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This tofu cream cheese is a quick and easy recipe that’s also nutritious. With just a few whole-food plant-based ingredients blended, you can have your cream cheese ready in 5 minutes. Enjoy it on crackers, bagels, or in your favorite recipes!
This homemade tofu cream cheese is creamy, smooth, and spreadable, with a rich, tangy flavor enhanced by a subtle cheesy nuttiness from nutritional yeast and optional depth from tahini.
As someone who is always on the lookout for delicious ways to boost my protein intake, I’m thrilled to share that this recipe has become a cornerstone in my quest. Packed with the plant-based goodness of tofu, not only is it a fantastic protein source, but its versatility means you can enjoy it in breakfasts, snacks, or as a flavorful addition to various recipes.
Whether you spread it on morning toast, dip your favorite veggies into it for a quick snack, or incorporate it into savory dishes, this tofu cream cheese is an effortless and tasty way to help you reach your protein goals.
Another good thing about this recipe is that it is highly customizable and nut, gluten, and dairy-free, making it a safe and inclusive option for various dietary needs.
I hope you try it and enjoy it as much as I do!
WHY TOFU?
Tofu, a beloved staple of vegan cuisine, is rich in protein and a fantastic source of calcium and iron. It’s also incredibly versatile, able to take on flavors and textures that make it a perfect base for this cream cheese.
Plus, it’s free from common allergens like dairy, nuts, and gluten, making it an excellent option for almost everyone.
HOW TO PREPARE THIS TOFU CREAM CHEESE
(Please read the printable recipe card below for detailed ingredients, measurements, steps, and notes).
Preparing this Tofu Cream Cheese is a breeze, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal kitchen tools.
To prepare this Easy Tofu Cream Cheese, simply blend drained extra firm tofu with lemon juice, nutritional yeast, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt until smooth. If desired, add garlic powder, herbs, and tahini for additional flavor and creaminess, then chill to develop the flavors and achieve the perfect creamy texture.
This recipe offers simplicity in preparation and the thrill of making a versatile, protein-packed cream cheese alternative that’s perfect for a multitude of meals and snacks.
And that’s a high-level summary; now, let’s explore kitchen tools, the required ingredients, and the steps with helpful pictures if needed.
USEFUL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
Here’s a list of essential kitchen tools needed to prepare the recipe:
- Use a high-speed blender or food processor for a creamy consistency. The blender is the best option if you prefer a super smooth texture.
- A clean tea towel or paper towel is used to pat dry the tofu.
- An airtight container for storing your cream cheese.
Now, let’s review the list of ingredients and potential substitutions in some cases.
INGREDIENTS NOTES
Here is a list of everything you will need to prepare this delicious and healthy tofu cream cheese:
Basic recipe
- Extra Firm Tofu: The backbone of the recipe, providing a high protein content and the perfect creamy texture. Try to find an organic version or at least a non-GMO.
- Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and a tangy flavor that mimics traditional cream cheese.
- Nutritional Yeast: Imparts a cheesy flavor, enriching the cream cheese with a depth of taste and additional nutrients.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Enhances the tanginess and brings a subtle complexity to the overall flavor profile.
- Salt: Used to season the cream cheese, elevating its taste and blending the flavors harmoniously.
Extras
- Garlic Powder (Optional): Offers a hint of garlic for those who enjoy a slight garlicky undertone. You could also use onion powder.
- Tahini (Optional): Contributes an extra layer of creaminess and a mild nutty flavor, making the texture even more luxurious.
- Water or Unsweetened Plant-Based Milk (as needed for blending): Helps adjust the consistency, ensuring the cream cheese is perfectly spreadable.
- Fresh Herbs (Optional, such as chives or dill): Adds a fresh, aromatic touch, allowing for a customizable flavor profile according to personal preference.
DIRECTIONS WITH PICTURES
To prepare this tofu cream cheese, follow these steps:
Prepare the Tofu: Begin by removing the tofu from its packaging. Use a clean tea towel to pat the tofu gently, ensuring it’s as dry as possible before use.
Blend Ingredients: In your high-speed blender, add the dried tofu along with lemon juice, nutritional yeast, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Include garlic powder and tahini here if you’re opting for these enhancements.
Adjust Consistency: Check the blend’s thickness; if it appears too thick, slowly incorporate water or unsweetened plant-based milk to reach a creamy, smooth consistency. Sample your creation, adjusting the flavors to your preference by possibly adding more salt for savoriness, lemon juice for extra tang, or nutritional yeast for a deeper cheesy nuance.
Fold in Herbs: if you choose to use fresh herbs, now’s the time to gently fold them in. Then, move the cream cheese mixture to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
Serve: Once chilled, your homemade tofu cream cheese is ready to be enjoyed. Spread it on bagels, toast, or crackers, or incorporate it into your favorite recipes.
WHAT WILL YOU LOVE ABOUT THIS RECIPE?
- Versatility: This can be customized with various herbs or seasonings to match any flavor profile.
- High Protein: Tofu as the base makes this cream cheese a great source of plant-based protein.
- Dairy-Free: Perfect for those following a vegan diet or with dairy intolerances.
- No Special Equipment Needed: It requires only a blender or food processor, making it accessible to everyone.
- Quick and Easy: Simple steps and minimal ingredients will help you prepare vegan cream cheese quickly.
- Health-Conscious Choice: This vegan cream cheese is delicious and a healthier alternative. It is lower in fat and calories than traditional cream cheese or other nut vegan cream cheese without compromising on taste.
- Allergen-Friendly: Free from common allergens like dairy, nuts, and gluten, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
- Creamy Texture: Achieves a delightfully smooth and spreadable consistency ideal for bagels, sandwiches, and more.
Let’s prepare this vegan tofu cream cheese!
PRINTABLE RECIPE CARD
EASY TOFU CREAM CHEESE (Vegan, Nut-Free)
Equipment
- 1 Food processor (or blender)
Ingredients
Basic recipe
- 1 block organic extra firm tofu (14 oz or 397 g , drained)
- 2-3 Tbsp lemon juice (adjust based on taste preference)
- 2 Tbsp nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (adjust to taste, adds tanginess)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
Extras
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional but highly recommended)
- 3 Tbsp tahini (optional for adding creaminess and flavor)
- Water or unsweetened plant-based milk (as needed for blending)
- Fresh herbs (optional, such as chives or dill, for flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tofu: To get started, remove the tofu from its packaging and pat it gently with a clean tea towel to dry it.
- Blend: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the tofu, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, apple cider vinegar, salt, garlic powder and tahini (if using). Blend until the mixture reaches a completely smooth consistency. If it's too thick, add a bit of water or unsweetened plant-based milk, a tablespoon at a time, to achieve the desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: After blending, taste the cream cheese and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You may want to add more salt for flavor, lemon juice for tanginess, or nutritional yeast for a cheesier flavor.
- Incorporate Herbs (Optional): If you're using fresh herbs, fold them in by hand after blending. This step is to ensure the herbs are distributed evenly without being pulverized into the cream cheese.
- Chill: For the best texture and flavor development, transfer the tofu cream cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least one hour. This step allows the cream cheese to firm up slightly and the flavors to meld.
- Serve and Enjoy: Spread your homemade tofu cream cheese on bagels, toast, and crackers, or use it in dips and spreads.
Notes
- Storage: Store the tofu cream cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavor may improve as the ingredients meld together after a day or two.
- Tofu Texture: Extra firm tofu is recommended for its lower moisture content, which helps achieve a creamier, thicker cream cheese. However, if the mixture is too thick, adjust the consistency with water or plant-based milk.
- Herb Choices: Fresh herbs like chives, dill, or basil can be folded into the cream cheese after blending for a fresh, aromatic touch. Dry herbs can also be used but in smaller quantities due to their concentrated flavor.
- Using a high-speed blender is crucial for achieving the ultra-smooth and creamy texture if that is your preferred texture. While a food processor can work in a pinch, a blender will more effectively break down the tofu and integrate all the ingredients into a perfectly smooth spread. I prefer a thicker texture with the food processor.
WAYS TO ENJOY THIS TOFU CREAM CHEESE
Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your tofu cream cheese:
- Bagel Spread: Classic and simple; spread it thickly on a toasted whole wheat bagel. Add cucumber slices or tomato for extra freshness.
- Veggie Dip: Serve it as a dip with a platter of raw vegetables, such as carrots, celery, bell peppers, and broccoli.
- Stuffed Peppers: Mix with herbs and spices, then stuff into mini bell peppers for a tasty, bite-sized snack.
- Sandwich Spread: Elevate your sandwiches or wraps by spreading a layer of tofu cream cheese mixed with fresh dill or chives.
- Pasta Sauce: Thin it with a bit of pasta water to make a creamy sauce for your favorite pasta, adding garlic and nutritional yeast for extra flavor.
- Savory Crepes: For a delicious breakfast or brunch option, fill savory vegan crepes with tofu cream cheese, spinach, and mushrooms.
- Baked Potatoes: Dollop on top of hot baked potatoes or sweet potatoes with a sprinkle of paprika and chives.
- Toast Topping: Spread on toast or crackers and top with avocado slices and red pepper flakes for a quick and nutritious breakfast.
DID YOU MAKE THIS EASY TOFU CREAM CHEESE?
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