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Vegan Ricotta Cheese (Best Brands + Tofu Ricotta Recipe)

Sep 5, 2026 (Updated Sep 5, 2026) By: Michelle Cehn

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5 from 5 votes

Looking for a creamy, delicious vegan ricotta? We’ve rounded up some of the best vegan ricotta cheese brands to make finding a great option easy, plus a simple homemade recipe you can whip up in no time. Whether you’re shopping for convenience or want to make your own, there’s a tasty ricotta option for everyone.

A yellow tub of Kitehill dairy-free ricotta cheese next to two bowls of pasta for a vegan ricotta cheese guide.

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Say goodbye to dairy, but not to creamy, dreamy cheese, because vegan ricotta is here to steal the show! This plant-powered alternative brings the same lusciously lumpy texture and vivacious versatility to your kitchen, minus the moo. It’s a good thing, too!

For all things creamy and cheesy, check out our artisan vegan cheese guide!

A bowl of red lasagna soup with tomato sauce, basil, noodles, and topped with dairy-free vegan ricotta cheese.

Table of Contents

Summary

What is Vegan Ricotta? A dairy-free version of traditional Italian soft cheese that has a grainy and slightly sweet texture.
Ricotta Recipes: Lasagna, stuffed shells, ravioli, pizza, and crostini
Best Brands: Kite Hill, New Roots, Tofutti, and Treeline

What is Ricotta Cheese?

Ricotta cheese is a creamy, soft cheese of Italian origin made from the whey leftover during the production of other cheeses like mozzarella and provolone. It has a slightly grainy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor, making it a versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes.

Some popular recipes made with ricotta cheese include:

A slice of vegan lasagna with tofu ricotta.

Is Ricotta Cheese Vegan?

Traditional ricotta cheese is not vegan because it uses whey from cow’s milk (or possibly goat’s milk). Dairy-free ricotta cheese brands use tofu, almond milk, or cashews as a base.

Small bowl full of raw tofu cubes with some cubes scattered around the bowl.

Best Vegan Ricotta Cheese Brands

Here is our handpicked list of standout vegan ricotta cheese brands:

Kite Hill

Plant-based ricotta cheese by Kite Hill is artfully crafted from almond milk and captures the flavor and texture of traditional Italian ricotta. It has a lovely, velvety texture and rich, nutty undertones. Also available in a whipped version.

New Roots

Dairy-free “La Cotta” from New Roots is a European-inspired ricotta cheese with a foundation of organic cashews. This brand boasts a light and creamy texture, and has a wonderful blend of flavors. Lactose-free and made in Switzerland.

Tofutti

Better than Ricotta from Tofutti is a versatile and soy-based option with a creamy consistency. It’s a great choice if you like a mild, neutral flavor. Excellent for pasta, lasagna, cheesecake, pizza, cannoli, salads, bruschetta, and adding to flatbreads.

Treeline

Treeline’s delicious non-dairy cashew ricotta uses a foolproof formula of creamy cashews and live, active cultures. The beautifully balanced flavor has a subtle tanginess—a versatile choice for all ricotta lovers. Their blend is also free of soy, gluten, and lactose.

Dairy-Free Ricotta Cheese FAQs

Can you buy vegan ricotta cheese at Whole Foods?

It depends on which Whole Foods Market you are visiting. But, Whole Foods does sell Kite Hill, Treeline, and Tofutti products at most stores.

Is vegan ricotta cheese available at Publix?

Yes! Although the availability might be different from store to store, Publix does list Kite Hill Vegan Ricotta on their website.

What can substitute for vegan ricotta cheese in a recipe?

You’re in luck! There are many dairy-free swaps you can use such as vegan cream cheese, vegan sour cream, plant-based yogurt, or just plain tofu. The consistencies will be slightly different, but will give you a similar outcome and flavor.

How To Make Vegan Ricotta Cheese

Although you can easily find vegan ricotta cheese recipes online, this tofu ricotta recipe from Allison Rivers Samson is our favorite! It’s a simple and delicious plant-based ricotta recipe for beginners, as well as a great choice for more experienced vegan cheese crafters.

If you make this Vegan Ricotta Cheese recipe, please leave a star rating and let me know what you think in the comments below! I love reading your comments!

Vegan Ricotta Cheese Recipe

Author: Michelle Cehn

5 from 5 votes

This recipe will free you from any fear you may have of tofu. Used as a blank canvas, tofu takes on the flavors of what it’s mixed with, and in this case, creates a robust, creamy, protein-rich cheese that can be added to any dish that calls for ricotta. Stuffed pasta shells, anyone?

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Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings cups, about 8 servings

Equipment

▢
Food Processor

Ingredients

▢ 8 ounces extra firm tofu, rinsed and squeezed to remove the water
▢ 2 tablespoons olive oil
▢ 2 cloves garlic, minced
▢ 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
▢ ½ teaspoon salt
▢ ½ cup fresh basil leaves, sliced into ribbons or chiffonade
▢ ½ cup canned olives, Allison’s favorite is Santa Barbara’s ripe green olives in a can
▢ 1½ teaspoons capers, drained

Instructions

In a food processor, purée tofu, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Process until desired smoothness is achieved.
Add basil, olives, and capers. Pulse 2-3 times for a rough chop.

Notes

Storing Tips: Homemade vegan ricotta cheese usually lasts 3–5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Use clean utensils each time you scoop some out. If it develops an off smell, unusual color, mold, or a sour taste, it’s best to throw it away.