Go Back
+ servings
A small ceramic bowl holds a creamy vegan cashew cheese and a cracker for dipping.
4.04 from 354 votes

Go-to Cashew Cheese Recipe

Author - Gena Hamshaw
Prep Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Yields: 1 1/4 cups

Ingredients

  • 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for at least two hours (or up to overnight) and drained (140g)
  • 1-2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (to taste; 5-10g)
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup water (more as needed)

Instructions

  • Place the cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Pulse repeatedly to break the cashews down, until they form a coarse, wet meal. Scrape the sides of the food processor down with a spatula.
  • Turn the motor of the processor on. With the motor running, drizzle in the water and let the cashews process for about 10 seconds. Stop and scrape the machine down again. Continue processing for a full 1-2 minutes, or until the cashew cheese is smooth and thick, adding a tablespoon of extra water if needed. The consistency should be a little bit like hummus (see photos of finished cashew cheese as a cue).
  • Taste the cashew cheese and add lemon, salt, and pepper to taste. If you like, pulse in fresh herbs or other flavorings. Serve. Cashew cheese will keep for up to 6 days in an airtight container in the fridge.

Video