creamy cashew cheese

 How to make vegan Cashew Cheese- a simple plant-based alternative that is spreadable, creamy and flavorful, and can be whipped up in just minutes! Use this in these Quesadillas!

Hey friends, I wanted to share a very quick and easy way to make a creamy, spreadable cheese perfect in quesadillas or enchiladas- Cashew Cheese!  It only takes about 10 minutes of hands-on time once the cashews have a chance to soak and will keep up to 5-6 days in your fridge.

Cashews are naturally creamy and  “cheesy” in flavor so they are a good base for the recipe. Then it’s just a matter of seasonings. If you like a little smoky flavor, a little smoked paprika is a nice touch, but honestly, I really like this plain and simple too. Up to you.

Adding apple cider vinegar instead of lemon juice is why I particularly like this recipe. It keeps the cheese preserved a few days longer and adds a nice tanginess. And I’m not sure if it’s just my imagination, but feels more easily digestible. See for yourself.

Soaking the cashews in water until they soften and plump make the Cashew Cheese really creamy. Try to soak at least 3 hours or overnight in the fridge.

Soaking them also makes them more easily digestible.

Drain the water (save it!) and place it in a food processor or high-speed blender.

Season with salt and add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar.

The vinegar will not only season the vegan cheese, giving it a nice tangy flavor, but it will also preserve it a few days longer in the fridge, extending its life.

Pulse the cashews and scrape down the sides.

Then, add cashew water a tablespoon at a time, until you get the consistency you want.

I usually add about 3-4 tablespoons.

Now at this point you can add fresh herbs, garlic, and or spices.

Here I’ve added smoked paprika and garlic powder.

Or keep it plain.

For an ultra “cheesy flavor” feel free to add nutritional yeast, but I will say, it really does not require it.

This plain version is pretty neutral -creamy, and slightly tangy. Great in Quesadillas or enchiladas!

If you are looking for something lower in fat, or overall calories, then be sure to look at this Vegan Tofu Ricotta.