Best Vegan Cheddar Cheese: 5 Tasty Dairy-Free Alternatives

As the demand for vegan options continues to surge, the world of plant-based alternatives has expanded far beyond the basics. One area that has seen remarkable growth is the variety of vegan cheese brands, particularly cheddar varieties. 

Vegan cheddar cheese is no longer just an afterthought; it has become a delectable option for cheese lovers looking to embrace a dairy-free lifestyle.

If you are a committed vegan or just aiming to cut down on dairy, our guide is here to enlighten you about the finest vegan cheddar cheese picks found in stores and online. 

Dive into the world of cruelty-free, dairy-free goodness as we present the top 5 scrumptious vegan cheddar cheese options. These choices are bound to please even the most particular cheese fans. 

Violife Just Like Cheddar Shreds

Violife, a prominent player in the vegan cheese market, brings forth its ‘Just Like Cheddar Shreds,’ providing a fantastic dairy-free alternative for those seeking an authentic cheddar flavor. Made from a blend of coconut oil and potato starch, Violife’s shredded cheese offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience similar to traditional cheddar.

Best Suited For:

Ideal for cheese lovers who enjoy a classic cheddar taste in shredded form, Violife Just Like Cheddar Shreds are perfect for topping pizzas, salads, and pasta dishes.

Pros:

• Authentic cheddar flavor.
• These vegan cheese shreds melt well, making them suitable for a variety of dishes.
• Conveniently available brick-and-mortar retailers and online stores. 

Cons:

• Some may find the texture slightly different from dairy-based cheddar.
• Availability of this vegan cheese brand may vary in local grocery stores.

Daiya Cheddar Style Shreds

Daiya is a well-known name in the vegan cheese market, and their cheese alternatives such as the Cheddar Style Shreds are no exception. Made from a blend of tapioca and pea protein, their shredded cheese delivers a satisfyingly gooey melt and a rich cheddar flavor.

Best Suited For:

Ideal for those who appreciate a stretchy, gooey texture in melted cheese, Daiya Cheddar Style Shreds work wonders in dishes like vegan mac and cheese and grilled cheese sandwiches.

Pros:

• Has a gooey melt similar to dairy-based cheese.
• Incredibly versatile for use in various dishes, from cream cheese alternatives to cheese sauce components.
• Easily accessible in different grocery chains.

Cons:

• Some may find this vegan cheddar cheese texture a bit sticky.
• The flavor might be slightly different from traditional cheddar.

Field Roast Creamy Original Chao Slices

Field Roast takes vegan cheddar slices to a new level with their Creamy Original Chao Slices. These slices offer a smooth and creamy texture with a mild cheddar flavor. Perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or melting into gooey grilled cheese, Chao Slices brings versatility to a wide range of vegan recipes.

Best Suited For: 

Individuals seeking a versatile vegan cheddar cheese slice for sandwiches, burgers, or melting into various dishes. Field Roast’s Creamy Original Chao Slices are perfect for those who want an all-purpose delicious vegan cheese option.

Pros:

• Smooth and creamy texture that melts well.
• Mild cheddar cheese flavor that complements a variety of dishes.
• Convenient slices for easy use in sandwiches and other recipes.

Cons:

• Slightly milder flavor compared to some other cheddar alternatives.
• The texture may differ from traditional dairy-based cheddar slices.
• Availability may vary depending on the region.

365 By Whole Foods Market Non-Dairy Cheddar Shreds

365 By Whole Foods Market Non-Dairy Cheddar Shreds is a noteworthy addition to the vegan cheddar cheese landscape. Crafted to provide a satisfying cheddar flavor without dairy, these shreds are made from a combination of plant-based ingredients for a delightful and versatile cheddar cheese alternative.

Best Suited For: 

For a budget-friendly cheese alternative, consider the vegan cheddar shreds known as 365 By Whole Foods Market Non-Dairy Cheddar Shreds. Suitable for various recipes, it is a convenient choice for everyday use.

Pros:

• A budget-friendly option without compromising on flavor.
• These shreds work well in a variety of recipes, from pasta dishes to casseroles.
• Being a Whole Foods Market brand, these shreds are likely to be easily accessible in many regions.

Cons:

• Some users may find the cheddar flavor to be milder compared to other options on the market.
• Individuals seeking minimally processed options may want to review the ingredient list.
• The packaging design may not be as eye-catching or resealable as some other brands.

Follow Your Heart Dairy-Free Cheddar Shreds

Follow Your Heart has been a trailblazer in the world of vegan products, and their Dairy-Free Cheddar Shreds are a testament to their commitment to quality. Made with a combination of coconut oil and modified food starch, these shreds offer a rich and savory cheddar flavor.

Best Suited For: 

Those who seek a versatile cheddar cheese substitute for everyday use will appreciate Follow Your Heart Dairy-Free Cheddar Shreds. They work well in both hot and cold dishes, making them a kitchen essential.

Pros:

• These shreds are suitable for a wide range of recipes, from melting on pizzas to sprinkling on salads.
• Commonly found in mainstream grocery stores, increasing accessibility for consumers.
• The shreds exhibit excellent melting properties similar to real cheddar cheese, creating a gooey and satisfying texture in melted applications.

Cons:

• Some users may find the cheddar flavor to be milder compared to traditional dairy-based cheddar.
• The use of modified food starch might be a concern for those seeking minimally processed options.
• The packaging size may be smaller than expected for the price, especially for those who use vegan cheese frequently.

Conclusion

The world of vegan cheese is flourishing, and cheddar alternatives are at the heart of this tasty revolution. Whether you have embraced veganism for years or are newly exploring plant-based eating, our selection of five best vegan cheddar cheese brands caters to all desires, from shreds perfect for melting to convenient slices for sandwiches.

The days of missing traditional cheddar are over. Dive into this culinary exploration with rich, kind-to-the-earth vegan cheeses. With these irresistible vegan cheddar choices, you are set to delight your palate while supporting a sustainable future. Enjoy the journey to finding your favorite. Your taste buds—and the planet—will thank you.