, and seasonings to create a creamy spreadable cheese, with ricotta-like consistency.
Feta Vegan Cheese Alternative
This is a crumbly, salty cheese that is traditionally made from sheep’s milk or goat’s milk. Vegan feta alternatives can be made from tofu, as well as from nuts and seeds.
Alternative Quick Vegan Feta Cheese
Discover the magic of this quick vegan feta recipe that mimics the authentic taste and creamy texture of traditional feta cheese. Ideal for salads, sandwiches, or as standalone feta bites, this dairy-free alternative is crafted from simple, wholesome ingredients. Despite the short preparation time, the key lies in the marinating process, offering a flavorful and satisfying vegan option.
Cream Cheese Vegan Alternate
This is the creamiest, most delicious vegan cream cheese you will ever try! It’s made with all-natural ingredients including tofu and cashew It is high in plant-based protein and you’ll never buy store-bought again. This recipe is great when looking for an alternative for cheese spreads.
Soft Vegan Cheese Alternative “The Vegan Cheese Ball”
“The Vegan Cheese Ball” is a luscious, creamy alternative to traditional soft cheese. Crafted from a nut base, usually cashews, this vegan brie offers a gentle and mildly nutty flavor profile. This one is better than the dairy-based cheese version!
Brie Cheese Vegan Alternative
This is a soft, creamy cheese with a mild, slightly nutty flavor. Vegan brie can be made using nuts, such as cashews, as a base.
Tofu-based brie: Blend tofu with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a vegan brie cheese alternative.
Nut-based brie: Blend soaked nuts, such as cashews, with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder to produce a creamy, brie-like consistency.
Coconut milk brie: Blend coconut milk with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a vegan brie cheese alternative.
Parmesan Cheese Vegan Alternative
This is a hard, salty cheese that is often grated over pasta dishes and other recipes. Vegan parmesan alternatives can be made from nuts, hemp hearts, or other nuts such as cashews or almonds, as well as from soybeans.
Nut-based parmesan: Blend soaked nuts, such as cashews or almonds, with nutritional yeast and spices to create a vegan parmesan cheese alternative.
Soy-based parmesan: Grate or shred a block of firm tofu, then mix it with nutritional yeast and spices to make a vegan parmesan cheese alternative.
Blue Cheese Vegan Alternative
Blue cheese is a type of cheese that is characterized by its strong, tangy flavor and blue or blue-green veins of mold. It is traditionally made from cow’s milk. But there are also some vegan alternatives available. Here are a few options for vegan blue cheese:
Tofu-based brie: Blend tofu with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a cheese-like consistency and flavor.
Nut-based brie: Blend soaked nuts, such as cashews, with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder to produce a creamy, brie-like consistency.
Coconut milk brie: Blend coconut milk with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a creamy, brie-like consistency.
Mozzarella Vegan Alternative
This is a soft, creamy cheese that is often used on pizza and in pasta dishes. Vegan mozzarella alternatives can be made from tofu, as well as from nuts and seeds. Daiya cheese can also be used as a vegan substitute for mozzarella.
Tofu-based mozzarella: Blend tofu with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and various spices to create a vegan mozzarella cheese alternative.
Nut-based mozzarella: Blend soaked nuts, such as cashews or almonds, with water, nutritional yeast, and spices to produce a creamy, mozzarella-like consistency.
Coconut milk mozzarella: Blend coconut milk with nutritional yeast and spices to create a vegan mozzarella cheese alternative.
Cheddar Vegan Cheese Alternative
Cheddar is a hard, sharp cheese that is traditionally made from cow’s milk. There are several vegan alternatives to cheddar that can be used in recipes calling for cheese. Some popular options include:
Tofu-based cheddar: Blend tofu with nutritional yeast, miso paste, and various spices to create a vegan cheddar cheese alternative.
Nut-based cheddar: Blend soaked nuts, such as cashews or almonds, with water, nutritional yeast, and spices to produce a creamy, cheddar-like consistency.
Soy-based cheddar: Blend soy milk and vinegar to curdle the mixture, then combine it with nutritional yeast and spices to create a vegan cheddar cheese alternative.
Ingredients Used in Vegan Substitutes For Cheese
Vegan cheese alternatives have become increasingly popular in recent years. More and more people are looking for vegan substitutes for cheese and plant-based options to traditional dairy products. These alternatives are made using a variety of ingredients. Including nuts, seeds, and plant-based milk, to create a cheese-like consistency and flavor. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most common ingredients used in vegan cheese alternatives and how they contribute to the final product.
Nutritional Yeast
One popular choice is nutritional yeast. This deactivated yeast has a nutty, savory flavor and is a good source of protein and B-complex vitamins. It can be used in sauces, soups, and dips, and is often used as a condiment or topping for popcorn and other snacks. This ingredient helps achieve the real cheese flavour.
Tofu
Another option is tofu. Tofu, also known as bean curd, is made from soybeans and is a versatile ingredient that can be used in place of cheese in many dishes. It has a neutral flavor, so it can easily be flavored to taste different types of cheese. This is often the main the main ingredient it a lot of vegan cheese recipes. Silken tofu is often used for a more creamy texture and will melt better when used on a vegan pizza.
Nuts
For a more cheese-like texture. You can try vegan cheese made from nuts, such as cashew or almond cheese. These options are often made with natural ingredients and can be found at health food stores or made at home. I like to look for organic cashews at the local grocery store.
Flavoring agents
Common ingredients found in both homemade and store-bought vegan cheese include:
- nutritional yeast
- garlic powder
- cumin
- salt and pepper,
- apple cider vinegar
- paprika
- liquid smoke
- dry mustard powder
- miso paste
- dry herbs
- lemon juice
- and more!
Store-Bought Vegan Substitutes For Cheese
There are also many store-bought vegan cheese brands and options available. Such as slices, shreds, and spreads. These can be convenient for those who are short on time. But be sure to read the labels and choose options that are made with whole, natural ingredients.
Ingredients used in Store Bought Cheese
Store-bought vegan cheese can be a convenient and delicious way to add plant-based options to your diet. There are many brands available on the market. Each offers a range of products made from a variety of plant-based ingredients and can be a great addition to your plant-based lifestyle.
- Nut-based vegan cheese: This type of vegan cheese is made from nuts. Such as almonds or cashews, and is a good source of plant-based protein.
- Soy-based vegan cheese: This type of vegan cheese is made from soybeans. It is a good source of plant-based protein and healthy fats.
- Coconut-based vegan cheese: This type of vegan cheese is made from coconut milk. It is a good option for those who are allergic to nuts or soy.
- Legume-based vegan cheese: This type of vegan cheese is made from legumes. Such as chickpeas or lentils, and is a good source of plant-based protein and fiber.
- Rice-based vegan cheese: This type of vegan cheese is made from rice. It is a good option for those who are allergic to nuts, soy, or legumes.
- Non-dairy cheese alternatives: These vegan cheese products are made from a variety of plant-based ingredients. They are designed to mimic the taste and texture of traditional cheese.
Here are some specific brands of store-bought Vegan Substitutes For Cheese:
Most of these top brands should be found at most grocery stores. The vegan cheese market has come a long way with a huge emergence of plant-based companies catering to those on a vegan diet. A lot of these dairy free cheese options taste like the real deal and contain no animal products.
- Daiya: This brand offers a variety of vegan cheese products made from tapioca and arrowroot flour. Including shreds, blocks, and spreads.
- Follow Your Heart: This brand offers a range of vegan cheese products made from soy. Including shreds, slices, and spreads.
- Treeline: This brand offers a selection of vegan cheese. Made from aged, cultured nuts, including soft spreads and hard, aged cheese wedges.
- Kite Hill: This brand offers a variety of vegan cheese made from almond milk. Including soft spreads, hard cheese wedges, and cream cheese-style spreads.
- Field Roast: This brand offers a selection of vegan cheese made from a blend of grains, vegetables, and legumes. Including shreds, slices, and spreads.
- Miyoko’s Creamery: This brand offers a range of vegan cheese made from nuts. Including soft and hard cheese wedges, shreds, and spreads.
- Violife: This brand offers a variety of vegan cheese products made from coconut oil and potato starch. Including shreds, slices, blocks, and spreads.
- Chao: This brand, which is owned by Field Roast, offers a selection of vegan cheese made from fermented soy and coconut oil. Including slices and shreds.
- Good Planet: This brand offers a range of vegan cheese made from a blend of plant-based ingredients. Including shreds, slices, and blocks.
- Vegan Gourmet: This brand, which is owned by Follow Your Heart, offers a selection of vegan cheese made from soy. Including shreds, slices, and blocks.
- Teese: This brand offers a variety of vegan cheese made from non-GMO soy. Including shreds, slices, and blocks.
- Parmela Creamery: This brand offers a selection of vegan cheese made from nuts. Including shreds, slices, and spreads.
Homemade Vegan Substitutes For Cheese Recipes
Check out my vegan and dairy-free cheese options below.
Vegan Substitutes For Cheese: Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a plethora of delicious and nutritious vegan substitutes for cheese that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. From tangy and creamy cashew cheese to savory and smoky tofu feta. There is a vegan cheese alternative for every palate. Whether you’re looking for vegan cheese to add to your pizza, tacos, or sandwiches.
Or simply a delicious cheese to enjoy on its own. You’re sure to find something that satisfies your cravings. So, next time you’re in need of a cheesy fix. Don’t reach for the dairy. Reach for one of these tasty vegan cheese substitutes and savor the flavor. With using the recipes above, and the list of store bough options you should now be able to find the best substitute for the dairy counterpart. I hope you enjoyed this compilation of vegan cheese options!
Great content thank you for sharing looking forward to trying out some of these vegan cheese alternative recipes! They look great
Thank you for reading my article, and looking forward to hearing your feedback and how you like my vegan cheese recipes! ☺️
There are so many plant based cheeses in the store these days which is great! But I wonder how healthy they really are. I mean they must be better than dairy?
It’s wonderful to see the variety of plant-based cheeses available now! Generally, plant-based cheeses can be a healthier alternative to dairy. They often have lower saturated fat and cholesterol levels, and many are fortified with essential nutrients. However, it’s always a good idea to check the ingredient list for additives. Homemade versions can be a great option too, giving you more control over the ingredients. If you have specific concerns or if there’s a particular type of plant-based cheese you’re curious about, I’m here to help! 🌱💚