Vegan Cream Cheese: The Best Brands To Buy

From plantbasednews.org

From Violife to Trader Joe's, here are the best plant-based cream cheese brands to buy 

Find out the best vegan cream cheese brands to buy in the UK and USA - Media Credit: Various

In recent years, the demand for dairy-free alternatives has surged, driven by dietary changes, ethical concerns, and the desire for healthier options. Among these alternatives, vegan cream cheese has become a staple in many households. 

Vegan and dairy-free enthusiasts are spoiled for choice regarding vegan cheese, plant-based cream cheese, and non-dairy cream cheese alternatives. If you’re vegan, finding the right dairy-free cream cheese can be a game-changer for your cooking. 

With so many new vegan cream cheese options available, this list helps you choose the best brands to buy in the UK and the USA. There are plenty of creamy alternatives to traditional cream cheese that can be easily found in shops in both countries. 

From coconut-based to almond and oat blends, these options ensure you can enjoy your favourite spreads and recipes without compromising flavour or texture. Explore the top brands and discover how they can fit into your recipe roster.

What is vegan cream cheese?

So, what is dairy-free cream cheese? Vegan cream cheese is a plant-based alternative to traditional cream cheese, designed to mimic its creamy texture and tangy flavour without using any animal products.

Made from various plant-based ingredients that create a creamy texture and mild flavour, vegan cream cheese offers a similar experience to its dairy counterpart, making it an excellent substitute in both savoury and sweet dishes.

Vegan cream cheese ingredients

The ingredients in non-dairy cream cheese can vary significantly depending on the brand and the desired flavour profile. Crafted from various plant-based ingredients, each brand offers a unique texture and flavour. 

Nuts and seeds, such as cashews, almonds, and sunflower seeds, are popular bases due to their rich, creamy consistency when blended. These nuts provide a smooth texture, making them a great substitute for traditional dairy cream cheese. 

Additionally, coconut milk or cream is often used for its rich and slightly sweet profile, adding a creaminess to the mix. Tofu, particularly silken tofu, is another common ingredient known for its light texture and ability to absorb flavours well.

Beyond these primary bases, a variety of additional ingredients enhance the flavour and texture of vegan cream cheese. Nutritional yeast is frequently used to impart a cheesy, umami flavor, while lemon juice or apple cider vinegar adds tanginess. 

Herbs and spices like garlic, onion powder, chives, and dill infuse flavour into some savoury dairy-free cream cheese. Keeping plain vegan cream cheese on hand is also useful for sweet dishes, from baked goods to fridge cheesecakes.

Plant-based oils, such as coconut or olive oil, improve the creaminess, and thickeners like tapioca starch or agar-agar help achieve the desired consistency. These ingredients combine to create vegan cream cheeses that more than rival their dairy counterparts.

Where can you buy vegan cream cheese?

Vegan cream cheese is widely available in many countries, making it generally easy to find whether you’re shopping in-person or online. You’ll likely find vegan cream cheese at most major supermarkets, many of which have expanded their plant-based offerings in recent years.

Chains like Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and Walmart in the USA, as well as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Marks & Spencer in the UK, stock various plant-based cream cheese brands. 

These stores typically place their vegan products in a dedicated section within the dairy aisle, making locating your favourite plant-based alternatives straight forward. Additionally, many of these supermarkets offer their own store brands, providing affordable options for those seeking dairy-free cream cheese.

Online shopping is another option for purchasing vegan cream cheese, especially if you’re looking for a specific brand or flavour that isn’t available locally. Websites like Amazon, Thrive Market, and Ocado deliver a wide range of vegan products right to your doorstep.

Other places to buy plant based cream cheese

Aside from big supermarkets and online retailers you can find dairy free cream cheese in plenty of other establishments. Specialty vegan stores, such as The Vegan Kind Supermarket in the UK or Vegan Essentials in the USA, are one set of examples that offer an even broader selection of vegan cream cheese. These online retailers often carry artisanal and niche brands that you might not find in traditional supermarkets, ensuring that you have access to the best vegan cream cheese options available.

Farmers’ markets and health food stores are also great places to find high quality vegan cream cheese. Many local artisans create their own unique versions of dairy-free cream cheese, often using organic and locally sourced ingredients. 

Shopping at these venues not only supports small businesses but also allows you to discover new and innovative vegan products. Whether you’re looking for a classic plain cream cheese or something more adventurous like a cashew-based jalapeño spread, these markets provide a personalized shopping experience with plenty of options to choose from.

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