Craving cheese but want to skip the dairy? Homemade vegan nut cheese is your answer! This creamy, flavorful cheese is made with simple, wholesome ingredients, and it’s a perfect alternative for anyone following a vegan lifestyle or looking to reduce dairy. Best of all, it’s super easy to make at home, and you can customize it with your favorite herbs and spices.

Ready to create your own dairy-free cheese? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love Homemade Vegan Nut Cheese 🥜

Deliciously creamy. The texture is smooth, rich, and just like the real thing!
Nutrient-packed. Made with nuts, this cheese is full of healthy fats and protein.
Completely dairy-free. Enjoy cheese without any of the guilt or discomfort.
Customizable. You can add your favorite flavors and spices to make it your own!
Simple and quick. It takes just a few ingredients and a little patience to create this tasty treat.

What You’ll Need 🛒

For this easy vegan nut cheese, gather these ingredients:

1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4-6 hours or overnight)
2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for a cheesy, savory flavor)
1 tbsp lemon juice (for that tangy kick)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (adds acidity and enhances flavor)
1/4 cup water (or more, to adjust the consistency)
1 garlic clove (minced for extra flavor)
1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
1/2 tsp turmeric (optional, for color and added flavor)
Herbs and spices (optional—try thyme, rosemary, paprika, or black pepper for extra flavor!)

How to Make Vegan Nut Cheese 🧀

Soak the cashews. Start by soaking the raw cashews in water for 4-6 hours, or overnight, to soften them. This helps create a creamy texture.
Blend the ingredients. Drain and rinse the cashews, then add them to a high-speed blender or food processor.
Add the flavorings. To the blender, add the nutritional yeast, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic, salt, and turmeric (if using). Add a small amount of water to help everything blend smoothly, but not too much—you want the cheese to be thick and spreadable.
Blend until smooth. Blend everything on high until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. You may need to scrape down the sides of the blender and blend again. Add more water if necessary to achieve your desired consistency.
Adjust seasoning. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, lemon juice, or garlic depending on your taste.
Chill the cheese. Once the cheese is blended to your liking, transfer it to a container or mold. You can shape it into a round or square block, or simply spread it in a dish. Refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Nut Cheese 🌟

Soak the cashews well. This is key to achieving a smooth, creamy texture. Don’t skip the soaking step!
Experiment with flavors. Feel free to add different spices, such as smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or fresh herbs like basil and dill for a fresh twist.
Use a good blender. A high-speed blender or food processor is essential for getting the cheese to a smooth, creamy consistency.
Make it a spread. If you prefer a softer cheese, you can leave the consistency a bit creamier and spread it on crackers or toast.
For a firmer cheese. If you want a cheese that’s more like a wedge, let it chill for longer to firm up, or even refrigerate it in a cheese mold for a more solid texture.

Ways to Enjoy Your Vegan Nut Cheese 🧀

Once your vegan nut cheese is ready, there are so many ways to enjoy it:

Spread it on toast or crackers. A simple yet delicious snack!
Use it in sandwiches. Add it to your veggie sandwiches or wraps for a creamy, flavorful boost.
Top your salads. Crumble the cheese over salads for a creamy, cheesy texture.
Serve with fruits and nuts. Vegan nut cheese pairs perfectly with grapes, figs, or even apples for a sweet and savory combination.
Make a vegan cheese platter. Pair your homemade cheese with olives, fresh veggies, and crackers for a fun and tasty appetizer.

Final Thoughts 🌱

Homemade vegan nut cheese is an easy and delicious way to enjoy a dairy-free alternative to traditional cheese. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich and creamy cheese that’s perfect for spreading, snacking, or adding to your favorite dishes. Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just looking for a healthy alternative, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

So, gather your ingredients, get blending, and enjoy the creamy goodness of homemade vegan nut cheese!