Fluffy, airy, velvety and slightly tangy: this tofu-based cream cheese is free from nuts and dairy. This recipe is crafted using just four straightforward ingredients and can be prepared in just five minutes. Its resemblance to authentic cream cheese is so striking that its vegan nature might go unnoticed!
Ingredients:
- 1 block firm tofu
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: Lemon zest or Garlic powder for taste
How-to guide for Tofu Cream Cheese:
- Prepare the Tofu: Start by draining and pressing the firm tofu to remove excess water. Pat it dry with a paper towel and crumble it into a food processor.
- Blend it Smooth: Add lemon juice, nutritional yeast, lemon zest/garlic, and salt to the crumbled tofu in the food processor. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the processor to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Taste and Adjust: Give the cream cheese a taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add more lemon juice for extra tanginess or salt for enhanced flavor.
- Serve or Refrigerate: Transfer the cream cheese to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. When ready to serve, you can enjoy it on bagels, crackers, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.
TIPS:
Customize Your Spread: Feel free to experiment with additional flavors! Add chopped herbs like chives or dill for a herby kick, or include a dash of onion powder for extra depth.
Storage Tips: Store the tofu cream cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Give it a good stir before using if it separates.
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic Bagel Spread: Spread a generous layer of tofu cream cheese on your favorite bagel—whether it’s plain, whole grain, or everything bagel—for a classic and satisfying breakfast or snack.
- Cracker Toppings: Elevate your cracker game by pairing them with a dollop of tofu cream cheese. Add sliced cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or radishes for a refreshing and crunchy bite.
- Veggie Dip: Use the tofu cream cheese as a dip for an assortment of fresh vegetables. Carrot sticks, celery, bell pepper strips, and cherry tomatoes all pair wonderfully with the creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Wrap it Up: Spread it onto tortillas or wraps before adding your favorite veggies, greens, and protein. It adds a creamy and flavorful element to your wraps.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a delightful appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with tofu cream cheese and baking until they’re golden and bubbly. It’s a sophisticated and tasty finger food for gatherings.
- Grilled Sandwiches: Use the tofu cream cheese as a spread for grilled sandwiches. Combine it with roasted vegetables, avocado, or plant-based deli slices for a satisfying and gooey sandwich experience.
- Pita Pockets: Fill pita pockets with a blend of tofu cream cheese, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cucumber for a quick and tasty lunch on the go.
- Gourmet Pizza Topping: Spread it on pizza crust as a unique and dairy-free alternative to traditional cream-based sauces. Top it with your favorite veggies for a gourmet twist.
- Dress up Salads: Add a dollop to your salad as a creamy and tangy dressing. It pairs well with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crunchy croutons.
- Dipping Sauce for Pretzels: Warm up the cream cheese slightly and use it as a dipping sauce for soft pretzels. The combination of the warm, salty pretzels with the creamy dip is simply irresistible.
I like to eat it as a snack with cucumbers and topped with tajin powder or everything but the page seasoning from Trader Joe’s. Feel free to get creative and explore different ways to incorporate this tofu cream cheese into your meals and snacks. Its versatility and rich flavor make it a fantastic addition to a variety of dishes!
Elevate your snacking experience with this homemade tofu cream cheese that not only caters to vegan preferences but also provides a healthier alternative. Quick to make and bursting with flavor, this recipes the potential to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the guilt-free pleasure of a creamy spread while supporting a plant-based lifestyle.
I hope you enjoyed this recipe! Let me know if you decide to try it out and don’t forget to send me your #Lifestylemartina creations.
Other recipes you might like:
My goal is to get you to cook and experiment in the kitchen, even if you are not an expert. If you would like to get to know me more, follow me on instagram : Lifestylemartina . You will find daily tips, quick recipes, personal content and pictures of my travel experiences. Looking forward to seeing you there!
Below, the full recipe.
Tofu Cream Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu about 14 ounces
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Lemon zest or Garlic powder Optional, for taste
Instructions
- Start by draining and pressing the firm tofu to remove excess water. Pat it dry with a paper towel and crumble it into a food processor.
- Add lemon juice, nutritional yeast, lemon zest/garlic powder, and salt to the crumbled tofu in the food processor. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the processor to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Give the cream cheese a taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add more lemon juice for extra tanginess or salt for enhanced flavor.
- Transfer the tofu cream cheese to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. When ready to serve, you can enjoy it on bagels, crackers, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.
Notes
Martina is a trained and experienced chef. She has worked as a Chef in multiple restaurants in the Netherlands. Currently, she works as a Marketing Manager for a Start-up in The Hague. In her spare time, she cooks and bakes delicious recipes to host friends and shares all of her best recipes and tips through her blogs.
