Vegan Yogurt Substitute: Best Plant-Based Alternatives
Yogurt substitute
Coconut Yogurt
Use the same amount as the yogurt you are replacing
The best vegan yogurt substitutes are coconut yogurt, almond yogurt, and cashew yogurt. Use a 1:1 ratio for most recipes. For homemade alternatives, blend soaked cashews with lemon juice and probiotics for a thick, tangy substitute.
Compare all 7 yogurt substitutes
Discover the best vegan yogurt substitutes including coconut yogurt, almond yogurt, and homemade alternatives. Perfect for dairy-free cooking and baking.
Other yogurt substitutes
Ranked, with the exact amount to use
Substitutes for Yogurt
2Almond Yogurt
What changes
- Best for
- breakfast bowls, smoothies, baking, savory dishes
- Taste
- mild, slightly nutty
- Texture
- thick, creamy
Mild flavor that works well in both sweet and savory recipes
3Cashew Yogurt
What changes
- Best for
- savory dishes, dips, sauces, baking, cheesecakes
- Taste
- neutral, slightly tangy
- Texture
- thick, creamy
Most similar to yogurt in texture and flavor
4Soy Yogurt
What changes
- Best for
- smoothies, breakfast bowls, baking, when protein is needed
- Taste
- tangy, slightly beany
- Texture
- thick, creamy
Highest protein content among plant-based yogurts
5Oat Yogurt
What changes
- Best for
- breakfast bowls, smoothies, baking, desserts
- Taste
- mild, slightly sweet
- Texture
- thick, creamy
Mild flavor and good texture, may be slightly thinner
6Homemade Cashew Yogurt
What changes
- Best for
- all applications, when you want control over ingredients
- Taste
- neutral, tangy
- Texture
- thick, creamy
Most customizable and closest to yogurt texture
Cooking tips
- For the thickest texture, strain plant-based yogurts through cheesecloth for 2-4 hours
- Coconut yogurt works best in sweet dishes due to its natural sweetness
- Cashew yogurt is most versatile and works well in both sweet and savory recipes
- Soy yogurt provides the most protein and works well in smoothies and breakfast bowls
- For baking, use unsweetened varieties to avoid affecting the recipe's sweetness
- Add lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to increase tanginess if needed
- Store homemade yogurt in the refrigerator for up to 1 week
Frequently asked questions
What's the best vegan substitute for yogurt?
Cashew yogurt is the best vegan substitute for yogurt because it has the most similar texture and neutral flavor. Coconut yogurt and almond yogurt are also excellent options.
Can I use coconut yogurt instead of yogurt?
Yes, coconut yogurt can be used instead of yogurt. It has a thick, creamy texture and works well in both sweet and savory dishes, though it has a subtle coconut flavor.
What's the best vegan yogurt for baking?
Cashew yogurt or almond yogurt work best for baking because they have neutral flavors that won't interfere with your recipe. Use unsweetened varieties for best results.
Can I make vegan yogurt at home?
Yes, you can make vegan yogurt at home using soaked cashews, lemon juice, and probiotics. This gives you the most control over ingredients and texture.
What's the difference between vegan yogurt and regular yogurt?
Vegan yogurt is made from plant-based ingredients like coconut, almonds, or cashews, while regular yogurt is made from dairy. Vegan versions may have different protein and fat content.
Can I use soy yogurt instead of yogurt?
Yes, soy yogurt can be used instead of yogurt. It has a tangy flavor and is high in protein, making it a good choice for smoothies and breakfast bowls.
What's the best vegan yogurt for smoothies?
Coconut yogurt or cashew yogurt work best for smoothies because they have thick, creamy textures that blend well and provide good mouthfeel.
Can I use oat yogurt instead of yogurt?
Yes, oat yogurt can be used instead of yogurt. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and works well in breakfast bowls and smoothies.
What's the best vegan yogurt for savory dishes?
Cashew yogurt or almond yogurt work best for savory dishes because they have neutral flavors that won't interfere with savory ingredients.
Can I use vegan yogurt in cheesecake?
Yes, cashew yogurt or coconut yogurt work well in vegan cheesecakes. They provide the thick, creamy texture needed for authentic cheesecake consistency.