Philadelphia's Official Plant-Based Offering
In response to growing demand for plant-based alternatives, the creators of the original Philadelphia cream cheese introduced their own vegan version: Philadelphia Plant Based. This product is made primarily from almond and oat proteins, combined with coconut oil to achieve a creamy, spreadable texture reminiscent of its dairy counterpart. It’s specifically formulated to be just as versatile as the original, making it suitable for spreading on bagels and toast, or using as an ingredient in your favorite recipes, including cheesecakes. The ingredients list is relatively simple, which is a plus for those who prefer minimally processed vegan foods. It’s a convenient option for longtime fans of the brand who are transitioning to a vegan diet.
Key Ingredients in Philadelphia Plant Based
- Almond and Oat Protein: The primary base ingredients providing a neutral, creamy flavor.
- Coconut Oil: Adds richness and a smooth texture.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Vegan Culture: Cultured to replicate the signature tang of traditional cream cheese.
Popular Vegan Cream Cheese Alternatives
Beyond Philadelphia's own product, the vegan market is rich with excellent alternatives, each with a unique base and flavor profile. These options cater to different tastes, dietary needs, and uses.
Violife Just Like Cream Cheese
Violife is well-regarded in the vegan community for producing high-quality cheese alternatives, and its cream cheese is no exception. This product is primarily made from coconut oil and enriched with Vitamin B12, making it a great option for those avoiding nuts or soy.
Violife Characteristics
- Texture: Very smooth and creamy when cold.
- Flavor: Mild and slightly sweet, with a hint of coconut.
- Best For: Spreading on bagels or using in cold dips. Some users report that it can become oily when heated, so it may not be ideal for baking.
Miyoko's Cultured Vegan Cream Cheese
Miyoko's Creamery takes an artisanal approach, culturing organic cashew milk to create its cream cheese. This process gives it a more authentic, tangy flavor profile that many enjoy.
Miyoko's Characteristics
- Texture: Thick and firm, with a slightly grittier texture due to the cashew base.
- Flavor: Subtly tangy and authentically cheesy due to the culturing process.
- Best For: Spreading on bagels or using in recipes where a cultured, cheesy flavor is desired. It holds up well to heat in baking.
Kite Hill Cream Cheese Style Spread
Crafted from cultured artisan almond milk, Kite Hill is a soy-free and dairy-free alternative with a velvety smooth texture. It is known for its clean ingredients and fresh taste.
Kite Hill Characteristics
- Texture: Velvety and smooth.
- Flavor: Subtly tangy with a delicate almond milk base.
- Best For: Spreading on crackers, bagels, or using as a base for creamy sauces and frostings.
Comparison of Vegan Cream Cheese Brands
| Feature | Philadelphia Plant Based | Violife | Miyoko's Creamery | Kite Hill |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Almond, Oat, Coconut Oil | Coconut Oil | Cashew Milk | Almond Milk |
| Key Characteristic | Brand's official version | Allergen-friendly, fortified | Artisanal, cultured, tangy | Smooth, subtly tangy |
| Best For | Spreading, baking, cheesecakes | Spreading, cold dips | Spreading, baking | Spreading, sauces |
| Potential Weakness | May contain other nuts | Can turn oily when heated | Slightly gritty texture | Separates in some recipes |
Making Your Own Vegan Cream Cheese
For those who prefer a homemade approach, several simple recipes use whole-food ingredients to achieve a creamy and flavorful result. Common bases include soaked cashews, tofu, or coconut cream. To achieve the classic tangy flavor, ingredients like lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and nutritional yeast are added.
A Simple Cashew-Based Recipe
- Soak Cashews: Soak 1 cup of raw, unsalted cashews in hot water for 20-30 minutes, or cold water for 4-8 hours.
- Blend Ingredients: Drain and rinse the cashews. Combine in a high-speed blender or food processor with 1.5 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, a pinch of salt, and a bit of water.
- Adjust and Chill: Blend until completely smooth. You can add optional ingredients like nutritional yeast, onion powder, or fresh herbs. Refrigerate for at least an hour to let it firm up.
Conclusion
While the official vegan version of Philadelphia cream cheese is the popular Philadelphia Plant Based, the best alternative ultimately depends on your personal taste and intended use. The almond and oat-based Philadelphia version is a reliable, all-purpose option. For a nut-free choice, Violife's coconut oil-based spread is a contender, though it's best for cold applications. Miyoko's stands out for its cultured, tangy flavor that's great for baking, while Kite Hill offers a clean, almond-based spread that works well for dips and frostings. Exploring these options, or even making your own at home, ensures that a dairy-free lifestyle doesn't mean giving up your favorite creamy spreadable treat.
(Note: Always check product labels for the most up-to-date ingredient and allergen information.)
Vegan Food & Living - How to make your own vegan cream cheese
