Top 6 Vegan Cream Cheese Brands (Updated 2021)
At this point in your life, there is a good chance you’ve tried cream cheese. It is a bagel’s favorite spread, you can use it in baking and cooking, and it can make a great dip for game days or parties. However, like many products, cream cheese is made with dairy. Vegans, your bagel shouldn’t have to go wanting, and thankfully, it won’t for much longer because now we can get vegan cream cheese!
Why try vegan cream cheese? Beyond obviously satisfying cravings, the plant-based option does not rely on dairy. In the US alone, there are roughly 9 million dairy cows. These cows are often kept in cramped quarters and unfavorable conditions. Additionally, dairy cows only produce milk when pregnant. The milk is intended for the calf; however, after the calf is born, the calf and mother are separated, and the cow’s milk is then used for numerous products, including cream cheese. So, the plant-based alternative helps reduce the demand for this process while still giving people products they are familiar with.
>>Check out our infographic about Animal Cruelty
Today, multiple companies have created numerous vegan cream cheese options that cater to the plant-based community. Below, you will find our brand breakdown with many options to keep your bagels and taste buds happy!
Vegan Cream Cheese Brands Breakdown
For TheCalorie Counters
Daiya Cream Cheeze
First up is Daiya Cream Cheeze, specifically the Garden Vegetable flavor. Daiya is known for their plant-based alternatives to numerous dairy products. This cream cheese will only set you back 60 calories (per 2 Tbsp), and only 5g of fat (do be careful though, as the sodium is a bit high—200mg). It contains fresh flavors from carrot, cucumber, white onion, and bell peppers. In addition to being plant-based, Daiya cream cheeze is free from gluten, soy, and peanuts (it does contain coconut). If Garden Vegetables do not do it for you, Daiya offers flavors in plain, strawberry, and chive & onion as well!
Tofutti`s Dairy Free Cream Cheese
Next, we have Tofutti`s Dairy Free Cream Cheese in a whipped variety. Like Daiya, Tofutti only has 60 calories and 5g of fat per serving (2 Tbsp). The sodium is lower on this one with only 120mg per serving. It is also gluten free, although this product contains soy, and the ingredients list is a bit complex.
Not So Salty
Miyokos Unlox Your Dreams
For the sodium watchers, check out Miyokos - Unlox Your Dreams spread. This cheese is great for bagels with only 110mg of sodium per serving (2 Tbsp). It is touted as smoky and a bit ‘seafood-y’ without the fish. It is made with cashew nuts and comes in plain and scallion flavors as well. If you feel particularly inspired to serve with lox, check out these recipes for plant-based pairings!
GoVeggie’s Chive & Garlic Cream Cheese.
Another low-sodium option is GoVeggie’s Chive & Garlic Cream Cheese. Said to be the ‘most award-winning, dairy-free spread around,’ GoVeggie’s Chive & Garlic Cream Cheese is rich and creamy with only 110mg of sodium (per 2 Tbsp). It is gluten free but contains coconut and soy. It comes in plain and strawberry flavors as well. So, whether you are in the mood for savory or sweet, GoVeggie is the way to go.
Lean Machine
Kite Hill’s Everything spread
For those looking to stay lean, check out Kite Hill’s Everything spread. With 0g of Saturated Fat and only 6g of fat per serving (2 Tbsp) you can schmear with confidence! The Everything flavor is loaded with herbs, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, and roasted sesame seeds. It is also soy and gluten free and comes in a variety of flavors both sweet and savory!
All Hail B12
Violife’s Just Like Cream Cheese Chilli Peppers
Last, but certainly not least, is Violife’s Just Like Cream Cheese Chilli Peppers. Who says cream cheese is just for bagels. This spread adds the perfect kick to any meal. The site suggests it is ideal for Mexican food lovers. Add it to anything that could use some creamy spice, even enchiladas! In addition to its versatility, this cream cheese has the most B12, giving you 30% of your daily value per serving! Finally, Violife is vegan society certified and they have nine savory flavors to choose from!
New Product Alert Of 2021
SoDelicious Cream Cheese Style Spreads
Made with all plant-based ingredients and cultured sugar to retain its freshness, this is a super natural product! It's also kosher, gluten-free, and non-GMO. Available in Creamy Original and Chive & Onion flavors, SoDelicious' cream cheese spreads are the perfect addition to your bagels, sandwiches, and crackers!
Vegan Cream Cheese - Nutritional Comparison Table
Still not sure what plant-based cream cheese brand is best for you? Don't worry. We have compiled all the nutritional values in the table below so you can decide which one is best for you.
Dairy-Free Vegan Cream Cheese Retail Prices
The Wrap Up
That brings us to the end of this brand breakdown. Luckily, you have numerous options from these six companies to satisfy all of your cream cheese needs. Share with your friends and family, and the next time you get a cheesy craving, consider one of these brands. To your vegan success!