Vegan cottage cheese is finally here, and trust me, it’s creamy, tangy, and ridiculously easy to whip up at home. Whether you’re fully plant-based, cutting back on dairy, or just curious about this protein-packed favorite, this simple recipe is for you. No complicated steps, no weird ingredients, just pure, dairy-free deliciousness ready in minutes.
This tofu cottage cheese substitute tastes just like the real thing, with the perfect soft, slightly crumbly texture. It’s your new go-to for spreading on toast, dolloping on salads, or stirring into savory dishes. Plus, if you’ve been searching for a convincing vegan ricotta alternative or wondering how to make vegan cottage cheese from scratch, your search ends right here.
Ready to see how quick and satisfying this homemade version can be? Let’s dive right in.
Table of Content
Table of Contents
Vegan Cottage Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups
Description
This easy vegan cottage cheese is creamy, protein-packed, and ready in just minutes. The perfect dairy-free substitute for toast, salads, snacks & more.
Ingredients
1 300g block soft or silken tofu (about 1 ⅓ cups), drained
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon salt
½ of a 420g block firm tofu (210g or about 1 ½ cups), crumbled
Instructions
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the drained silken tofu, nutritional yeast, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Crumble the firm tofu into small curd-like pieces using your hands or a fork.
3. Pour the creamy blended mixture over the crumbled tofu and gently mix to combine.
4. Taste and adjust salt or lemon to your liking.
5. Chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes to let flavors blend.
6. Serve with your favorite toppings, on toast, or as a spread.
Notes
For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of unsweetened yogurt or mashed cashew.
Add herbs, spices, or everything bagel seasoning for savory flavor.
Best enjoyed within 4–5 days, stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Vegan, Dairy-Free, Spread
- Method: Blended
- Cuisine: Plant-Based
Why You’ll Love It
High-Protein, Easy & Delicious
This vegan cottage cheese isn’t just dairy-free, it’s seriously satisfying. Thanks to tofu and nutritional yeast, each serving packs a punch of plant-based protein, making it ideal for a light meal or snack. You only need a handful of simple ingredients, and it comes together in about 10 minutes. It’s one of those recipes that’s quick, foolproof, and tastes so creamy and fresh, you’ll want to keep it on hand all week.
Already a fan of protein-rich snacks? You’ll love our Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse or these crave-worthy Cottage Cheese Brownies for a sweet, high-protein treat.
Perfect for Meal Prep or Quick Breakfast
This dairy-free cottage cheese is super versatile. It holds up well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep. Enjoy it with fruit, on toast, or layered into savory wraps for an easy breakfast or lunch. And unlike store-bought versions, this one is soy-free vegan cottage cheese friendly if you prefer using almond or other plant-based cottage cheese options.
It’s also a fantastic swap for regular cottage cheese in recipes like Blueberry Cottage Cheese Muffins or these fluffy Banana Cottage Cheese Pancakes.
Ingredients & Substitutions for the Best Vegan Cottage Cheese
Key Ingredients for the Best Vegan Cottage Cheese
Making vegan cottage cheese at home couldn’t be easier. You only need a few wholesome ingredients, and most of them are probably in your kitchen already.
- Soft or silken tofu ; Gives that classic creamy, smooth texture. Be sure it’s drained for best results.
- Nutritional yeast ; Adds a subtle cheesy, savory flavor that brings this recipe to life.
- Apple cider vinegar & lemon juice ; For that essential tangy bite you expect from any good cottage cheese.
- Salt ; Enhances all the flavors.
- Firm tofu ; crumbled, This adds that familiar curd-like, crumbly texture you know and love.
Looking for other ways to enjoy your dairy-free cottage cheese? Check out our Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Mousse, another creamy, protein-rich option to keep in the fridge.
Easy Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions
- Tofu cottage cheese substitute: If you’re avoiding soy altogether, try swapping the tofu for almond cottage cheese or a blend of cashews for a creamy base.
- Vegan ricotta alternative: Need something even richer? Stir in a little coconut yogurt or thick Greek-style plant-based yoghurt.
- Miso or garlic powder: Want an extra savory kick? A pinch of white miso or onion powder does wonders.
- Herbs & spices: Fresh chives, dill, or a sprinkle of pepper can turn this into a savory spread for crackers or toast.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Soft or silken tofu (drained) | 300g block (about 1 ⅓ cups) |
| Nutritional yeast | 1 tablespoon |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Firm tofu (crumbled) | 210g (about 1 ½ cups) |
How to Make Vegan Cottage Cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
This homemade vegan cottage cheese recipe comes together in just a few simple steps. Grab your ingredients, and let’s make the best dairy-free cottage cheese substitute — ready in under 10 minutes!
1. Blend the creamy base
In a food processor or blender, add the drained soft or silken tofu, nutritional yeast, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. This forms the rich, tangy base of your plant-based cottage cheese.
2. Crumble the firm tofu
Using clean hands or a fork, crumble the firm tofu into small curd-like pieces. This gives that classic cottage cheese texture.
3. Combine everything
Pour the blended mixture over the crumbled tofu. Gently mix until well combined. Taste and adjust salt or lemon if needed.
4. Chill and enjoy
For the best flavor, let your vegan cottage cheese chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before serving. It gets even more creamy and delicious as it rests.
Looking for tasty ways to use your vegan cottage cheese? Try it with our Strawberry Cottage Cheese Ice Cream or layer it into Cottage Cheese Chocolate Pudding for a fun twist!
Tips for the Best Vegan Cottage Cheese
Pro Tips for Perfect Texture & Flavor
✔ Drain the tofu well
For creamy yet crumbly results, make sure to drain both your soft and firm tofu properly. Excess water can leave your cottage cheese watery.
✔ Taste as you go
Everyone likes their dairy-free cottage cheese a little different. Start with the suggested amount of lemon juice and vinegar, then adjust to your personal taste for that tangy, cheesy flavor.
✔ Add creaminess with extras
Want an ultra-creamy version? Stir in a spoonful of plain, unsweetened yogurt, a little mashed cashew, or even a drizzle of coconut milk for that rich finish.
✔ Let it chill
Your vegan cottage cheese gets even tastier after resting for 15–20 minutes in the fridge. This helps the flavors blend and the texture firm up just right.
What to Avoid for Best Results
✘ Using extra-firm tofu for the crumbles, it makes the texture too chewy.
✘ Over-blending the base, it should be creamy, but not runny like a sauce.
✘ Skipping the nutritional yeast, it gives that cheesy, savory depth that makes this recipe truly delicious.
If you’re loving protein-rich snacks, don’t miss our Cottage Cheese Muffins or dreamy Cottage Cheese Chocolate Cake for even more plant-based cottage cheese inspiration.
Topping Ideas
Looking for ways to jazz up your creamy, tangy vegan cottage cheese? Whether you’re going savory or sweet, these easy topping ideas make every bite even better.
Savory Topping Ideas
- Fresh chopped green onion, herbs, or chives
- Cracked black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil
- Sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra cheesy flavor
- Crushed hemp seeds or toasted nuts for crunch
- Sliced tomatoes, cucumber, or avocado on top of toast
- Everything bagel seasoning — a total game-changer!
This spread works beautifully with Veggie Chocolate Muffins for a fun savory-sweet combo.
Sweet Topping Ideas
- A drizzle of maple syrup or fruit preserves
- Fresh berries, banana slices, or diced peaches
- Sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg
- Chopped nuts, seeds, or shredded coconut
- A spoonful of yoghurt and granola for a dairy-free breakfast bowl
Love sweet cottage cheese ideas? Be sure to try our Cottage Cheese Chocolate Pudding or fluffy Banana Cottage Cheese Pancakes.
FAQ: Vegan Cottage Cheese
Does vegan cottage cheese exist?
Absolutely! Vegan cottage cheese is a delicious dairy-free version made with wholesome plant-based ingredients like tofu, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice. It mimics the creamy, crumbly texture and tangy flavor of traditional cottage cheese without any animal products.
Is there a dairy-free alternative to cottage cheese?
Yes! There are plenty of dairy-free alternatives, including this homemade vegan cottage cheese recipe. Store-bought options like Miyoko’s vegan cottage cheese are also available, or you can try nut-based versions like almond cottage cheese for a creamy, protein-packed substitute.
What is Miyoko’s cottage cheese made of?
Miyoko’s vegan cottage cheese is made with simple plant-based ingredients, often including cultured oat milk, coconut cream, and natural seasonings. It’s a tasty option if you’re looking for a convenient, dairy-free choice from the store.
What can we replace cottage cheese with?
Great question! You can replace cottage cheese with this easy vegan ricotta alternative, tofu-based spreads, almond or cashew cheese, or even thick, unsweetened yoghurt. It depends on whether you need a savory spread, a topping, or a creamy addition to recipes.
Where can I buy Miyoko’s vegan cottage cheese?
You can usually find Miyoko’s cottage cheese in specialty grocers, health food stores, or online. For a budget-friendly option, this tofu cottage cheese substitute is a simple, homemade version that takes just minutes to make.
Does Trader Joe’s sell vegan cheese?
Yes, Trader Joe’s offers a growing range of vegan cheese options, including slices, shreds, and spreads. While they don’t always stock vegan cottage cheese, keep an eye on their dairy-free products section — their lineup changes often!
If you’ve been searching for a creamy, tangy, and protein-packed alternative, this vegan cottage cheese is your new go-to. It’s simple to make, packed with plant-based goodness, and perfect for spreading on toast, layering into meals, or enjoying by the spoonful.
The best part? You can whip up this tasty, dairy-free version at home in just minutes, no fancy equipment, no complicated steps. Whether you’re craving a tofu cottage cheese substitute, a quick snack, or a vegan ricotta alternative, this easy recipe has you covered.
Ready to keep your plant-based recipe collection growing? Don’t miss our fluffy Banana Cottage Cheese Pancakes, another delicious way to enjoy your homemade dairy-free favorites.
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