Name: Vegan Cheese Ball
Prep time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h
Yield: 14
Ingredients: 2 cups raw cashews; boiling water; 3 Tbsp. lemon juice; 1/2 cup Primal Kitchen Plant Based Ranch Dressing; 1/2 tsp. onion powder; 1/2 tsp. garlic powder; 1/2 tsp. dried dill (or dried herb of choice); 1/4 tsp. mustard powder; 4 ounces vegan cream cheese; 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped

Vegan Cheese Ball

December 11, 2020

A more rustic, homespun take on fancier ways to please with cheese (looking at you, charcuterie), the cheese ball is a staple of holiday potlucks and family gatherings. Typically made with a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese or another semi-soft cheese shaped into a globe and coated with nuts, cheese balls can also include ranch or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. The ball is then placed on a huge plate scattered with sliced apples or pears, crackers, veggie sticks, or toasted pita triangles for dipping.

Of course, vegans and those avoiding dairy can view the cheese ball as a literal gut bomb. Thankfully, our vegan cheese ball is loaded with the flavor and creamy texture you remember, but without the dairy—so everyone can have a ball with it at your next party.

How to Make a Vegan Cheese Ball

There's nothing particularly difficult about making a vegan cheese ball, but fair warning: it must sit wrapped in a clean tea towel for at least four hours in the refrigerator before it can hold its circular shape. See the recipe below for details.