Say goodbye to bland, store-bought vegan cream cheese and hello to a symphony of flavors with this homemade cashew tofu cream cheese spread. The first time I made this I knew I had my replacement for dairy cream cheese! Creamy, tangy, and oh-so-spreadable, this recipe is a plant-based masterpiece that will elevate your morning bagel game to new heights.
With the perfect balance of protein-packed tofu and rich, buttery cashews, this cream cheese alternative is a nutritional powerhouse that will keep you satisfied all morning long. And, with the added nutty, cheesy flavor of nutritional yeast, it’s a B vitamin bonanza that’s sure to delight your taste buds. This recipe is the perfect dairy-free substitute for cream cheese. If you’re interested in more homemade plant-based cheese recipes, feel free to explore my complete vegan cheese recipe collection here.
Ingredients & Substitutions: What Is In A Cashew Tofu Cream Cheese Spread
This vegan cream cheese recipe is simple, versatile, made with simple ingredients and perfect for all your creamy spread needs. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients and some possible substitutions to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions.
Ingredients:
- 1 brick extra firm tofu (350g): The main ingredient! Extra-firm tofu provides the necessary structure and protein for the cream cheese. You can use soft tofu if you prefer a smoother and less dense texture although using extra firm is best to resemble the thickness of real cream cheese. The best thing is that extra firm tofu is also packed full of plant-based protein!
- 1 cup soaked cashews: Cashews play an important role in giving this spread a creamy and rich texture. For a nut-free recipe, substitute with sunflower seeds.
- 1 ½ tbsp fresh lemon juice (half a lemon, juiced): Adds tanginess and freshness. You can also use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar.
- 1 ½ tsp salt: Enhances the flavor. Adjust to taste.
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast: Gives a cheesy flavor. If you prefer less, use 1/8 cup. You can also try adding a bit of white miso paste for a different umami kick.
- 1 tsp dried spices of your choosing (optional): Customize your cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, dill, Italian spice, or everything bagel spice.
- ¼ cup water: Helps in blending. If needed, add more, but be cautious to keep the consistency thick. Adding too much liquid can ruin the end product, so be very careful not to add to much.
Another thing I love about this easy vegan cream cheese recipe is that all of the whole food ingredients can be found in your local grocery store. You can buy your own but vegan cream cheese brands are often quite expensive, and it’s so affordable to whip up a large batch at home!
Substitutions:
- Olive Oil: For a richer texture, add a tablespoon of olive oil or melted coconut oil.
- Coconut Cream or Yogurt: If you want a creamier consistency, replace some water with coconut cream or coconut yogurt. Keep in mind, this may alter the flavor.
- Sweet Flavor: For a sweet variation, add a touch of maple syrup and omit the savory spices.
Helpful Tools
To achieve the best results, having the right tools on hand can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. This delicious recipe can be whipped up in no time!
- High-Speed Blender or Food Processor: Essential for achieving a smooth and creamy consistency. A high speed blender like Vitamix or Ninja are great options.
- Tofu Press: A tofu press will help remove excess water from the tofu, resulting in a firmer texture.
- Sealed Container: Store your cream cheese in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to a week.
- Blender Cup: If your blender has a smaller cup attachment, it can be useful for making smaller batches.
- Spatula: For scraping down the sides of the blender to ensure everything is well mixed.
Tips for Making This Cream Cheese
Here are some tips to ensure your vegan cream cheese turns out perfectly every time.
Soak the Cashews Properly
- Cover your cashews in boiling water and let them soak for at least 10 minutes. For best results, soak them for a longer time, even overnight if possible. This ensures they blend smoothly into the cream cheese.
Blend Thoroughly
- Use a high-speed blender or food processor to blend the ingredients until completely smooth. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides and ensure everything is well incorporated.
Adjust Consistency Carefully
- If your mixture is too thick, add water 1 tablespoon at a time. Be careful not to add too much water, as you want the cream cheese to remain thick and spreadable.
Customize Flavors
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs. Adding fresh herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, or a dash of garlic powder can elevate the flavor.
Storage
- Store your vegan cream cheese in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It should last up to a week, maintaining its fresh and creamy texture.
Use in Various Dishes
- This vegan cream cheese is versatile. Use it as a spread on bagels, a base for vegan cream cheese frosting, or even in a vegan cheesecake recipe.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your vegan cream cheese at room temperature for the best spreadability. Pair it with fresh strawberries, coconut yogurt, or use it as a savory spread on your favorite whole wheat breads.
By following these tips and utilizing the helpful tools, you’ll create a delicious and creamy vegan cream cheese that’s perfect for a variety of dishes. Enjoy your culinary creations and feel free to experiment with different flavors and textures!
Ideas for Using Vegan Cream Cheese
Vegan cream cheese is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, adding a creamy, tangy flavor that enhances both savory and sweet recipes. It’s one of my all time favourite vegan cheeses because it can be used in so many different things! Here are some delicious and creative ways to incorporate vegan cream cheese into your meals.
Cream Cheese Bagels
- One of the most classic uses of vegan cream cheese is as a spread on bagels. Whether you prefer your bagels toasted or fresh, a generous layer of creamy tofu cream cheese makes for a perfect breakfast or snack that resembles the real thing! Add some fresh herbs or everything bagel seasoning for extra flavor.
Vegan Cheesecakes
- Use your homemade vegan cream cheese recipe to create rich and creamy vegan cheesecakes. This simple recipe can be adapted to make various flavors like chocolate, strawberry, or blueberry, using a high-speed blender for a smooth texture.
Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting
- Make a luscious frosting for cakes, cupcakes, or cookies by blending vegan cream cheese with powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract. This frosting is perfect for carrot cake or red velvet cupcakes.
Dips and Spreads
- Create delicious dips for your next party by mixing vegan cream cheese with herbs, spices, and a little water to reach your desired consistency. Serve with fresh vegetables, crackers, or breadsticks.
Stuffed Vegetables
- Fill bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchinis with a mixture of vegan cream cheese and your favorite seasonings. Bake until the vegetables are tender for a delicious side dish or appetizer.
Vegan Cream Cheese Pasta
- Use vegan cream cheese as a base for creamy pasta sauces. Combine it with sautéed garlic, nutritional yeast, and a splash of vegetable broth for a luxurious and satisfying meal.
Vegan Feta Cheese
- Transform your vegan cream cheese into a feta substitute by adding lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and crumbled tofu. This mixture can be used in salads, wraps, or as a topping for pizzas.
Sweet Treats
- Use vegan cream cheese in sweet recipes like cheesecake bars, fruit tarts, or as a filling for pastries. The creamy texture and tangy flavor make it a perfect complement to sweet fruits and desserts.
Vegan Mascarpone
- Create a vegan version of mascarpone by blending vegan cream cheese with a little coconut cream. Use this as a layer in tiramisu, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles.
Bagel Spread
- Mix vegan cream cheese with various flavorings like sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, dill, or chives for a gourmet bagel spread. This is a great way to enjoy different flavors without much effort.
Vegan Substitute in Recipes
- Replace traditional dairy cream cheese with vegan cream cheese in any recipe that calls for cream cheese. This includes savory dishes like dips and casseroles, as well as sweet dishes like frostings and fillings.
Health Reasons
- For those with lactose intolerance or allergies to dairy, vegan cream cheese is an excellent alternative. It allows you to enjoy the creamy texture and flavor of traditional cream cheese without any animal products.
Ultimate Guide to Vegan Cream Cheese Uses
- Keep a recipe card handy with your favorite uses for vegan cream cheese. This way, you can quickly reference ideas and get inspired to try new dishes. Whether you’re making a vegan tofu cream cheese or a vegan cashew cream cheese recipe, having a go-to guide can be incredibly useful.
By incorporating these ideas into your meal planning, you can enjoy the versatility and deliciousness of the best vegan cream cheese in various dishes. From savory spreads to sweet treats, vegan cream cheese is a go-to recipe for many vegan and dairy-free cooking enthusiasts.
How To Make This Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative Recipe
Are you ready to create your very own batch of dairy-free Cream Cheese Here’s how!
First, start by covering your cashews in boiling water and allowing them to soak for at least 10 minutes. This step is important as it helps to soften the cashews and make them easier to blend.
Once your cashews have soaked, drain them and add them to a high-powered blender or food processor along with the rest of the cream cheese ingredients. Blend everything together until it becomes thick, smooth, and creamy. Don’t forget to stop occasionally and scrape down the sides of your blender or food processor to ensure everything gets blended evenly.
If you’re having trouble blending your mixture, add one tablespoon of water at a time to loosen it up. Be careful not to add too much water though, as we want our cream cheese to have a thick and creamy consistency.
And that’s it! Your Cashew Tofu Cream Cheese Spread is now ready to serve. Spread it on your favorite bagel or use it in any recipe that calls for cream cheese. The possibilities are endless!
So go ahead and give it a try. We guarantee you won’t be disappointed with this delicious and healthy alternative to traditional cream cheese. Enjoy!
Tips and Tricks For Creating The Perfect Consistency:
- Soaking the Cashews: The Key to a Silky Smooth Spread Soak cashews in boiling water for at least 10 minutes before blending to soften them. This step is crucial to ensure a velvety texture. Once done, drain and rinse before using in the recipe.
- Blending to Perfection: Achieving that Cream Cheese Consistency Blend tofu, soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and salt in a high-powered blender or food processor until smooth and creamy. Pause and scrape down the mixture as needed. If too thick, add water 1 tablespoon at a time. Add spices for a unique twist.
- Make it Your Own: Adding a Personal Touch Experiment with different herbs, spices, or sweeteners to customize the flavor of your cream cheese. Enjoy on bagels, crackers, or as a dip.
Toppings For the Vegan Cream “Cheese”
Get creative with your cashew tofu cream cheese. Top it off with a variety of herbs and spices to take the flavor to the next level. Here are a few of my personal favorites:
Garlic and Herb Cream Cheese
Add in 3 cloves of roasted or fresh garlic and 1 tsp of Italian spice blend for a savory and aromatic spread.
Lemon Dill Cream Cheese
Give your cream cheese a tangy and fresh touch by adding in the juice of 1 lemon, 1 tbsp of lemon zest, and 1/4 cup of finely diced fresh dill.
Classic Herb Cream Cheese
Keep it simple with a sprinkle of Italian spice, garlic, and onion powder for a classic herb-flavored cream cheese that’s sure to please.
FAQ: Cashew Tofu Cream Cheese
Yes, soaking the cashews helps to soften them and makes them easier to blend. It also helps to create a smoother texture for the cream cheese spread.
While silken tofu can be used, it may result in a softer texture for the cream cheese spread. Extra firm tofu works best for achieving a thick and creamy consistency.
It’s best to soak the cashews before blending to achieve a smoother texture. If you’re short on time, you can soak the cashews in hot water for 10-15 minutes instead of overnight.
The spread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Absolutely! You can add your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor. Some popular options include garlic, onion, dill, Italian seasoning, or everything bagel seasoning.
Yes, you can use it in any recipe that calls for cream cheese. It’s a great dairy-free alternative that still provides a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Cashew Tofu Cream Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 brick extra firm tofu (350g)
- 1 cup soaked cashews
- 1 ½ tbsp fresh lemon juice (half a lemon, juiced)
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast (use 1/8 cup if you like less nooch)
- 1 tsp dried spices of your choosing, optional (garlic, onion, dill, Italian spice, everything bagel spice, etc)
- ¼ cup water
Instructions
- Cover your cashews in boiling water and allow them to soak for at least 10 minutes. (If you can leave them longer, even better!)
- Drain your soaked cashews and add them to a high powered blender or food processor with the rest of the cream cheese ingredients.
- Blend until thick, smooth and creamy. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides while blending. If you are having troubles blending, add 1 tbsp of water at a time to loosen the mixture. Be careful not to add too much as we want the cream cheese to have a thick consistency.
- Serve on a bagel, or use in any recipe that calls for cream cheese. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
- Herb and garlic cream cheese. Add 3 cloves of roasted or fresh garlic, and 1 tsp of Italian spice blend. (This one is for the garlic lovers!)
- Lemon Dill cream cheese. Add the juice of 1 lemon, 1 tbsp of lemon zest, and 1/4 cup fresh dill finely diced.
- I also love to just add a dash of Italian spice, garlic and onion powder for a simple herb flavoured cream cheese.
Nutrition
Conclusion: Cashew Tofu Cream Cheese
In conclusion, this vegan cashew tofu cream cheese recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional cream cheese. Made with simple, plant-based ingredients like tofu and cashews, this cream cheese alternative is packed with protein and healthy fats. Plus, with the addition of nutritional yeast, it’s also a great source of B vitamins.
It’s easy to make, versatile, and can be customized to your taste preferences by adding different herbs and spices. Whether you’re spreading it on a bagel or using it as a dip, this dairy free cream cheese is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious, creamy taste of this vegan cream cheese alternative.
Loved this vegan spread! So good and I use it on not only bagels 🥯 but crackers too! Thanks for sharing 🥰
Thank you so much for trying, it does go great as a spread on crackers!
This tofu cashew spread was exactly was I have been searching for! Tastes so good!! I added a little extra Nooch for a even more cheesy flavor.
Thank you for trying out this recipe!
stumbled upon this cashew tofu cream cheese spread recipe, and I’m so glad I did! As someone who tries to avoid dairy, I was looking for a cream cheese substitute that was not only delicious but also healthy. This recipe did not disappoint. The combination of soaked cashews and tofu created a creamy, velvety texture that was perfect for spreading on my morning bagel. I also appreciated the tips and tricks included in the recipe, such as soaking the cashews and using a high-powered blender. Overall, this recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a dairy-free alternative to cream cheese. Highly recommend giving it a try!
Hi Laura, thank you so much for your feedback, so happy you liked the recipe 🥰
How long does this last in the fridge?
Hi Tina, this recipe will typically last up to 1 week in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. But if you have a large batch freezes really well!