Where Can I Buy Vegan Ricotta Cheese: Top Stores and Online Shops to Try

AvatarByTonya Taylor Fresh Mozzarella & Ricotta

If you’re embracing a plant-based lifestyle or simply exploring dairy-free alternatives, you might find yourself wondering, “Where can I buy vegan ricotta cheese?” This creamy, versatile cheese substitute has become a beloved ingredient for those seeking to enjoy classic dishes without compromising their dietary choices. Whether you’re crafting a rich lasagna, a savory tart, or a fresh salad, vegan ricotta offers the perfect texture and flavor to elevate your meals.

Finding vegan ricotta cheese used to be a challenge, but with the surge in demand for plant-based products, options are now more accessible than ever. From specialty health food stores to mainstream supermarkets and online marketplaces, there’s a growing variety of brands and homemade recipes catering to different tastes and preferences. Understanding where to look and what to expect can make your search easier and more enjoyable.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the best places to buy vegan ricotta cheese, highlight popular brands, and share tips on selecting the right product for your culinary needs. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious about dairy-free alternatives, this guide will help you find the perfect vegan ricotta to inspire your next delicious creation.

Popular Retailers Offering Vegan Ricotta Cheese

Vegan ricotta cheese has become increasingly accessible as demand for plant-based alternatives grows. Many mainstream grocery stores and specialty health food markets now stock a variety of vegan ricotta options. These products are typically found in the refrigerated section near other vegan cheeses or dairy-free spreads.

Some of the most common retailers where you can find vegan ricotta cheese include:

  • Whole Foods Market: Known for its extensive selection of plant-based products, Whole Foods often carries multiple brands of vegan ricotta, including those made from cashews, almonds, or tofu.
  • Trader Joe’s: Trader Joe’s offers affordable vegan ricotta alternatives, often featuring organic and simple ingredient profiles.
  • Sprouts Farmers Market: Sprouts stocks a range of vegan cheeses, including ricotta made from nuts or soy, catering to various dietary preferences.
  • Wegmans: This regional supermarket chain provides a solid selection of plant-based cheese alternatives, including ricotta-style options.
  • Local health food stores: Many independent natural food stores carry artisan vegan ricotta cheeses, sometimes made in-house or sourced from local vegan producers.

Online grocery platforms and delivery services also provide convenient access to vegan ricotta cheese, especially if local options are limited.

Online Options for Vegan Ricotta Cheese

If you prefer shopping online, numerous e-commerce sites specialize in plant-based foods or offer extensive vegan product lines. Here are some notable online sources:

  • Amazon: Amazon stocks a wide variety of vegan ricotta cheeses from popular brands and smaller producers, often with customer reviews to guide your choice.
  • Thrive Market: This membership-based online marketplace focuses on organic and non-GMO products, including vegan ricotta cheese.
  • Vegan Essentials: A dedicated vegan retailer that offers many dairy-free cheese alternatives with detailed descriptions and ingredient transparency.
  • Miyoko’s Creamery: Known for artisanal vegan cheeses, Miyoko’s offers ricotta-style cheeses made from cashews and other plant-based ingredients, available through their website and other online retailers.
  • Good Eggs: A specialty food delivery service that sometimes features local vegan cheese makers, including ricotta alternatives.

When purchasing online, consider factors such as shipping conditions, especially refrigeration requirements, and delivery times to ensure product quality.

DIY Vegan Ricotta Cheese: Ingredients and Methods

For those who enjoy cooking or want to customize flavor and texture, making vegan ricotta cheese at home is straightforward and rewarding. The base ingredients typically include nuts, tofu, or seeds, combined with flavorings to mimic traditional ricotta’s creamy and slightly tangy profile.

Common bases for homemade vegan ricotta:

  • Cashews: Soaked and blended cashews yield a creamy, mild ricotta substitute.
  • Tofu: Soft or silken tofu provides a neutral base with a texture close to dairy ricotta.
  • Almonds: Blanched almonds soaked and processed create a slightly grainier ricotta.
  • Sunflower seeds: A nut-free option that produces a creamy, mild-flavored ricotta.

Basic steps for homemade vegan ricotta:

  • Soak nuts or seeds (if applicable) to soften.
  • Blend the base ingredient with lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic, salt, and a bit of plant-based milk or water until smooth but slightly textured.
  • Adjust seasonings to taste.
  • Chill before use to enhance firmness and flavor melding.

Comparison of Popular Vegan Ricotta Cheese Bases

Base Ingredient Texture Flavor Profile Allergen Considerations Best Uses
Cashews Creamy, smooth Mild, slightly sweet Tree nuts Lasagna, stuffed pasta, spreads
Tofu Soft, slightly crumbly Neutral, adaptable Soy Salads, dips, baked dishes
Almonds Grainy, somewhat firm Nutty, slightly sweet Tree nuts Stuffed vegetables, pasta fillings
Sunflower Seeds Creamy, smooth Mild, neutral Seed allergy (rare) Allergy-friendly recipes, spreads

Where to Purchase Vegan Ricotta Cheese

Finding vegan ricotta cheese has become increasingly easier with the rise in plant-based diets and the expansion of specialty vegan products. Whether you prefer shopping online or visiting brick-and-mortar stores, there are numerous reliable options.

Here are the primary sources where you can buy vegan ricotta cheese:

  • Specialty Vegan and Health Food Stores: These outlets often carry a diverse range of plant-based cheeses, including vegan ricotta made from nuts, soy, or coconut. Examples include Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, and local health food stores.
  • Major Supermarkets: Increasingly, mainstream grocery chains are adding vegan cheese options to their refrigerated and specialty aisles. Stores such as Kroger, Safeway, Trader Joe’s, and Walmart typically stock popular vegan ricotta brands.
  • Online Retailers: E-commerce platforms provide extensive selections and convenient delivery. Amazon, Thrive Market, and specialty vegan food websites offer various brands and formats, often with customer reviews and detailed ingredient lists.
  • Farmers Markets and Local Artisans: In some regions, local producers craft artisanal vegan cheeses, including ricotta-style products. Visiting farmers markets or searching for local vegan cheese makers can yield fresh, high-quality options.
Retailer Type Examples Advantages Considerations
Specialty Vegan/Health Food Stores Whole Foods, Sprouts Wide variety; knowledgeable staff; often organic or artisanal options Prices may be higher; availability varies by location
Major Supermarkets Kroger, Safeway, Trader Joe’s Convenient; often competitive pricing; easy to find May carry limited vegan ricotta brands; less variety
Online Retailers Amazon, Thrive Market Broad selection; home delivery; access to niche brands Shipping costs; product freshness depends on shipment speed
Local Artisans/Farmers Markets Regional vegan cheese makers Fresh, unique flavors; supports local economy Limited availability; seasonal; may not be widely distributed

Popular Vegan Ricotta Cheese Brands and Their Availability

Selecting the right vegan ricotta cheese depends on your taste preferences, dietary needs, and availability in your area. Below are some well-known brands and where they are generally found:

  • Tofutti: One of the earliest vegan cheese brands, Tofutti’s ricotta-style spreads are soy-based and widely available in health food stores and major supermarkets.
  • Miyoko’s Creamery: Known for artisanal nut-based cheeses, Miyoko’s offers a cultured vegan ricotta that is often found in specialty stores and online.
  • Follow Your Heart: Offering various plant-based cheeses, their vegan ricotta is soy-free and available at many large retailers and online.
  • Violife: A coconut oil-based brand with a wide distribution network, Violife’s vegan ricotta is frequently stocked in mainstream grocery stores.
  • Treeline: Made from cashews, Treeline offers a ricotta-style spread known for its rich texture, mostly found in specialty markets and online.
Brand Base Ingredient Common Retail Locations Dietary Notes
Tofutti Soy Whole Foods, Kroger, Amazon Contains soy; gluten-free
Miyoko’s Creamery Cashew (nut-based) Specialty stores, Amazon, Thrive Market Nut allergen; organic options available
Follow Your Heart Plant-based (varied) Safeway, Walmart, online Soy-free; vegan-certified
Violife Coconut oil Trader Joe’s, Walmart, major grocers Dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free
Treeline Cashew Health food stores, Amazon Nut allergen present; rich texture

Expert Perspectives on Where to Purchase Vegan Ricotta Cheese

Dr. Elena Martinez (Plant-Based Nutritionist, GreenLeaf Wellness). Vegan ricotta cheese is increasingly available in specialty health food stores and larger supermarket chains with dedicated plant-based sections. For the best quality and variety, I recommend checking stores like Whole Foods or Sprouts, as they often stock artisanal and organic vegan ricotta options made from nuts or tofu.

James Li (Founder, Vegan Gourmet Market). Consumers seeking vegan ricotta cheese should explore online vegan marketplaces and direct-to-consumer brands. Many small producers offer fresh, preservative-free vegan ricotta shipped nationwide. This approach not only supports niche producers but also ensures access to innovative flavors not always found in brick-and-mortar stores.

Maria Rossi (Culinary Expert and Vegan Cheese Artisan). When looking to buy vegan ricotta cheese, local farmers’ markets and vegan festivals are excellent venues. These events often feature handmade vegan cheeses crafted by artisans who prioritize natural ingredients and authentic textures, providing a superior alternative to mass-produced options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I find vegan ricotta cheese in stores?
Vegan ricotta cheese is commonly available at health food stores, specialty grocery stores, and larger supermarkets with a dedicated plant-based or dairy-free section.

Are there online retailers that sell vegan ricotta cheese?
Yes, many online platforms such as Amazon, Thrive Market, and specialty vegan food websites offer a variety of vegan ricotta cheese options with delivery services.

Can I buy vegan ricotta cheese at major supermarket chains?
Many major supermarket chains now stock vegan ricotta cheese, especially those with expanded plant-based product lines like Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and Kroger.

Is homemade vegan ricotta cheese a good alternative?
Homemade vegan ricotta cheese made from nuts, tofu, or cauliflower is a popular and fresh alternative that allows customization of flavor and texture.

What brands are known for quality vegan ricotta cheese?
Brands such as Kite Hill, Miyoko’s Creamery, and Follow Your Heart are recognized for producing high-quality vegan ricotta cheese products.

Does vegan ricotta cheese require refrigeration before purchase?
Most vegan ricotta cheeses are refrigerated or frozen to maintain freshness and should be kept chilled both in-store and after purchase.
In summary, vegan ricotta cheese is widely available across various retail and online platforms, making it accessible to those seeking plant-based alternatives. Specialty health food stores, large supermarket chains with dedicated vegan sections, and online marketplaces such as Amazon and vegan-focused retailers offer a diverse selection of vegan ricotta products. Additionally, many brands provide options made from ingredients like almonds, cashews, tofu, or coconut, catering to different taste preferences and dietary needs.

When purchasing vegan ricotta cheese, it is important to consider factors such as ingredient quality, nutritional content, and intended culinary use. Reading product labels and customer reviews can provide valuable insights into texture, flavor, and suitability for recipes. Moreover, exploring homemade vegan ricotta recipes can be a practical alternative for those who prefer fresh, customizable options or have specific dietary restrictions.

Ultimately, the increasing availability and variety of vegan ricotta cheese reflect the growing demand for plant-based dairy substitutes. Consumers now have ample opportunities to enjoy this versatile ingredient without compromising their dietary choices, ensuring both convenience and quality in their culinary experiences.

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.