Dairy-Free Cheese Log Recipe

Meet your new favorite party trick: the Dairy-Free Cheese Log, a show-stopping appetizer that looks as beautiful as it tastes. Made from velvety cashews, live probiotics, and bright lemon juice, this log spreads just like creamy goat cheese—without a drop of dairy. After a slow ferment in the fridge, it develops tang and body, then gets dressed up in delicate ribbons of zucchini, radish, carrot, sprigs of dill, and even edible flowers for a stunning garden-fresh finish.

This homemade dairy-free centerpiece delivers probiotic goodness and wholesome ingredients, while offering a clean, elegant twist on traditional cheese plates. Perfect for gluten-free, vegan, or health-conscious gatherings—and stunning enough to turn heads on the appetizer table.

Dairy-Free Cheese Log

Recipe Details

Yield: 6 servings
Active Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 5 days

Recipe Ingredients

• 2 cups cashews, soaked overnight
• 6 scoops Probiotic Powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• Baby zucchini, for garnish
• Radishes, for garnish
• Carrots, for garnish
• Fresh dill, for garnish
• Edible flowers, for garnish

Recipe Instructions

1. Drain the soaked cashews and process in a food processor until smooth.
2. Add probiotic powder, lemon juice, and sea salt; pulse until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to the center of a large piece of parchment paper and roll into a log, crimping the ends to seal.
4. Refrigerate the log for 4–5 days to ferment and develop flavor.
5. Use a mandoline to slice zucchini, carrots, and radishes into thin ribbons. Lay a sheet of parchment on the counter, layer the vegetable ribbons, edible flowers, and dill on top, then place the chilled cheese log in the center.
6. Carefully roll the parchment around the log, gently pressing as you go to adhere the garnishes.
7. Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving to set the garnishes in place.

Appetizers That Play Well

• Crudité Platter with Herb Dip — Crisp vegetables and a tangy dip add balance after the cheese log.
• Smoked Salmon on Cucumber Rounds — Elegant, light, and flavor-forward, perfect before the main.
• Avocado–Tomato Bruschetta — Bright and juicy bites that contrast the creamy log.

Main Courses That Pair Well

• Herb-Roasted Chicken with Lemon — Clean, savory flavors that complement rather than compete.
• Grilled Salmon with Dill & Citrus — Echoes the fresh garnishes and lush texture of the log.
• Vegan Mushroom Wellington — Rich, savory, and complete without dairy.

Side Dishes That Complement

• Quinoa Salad with Lemon & Herbs — Light, tangy, and refreshing beside the creamy cheese.
• Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables — Colorful, earthy, and made with olive oil instead of butter.
• Citrus–Fennel Slaw — Bright, crunchy, and herbaceous—echoes the log’s aesthetic.

Desserts That Finish the Meal

• Coconut Milk Panna Cotta with Berry Compote — Silky, creamy, and naturally dairy-free.
• Almond Flour Lemon Bars — Bright, zesty, and gluten-friendly for a light finish.
• Chocolate Avocado Mousse — Lush and indulgent yet clean and creamy.

Occasions & Events Where This Cheese Log Stands Out

1. Elegant dinner parties
2. Bridal or baby showers
3. Holiday appetizer spreads
4. Vegan and dairy-free gatherings
5. Garden parties or spring brunches
6. Wellness-themed buffets
7. Potlucks with dietary-conscious guests
8. Artisan cheese board nights (plant-based version!)
9. Cooking classes or demonstrations
10. Friendsgiving or festive celebrations
11. Al fresco summer evenings
12. Charcuterie plate variations at events
13. Small intimate gatherings or soirees
14. Giftable homemade appetizer for hosts
15. Pre-dinner aperitif platters

Recipe credit: Angela Gaines