Who could resist the gooey, melty goodness of cheese on a fresh, hot pie?
But if you’re vegan, lactose intolerant or just seeking healthier alternatives, traditional cheese may be out of the question. Enter vegan cheese — a game changer that’s sweeping the pizza scene.
Whether you’re a plant-based foodie or simply cheese-curious, this guide will help you discover the best vegan cheeses for pizza and the most delicious toppings to eat with them.
Well, pizza lovers, get ready to indulge without compromise!
What Is Vegan Cheese?
Vegan cheese is a plant-based alternative to cheese that does not contain any dairy, using nuts, soy, coconut, or starches as its main base.
And modern vegan cheeses are sculpted to imitate the taste, texture and meltability of dairy cheese — and they have a long way to go since the rubbery, flavorless things of old.
Common Bases for Vegan Cheese:
Cashew: Creamy and rich; works well for softer cheeses like ricotta.
Here are the nut options with their flavors: Almond: Mild, nutty flavor.
Soybeans: All-purpose and protein-rich.
Coconut: Adds creaminess, but can add a touch of coconut flavor.
Potato and Tapioca Starch: Great for stretchiness and meltability.
Vegan cheese isn’t just dairy-free; it also opens the door to bolder, new flavors and health benefits — all without sacrificing indulgence.
Why Use Vegan Cheese on Pizza?
Vegan cheese is a healthier replacement than just a plant-based alternative. Here are a few reasons that pizza lovers are switching:
Health Benefits: Vegan cheese is usually less high in saturated fat and 110% cholesterol-free. It can promote heart health, control weight and increase overall wellness. A lot of the vegan cheeses are rich in necessary vitamins such as B12 and calcium.
Ethical Option: Choosing vegan cheese is supporting cruelty-free practices and lessening the demand for animal products. This alternative encourages a more humane and compassionate lifestyle.
Environmental Sustainability: The production of plant-based cheese takes fewer natural resources and causes less pollution than dairy cheese production does. It’s a sustainable option for conscientious pizza eaters.
Flavor Variety: From smokey gouda’s to sharp cheddar-style blends, vegan cheeses have unique and delicious flavors that can take your pizza experience to the highest levels.
Diet Friendly: Perfect for lactose intolerant or allergies; vegan/plant-based diets. It’s also a terrific option for people who follow low-cholesterol or heart-healthy diets.
Top Vegan Cheese Brands for Pizza Lovers
For those on a mission to create the ultimate vegan pizza, selecting the perfect cheese is key. What follows are some of the best brands with which I’m familiar in terms of meltability, taste and texture:
Miyoko’s Creamery
This artisanal cheese made from cashews has a rich, creamy texture that melts up beautifully.
Perfect for gourmet-style pizzas and specialty flavors.
Daiya
Renowned for its remarkable stretch and melt, Daiya is a favorite among plenty of pizza lovers.
In classic flavors like mozzarella, cheddar, and pepperjack.
Violife
Derived from coconut oil with a silky, decadent flavor.
Offers mozzarella, feta-style and parmesan alternatives that are great for pizza.
Follow Your Heart
Creamy in a tasty way and melts well.
Perfect for a classic cheese pizza in which we want a smooth, even melt
Treeline
Cashew-based artisanal cheese that is packed with flavor.
Perfect for pizza aficianados looking to put a gourmet spin on pizza toppings.
Chao by Field Roast
This one is made from fermented tofu and coconut, and has a savory, buttery flavor.
Does wonders for cheesy breadsticks and deep-dish pizzas.
How to Get That Perfect Vegan Cheese Melt
The melt is one of the biggest hurdles pizza lovers face when using vegan cheese. Here’s what you need to know to achieve that gooey, stretchy, cheese-pull magic:
Add Moisture: Mist the cheese with water or olive oil just before baking. This makes the cheese softer and helps it melt better.
Cover with Foil: Cover (loosely) with aluminum foil for the first half of baking, trapping steam that promotes a creamier melt.
Bake Longer at a Lower Temperature: This allows the pizza to be cooked at a lower temperature that helps the vegan cheese to gradually heat up, resulting in better melting.
Mix Cheese Varieties: Use a combination of creamy cheeses (like vegan ricotta) and stretchy cheeses (like vegan mozzarella) to get the best of both worlds.
Shred As Fine As You Go: The smaller the shred the more evenly it melts and the less likely it’ll clump.
Best Vegan Cheese Toppings for Pizza Lovers
To really take your vegan pizza game to the next level, the perfect toppings can help. A few delicious and creative topping combinations are:
Classic Margherita Twist
Base: Tomato sauce
Cheese: Vegan mozzarella
For the toppings: fresh basil, sliced heirloom tomatoes, a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil
Mediterranean Delight
Base: Garlic olive oil
Cheese: Vegan feta
Toppings: Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, red onions, roasted artichokes, fresh arugula
Spicy Veggie Explosion
Base: Spicy arrabbiata sauce
Cheese: Vegan cheddar blend
Toppings: Bell peppers, jalapeños, red onions, mushrooms, sweet corn, sprinkle of chili flakes
BBQ Jackfruit Pizza
Base: Tangy BBQ sauce
Cheese: Vegan smoked gouda
Toppings: Pulled jackfruit, red onions, cilantro, and a light drizzle of vegan ranch
Mushroom Truffle Heaven
Base: Cashew cream sauce with garlic
Cheese: Vegan ricotta
Toppings: Sautéed wild mushrooms, drizzle of truffle oil, fresh thyme and black pepper
DIY Vegan Cheese Recipe for Pizza
Want to make your own vegan cheese at home? Here’s a simple and healthy recipe that pizza lovers will adore:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for at least 2 hours)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice for tanginess
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon tapioca starch (optional, for stretchiness)
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the mixture into a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Spread over your pizza before baking for a creamy, cheesy finish.
Final Thoughts: Your Perfect Vegan Pizza Awaits
For all the pizza lovers interested in embarking on the plant-based indulgence journey, vegan cheese is an un-finishable journey and there are many, many options.
From smoky gouda to melty mozzarella, there’s a vegan cheese for every taste and craving.
Just top it with the things you like most, try new melts, and savor the satisfaction of a tasty cruelty-free pizza that never sacrifices flavor.
Are you prepared to create the best vegan pizza ever? Let us know your favorite cheeshead combinations and toppings in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is vegan cheese made of?
Vegan cheese is made from plant-based ingredients, including nuts (like cashews and almonds), soy, coconut oil, nutritional yeast, and starches such as tapioca or potato. These ingredients are mixed and processed to mimic the textures, flavors, and meltability of traditional dairy cheese.
Do vegan cheeses melt like regular cheese?
If early vegan cheeses failed to match the melt of the dairy originals, today’s versions have come a long way. Companies like Daiya, Violife and Miyoko’s make vegan cheeses that melt, stretch and brown like traditional cheese, so they’re ideal for pizza fans.
Is that vegan cheese healthier than regular cheese?
Dairy cheese may be less healthy than the plant-based versions, as vegan cheese tends to be much lower in saturated fat and is free of cholesterol. It also makes a great alternative for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. But its nutritional content varies by brand, so consult the label about added oils, sodium, and preservatives.
Can I use vegan cheese on all kinds of pizza?
Absolutely! Vegan cheese works on any style of pizza, from thin-crust Margheritas to deep-dish delights. It works well with a range of toppings — vegetables, plant-based meats and herbs, and even fruits like pineapple for the bold.
How can I improve the melting ability of vegan cheese on pizza?
Here are a few tips for achieving a perfect vegan cheese melt:
Spritz the cheese lightly with water or olive oil before baking.
For the first half of the baking, cover the pizza with foil.
I recommend a combination of different vegan cheeses (e.g., mozzarella and ricotta) for better texture.
Bake at a lower heat (about 350°F/175°C) for a longer period of time to allow the cheese to melt more evenly.
Does Vegan Cheese Taste Like Regular Cheese?
Many vegan cheeses taste surprisingly close to dairy cheese — like, say, brand names Miyoko’s and Chao. But plant-based cheeses tend to have distinct flavors depending on their ingredients. Cashew-based cheeses, for example, are usually creamy with a slight nutty flavor, while coconut-based cheeses can have a slight coconut flavor.
Is Vegan Cheese Safe for Nut Allergy Sufferers?
Vegan cheeses are not necessarily nut-free. Many artisanal vegan cheeses are based on cashews or almonds. But nut-free options do exist and include products made from soy, coconut oil or starches, such as potato and tapioca. And always read the ingredient list to make sure the product is safe for anyone who has allergies.
What vegan cheese is best for pizza?
Vegan cheese is available at most major grocery chains, health food stores, and online retailers. Know that popular brands such as Violife, Daiya, and Follow Your Heart are available in many markets. Certain local vegan shops and farmers’ markets may also carry homemade artisanal vegan cheeses.
Is it possible to create vegan cheese at home?
Yes! Humans can easily make gluten and dairy cheese at home. A simple recipe is to blend together soaked cashews with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a little salt. Adding tapioca starch will also give you additional stretchiness. The homemade vegan cheese can be easily customized according to your taste preference.
How long does vegan cheese keep for?
How long does store bought vegan cheese last in the fridge after opening? Homemade vegan cheese will keep about 5-7 days. Be sure to check when it expires and keep it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
References
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – Provides research-backed information on plant-based diets and nutritional benefits.
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health – Offers insights on dairy alternatives and plant-based eating.
The Vegan Society – A comprehensive resource on vegan lifestyle choices, including food alternatives like vegan cheese.