12 Best Lactose-Free Cream Cheese You Need to Try
Best Lactose-Free Cream Cheese
Lactose intolerance can be a real party pooper when it comes to enjoying dairy delights. Fortunately, lactose-free cream cheese is here to save the day. This creamy, tangy, and versatile spreadable has become a staple for those avoiding lactose without sacrificing flavor. In this guide, we’ll dive into the top lactose-free cream cheese brands, exploring their tastes, textures, and nutritional profiles to help you make an informed choice. Get ready for a cheese-tastic journey!
More:
The Best Lactose-free Cottage Cheese You Should Try
The Best Lactose-Free Mozzarella Cheese Brands
What to Look for in Lactose-Free Cream Cheese
When choosing lactose-free cream cheese, consider these key factors:
- Taste and Texture: Does it mimic the real deal?
- Nutritional Value: Is it low in calories, high in protein, and free from unnecessary additives?
- Ingredients: Are there hidden sugars or preservatives?
- Probiotics: Some brands include these for added gut health benefits.
12 Best Lactose-Free Cream Cheese Brands
1. Green Valley Creamery
Green Valley Creamery is a pioneer in lactose-free dairy products. Their cream cheese is renowned for its smooth texture and rich flavor, making it a favorite among lactose-intolerant consumers.
Reputation
Green Valley Creamery has built a strong reputation over the years for its commitment to quality and health. They pride themselves on using organic, non-GMO ingredients and ensuring that their products are both delicious and nutritious. The brand is highly regarded in the lactose-free community for its dedication to producing high-quality dairy alternatives.
Taste and Texture
The taste is notably similar to traditional cream cheese, with a creamy consistency and a slight tang. It spreads easily on bagels, crackers, or any other favorite snack, making it a versatile option for various recipes.
Nutritional Information
This cream cheese is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. It contains probiotics that support gut health, is low in calories, and free from artificial additives. Each serving provides a good balance of protein and healthy fats, making it a suitable choice for those who are health-conscious.
Unique Features
One of the standout features of Green Valley Creamery’s cream cheese is its certification as organic and non-GMO. The inclusion of probiotics adds an extra layer of health benefits, promoting a healthy digestive system.
2. Kite Hill
Kite Hill is a brand that has made significant strides in the plant-based dairy alternative market. Their lactose-free cream cheese offers a dairy-free option that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture.
Reputation
Kite Hill has garnered a loyal following thanks to its innovative approach to dairy alternatives. The brand emphasizes using high-quality, natural ingredients to create products that are both delicious and nutritious. Their commitment to sustainability and animal welfare has also earned them a positive reputation among environmentally-conscious consumers.
Taste and Texture
Kite Hill’s cream cheese is known for its smooth, spreadable texture and mild, creamy flavor. Made primarily from almond milk, it has a slightly nutty undertone that complements its creamy consistency. It’s perfect for spreading on bagels, incorporating into dips, or even using in baking.
Nutritional Breakdown
High in protein and low in saturated fat, Kite Hill’s cream cheese is a nutritious choice. It’s free from cholesterol and artificial additives, making it a healthier alternative to traditional cream cheese. Additionally, it contains live cultures that can benefit gut health.
Special Ingredients
Kite Hill sets itself apart by using almond milk as the base for its cream cheese. The inclusion of live cultures not only enhances the flavor but also adds probiotics that support a healthy digestive system.
3. Daiya
Daiya is a well-known brand in the dairy-free market, offering a wide range of vegan products. Their lactose-free cream cheese is a popular choice among those seeking a plant-based alternative.
Reputation
Daiya has established itself as a leader in the vegan and allergen-free market. Known for its dedication to creating delicious, plant-based products, Daiya has received numerous accolades and a loyal customer base. The brand’s mission to provide tasty and safe options for those with dietary restrictions has made it a trusted name.
Taste and Texture
Daiya’s cream cheese is creamy and smooth, with a rich flavor that rivals traditional cream cheese. It spreads easily and can be used in various recipes, from savory to sweet. Its consistency makes it a great choice for both spreading and cooking.
Nutritional Content
This cream cheese is not only dairy-free but also gluten-free, soy-free, and free from artificial preservatives. It’s lower in fat compared to regular cream cheese and contains no cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy choice. Each serving provides a good amount of protein and calcium.
Distinctive Qualities
One of the key features of Daiya’s cream cheese is its commitment to being allergen-free. This makes it a safe option for those with multiple food allergies. Additionally, its rich and creamy texture ensures that you don’t have to compromise on taste or consistency.
4. Tofutti
Tofutti has been a staple in the dairy-free market for decades. Known for its wide range of vegan products, Tofutti’s lactose-free cream cheese is a classic choice for those avoiding dairy.
Reputation
Tofutti has been a pioneer in the dairy-free industry since the 1980s. Their commitment to creating delicious, vegan products has earned enormous popularity among consumers. Tofutti’s long-standing presence in the market speaks to their ability to consistently deliver quality products that meet the needs of their customers.
Taste and Texture
Tofutti’s cream cheese is smooth, creamy, and rich in flavor. It has a slightly tangy taste that closely resembles traditional cream cheese. This makes it a versatile option for various culinary applications, from spreading on toast to incorporating into recipes.
Nutritional Facts
Tofutti’s cream cheese is dairy-free, gluten-free, and kosher. It’s lower in fat than regular cream cheese and contains no cholesterol, making it a healthier choice. While it doesn’t contain probiotics, its simple ingredient list appeals to those looking for a straightforward, dairy-free alternative.
Unique Selling Points
One of the standout features of Tofutti’s cream cheese is its long history and consistent quality. The brand’s dedication to providing delicious vegan products without compromising on taste or texture has made it a go-to choice for many consumers.
5. Miyoko’s Creamery
Miyoko’s Creamery is renowned for its artisanal approach to dairy alternatives. Their lactose-free cream cheese is a testament to their commitment to quality and flavor.
Reputation
Miyoko’s Creamery has quickly become a favorite among those seeking high-quality, plant-based dairy alternatives. Known for their artisanal products, Miyoko’s has earned numerous awards and accolades for their innovative approach. The brand’s emphasis on traditional cheesemaking techniques sets them apart in the market.
Taste and Texture
Miyoko’s cream cheese is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. It has a smooth texture that makes it perfect for spreading, cooking, or baking. The taste is bold and tangy, closely resembling traditional cream cheese, making it a versatile option for various dishes.
Nutritional Information
This cream cheese is made from organic ingredients and is free from artificial additives. It’s high in healthy fats and contains no cholesterol. Each serving provides a good balance of protein and fat, making it a nutritious choice for those following a plant-based diet.
Key Ingredients
Miyoko’s uses a blend of cashews and coconut cream to create their cream cheese. The inclusion of live cultures not only enhances the flavor but also provides probiotics that support digestive health. This unique combination of ingredients results in a rich and creamy product that stands out in the market.
6. Treeline Treenut Cheese
Treeline Treenut Cheese offers a variety of nut-based cheeses, including their popular lactose-free cream cheese.
Reputation
Treeline has gained recognition for its commitment to crafting high-quality, dairy-free cheeses using traditional cheesemaking techniques. Their focus on sustainability and natural ingredients has garnered them a dedicated following among health-conscious consumers.
Taste and Texture
Treeline’s cream cheese is smooth, creamy, and packed with flavor. Made from cashews, it has a slightly nutty taste that pairs well with both savory and sweet dishes. Its consistency is perfect for spreading or incorporating into recipes.
Nutritional Content
Treeline’s cream cheese is free from dairy, gluten, and soy. It’s lower in fat and calories compared to traditional cream cheese and contains no cholesterol. Each serving is rich in protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice.
Special Features
The use of cashews as a base ingredient gives Treeline’s cream cheese a unique flavor profile. The brand’s commitment to using natural and sustainable ingredients ensures that you’re getting a product that’s both delicious and environmentally friendly.
7. Follow Your Heart
Follow Your Heart is a well-known brand in the plant-based community, offering a range of vegan products including lactose-free cream cheese.
Reputation
Follow Your Heart has been a trusted name in the vegan market for decades. Known for their commitment to quality and innovation, the brand has a loyal customer base. Their products are celebrated for their taste and nutritional value.
Taste and Texture
Follow Your Heart’s cream cheese is smooth, creamy, and mildly tangy. It spreads easily and can be used in a variety of recipes, from bagels to desserts. The texture is comparable to traditional cream cheese, making it a versatile choice.
Nutritional Information
This cream cheese is vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO. It’s lower in fat and calories compared to regular cream cheese and contains no cholesterol. Each serving provides a good amount of protein and healthy fats.
Key Ingredients
Follow Your Heart uses a blend of coconut oil and starches to create their cream cheese. The result is a creamy, flavorful product that’s free from artificial additives and preservatives.
8. Violife
Violife is another popular brand offering a range of dairy-free cheeses, including lactose-free cream cheese.
Reputation
Violife has quickly become a favorite among those seeking dairy-free alternatives. The brand is known for its dedication to quality and taste, using simple, natural ingredients to create their products. Violife has received numerous awards for their innovative approach to dairy-free cheese.
Taste and Texture
Violife’s cream cheese is smooth, creamy, and rich in flavor. It has a slightly tangy taste that closely resembles traditional cream cheese. The texture is perfect for spreading or using in recipes, making it a versatile option.
Nutritional Content
This cream cheese is vegan, gluten-free, and soy-free. It’s lower in fat and calories compared to regular cream cheese and contains no cholesterol. Each serving is rich in protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice.
Special Features
Violife uses a blend of coconut oil and starches to create their cream cheese. The result is a creamy, flavorful product that’s free from artificial additives and preservatives.
9. GO VEGGIE
GO VEGGIE offers a variety of lactose-free and vegan cheeses, including their popular cream cheese.
Reputation
GO VEGGIE is known for its commitment to providing delicious, dairy-free alternatives that cater to various dietary needs. The brand has a loyal following among those seeking lactose-free and vegan options. Their products are celebrated for their taste, texture, and nutritional value.
Taste and Texture
GO VEGGIE’s cream cheese is smooth, creamy, and mildly tangy. It spreads easily and can be used in a variety of recipes, from bagels to desserts. The texture is comparable to traditional cream cheese, making it a versatile choice.
Nutritional Information
This cream cheese is lactose-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO. It’s lower in fat and calories compared to regular cream cheese and contains no cholesterol. Each serving provides a good amount of protein and healthy fats.
Key Ingredients
GO VEGGIE uses a blend of coconut oil and starches to create their cream cheese. The result is a creamy, flavorful product that’s free from artificial additives and preservatives.
10. Lisanatti
Lisanatti offers a variety of lactose-free and vegan cheeses, including their popular cream cheese.
Reputation
Lisanatti is known for its commitment to providing delicious, dairy-free alternatives that cater to various dietary needs. The brand has a loyal following among those seeking lactose-free and vegan options. Their products are celebrated for their taste, texture, and nutritional value.
Taste and Texture
Lisanatti’s cream cheese is smooth, creamy, and mildly tangy. It spreads easily and can be used in a variety of recipes, from bagels to desserts. The texture is comparable to traditional cream cheese, making it a versatile choice.
Nutritional Information
This cream cheese is lactose-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO. It’s lower in fat and calories compared to regular cream cheese and contains no cholesterol. Each serving provides a good amount of protein and healthy fats.
Key Ingredients
Lisanatti uses a blend of coconut oil and starches to create their cream cheese. The result is a creamy, flavorful product that’s free from artificial additives and preservatives.
11. WayFare
WayFare offers a variety of lactose-free and vegan cheeses, including their popular cream cheese.
Reputation
WayFare is known for its commitment to providing delicious, dairy-free alternatives that cater to various dietary needs. The brand has a loyal following among those seeking lactose-free and vegan options. Their products are celebrated for their taste, texture, and nutritional value.
Taste and Texture
WayFare’s cream cheese is smooth, creamy, and mildly tangy. It spreads easily and can be used in a variety of recipes, from bagels to desserts. The texture is comparable to traditional cream cheese, making it a versatile choice.
Nutritional Information
This cream cheese is lactose-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO. It’s lower in fat and calories compared to regular cream cheese and contains no cholesterol. Each serving provides a good amount of protein and healthy fats.
Key Ingredients
WayFare uses a blend of coconut oil and starches to create their cream cheese. The result is a creamy, flavorful product that’s free from artificial additives and preservatives.
12. Forager Project
Forager Project offers a variety of lactose-free and vegan cheeses, including their popular cream cheese.
Reputation
Forager Project is known for its commitment to providing delicious, dairy-free alternatives that cater to various dietary needs. The brand has a loyal following among those seeking lactose-free and vegan options. Their products are celebrated for their taste, texture, and nutritional value.
Taste and Texture
Forager Project’s cream cheese is smooth, creamy, and mildly tangy. It spreads easily and can be used in a variety of recipes, from bagels to desserts. The texture is comparable to traditional cream cheese, making it a versatile choice.
Nutritional Information
This cream cheese is lactose-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO. It’s lower in fat and calories compared to regular cream cheese and contains no cholesterol. Each serving provides a good amount of protein and healthy fats.
Key Ingredients
Forager Project uses a blend of coconut oil and starches to create their cream cheese. The result is a creamy, flavorful product that’s free from artificial additives and preservatives.
Comparison Table of Top 5 Lactose-Free Cream Cheese Brands
Brand | Base Ingredient(s) | Texture | Flavor | Nutritional Highlights | Probiotics | Special Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Green Valley Creamery | Organic Dairy | Smooth | Slightly tangy | Probiotics, low calories, no additives | Yes | Certified organic, non-GMO |
Kite Hill | Almond Milk | Smooth, spreadable | Mild, creamy | High protein, low fat, live cultures | Yes | Almond milk base, probiotics |
Daiya | Coconut Oil & Starches | Creamy, rich | Slightly tangy | Lower fat, no cholesterol, gluten-free | No | Allergen-free, plant-based |
Tofutti | Soy | Smooth, creamy | Slightly tangy | Lower fat, no cholesterol, kosher | No | Long history, consistent quality |
Miyoko’s Creamery | Cashews & Coconut Cream | Rich, creamy | Bold, tangy | High healthy fats, no cholesterol | Yes | Artisanal, traditional cheesemaking techniques |
Summary
- Green Valley Creamery stands out for its organic certification and probiotic content, making it a great choice for those seeking health benefits and organic ingredients.
- Kite Hill is known for its almond milk base and probiotics, offering a mild flavor with added gut health benefits.
- Daiya offers a rich, creamy texture with allergen-free features, ideal for those with multiple dietary restrictions.
- Tofutti has a long history in the market with a consistent quality and lower fat content, though it lacks probiotics.
- Miyoko’s Creamery combines cashews and coconut cream for a bold, creamy flavor and high healthy fats, appealing to those who enjoy artisanal products.
Where to buy Lactose Free Cream Cheese
Online Retailers
1.Amazon
- A wide selection of lactose-free cream cheese brands, including Green Valley Creamery, Kite Hill, Daiya, and Miyoko’s Creamery.
- Convenient shopping with customer reviews and ratings to help you choose.
2. Walmart
- Offers a range of dairy-free and lactose-free products online, with options like Daiya and Tofutti.
- Check for availability and delivery options in your area.
3. Target
- Carries various plant-based and lactose-free cream cheese brands online, such as Kite Hill and Follow Your Heart.
- Often includes options for pickup and delivery.
4. Whole Foods Market (via Amazon)
- Known for high-quality and organic products, including lactose-free cream cheese brands like Miyoko’s Creamery and Green Valley Creamery.
- Available through Amazon or in-store if you have a Whole Foods nearby.
5. iHerb
- Features a selection of dairy-free and lactose-free products, including brands like Violife and Follow Your Heart.
- Often includes detailed product information and customer reviews.
Physical Stores
1. Grocery Stores
- Chains like Whole Foods Market, Safeway, Kroger, and Wegmans typically carry a variety of lactose-free and plant-based cream cheeses.
- Look in the dairy section or the health food aisle.
2. Specialty Health Food Stores
- Stores such as Sprouts Farmers Market and Natural Grocers often stock several brands of lactose-free and vegan cream cheese.
- They may offer a broader selection of natural and organic options.
3. Big Box Retailers
- Stores like Walmart and Target have dairy-free and lactose-free products in their grocery sections.
- Check the dairy-free or health food aisle.
4. Local Natural Foods Co-ops
- Co-op grocery stores often have a range of specialty items, including lactose-free cream cheese.
- Support local businesses while finding niche products.
5. Farmers’ Markets
- Some farmers’ markets feature local producers of dairy-free products.
- Check for vendors specializing in plant-based or lactose-free options.
Further Reading
- “The Dairy-Free Kitchen: 100 Recipes for All the Milk You’ll Ever Need” by Dr. Karyn Siegel-Maier
- “The Plant-Based Diet for Beginners: 75 Delicious, Healthy Whole-Food Recipes” by Gabriel Miller
- “Dairy-Free Lifestyle: The Complete Guide to Dairy-Free Living” by Julie Montagu
- “Vegan for Life: Everything You Need to Know to Be Healthy and Fit on a Plant-Based Diet” by Jack Norris and Virginia Messina
References
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
- Mayo Clinic
- American College of Gastroenterology (ACG)
- Lactose Intolerance: What You Need to Know
- Cleveland Clinic
- Lactose Intolerance: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment