Vegan Silken Tofu Cream Cheese with Chives
Vegan Silken Tofu Cream Cheese with Chives
Say goodbye to store-bought cream cheese and hello to this homemade, plant-based version that’s as nutritious as it is delicious! Made with silken tofu as the base, this vegan cream cheese is smooth, creamy, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for spreading on bagels, dipping veggies, or adding a flavorful twist to your favorite recipes, it’s a versatile and guilt-free alternative to traditional dairy cream cheese.
What makes this recipe stand out? It’s rich in plant-based protein, thanks to silken tofu, and boosted with the cheesy, umami flavor of nutritional yeast. Fresh chives add a burst of herbaceous brightness, while lemon juice and apple cider vinegar provide the perfect tangy kick. A touch of coconut oil gives it a luxurious richness, making it firm and spreadable when chilled.
Not only is this cream cheese vegan and dairy-free, but it’s also free from artificial additives and preservatives, making it a clean, wholesome choice for your meals. Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or simply looking to explore healthier options, this recipe is a game-changer. Plus, it’s quick to make and stores beautifully in the fridge for up to a week.
Ready to elevate your breakfasts and snacks? Let’s dive into this easy, flavorful, and nourishing vegan cream cheese recipe! 🌱
Vegan Silken Tofu Cream Cheese with Chives Ingredients:
1 block (12-16 oz) silken tofu, drained
2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for a cheesy, umami flavor)
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp refined coconut oil, melted (for richness and firmness when chilled)
1-2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/4 cup fresh chives, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Vegan Silken Tofu Cream Cheese with Chives Instructions:
Prepare the Tofu: Drain the silken tofu and pat it dry gently with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. You don’t need to press it like firm tofu, but removing excess moisture helps achieve a thicker consistency.
Blend the Base: In a blender or food processor, combine the silken tofu, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, melted coconut oil, garlic (if using), salt, and onion powder. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of plant-based milk to reach your desired consistency.
Add the Chives: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the chopped chives. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, lemon juice, or vinegar if needed.
Chill: For the best texture, cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight). This allows the flavors to meld and the coconut oil to firm up, giving it a cream cheese-like consistency.
Serve: Spread on bagels, crackers, or toast. Garnish with extra chives if desired.
Tips for Success
For a tangier flavor, add a pinch of lactic acid powder (available online or in specialty stores) or a bit more lemon juice/apple cider vinegar.
If you don’t like coconut oil, you can substitute it with cashew butter or tahini for richness, though the texture will be slightly different.
Add other herbs or spices, like dill, smoked paprika, or roasted garlic, for variety.
Enjoy your homemade vegan cream cheese! 🌱
Health and Wellness Benefits of Vegan Silken Tofu Cream Cheese
This vegan cream cheese recipe is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits, thanks to its wholesome, plant-based ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of why this recipe is a great addition to your diet:
1. Silken Tofu: A Nutrient-Dense Base
Silken tofu is the star of this recipe, providing a creamy texture without the need for dairy. It’s an excellent source of:
Plant-Based Protein: Tofu is rich in protein, making this cream cheese a satisfying option that can help keep you full and support muscle repair and growth.
Low in Calories: Compared to traditional cream cheese, silken tofu is lower in calories and fat, making it a lighter alternative.
Rich in Minerals: Tofu contains essential minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium, which support bone health, oxygen transport, and muscle function.
Isoflavones: As a soy product, tofu contains isoflavones, which are plant compounds that may help reduce inflammation and support heart health.
2. Nutritional Yeast: A Flavor and Nutrient Booster
Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, umami flavor while providing:
B Vitamins: Nutritional yeast is often fortified with B vitamins, including B12 (important for vegans), which support energy metabolism and nervous system health.
Protein and Fiber: It’s a complete protein source and contains fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
3. Healthy Fats from Coconut Oil
The small amount of refined coconut oil in this recipe adds richness and helps the cream cheese firm up when chilled. Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily metabolized by the body for quick energy. While it’s high in saturated fat, using it in moderation as part of a balanced diet is perfectly healthy.
4. Fresh Chives: A Burst of Flavor and Nutrients
Chives are not just a garnish—they’re a nutrient-packed herb that adds:
Antioxidants: Chives contain antioxidants like quercetin and vitamin C, which help combat oxidative stress and support immune health.
Vitamin K: Essential for blood clotting and bone health.
Low-Calorie Flavor: Chives add a fresh, onion-like flavor without adding significant calories.
5. Lemon Juice and Apple Cider Vinegar: Tangy and Digestive-Friendly
These acidic ingredients provide tanginess while offering:
Digestive Support: Apple cider vinegar is known to support gut health and digestion.
Vitamin C: Lemon juice adds a dose of vitamin C, which boosts immunity and enhances iron absorption from plant-based foods.
6. Low in Added Sugar and Processed Ingredients
Unlike many store-bought vegan cream cheeses, this recipe is free from added sugars, artificial preservatives, and processed ingredients. It’s a clean, whole-food option that aligns with a health-conscious lifestyle.
Shelf Life and Storage
This vegan cream cheese will last in the refrigerator for 5-7 days when stored properly. Here are some tips to maximize its freshness:
Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods.
Keep it in the coldest part of your refrigerator (usually the back, not the door).
If you notice any off smells, discoloration, or mold, discard it immediately.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cream cheese for up to 1-2 months. However, freezing may slightly alter the texture, making it a bit grainy when thawed. To fix this, simply blend it again after thawing.
Conclusion
This vegan silken tofu cream cheese is a nutritious, delicious, and versatile addition to your diet. It’s rich in plant-based protein, vitamins, and minerals, while being low in calories and free from processed ingredients. Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or simply looking for a healthier alternative to traditional cream cheese, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy it on bagels, crackers, or as a dip, and feel good knowing you’re nourishing your body with wholesome, plant-based goodness! 🌱
