Looking for a dairy free cottage cheese that actually tastes good? You’re not alone. Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or just trying to avoid dairy, finding a creamy, satisfying alternative can be a challenge. In this guide, we’ll dive into the best options available today, how to make your own, and what swaps you can use in recipes. You’ll also get answers to the most common questions people ask about dairy-free and vegan cottage cheese. From store-bought brands to easy recipes, this article will help you bring a plant-based version of this classic dish into your kitchen with confidence.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
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My Story and Why Dairy Free Cottage Cheese Matters
Why I Started Making Dairy Free Cottage Cheese
Hey there, I’m Zina—welcome to Easy Dishes To Do!
I’ve always loved cottage cheese, especially the creamy, slightly tangy kind my grandmother used to spoon onto toast. But when I realized dairy wasn’t sitting well with me, I had to explore alternatives. After a few disappointing store-bought tries, I started experimenting. Eventually, I created a dairy free cottage cheese version that brought back the flavor I missed—without the dairy.
That’s what Easy Dishes To Do is all about: finding joy in the kitchen again with recipes that fit real life. Making dairy free cottage cheese at home is simpler than you’d think, and the best part? It tastes fresh, it’s made with real ingredients, and you control everything that goes into it. Whether you’re adding it to a breakfast bowl, spreading it on toast, or tossing it in a salad, this plant-based version does the trick.
And if you’re in the mood for more nourishing ideas, you’ll also love our easy cottage cheese smoothie—refreshing, filling, and flexible.
What You’ll Learn in This Article
We’ll break down how to make your own dairy free cottage cheese, what brands to try, and which vegan cottage cheese substitutes work best in cooking and baking. Plus, I’ll answer popular questions like “Is there cottage cheese dairy free?” and “What’s a vegan substitute for cottage cheese?” This guide is for anyone who loves food but needs to avoid dairy—simple, practical, and packed with flavor.
Coming up next in Part 2, we’ll break down the best brands making dairy free cottage cheese right now and what to look for when choosing one.
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Dairy Free Cottage Cheese: Simple, Creamy, and Totally Plant-Based
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Yield: 1 1/2 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Creamy, tangy, and fully plant-based, this dairy free cottage cheese is quick to make and perfect for breakfasts, snacks, or savory bowls.
Ingredients
1 block firm tofu, pressed and crumbled
2 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (more as needed)
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional)
Black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Crumble tofu into a mixing bowl using a fork or hands.
2. Add lemon juice and mix until evenly coated.
3. Pour in almond milk a little at a time until creamy.
4. Add salt, nutritional yeast, and pepper; stir gently.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Notes
Use cashew cream instead of tofu for a smoother version.
Add fresh herbs like dill or chives for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Dairy Free
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: dairy free cottage cheese, vegan cottage cheese, tofu cottage cheese
Best Store-Bought Dairy Free Cottage Cheese Options
Who Makes Dairy Free Cottage Cheese?
If you’ve wondered who actually makes a dairy free cottage cheese, you’re not alone. While not as common as almond milk, a few great brands like Kite Hill and Forager Project offer high-quality vegan versions. These pair perfectly with healthy meals like cottage cheese egg salad or power bowls.
Look for almond or cashew bases with live cultures and minimal additives to keep things clean and nourishing.
One standout is Good Culture, known for clean ingredients and high protein. While their main line is dairy-based, they’ve started experimenting with lactose-free and plant-based innovations. Green Valley Creamery is another trusted option—they use lactose-free milk and probiotics, great for those who are sensitive but not fully dairy-free. And if you’re strictly plant-based, Forager Project and Kite Hill both offer vegan alternatives that mimic the mild tang and creamy texture of traditional cottage cheese. Forager’s version uses cashew milk, while Kite Hill leans on almond milk and cultures.
When buying, always read labels. Look for live cultures, minimal additives, and a base like almond or soy for protein. Also, check the sodium—some brands go heavy on the salt to compensate for the flavor. Avoid anything with added gums or starches if you want a cleaner option.
You can usually find these in the vegan or specialty dairy section at stores like Whole Foods, Sprouts, or online through Thrive Market.
What to Expect with Store-Bought Plant-Based Cottage Cheese
Don’t expect identical flavor or curds like the real thing. Most dairy free versions go for a whipped or creamy texture. They’re perfect for spreading on toast or adding to grain bowls, but won’t behave the same in baked recipes.
If you’re a fan of texture, try crumbling in some firm tofu to mimic those small cheese curds. This is a trick I often use at home when I want that bite without the dairy.
Store-bought dairy free options are usually creamy, not curdy, and great for toast, bowls, or dips. For recipes that call for texture, you can crumble in firm tofu—or if you’re craving something indulgent, layer it with your next cottage cheese pizza crust for added richness and protein.
How to Make Dairy Free Cottage Cheese at Home
Simple Ingredients, Real Flavor
Making it at home is quick and easy. Tofu or blended cashews form the base, while lemon juice or vinegar adds the tang. You can also stir in nutritional yeast and black pepper for a savory flavor.
Homemade versions pair beautifully with high-protein meals like egg and cottage cheese bake or as a creamy base in dips.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll need:
- Firm tofu (pressed and crumbled)
- Unsweetened plant milk (like almond or oat)
- Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Nutritional yeast (optional, for a slightly cheesy flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Just crumble the tofu with a fork, stir in the vinegar to give it that tangy kick, then slowly add a splash of plant milk to make it creamy. You can chill it for 15–20 minutes to let the flavors develop.
If you want it smoother, try blending soaked cashews with the same seasonings, then stirring in tofu for texture. That combo gives you a more luxurious finish that’s still totally dairy free.
Why Homemade Wins
Store-bought is convenient, When you make it yourself, you control everything—salt, texture, fat. Want a richer finish? Blend it with soaked cashews. Want it super light? Use low-fat cottage cheese as a base reference or mimic.
This makes it ideal for pairing with snacks or light desserts like our fruity protein bowls or chocolate dips.
In Part 4, we’ll explore easy substitutes and when to use them—especially in recipes like lasagna, pancakes, and even dips.
Vegan Substitutes and Cooking Tips
What’s a Good Vegan Substitute for Cottage Cheese?
If a recipe calls for cottage cheese, don’t stress—there are a handful of easy vegan swaps that work just as well. For cooking, use tofu-based ricotta or thick almond yogurt. Add lemon juice and garlic for a savory edge. For sweet recipes like muffins, use blended cashew cream.
And don’t forget: a scoop of dairy free cottage cheese alongside your smoothie bowl or even cottage cheese queso in a spicy wrap is a great way to mix textures and flavors.
For sweet recipes—think pancakes or baked goods—go for blended cashew cream or a store-bought almond milk yogurt. These options provide moisture and mild flavor without overpowering your dish.
Another unexpected but effective option? Vegan Greek-style yogurt. It’s tangy, thick, and protein-packed, which makes it perfect for dips.
Still want that slight grainy texture? Stir in small chunks of tofu to your yogurt base. It’ll mimic the curds you expect in cottage cheese, but it’s 100% plant-based.
How to Use Dairy Free Cottage Cheese in Recipes
Here’s where the fun begins. You can use dairy free cottage cheese in almost any way you’d use the traditional version—just adjust expectations a bit.
Try it in:
- Savory bowls with roasted veggies and quinoa
- Vegan lasagna as a ricotta-style layer
- Toast topped with olive oil and herbs
- A creamy spread in sandwiches or wraps
And yes, you can even bake with it! Add a scoop into muffin batter or pancake mix for moisture and structure. just blend it smooth and add a touch of honey and fruit, then pair with a spoonful of our cottage cheese smoothie for a nutrient-packed breakfast.
Is there cottage cheese dairy free?
Yes, you can find or make cottage cheese without dairy. These versions are made with plant-based ingredients like tofu, cashews, or almonds. They’re designed to taste and feel like traditional cottage cheese, just without the milk.
Who makes a dairy free cottage cheese?
Brands like Kite Hill and Forager Project make fully vegan versions using almond or cashew bases. Green Valley Creamery offers a lactose-free version for people who can’t digest dairy but still want that classic flavor.
What’s a vegan substitute for cottage cheese?
If you can’t find it in stores, try mixing crumbled tofu with lemon juice, or blend soaked cashews into a creamy spread. Vegan Greek yogurt also works well in recipes that need moisture and a mild tang.
Is daisy cottage cheese dairy free?
No. Daisy cottage cheese is made from real dairy milk and isn’t suitable if you’re avoiding dairy completely.
Conclusion
Going dairy free doesn’t mean giving up the foods you love—and cottage cheese is no exception. Whether you choose a store-bought option or make it yourself, dairy free cottage cheese is a smart, simple way to keep enjoying creamy, satisfying dishes without discomfort or compromise.
From tofu and cashews to plant-based yogurt, you’ve got plenty of choices that work in both sweet and savory recipes. Brands like Kite Hill and Forager Project make great ready-to-eat versions, but making your own at home is just as tasty—and surprisingly easy.
Try it in a cottage cheese pizza crust, spoon it over roasted veggies, or blend it into a savory dip. Whatever your style, it’s a delicious and modern take on a timeless ingredient.
Thanks for joining me in the kitchen today.