Out of Ricotta cheese, one case
Vegan ricotta cheese substitute
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Silken tofu ricotta
Same amount as the ricotta cheese
The best vegan ricotta cheese substitutes are seasoned silken tofu, cashew ricotta, and almond ricotta. Use 1:1 ratio and season with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and salt for authentic flavor.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- lasagna
One casethe full ricotta cheese card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of ricotta cheese | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Silken tofu ricottalasagna | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Cashew ricottadesserts | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Almond ricottalasagna | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Coconut yogurt ricottadips | 1 cup coconut yogurt + 1 tbsp nutritional yeast + 1 tbsp lemon juice + ¼ tsp salt per 1 cup ricottaTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Hemp seed ricottaprotein-rich dishes | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Store-bought vegan ricottaconvenience | Same amountWorks | Works |
Silken tofu ricotta
similar taste and texture
Blended silken tofu seasoned to mimic ricotta's flavor and texture. The most popular vegan ricotta alternative.
- Best for
- lasagna, stuffed shells, cannoli, pasta dishes, baking
Blend silken tofu until smooth, add nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and salt for authentic ricotta flavor.
Cashew ricotta
enhanced taste, similar texture
Soaked and blended cashews create a rich, creamy ricotta alternative with authentic texture.
- Best for
- desserts, cannoli, tiramisu, when you want rich flavor
Soak cashews 4+ hours, blend with water, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice until smooth.
Almond ricotta
similar taste and texture
Blanched almonds blended into a smooth, mild ricotta substitute good for savory dishes.
- Best for
- lasagna, pasta, savory dishes, when you want mild flavor
Use blanched almonds, blend with water and seasonings until smooth and creamy.
Coconut yogurt ricotta
different taste, similar texture
Thick coconut yogurt seasoned to mimic ricotta's tangy flavor profile.
- Best for
- dips, spreads, baking, when you want tangy flavor
Use unsweetened coconut yogurt, add nutritional yeast and lemon juice for tanginess.
Hemp seed ricotta
different taste, similar texture
Hemp seeds blended into a protein-rich ricotta alternative with nutty undertones.
- Best for
- protein-rich dishes, savory applications, when you want nutrition boost
Blend hemp seeds with water, nutritional yeast, and seasonings until smooth.
Store-bought vegan ricotta
similar taste and texture
Commercial vegan ricotta alternatives like Kite Hill or Tofutti ricotta-style cheese.
- Best for
- convenience, all applications, when you want authentic taste
Most convenient option, use directly in recipes without modification.
How it behaves in this recipe
Vegan ricotta substitutes work because they replicate ricotta's key characteristics: mild flavor, creamy texture, and ability to hold shape when cooked. The best substitutes use plant-based proteins (tofu, nuts) that can be seasoned and textured to mimic ricotta's unique properties.
Tips for substituting ricotta cheese
10 tips- For best texture, always blend vegan ricotta substitutes until completely smooth
- Add nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor, lemon juice for tanginess, and salt for depth
- Let vegan ricotta rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up before using
- For lasagna, use a slightly thicker consistency by reducing liquid content
- For desserts, add a touch of vanilla extract or maple syrup for sweetness
- Store homemade vegan ricotta in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- Freeze vegan ricotta in ice cube trays for easy portioning
- For extra creaminess, add a tablespoon of coconut oil while blending
- Season to taste - vegan ricotta benefits from generous seasoning
- For authentic texture, don't over-blend - stop when smooth but not completely liquid
Notes on ricotta cheese
- Use hummus as a savory ricotta alternative in pasta dishes
- Try mashed white beans seasoned with herbs for a protein-rich alternative
- Use avocado blended with lemon juice for a creamy, healthy alternative
- Try soaked sunflower seeds blended smooth for a nut-free option
Questions
6 questionsWhat's the best vegan substitute for ricotta cheese?
Silken tofu seasoned with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and salt is the most popular and versatile vegan ricotta substitute. It works in both savory and sweet applications.
Can I use vegan ricotta in lasagna?
Yes, vegan ricotta works excellently in lasagna. Use silken tofu ricotta for best results, and make sure it's well-seasoned for authentic flavor.
How do I make vegan ricotta taste like real ricotta?
Season silken tofu with nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor, lemon juice for tanginess, garlic powder, salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Let it rest in the fridge for 30 minutes to develop flavor.
Can I use vegan ricotta in cannoli?
Yes, cashew ricotta works best for cannoli as it has the richest, creamiest texture. Add a touch of vanilla extract and powdered sugar for authentic cannoli filling.
Is vegan ricotta healthier than regular ricotta?
Vegan ricotta is typically lower in saturated fat and cholesterol, but higher in protein and fiber. It's also free from dairy allergens, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Can I freeze vegan ricotta?
Yes, vegan ricotta freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir well before using. The texture may be slightly different after freezing.