
Then, I use a lower cashew:water ratio, which makes a runnier cream sauce. I also like to use cashew cream as a dairy-free replacement for heavy cream. As you can see below, if I’m planning to use it as a sour cream substitute, I amp up the flavor with white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and onion powder. I drizzle this thick cashew cream over bowls, salads, vegan pizza, and more.

The basic recipe below uses a 2:1 ratio of cashews to water, which yields a texture similar to sour cream or Greek yogurt. My cashew cream recipe varies depending on how I plan to use it. I use a Vitamix, but I’ve also heard good things about high-speed Blendtec and KitchenAid blenders. You’ll be able to create plant-based milks and sauces at a moment’s notice, and they’ll be creamier than they would be with another blender, regardless of whether or not you soak any nuts ahead of time. If you’re someone who plans to make homemade basics like cashew cream frequently, getting a powerful blender is totally worth it. After they’ve soaked, drain and rinse the cashews and proceed with the recipe below. Just place the cashews in a bowl, cover them with water, and set them aside. However, if you have a less powerful blender, I do recommend soaking cashews for at least 4 hours. If you have a high-speed blender, there’s no need to soak cashews. To soak or not to soak? That is the question, and the answer depends on your blender.

By contrast, raw cashews yield a neutral creamy taste, which is delicious in all sorts of savory recipes. Though I love cashews, that’s not what we’re going for here. Roasted cashews will give the cream a nutty, cashew-y flavor. Scrape down the sides of the blender canister, as needed, to make sure everything is thoroughly combined. To make it, just add the ingredients to a blender, and puree until smooth.

Raw cashews make it thick and creamy, water helps it blend, extra-virgin olive oil adds richness, and lemon juice, garlic, and salt give it a bright, tangy flavor. My vegan cashew cream recipe uses basic ingredients. I love to add it to creamy vegan pasta sauces, top it onto baked potatoes, serve it over burrito bowls, and more! It’s easy to make, it requires just 6 ingredients, and it’s every bit as rich and creamy as sour or heavy cream. If you’re interested in eating more plant-based recipes, cashew cream will be your new best friend.
