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Last Updated on October 23, 2025 by Tiffany
Cashew cheese is a staple recipe in almost every vegan kitchen but have you ever had it raw? This fully raw vegan recipe takes 5 minutes to make, is free from heat, and tastes absolutely amazing. Pair this raw vegan cashew cheese with plant based pizza, pasta, or as a delicious dip with crackers!
There are so many different types of vegan cheeses in the grocery stores that are loaded with soy, hard to pronounce chemicals, and unnecessary fillers.
Not to mention they’re freaking expensive! This easy DIY dairy free cheese is extremely affordable and makes many servings.
What is vegan cashew cheese?
Cashews have an extremely thick consistency when soaked overnight and blended. This makes them one of the best nuts for plant based milks, sauces, and vegan cheeses.
There are many different forms and methods of making vegan cashew cheese some of which are sliceable and others that are sauces.
What you’ll need
Raw Cashews
I soaked mine overnight to make my vegan cashew cheese free from heat. If you’re running low on time, an alternative is to boil them for at least 10-15 minutes to soften.
Nutritional Yeast
This ingredient is key to getting a “cheesy” flavor! If you don’t already have your own bottle, grab one here using this link.
Apple Cider Vinegar
I find that ACV gives the cheese that ‘sour’ taste dairy cheese has and enhances the flavour so very well. One of my favorite brands is BRAGG, use this link to get a trust worthy bottle of ACV.
Olive Oil
I used this oil specifically because its thicker than other alkaline ‘healthy’ cooking oils and the taste of olive oil truly adds to the vegan cashew cheese recipe.
Garlic Powder
Feel free to use garlic cloves! I just find the powder easier but you do you.
Salt
To taste.
Black Pepper
Water
How to make raw vegan cashew cheese
Step One: If you want your cashew cheese fully raw, soak overnight or for at least 4 hours.
Step Two: Combine all of the ingredients into a high speed blender and blend until desired consistency has been acquired.
Step Three: Serve with your favorite pasta, Vegan pizza, or as a dip with chips and enjoy!
How to store raw vegan cashew cheese
This recipe can store in the fridge for up to 5 days so make sure you are taking advantage of all the vegan, dairy free cheesy goodness! If you would like the cheese to last for longer, try storing in an airtight container in the freezer. The recipe may last for up 2 weeks if frozen properly in the freezer. It may run the risk of forming ice crystals though, so be sure to freeze with care.
Vegan cashew cheese tastes heavenly as a pasta sauce. You may have to adjust the water to make it a bit thinner. The cheese also works great on top of vegan nachos, plant based chili cheese fries, spaghetti, or whatever you like!
Did you enjoy this recipe? Sharing is caring! Be sure to share with family and friends or save to your Pinterest board for later.
Check out these other delicious high raw vegan recipes you may also enjoy
Creamy Tahini Peanut Salad Dressing
Raw Vegan Cashew Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Cashews measured while dry, soak overnight
- 1 Tablespoon Nutritional Yeast heaping
- 1.5 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 Teaspoon Apple Cider Vinegar
- Pinch Black Pepper
- 1/2 Cup Water
- 1/2 – 1 Salt
Instructions
- If you want your cashew cheese fully raw, soak overnight or for at least 4 hours. If not, boil the cashews for 10 – 15 minutes or until soft and can be crumbled in your fingers.
- Combine all of the ingredients into a high speed blender and blend until desired consistency has been acquired. Serve with pasta, vegan nachos, vegan pizza, or whatever you like and enjoy!
