Vegan Cheese Ball

Vegan Cheese Ball Recipe: A Deliciously Creamy Plant-Based Treat

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both creamy and packed with flavor, look no further than this Vegan Cheese Ball! It9s a clever plant-based twist on the classic cheese ball, perfect for holiday parties, game nights, or any occasion that calls for a little delicious indulgence. Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or just looking to try something new, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

What makes this Vegan Cheese Ball truly special is its rich texture and tangy taste that mimic traditional cheese balls without any dairy. Made with wholesome ingredients like cashews, nutritional yeast, and a blend of herbs and spices, it combines health benefits with mouthwatering flavor. Plus, the presentation is fabulous 6 rolled in crunchy nuts and fresh herbs that add both texture and an inviting aroma.

This recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile and easy to make. It doesn9t require fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. So let’s dive in and create a vegan appetizer that will become the star of your next gathering!

Ingredients

• For the Vegan Cheese Ball:
  • 1 1/2 cups raw cashews (soaked for at least 4 hours or overnight, then drained)
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1/4 cup refined coconut oil (solid state)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup water (plus more if needed)
• For the Coating:
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives
  • Optional: extra chopped herbs or crushed nuts for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the cashews by soaking them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight to soften them. Drain and rinse before using.
2. In a food processor, combine the soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, coconut oil, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pulse and blend until the mixture is creamy and smooth. You may need to scrape down the sides occasionally to ensure even blending.
4. Add water a tablespoon at a time if the mixture is too thick, blending after each addition until creamy and moldable but not too wet.
5. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed; add more salt, lemon juice, or spices to preference.
6. Transfer the mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper. Using your hands, form it into a ball shape about 4 inches in diameter.
7. Wrap the ball tightly with the parchment and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
8. While the ball firms, prepare the coating by mixing chopped nuts, parsley, and chives on a shallow plate or bowl.
9. Once chilled, unwrap the cheese ball and gently roll it in the coating mixture until fully covered.
10. Place the coated cheese ball on a serving platter and garnish with extra chopped herbs or crushed nuts if desired.
11. Serve chilled or at room temperature with an assortment of crackers, sliced vegetables, or bread.
12. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Recipe Information

• Prep time: 10 minutes (plus 4 hours soaking and 2 hours chilling)
• Total time: Approximately 6 hours including soaking and chilling
• Servings: 8-10 servings
• Difficulty: Easy

Tips & Variations

• Soaking cashews properly is key to achieving a creamy texture; don9t skip or shorten this step.
• Use refined coconut oil if you don9t want a coconut flavor; unrefined coconut oil will add a subtle coconut taste.
• If you don9t have a food processor, a high-speed blender can work but may require more liquid.
• Customize the coating to your taste: try crushed pistachios, sesame seeds, or dried herbs.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked chipotle powder into the mixture.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
• Make ahead by preparing the cheese ball a day in advance and refrigerating to allow flavors to deepen.

Nutritional Information (estimated per serving)

• Calories: 190 kcal
• Protein: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fat: 16 g (mostly healthy fats from cashews and coconut oil)
• Fiber: 1 g

Conclusion

Don9t hesitate to try this Vegan Cheese Ball recipe for your next gathering or whenever you9re craving a tasty, wholesome appetizer. Its creamy texture and rich flavor combined with the crunchy, fresh herb coating make it a delightful dish that everyone will love.

Pair it with a variety of crackers, fresh veggies, or crusty bread for a perfect snack or starter. If you try this recipe, I9d love to hear your thoughts and any creative variations you come up with—feel free to leave a comment or share your experience!