Homemade Vegan Cheese with Cranberries

Vegan cheese is a delicious and dairy-free alternative to traditional cheese, made primarily from plant-based ingredients. Common bases include cashew nuts, almonds, soy, and even coconut. The process typically involves blending these ingredients with flavor-enhancing components like nutritional yeast, spices.

 Sometimes miso paste to achieve a creamy and tangy texture. For a festive twist, adding cranberries not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color, making it a delightful addition to any cheese platter.

Health Benefits of Vegan Cheese and cranberries 

Vegan cheese offers several health benefits, which include:Lower in saturated fat compared to dairy cheese. Rich in nutrients from nuts and seeds, including healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Often fortified with proteins and vitamins such as B12 and calcium.

Free from lactose, making it suitable for those with dairy intolerances. Cranberries, small but mighty, are renowned for their bright color and tangy flavor. Packed with antioxidants and high in vitamin C, they are excellent for supporting the immune system. 

Basic Ingredients for Vegan Cheese

Making vegan cheese at home is both simple and rewarding. The basic ingredients typically include:

• 80g cashew nuts
• 3 tbsp nutritional yeast (nooch)
• 150ml water
• 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil and  2 tbsp lemon juice

• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/3 tsp garlic powder
• 5g agar powder (or 3 tbsp corn starch instead)

Other ingredients:

• A handful of sweetened and dried cranberries
• Black cracked pepper (optional)
• Bread or crackers

For a festive flair, incorporating cranberries is a game-changer. They not only add color but also impart a sweet-tart flavor. You can fold sweetened dried cranberries into the cheese mixture or roll the finished cheese log in chopped cranberries and nuts to create a stunning appetizer. 

how to make Vegan Cheese with Cranberries

Place all the ingredients for the vegan cheese base into a blender and blend until smooth. I originally used agar powder for this recipe, but if you don't have it, regular cornstarch will work just as well.Blend thoroughly until the consistency is smooth. 

If you're using a decent blender, there's no need to soak the cashews beforehand. Next, take a handful of cranberries and cut them into quarters. You want small cranberry pieces, not whole dried cranberries, in your cashew cheese.

Pour the blended cheese base into a pan and heat it over medium to high heat (this is crucial to activate the agar powder). Stir continuously to prevent burning. After a few minutes, it will thicken into a paste and start to bind together. Then, add the cranberries and mix them .

Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a dish, spreading it evenly. Line a small bowl with plastic wrap, and scoop the cheese mixture into the bowl. Gather up the sides of the plastic wrap and twist to form a ball. Let the cheese ball firm up in the freezer for about an hour, or for a couple of hours in the fridge

Presentation Ideas for Vegan Cheese and Cranberries

When it comes to serving your homemade vegan cranberry cheese, presentation is key! Consider using:

• Cheese Boards: Arrange slices or logs of the vegan cheese on a wooden cheese board with clusters of cranberries and herbs for a rustic touch.
• Colorful Platters: Include an array of colorful fruits and vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices, for a vibrant look that appeals to the eye.

Garnishes: Add sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme to elevate the appearance and invite guests to dig in.

These serving suggestions will not only enhance the taste experience but also create an inviting atmosphere that encourages sharing and enjoyment among your guests!