Name: Vegan Garlic Herb Cream Cheese (Vegan Boursin) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 12 h 15 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 200 g cashews (soaked ahead of time); 180 g vegan Greek-style yogurt (such as Alpro soy Greek-style); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 large garlic clove (sliced); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast; ½ teaspoon sea salt; ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley); 1 teaspoon fresh dill (or dried dill); 1 teaspoon herbs de Provence (optional); 1 teaspoon fresh chives (chopped, optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 4 reviews

If you have ever craved a rich, tangy, and herb-filled spread that’s completely plant-based, then this Vegan Garlic Herb Cream Cheese (Vegan Boursin) Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Creamy cashews blended with zesty garlic, bright lemon, and a bouquet of fresh herbs create a dreamy, dairy-free version of the classic French cheese. It’s luscious, versatile, and so satisfying that even non-vegans won’t be able to resist. Whether slathered on toast, dolloped onto salads, or used as a dip, this spread packs pure flavor and velvety texture in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image showing creamy light tan mixture inside a clear food processor bowl. The texture is smooth with tiny dark specks throughout, and the mixture swirls around the center blade, which is black and partially covered with the paste. The clear sides of the bowl have some residue clinging, and the setting is a white marbled surface. The light highlights the soft creamy texture, showing depth and glossiness. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Vegan Garlic Herb Cream Cheese (Vegan Boursin) Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component adds to the creamy texture, vibrant flavor, or fresh herby aroma that defines this dish. These ingredients aren’t just staples—they’re the heartbeat of this luscious cheese alternative.

Cashews (200 g, soaked): Soaking softens them for a silky base with a subtle nutty flavor.
Vegan Greek-style yogurt (180 g): Adds tang and creaminess, giving depth without dairy.
Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brings brightness and balances richness perfectly.
Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a mild acidity, enhancing the overall tang.
Garlic clove (1 large, sliced): Infuses bold, aromatic flavor that’s unforgettable.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Boosts the garlic punch in a gentle, fragrant way.
Nutritional yeast (3 tablespoons): Imparts that cheesy, umami undertone essential for vegan cheeses.
Sea salt (½ teaspoon): Highlights and balances all the flavors beautifully.
Cracked black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and a bit of bite.
Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon) or dried (1 teaspoon): For bright, fresh herbal notes.
Fresh dill (1 teaspoon) or dried: Offers a gentle hint of anise-like aroma.
Herbs de Provence (1 teaspoon, optional): Adds a fragrant, floral complexity if you’re feeling fancy.
Fresh chives (1 teaspoon, chopped, optional): Gives a mild oniony lift tothe mix, complementing the herbs.

How to Make Vegan Garlic Herb Cream Cheese (Vegan Boursin) Recipe

Step 1: Blend the Base

Start by combining your well-soaked cashews, vegan Greek-style yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar in a food processor. Add in the sliced garlic clove along with garlic powder, nutritional yeast, sea salt, and cracked black pepper. Blend everything for a few minutes until you achieve a luscious, smooth cream. Be sure to pause and scrape down the sides to make sure all those flavors mingle evenly throughout the mix. This is where the magic starts, transforming simple ingredients into a velvety, rich cream cheese base.

Step 2: Add the Herbs

Once your base is perfectly creamy, toss in the freshly chopped parsley, dill, optional herbs de Provence, and chives if you’re using them. Blend again briefly, just about 30 seconds, to gently fold those fragrant herbs through the cream. The herbs are the secret stars here—they bring that fresh, garden-picked brightness which makes this Vegan Garlic Herb Cream Cheese feel truly special.

Step 3: Shape and Chill

For the authentic Boursin shape and texture, line a cheese mold or a fine-mesh sieve with cheesecloth. Carefully spoon your herbed cream cheese into this setup, then fold the cheesecloth over and secure it with a clip or rubber band. Place it over a small bowl to catch any excess moisture and pop it in your refrigerator overnight. This chilling step helps the cheese set firm and firm enough to hold its shape beautifully while concentrating all those delicious flavors.

Step 4: Final Touch and Store

After chilling, the Vegan Garlic Herb Cream Cheese (Vegan Boursin) Recipe will have formed a firm, slightly springy ball that you can easily remove from the cheesecloth. Wrap it in parchment paper and store it in an airtight container or zipper bag in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within four days to keep that fresh herbaceous zing and creamy texture at their peak.

How to Serve Vegan Garlic Herb Cream Cheese (Vegan Boursin) Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or a dash of cracked black pepper right before serving adds a fresh pop of color and a burst of flavor. You could also add a few fennel fronds or edible flowers for a pretty presentation that feels fancy but is so easy to pull off.

Side Dishes

This creamy spread pairs wonderfully with crunchy crudités like crisp carrots, celery, and radishes or sits beautifully alongside toasted baguette slices and crackers. It’s also a lovely complement to a vibrant salad or as a creamy dollop atop a bowl of roasted veggies for an extra layer of indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not use this Vegan Garlic Herb Cream Cheese as a filling for stuffed mini peppers or blintzes? Alternatively, swirl it through warm potatoes or spread it thickly on a bagel topped with sliced tomatoes and cucumber for a simple yet satisfying snack. Its versatility makes serving this recipe a playground for your culinary creativity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Vegan Garlic Herb Cream Cheese (Vegan Boursin) Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep it chilled for up to 4 days to maintain that creamy texture and fresh herb flavor. Just give it a quick stir before serving if it has separated slightly.

Freezing

You can freeze this cream cheese if you have extra batches. Wrap it tightly in parchment paper and place it in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer to the fridge overnight. Note that freezing may slightly change the texture, but stirring it well once thawed usually restores much of its smoothness.

Reheating

This Vegan Garlic Herb Cream Cheese is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you want to soften it after refrigeration or freezing, let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. Avoid reheating with heat, as that may alter the herb flavors and creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?

Cashews are preferred for their creamy texture and mild taste, but you could try blanched almonds or macadamia nuts. Just be aware that this may slightly change the creaminess or flavor profile.

Is it necessary to soak the cashews?

Yes, soaking softens the cashews, which is key to achieving that smooth, spreadable consistency. If you’re short on time, soaking in hot water for 1-2 hours can work, but overnight is best.

Can I omit the nutritional yeast?

Nutritional yeast adds a subtle cheesy and umami note, enhancing the flavor complexity. While you can omit it if needed, your cheese might taste less rich and less like traditional Boursin.

How can I make this recipe nut-free?

Replacing cashews is tricky since they provide the cream base. However, some have experimented with silken tofu or sunflower seeds as alternatives, but both will change the taste and texture quite a bit.

Can I adjust the herbs and garlic to my taste?

Absolutely! One of the best parts about this Vegan Garlic Herb Cream Cheese (Vegan Boursin) Recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to add more garlic for extra punch or play with herbs like basil, oregano, or tarragon to suit your preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Garlic Herb Cream Cheese (Vegan Boursin) Recipe is a charming, delicious way to bring plant-based indulgence to your table. It’s easy to make, wonderfully flavorful, and endlessly versatile. I encourage you to whip up a batch and see for yourself how this vegan delight can elevate your snacks, meals, and entertaining. It’s truly a game-changer for anyone who loves bold flavors and smooth, satisfying creaminess without any dairy involved.