Out of Mascarpone, one case
Dairy-free mascarpone substitute
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Cashew cream
Same amount as the mascarpone
The best dairy-free substitute for mascarpone cheese is cashew cream (1:1 ratio). For nut-free options, use coconut cream or silken tofu. For store-bought options, try vegan cream cheese or vegan ricotta.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- Vegan tiramisu
One casethe full mascarpone cheese card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of mascarpone | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cashew creamVegan tiramisu | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Coconut creamVegan desserts | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Silken tofuVegan baking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 4 | Vegan cream cheeseVegan baking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Vegan ricottaVegan pasta | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Cashew cream
different taste, similar texture
Cashew cream is the best dairy-free substitute for mascarpone. Soak raw cashews overnight, then blend with a little water until smooth and creamy. It has a rich, neutral flavor.
- Best for
- Vegan tiramisu, Vegan pasta, Vegan baking, General cooking
Soak cashews overnight, blend until smooth.
Coconut cream
different taste, similar texture
Coconut cream creates a rich, dairy-free substitute with a subtle coconut flavor. Refrigerate a can of coconut milk overnight and use only the thick cream that separates.
- Best for
- Vegan desserts, Vegan pasta, Tropical flavor dishes
Refrigerate can overnight, use thick cream only.
Silken tofu
different taste and texture
Silken tofu creates a creamy, protein-rich dairy-free substitute. Blend until completely smooth and add a little lemon juice for tang. It's lower in fat than other options.
- Best for
- Vegan baking, Vegan pasta, Healthier option
Blend until smooth, add lemon juice for tang.
Vegan cream cheese
different taste, similar texture
Vegan cream cheese is a convenient store-bought option that has similar texture to mascarpone. It's made from plant-based ingredients and works well in most recipes.
- Best for
- Vegan baking, Vegan frosting, General cooking
Store-bought option, similar texture.
Vegan ricotta
different taste and texture
Vegan ricotta is a store-bought option that works well as a mascarpone substitute. It has a slightly grainy texture but is good for Italian dishes and baking.
- Best for
- Vegan pasta, Vegan baking, Italian dishes
Store-bought option, slightly grainy texture.
How it behaves in this recipe
Dairy-free substitutes for mascarpone need to provide the same rich, creamy texture and neutral flavor while being completely lactose-free. The best options use nuts, coconut, or soy-based ingredients to recreate the luxurious mouthfeel of traditional mascarpone without any dairy products.
Tips for substituting mascarpone
6 tips- Soak cashews for at least 4 hours for best texture
- Blend dairy-free substitutes until completely smooth
- Add lemon juice to silken tofu for tanginess
- Refrigerate coconut cream overnight before using
- Use high-speed blender for smoothest results
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance flavor
Notes on mascarpone
- Mix different dairy-free substitutes for balanced flavor
- Use almond cream for a nutty alternative
- Try macadamia cream for extra richness
- Consider using aquafaba for lighter applications
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best dairy-free substitute for mascarpone?
Cashew cream is the best dairy-free substitute for mascarpone. Soak raw cashews overnight, then blend with a little water until smooth and creamy. It has a rich, neutral flavor that works in most recipes.
Can I use coconut cream instead of mascarpone?
Yes, coconut cream works well as a dairy-free mascarpone substitute. Refrigerate a can of coconut milk overnight and use only the thick cream. It will have a subtle coconut flavor.
Is silken tofu a good mascarpone substitute?
Yes, silken tofu can work as a mascarpone substitute, especially for baking. Blend until completely smooth and add a little lemon juice for tang. It's lower in fat than other options.
Can I buy dairy-free mascarpone at the store?
Yes, there are several store-bought dairy-free options including vegan cream cheese and vegan ricotta. These are convenient alternatives that work well in most recipes.
How do I make cashew cream for mascarpone?
Soak raw cashews in water for at least 4 hours, then drain and blend with a little fresh water until smooth and creamy. Add a pinch of salt and lemon juice for flavor.