Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting (Dairy-Free, Silky & Perfectly Sweet)
There is something undeniably nostalgic about cream cheese frosting. It’s the swirl on top of carrot cake at Easter brunch, the thick layer on banana bread cooling on the counter, the little lick off the spatula when no one’s looking.
With Easter just around the corner, this is the kind of frosting that belongs on your spring table — light, creamy, and just sweet enough.
But if you’re dairy-free — or simply trying to reduce inflammation and feel your best — traditional cream cheese frosting can sometimes feel a little heavy.
This Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting gives you that same creamy, tangy sweetness without the dairy. It’s fluffy, beautifully balanced, and honestly? You would never know it’s vegan.
I use Miyoko’s Creamery vegan cream cheese because the texture is rich and cultured, which gives this frosting that authentic cream cheese flavor we all love.
The Perfect Pairings (Don’t Skip This Part)
This frosting was practically made for:
Banana Bread with Blueberries – the tangy sweetness melts into the warm loaf and creates the most beautiful balance.
Pumpkin Bread – especially around Easter and spring gatherings when you still want those cozy spices but something light on top.
It transforms a simple loaf into something celebration-worthy. Whether you’re hosting brunch, bringing dessert to church, or just making something special for your family, this frosting elevates everything it touches.
Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting
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Equipment
- Hand Mixer
- mixing bowl
- rubber spatula
- Airtight Container
Ingredients
- ¼ cup vegan cream cheese (Miyokos brand works best) at room temperature
- ¼ cup vegan butter at room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer to beat together the vegan cream cheese and vegan butter until creamy. Slowly add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fluffy.¼ cup vegan cream cheese (Miyokos brand works best), ¼ cup vegan butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- If making ahead, store the frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Before using, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to soften.
More About This Recipe
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Hand MixerCreates that smooth, fluffy texture quickly. Medium Mixing Bowl
Allows room for proper aeration. Rubber Spatula
Essential for scraping down the sides evenly. Airtight Container
Keeps frosting fresh if storing.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting
- Room temperature ingredients are key — cold ingredients create lumps.
- Add powdered sugar slowly to prevent clumping.
- Want it thicker? Add 1–2 tablespoons more powdered sugar.
- Want it softer? Add 1–2 teaspoons plant milk.
- Stop mixing once fluffy — overbeating can loosen the structure.
Nutrition
Why You’ll Love This Frosting
- Silky and spreadable
- Perfectly sweet, not cloying
- Slightly tangy (just like classic cream cheese frosting)
- Ready in minutes
- Make-ahead friendly
And because it’s dairy-free, many women over 50 find it easier on digestion compared to traditional cream cheese frosting.
Final Comments on my Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting
There’s something special about a frosting that feels indulgent but still aligns with how you want to nourish your body.
I love keeping this recipe on hand for Easter brunches, spring gatherings, or simply spreading it thickly over my Banana Bread with Blueberries or Pumpkin Bread when I want something that feels just a little extra special.
Because sometimes the frosting isn’t just the topping.
Sometimes it’s the part that brings everything — and everyone — together.