Why Cashew Cream Is a Plant-Based Essential
When I made the switch to a dairy-free lifestyle, one thing I missed most was creamy textures—sour cream, rich sauces, and velvety dressings. That changed the moment I discovered cashew cream, a game-changing, plant-based alternative that’s now a staple in my kitchen.
Not only are cashews a nutritious snack, but they’re also incredibly versatile in dairy-free cooking. From vegan sour cream and creamy pasta sauces to dairy-free garlic dip and even homemade cashew milk, cashews can do it all.
Ingredients for Cashew Cream
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1 cup raw cashews (unsalted)
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¾ to 1 cup water
Optional add-ins (depending on how you plan to use it):
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Pinch of salt (for savory dishes)
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1 Tbsp lemon juice (for tang)
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1 tsp maple syrup or vanilla (for sweet versions)
How to Make Cashew Cream
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Soak the cashews:
Place cashews in a bowl and cover with water. Let them soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. (Short on time? Soak them in hot water for 30 minutes.) -
Drain & rinse:
After soaking, drain the cashews and rinse them under cool water. -
Blend until creamy:
Add cashews and fresh water (start with ¾ cup) to a high-speed blender. Blend until completely smooth. Scrape down the sides if needed. -
Adjust texture:
Want it thinner? Add a bit more water. Want it richer? Keep it thick!
🌱 What Is Cashew Cream?
Cashew cream is a silky, rich, and neutral-flavored sauce made by blending soaked cashews with water. It can be adjusted to be savory or sweet, depending on the recipe. Best of all, it’s simple to make and endlessly adaptable—perfect for anyone following a vegan, dairy-free, or plant-based diet.
Why You’ll Love Cashew Cream
✅ Dairy-free & vegan
✅ Customizable – make it thick or thin, savory or sweet
✅ Whole food-based – no fillers or mystery ingredients
✅ Perfect for meal prep – lasts up to 5 days in the fridge
🍽️ Delicious Ways to Use Cashew Cream
💡 Savory Cashew Cream Uses:
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Stir into soups and stews to add creaminess and body
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Use as a base for dairy-free pasta sauces or risottos
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Drizzle over roasted vegetables or grain bowls
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Create vegan salad dressings, dips, and spreads
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Make a quick cashew garlic sauce with dried dill (see recipe below)
Quick Garlic Dill Sauce:
Mix 2 Tbsp of cashew cream with 1 small clove of pressed garlic and a pinch of dried dill. Perfect with air-fried potato wedges or as a dip!
🍰 Sweet Cashew Cream Ideas:
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Sweeten with maple syrup and swirl over pancakes or waffles
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Add to vegan cheesecakes, parfaits, or chia puddings
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Blend into smoothies for extra creaminess and healthy fats
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Stir into coffee as a rich, plant-based creamer
More Dips and Sauces from NutriQuorum
Healthy Vegan Caesar Dressing – No Oil, No Dairy!
Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus Recipe
Tzatziki: A Refreshing Greek Dip
Tahini Orange Dressing to Elevate Your Salads
Roasted Bell Pepper and Walnut Dip Recipe (Muhammara)
Creamy Cashew Cream
Equipment
- 1 High speed blender
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashew nuts 120 g
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- ¾ cup of filtered water (Add up to 1 cup of water if you prefer a thinner consistency)
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Soak the cashew in water for 2 hours. If you have a high-speed blender such as a Vitamix you can omit this stage.
- Add lemon juice, salt, and water and blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
Notes
- Cashew cream thickens over time, so when serving, you can dilute it with a little water.
- Feel free to add more lemon juice to your taste preferences. I sometimes add 1 and 1/2 Tbsp instead of 1 Tbsp.