Does Trader Joe's Have Dairy Free Cream Cheese? The Answer and Alternatives

November 30, 2025 •

3 min read

In 2018, Trader Joe's solidified its commitment to plant-based shoppers by officially introducing its own branded Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative. For anyone wondering, "Does Trader Joe's have dairy free cream cheese?", the answer is a definitive yes, and it's become a staple for many looking for a spreadable, non-dairy option.

Quick Summary

Yes, Trader Joe's sells its own exclusive Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative, made from a base of coconut oil, potato starch, and chickpea protein. This versatile and popular product works for spreading on bagels, cooking, and baking, offering a creamy, dairy-free solution.

Key Points

Exclusive Vegan Option: Yes, Trader Joe's offers its own proprietary brand of vegan cream cheese called the "Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative".
Made from Coconut Oil: The product is primarily based on coconut oil, potato starch, and chickpea protein for a creamy texture.
Not Kite Hill: The most common vegan cream cheese at TJ's is their own house brand, not Kite Hill, though other third-party products may occasionally be stocked.
Versatile for Recipes: It can be used for more than just bagels, working well in both baking and cooking applications.
Dairy-Free vs. Lactose-Free: It's crucial to differentiate the Vegan Cream Cheese from the Lactose Free Cream Cheese, as the latter is a dairy product suitable only for those with lactose intolerance.
Found in the Cheese Section: You can typically find this product in the refrigerated cheese and dairy section of the store.

Yes, Trader Joe's Offers a Dedicated Vegan Cream Cheese

Trader Joe's has long been known for its unique and affordable products, and the dairy-free market is no exception. For shoppers seeking a vegan-friendly version of this popular spread, the store offers the Trader Joe's Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative. This house-brand product was developed specifically for customers seeking a creamy, spreadable option without any dairy or other animal products.

The Product Behind the Promise

The Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative from Trader Joe's is carefully crafted to mimic the taste and texture of its dairy-based counterpart. The ingenious balance of ingredients gives it a smooth, silky mouthfeel that is perfect for a variety of uses.

Base Ingredients: The formula primarily uses coconut oil, potato starch, and chickpea protein. This combination is what creates the rich and creamy consistency that so many customers enjoy.
Flavor Profile: While some alternatives can have an overpowering flavor from their base ingredient, the Trader Joe's version is lauded for its milder taste. Some reviews note a hint of coconut, but overall, it's a versatile flavor that can be used in both sweet and savory applications.
Versatility: This vegan spread isn't just for bagels. It's a key ingredient for many dairy-free recipes.
- Baking: It can be used to create creamy frosting for carrot cakes or brownies, or even as the base for a vegan cheesecake.
- Cooking: Use it in savory dishes like stuffed manicotti or jalapeño poppers for a creamy, dairy-free kick.
- Simple Spreading: A classic use is simply to spread it on your favorite bagel or cracker for a quick and delicious snack.

Important Distinction: Vegan vs. Lactose-Free

It is crucial for shoppers to understand the difference between Trader Joe's vegan and lactose-free options. These two products serve different dietary needs and are not interchangeable.

Trader Joe's Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative

This product is 100% dairy-free and contains no animal products whatsoever. It is suitable for those with milk allergies, lactose intolerance, and individuals following a vegan or plant-based diet. The tub will be clearly marked as "Vegan."

Trader Joe's Lactose Free Cream Cheese

This product is not dairy-free. It is made with real dairy and contains lactose, but includes the enzyme lactase to break down the lactose sugars, making it digestible for people with lactose intolerance. It is not suitable for individuals with a dairy allergy or those on a vegan diet, as it is still a dairy product. The packaging specifies "Lactose Free," which is different from "Dairy Free."

Comparison of Cream Cheese Spreads

To help you decide which spread is right for you, here is a comparison of Trader Joe's options and a common third-party brand sometimes found in stores like Kite Hill.


Feature	Trader Joe's Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative	Trader Joe's Lactose Free Cream Cheese	Kite Hill Plain Cream Cheese Alternative
Dairy-Free?	Yes	No	Yes
Vegan?	Yes	No	Yes
Primary Base	Coconut oil, chickpea protein, potato starch	Pasteurized milk and cream	Cultured almond milk
Tanginess	Milder, less tangy than dairy cream cheese	Classic cream cheese tang	Distinctive tangy flavor from cultured almonds
Allergen Info	May contain coconut	Contains milk	Contains almonds
Availability	Exclusive to Trader Joe's, reliable	Exclusive to Trader Joe's, reliable	Found at many retailers, not always TJ's

Where to Find Dairy-Free Cream Cheese at Trader Joe's

Navigating a new store's vegan options can be tricky. When searching for the dairy-free cream cheese at Trader Joe's, head to the refrigerated section. Look for the cheese case, which is typically where you'll find both the dairy and non-dairy spreads. The distinctive packaging for the Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative should make it easy to spot among the other offerings. If you have trouble locating it, any crew member can point you in the right direction.

Conclusion: A Reliable Dairy-Free Staple

For those who need to avoid dairy, Trader Joe's offers a reliable and tasty option with its Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative. Made with a blend of coconut oil, chickpea protein, and potato starch, it provides a smooth, creamy texture and a versatile flavor suitable for spreading on bagels, baking into desserts, or adding creaminess to savory dishes. Just be sure to read the label carefully to distinguish it from the store's lactose-free, but not dairy-free, version. For further details on the product's official specifications, you can always visit the Trader Joe's website.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with Trader Joe's.

Frequently Asked Questions

Trader Joe's dairy-free cream cheese is called the Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative. It is sold in a plastic tub in the refrigerated section.

Yes, Trader Joe's Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative is made from coconut oil, potato starch, and chickpea protein, so it does not contain nuts.

While third-party brands like Miyoko's or Kite Hill may have been sold at Trader Joe's in the past, the store's reliable, house-brand option is their Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative.

The Lactose Free cream cheese is a dairy product treated with lactase for those with lactose intolerance, while the Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative is completely dairy-free and suitable for vegans and those with milk allergies.

Yes, many bakers use Trader Joe's Vegan Cream Cheese Alternative for baking purposes, including making vegan cheesecake.

The ingredients include a blend of coconut oil, potato starch, chickpea protein, and other stabilizers to achieve its creamy texture and flavor.

It is generally described as having a rich, creamy flavor rather than a strong tanginess, which can vary slightly depending on individual taste perception.