Name: Carli's Bee Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490212H52M3S
Total time: PT-490212H52M3S
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 2 cups raw cashews, soaked for at least 4 hours; 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 cup water (or more as needed for consistency); 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon agar agar powder

Carli's Bee Cheese is a unique and delicious cheese recipe that blends creamy texture with subtle tang, making it perfect for a variety of dishes. Whether spread on crackers, added to salads, or enjoyed on its own, this homemade cheese brings a flavorful twist to your meals. The combination of fresh ingredients and easy preparation makes it an exciting addition to any kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s incredibly simple yet yields such a flavorful result. Carli's Bee Cheese has a smooth, creamy texture that’s easy to spread and pairs wonderfully with so many foods. It's also versatile – whether you're looking for a new appetizer or just something different to add to a meal, this cheese is perfect. I find that it adds richness without overwhelming the other flavors in a dish. Plus, the ingredients are wholesome and natural, which makes it feel like a true treat when I make it at home.

Ingredients

2 cups raw cashews, soaked for at least 4 hours
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1 tablespoon lemon juice
¼ cup water (or more as needed for consistency)
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon agar agar powder

(Her's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Start by soaking the cashews in water for at least 4 hours to soften them. Drain and rinse the cashews after soaking.
In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add about ¼ cup of water and blend until smooth and creamy, adding more water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
Meanwhile, dissolve the agar agar powder in ¼ cup of water in a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and becomes clear. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Once the agar mixture has thickened, slowly pour it into the blended cashew mixture while continuing to blend, making sure everything is well combined.
Transfer the mixture into a mold or bowl of your choice and let it cool in the fridge for at least 2-3 hours or until it sets.

Servings and timing

This recipe typically makes around 1-2 cups of cheese, depending on how thick you want it. It’s perfect for 4-6 servings, depending on how much cheese you use per person.

Prep time: 10 minutes (plus soaking time)
Set time: 2-3 hours
Total time: 3-4 hours (including soaking and setting)

Variations

If I’m looking to add a bit more flavor to Carli's Bee Cheese, I’ll sometimes experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding fresh herbs like chives, thyme, or basil can really enhance the flavor profile. I’ve also tried adding a bit of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or even a touch of miso paste for a deeper, umami richness. If I prefer a sharper taste, I’ll sometimes add a bit more lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. This recipe is highly customizable depending on what flavors I’m craving.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover Bee Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge. It typically lasts about 4-5 days when stored properly. I always find that it holds its texture and flavor quite well after chilling, and it’s just as creamy when spread. If the cheese becomes a little firmer than I’d like after refrigeration, I’ll simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. For reheating, I just leave it at room temperature or gently warm it on low heat, though it’s also delicious served cold.

FAQs

Can I make Carli's Bee Cheese without agar agar?

Yes, you can! If you don’t have agar agar, you can try using another thickener like cornstarch or arrowroot powder, although it won’t set as firmly as the agar. You could also skip the setting step and just use the cheese as a creamy spread.

How long should I soak the cashews for?

I soak the cashews for at least 4 hours, but you can soak them overnight if you prefer. Soaking them helps soften the nuts, making the cheese smoother and creamier.

Can I use roasted cashews instead of raw?

I usually prefer raw cashews because they create a more neutral and smooth flavor, but roasted cashews could work as well. Just keep in mind they may introduce a more intense flavor to the cheese.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, Carli's Bee Cheese is completely vegan! It’s made with plant-based ingredients, so it’s perfect for anyone following a dairy-free or vegan diet.

Can I freeze Carli's Bee Cheese?

Yes, you can freeze Carli's Bee Cheese! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to use, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and give it a good stir before serving.

Conclusion

Carli's Bee Cheese is an easy, delicious, and versatile homemade cheese alternative that I absolutely love making. Whether I’m enjoying it on crackers, adding it to a salad, or using it as a creamy spread, this cheese always brings something special to the table. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience while it sets, I can have a fresh batch of this creamy cheese ready to enjoy in no time. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthier, plant-based cheese that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture.