Vegan cheese has become a popular alternative for those avoiding dairy, whether for health, ethical, or environmental reasons.
It’s an exciting time for plant-based eaters, as the variety and quality of vegan cheeses have improved greatly. They come in many forms, from blocks and slices to shreds and spreads, allowing us to enjoy them in all kinds of dishes.
There are several things to consider when choosing vegan cheese.
Taste and texture are probably the biggest aspects to consider, as we all want something that mimics the real thing. But ingredients matter too, especially if we’re avoiding soy, gluten, or nuts.
Checking the label for added flavors and preservatives can also be helpful when looking for a cleaner option.
With so many choices out there, deciding which vegan cheese to try can be overwhelming.
We’ve put together a list and review of five top brands, making it easier to find your next favorite cheese alternative.
Top 5 Vegan Cheese Brands
We’ve tasted and tested several vegan cheese brands to find the best ones for you. Our selection focuses on great taste, texture, and versatility. Let’s check out our favorites!
Never Better Foods Vegan Mozzarella Cheese
This vegan cheese is a great pick for those seeking a dairy-free option that melts well and offers a delightful taste.
Pros
- Melts beautifully
- Authentic cheesy flavor
- Free from common allergens
Cons
- Slight delay in delivery
- Packaging can be misleading
- Might be pricier than some
Our experience with Never Better Foods Vegan Mozzarella was a hit.
The cheese melts perfectly into a bubbly and golden brown layer, making it the star on any homemade vegan pizza. We’ve tried it with different crusts and the outcome is always delicious.
Its dairy-like flavor surprised us, which is not always the case with vegan cheese. We enjoyed it on pasta bakes and sandwiches. Each dish was elevated by its authentic taste.
While the cheese itself is excellent, pay attention to how it arrives.
Our delivery took a bit longer than expected, and the packaging wasn’t quite as clear as it could have been about its ingredients. Despite that, the flavor and texture were worth the wait.
Never Better Vegan Cheese
If you’re on the hunt for a plant-based cheese that melts beautifully and tastes great, this could be a good pick for your kitchen.
Pros
- Melts and stretches like regular cheese
- Free from common allergens
- Great authentic flavor
Cons
- Slightly rubbery texture
- A bit pricey compared to others
- Limited flavors available
After experimenting with Never Better Vegan Cheese, we enjoyed how well it melted on our vegan pizza, turning gooey and satisfying, just like we’d hoped.
The stretched consistency was impressive, making it an excellent choice for quesadillas and pasta dishes. This cheese also shines in its allergy-friendly formulation, free from gluten and soy, which is perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Although the taste is admirable, the texture could be a bit more refined as it leans toward being slightly rubbery when cold. Despite this, its affordability and deliciousness make up for the lack of a broad selection of flavors.
Never Better Foods Vegan Cheese
If you’re looking for a tasty and melty vegan cheese option, this variety pack might be perfect for you.
Pros
- Melts beautifully
- Free from common allergens
- Guilt-free with no cholesterol
Cons
- Might taste different when not cooked
- Packaging issues with delivery
- Slightly warm upon arrival
We’ve had the chance to try the Never Better Foods Vegan Cheese, and it was quite the experience!
It’s a great option for anyone who enjoys gooey, melty cheese on their meals. From homemade pizzas to mac ‘n cheese, this cheese gets delightfully creamy when heated.
Uncooked, the cheese might taste a bit different, but once it’s melted, it transforms into a delicious topping. For anyone with dietary restrictions, this cheese is a wonderful option since it’s free from many allergens. We love how it allows us to enjoy our favorite cheesy dishes without compromise.
One thing to be aware of is delivery.
Our cheese arrived a bit warm, which may affect the initial texture before you open it. This was easy to overlook, though, given the rich, authentic dairy-like experience it offered when melted. Enjoy it on nachos, pizzas, or your other favorite recipes.
Treeline Vegan Cheese Assortment
This delightful cheese set lets us enjoy a range of flavors without the dairy mess, and it’s a must-try for anyone looking to switch up their cheese game.
Pros
- Deliciously creamy texture
- A versatile range of flavors
- Quick and secure shipping
Cons
- Slightly pricey for some
- May not melt as well as dairy cheese
- Limited availability in some areas
Testing Treeline’s Vegan Cheese was a pleasant surprise.
The creamy texture easily rivals regular cheese, making it a delight to spread on crackers or toast. We love how it adds a rich flavor to salads and sandwiches, enhancing every bite.
The variety in this assortment is impressive. From rich herb flavors to subtle scallion notes, there’s something for everyone. Each piece adds a unique twist to home-cooked meals. It’s even hard to tell there’s no dairy when we use it to make pasta sauces.
Shipping speed exceeded our expectations, arriving quickly and without a hitch. While the price might be a hurdle for some, the quality and taste justify it. Give this cheese assortment a try if you’re after quality, flavor-packed vegan options.
Panacheeza Vegan Parmesan
Panacheeza is a must-have for those who crave a bold and savory plant-based cheese option.
Pros
- Bold, savory flavor
- Nutrient-dense with protein
- Versatile in use
Cons
- Some find the flavor mild when mixed in dishes
- Texture might not appeal to everyone
- Limited availability in stores
Panacheeza Vegan Parmesan is truly a game-changer for our meals.
Its bold flavor enriches everything from pasta to salads. The nutty and tangy taste is reminiscent of real Parmesan, and we love that it’s crafted from wholesome ingredients like cashews and nutritional yeast.
We tried it on pizza, and the results were outstanding. It melted beautifully and delivered a delicious cheesy punch. For those who enjoy a crunchy texture, try baking it into casseroles for a satisfying layer of crispiness.
We also appreciate its protein-rich profile, making it a nutritious addition to our meals. Though some might find the flavor less strong when mixed, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a gourmet touch to their plant-based kitchen.
Buying Guide
When choosing vegan cheese, there are a few things we should consider to find the best option for our needs.
Ingredients:
Look for cheeses made from natural, whole ingredients like nuts and coconut. Avoid those with long, unrecognizable ingredient lists.
Texture:
Whether you prefer creamy, soft, or firm cheese, make sure its texture suits your needs. Sliceable, spreadable, and meltable options are all available.
Taste:
We all have different taste buds! Sample a small amount first to ensure the flavor matches our preferences—whether we like mild or strong-tasting cheese.
Dietary Needs:
Some of us have other dietary needs. Look for options that are gluten-free, soy-free, or organic if those matter to us.
Price:
Vegan cheese can vary in cost. While some are budget-friendly, others can be pricey. Compare options within our budget.
Quick Tip
We might try different brands and flavors to find our favorite. Don’t hesitate to ask friends or read reviews before committing to larger sizes.
Considerations
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Storage | Check the cooling needs. Shelf-stable? |
| Use | Best for cooking, snacking, or both? |
| Environmental | Check if they use sustainable practices. |
How processed are popular vegan cheese brands like Violife?
Violife is known for being more processed than some other options. It uses coconut oil and starches to mimic dairy texture.
When focusing on whole foods, we might prefer less processed options.
Worst Vegan Cheese Brands
While the vegan cheese market has seen significant improvements, not every product meets expectations. Here are some brands that may leave you disappointed:
1. Daiya Cheddar Style Shreds
Pros:
- Widely available in many stores
- Melts relatively well
Cons:
- Artificial aftertaste
- Rubbery texture when not melted
- High in processed ingredients
Review:
Daiya has been a staple in the vegan cheese market for years, but it often falls short in taste and texture. The cheddar style shreds have an artificial flavor that can be off-putting, and the texture is rubbery unless fully melted. Additionally, the ingredient list is lengthy and includes several processed components, which may not appeal to those seeking a cleaner option.
2. Go Veggie! Dairy-Free Classic Plain Cream Cheese
Pros:
- Lower in calories
- Affordable
Cons:
- Chalky texture
- Bland taste
- Contains additives and preservatives
Review:
Go Veggie! offers a range of dairy-free products, but their classic plain cream cheese misses the mark. The texture is chalky, and the taste is notably bland compared to other vegan cream cheeses. The presence of various additives and preservatives also detracts from its appeal.
3. Follow Your Heart American Slices
Pros:
- Convenient pre-sliced form
- Melts decently
Cons:
- Strong coconut oil flavor
- Greasy texture when melted
- Higher price point
Review:
Follow Your Heart is known for its commitment to vegan products, but the American slices can be a letdown. The strong coconut oil flavor overpowers the cheese, and the texture becomes greasy when melted. Given the higher price, there are better alternatives available that offer a more balanced flavor and texture.
4. Tofutti Better Than Cream Cheese
Pros:
- Long shelf life
- Affordable
Cons:
- Grainy texture
- Unpleasant aftertaste
- High in processed ingredients
Review:
Tofutti’s Better Than Cream Cheese is a budget-friendly option, but it doesn’t quite live up to its name. The texture is grainy, and it leaves an unpleasant aftertaste. The ingredient list is also heavy on processed components, which may not be ideal for those looking for a healthier option.
5. Sheese Mature Cheddar Style
Pros:
- Strong flavor
- Good for cooking
Cons:
- Crumbly texture
- Overly salty
- Limited availability
Review:
Sheese offers a mature cheddar style that packs a punch in flavor, but it’s not without its drawbacks. The texture is crumbly, making it difficult to slice or spread. Additionally, it has a high salt content that can be overwhelming. Availability is also an issue, as it’s not as widely distributed as other brands.
Conclusion
While the vegan cheese market has many great options, some brands still have room for improvement. Whether it’s due to artificial flavors, unappealing textures, or high levels of processed ingredients, these brands may not meet your expectations. Always check reviews and consider sampling small amounts before committing to larger purchases.