Finding the right cheese, especially one you are sharing with friends and family, can be tricky; and let’s be honest, some miss the mark. So, we hunted down some of the best artisanal vegan cheeses that you’ll feel confident serving to vegans and non-vegans alike at your next shindig.

The great thing about all of these non-dairy cheeses is their ingredient list–void of any fillers, additives, soy or gluten–so these are about as ‘clean’ as you can get. They also make for a great gift and are all available for purchase online, so you can easily send them directly to that chef, vegan, or veg-curious person in your life.

Wendy’s Nutty Cheeses

For more than 25 years, Wendy of Wendy’s Vegan Kitchen has made vegan offerings using all organic and non-GMO ingredients, choosing cashew and soy for the base of the Wendy’s Nutty Cheeses vegan dairy products. With delightful flavors like Garden of Eden and Fig and Fennel, these gorgeous and tasty treats will be the perfect embellishment for any vegan charcuterie board, or a showstopping centerpiece to a Springtime picnic.

Wendy also offers private classes in the Hudson Valley and Tri-State area for those who would like to learn how to make delicious vegan fare from a professional.

Wendy’s Nutty Cheeses are available on the brand’s website or on Vegan Essentials.

Treeline Cheese

Treeline’s soft ‘cheese’ spreads will steal the show on your next cheese board. While not exactly reminiscent of a cheese wheel since they are more like a creamy spread, their flavor is spot on and one of the favored items in our taste test. Treeline’s made from fermented cashew nuts, and as a bonus, they also contain a healthy probiotic, known as L. Acidophilus.

The Scallion Soft French-Style is a clear winner. With a creamy consistency and smooth texture, it is quite honestly perfect. The spreads come in little containers that you can flip upside down on a tray for a nice display. All Treeline cheeses and spreads are natural, without any added preservatives, stabilizers, gums, or thickeners. Plus, they are pretty easy to find in-store with nationwide distribution.

Available nationwide at Kroger and select Whole Foods.

Reine

Reine makes small-batch artisanal cashew-based ‘cheese’ rounds out of Ventura, California. This is a ‘cheese’ you will be 100 percent confident to put on a display; and trust, vegan or not, your guests will go back for seconds. Reine has perfected its fermentation process and consistency while using high-quality, organic ingredients free of soy, GMO, dairy, and gluten.

They have eight flavors to choose from, but at the top of the list is the Fauxgonzola, which was the top pick from all the ‘cheese’ rounds in our test. It’s made with organic blue-green spirulina (which research suggests has antioxidant and inflammation-fighting properties) and its blue striations make a beautiful display. Some other recommended flavors are the Trufflehound, and the Chipotle Cheddar.

Available online and select retail locations in Southern California.

Vromage

Since 2009 Vromage Founder Youssef Fahouri has been perfecting his cheese recipes—which are secret by the way. Made from a variety of nuts and seeds, the cheeses were so good he opened the first dairy-free cheese shop in LA in 2014. Of all the brands, Vromage might be the one that is most reminiscent of a dairy-based cheese.

There are many eclectic flavors, all coming in different shapes and sizes. While you can’t really go wrong with any of them, the Pepperjack and Mozzarella are both impressive. You also might recall the name, Vromage, since Prince Harry and Meghan Markel had the cheeses served at the royal wedding.

Available online and at Vromage cheese shop in West Hollywood, Calif.

Did we miss any great vegan, artisan cheese brands? Let us know in the comments below!

The post The Best Vegan Artisan Cheeses for Your Holiday Cheese Board appeared first on The Beet.

Now, several plant-based brands including Wendy’s Nutty Cheeses and Miyoko’s Creamery have developed the perfect vegan and dairy-free artisan cheeses to adorn your cheese board. There are actually enough vegan artisan cheeses to make an entirely vegan cheese board that will keep your guests happy –– whether or not they are vegan.

We all know that dairy-free cheese is no longer hard to find, but often, consumers still complain about the taste and texture of store-bought cheese alternatives. That’s why brands such as Treeline and Miyoko’s have worked to create dairy-free cheeses that give us the same experience as their animal-based counterparts.

What Is Vegan Cheese?

Despite the health and environmental, about 230 million Americans eat cheese every year. Vegan cheese had a significant but short boom coinciding with America’s interest in plant-based milk, but sales have waned in recent years. But why? One answer is taste. But now, vegan brands have doubled their efforts to create dairy-free cheeses that give consumers the same taste, texture, and look as traditional dairy cheese.

Vegan cheese is made from a wide variety of ingredients including cashews, oil, proteins, cultures, and more. Some plant-based cheeses also go through a fermentation process to replicate the funky taste of traditional cheeses. It is important to check the ingredients and nutritional information on vegan cheese because some dairy-free cheeses contain substantially more saturated fats, especially those made from coconut oil.

To accompany these brands, there are also plenty of recipes to make your own artisan cheese at home. Try a cashew-based cheese at your next dinner party. This way you can moderate your diet between processed store-bought brands and homemade whole-food options. While you’re at it, check out the healthiest vegan crackers to add to your board.

READ MORE: How to Make an Epic Vegan Cheese Board

Eating Vegan Cheese is Better For Your Health

Remember that when you switch out dairy cheeses with vegan cheese, you are providing healthier options for you and your guests. Picking healthier dairy-free artisan cheeses can help reduce the risk of several chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer, among others. Consuming more dairy significantly increases the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

So, when you construct your vegan charcuterie board, make sure you find a brand with less saturated fat than dairy cheese. For example, one ounce of brie cheese contains about 5 grams of saturated fat, whereas Laughing Cow Plant-Based contains 2.5 grams.

READ MORE: 8 Ways Avoiding Dairy Can Benefit Your Health 

The Best Vegan Artisan Cheeses

Boursin Dairy-Free Galic & Herbs

This creamy spread hits every high note that the brand’s dairy counterpart does. Rich, spreadable, and addictive, add this to a charcuterie board and you’ll be shocked at how fast it goes. This is a mouthwatering addition to your holiday spread, but watch out for other 5 grams of saturated fat per serving!

Calories 90

Total Fat 8g, Saturated Fat 5g

Protein 0g, Fiber 0g

Miyoko’s Double Cream Sun Dried Tomato

This sun-dried tomato cheese is creamy, nicely spreadable, and very tangy. It has a good umami taste and contains the perfect-sized bits of sun-dried tomato that complement the spread instead of overwhelming them. Miyoko’s cheese is delicious, but definitely high in fat. For heart health, make sure to eat this vegan cheese in moderation. 

Calories 120

Total Fat 10g, Saturated Fat 4.5

Protein 3g, Fiber 1g

Miyoko’s French Style Winter Truffle

This truffle cheese wheel will elevate any dish. Rich, complex, and earthy, this cheese offers a great umami flavor. This cheese isn’t as tangy as other plant-based cheeses and offers a nice, round creaminess that is a great dairy-like taste, especially to serve to those who may not love other vegan cheeses. 

Calories 80

Total Fat 7g, Saturated Fat 3.5g

Protein 2g, Fiber 1g

Reine Fauxgonzola

Reine has perfected its fermentation process and consistency while using high-quality, organic ingredients free of soy, GMO, dairy, and gluten. They have eight flavors to choose from, but at the top of the list is the Fauxgonzola, which was the top pick from all the ‘cheese’ rounds in our test. It’s made with organic blue-green spirulina (which research suggests has antioxidant and inflammation-fighting properties) and its blue striations make a beautiful display.

Calories 160

Total Fat 12.5g, Saturated Fat 2.6g

Protein 5g, Fiber 1g

Treeline Goat-Style Herb Goat Cheese

If you love tangy cheese, this one is for you. It’s zesty and creamy and pairs well with any kind of crackers. Our samplers tried to melt this cheese on a pizza and it got a bit hard, so stick to using this in salads or as a topping. This vegan cheese is packed with 3 grams of protein and only contains 1 gram of saturated fat per serving.

Calories 90

Total Fat 6g Saturated Fat 1g

Protein 3g, Fiber 1g

Vromage Mozzarella

While you can’t really go wrong with any of them, the Pepperjack and Mozzarella are both impressive. You also might recall the name, Vromage, since Prince Harry and Meghan Markel had the cheeses served at the royal wedding. These artisan, vegan cheeses are freshly made using a variety of ingredients that can include organic cashews, macadamias, pine nuts, pistachios, almonds, hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds, 

Nutritional Information Varies: Check Out Vromage’s Online Store

The post The Best Vegan Artisan Cheeses for Your Holiday Charcuterie Board appeared first on The Beet.

When you go plant-based, you may wonder,  Where could I wake up on Sunday and grab a delicious, fluffy, bagel, slathered in dairy-free vegan cream cheese? Bagel shop owners may look at you quizzically when asked if they carry any non-dairy cream cheese (although many shops in New Jersey and New York carry tofu cream cheese), so if you’re searching for a delicious non-dairy schmear, we’ve tasted the best dairy-free cream cheeses on the market to find the very best vegan cream cheese, ranked for health and taste.

For the most scientific test possible, we set out to a favorite bagel shop and ordered half a dozen bagels to test different vegan spreads: Two everything, two jalapeño, and two cinnamon raisin bagels (all vegan — make sure to double-check your local spot doesn’t add milk or eggs to any recipe)

Cut Out Dairy Products For Your Health

Even though it’s easy to have a soft spot for cream cheese, cutting out dairy products from your regular diet can present significant health benefits. By consuming more dairy, you increase your risk for several diseases or health issues such as heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, and more. For example, regular dairy consumption leads to a 60 percent higher risk of prostate cancer and an 80 percent higher risk of breast cancer.

Dairy also leads to several other chronic conditions or problems such as inflammation and acne. The easiest way to keep your body healthy is to phase out dairy products, and yes, that includes cream cheese. Simply adopting a plant-based cream cheese option to your diet can help you keep your body healthier in your day-to-day life.

READ MORE: 8 Ways Avoiding Dairy Can Benefit Your Health

The Best Dairy-Free and Vegan Cream Cheese Alternatives

In this taste test, we tried Miyoko’s Sensational Scallion Vegan Cream Cheese, Kite Hill Everything Cream Cheese, Violife’s Just like Cream Cheese, Tofutti’s Better than Cream Cheese, and Daiya Plain Cream Cheese Style Spread. ‘

Daiya Plain Cream Cheese Spread

This one was a pleasant surprise; a tangy, creamy spread that did a pretty good job of mimicking the original dairy spread. Surprisingly sweet, as if it had a dash of vanilla in it, this cream cheese is a perfect companion for a cinnamon raisin bagel or anything you want to add a hint of sweetness to.

Calories 60

Total Fat 5g, Saturated Fat 4.5g

Protein 0g

Kite Hill Everything Cream Cheese

The texture, while pleasantly whipped and spreadable, is grainy, and the everything seasoning got lost within the tub. The taste wasn’t terrible, it just didn’t taste like cream cheese; the texture is more reminiscent of creamy hummus. I still finished this tub by dipping various crackers and bread into it, but it didn’t serve the original purpose on a bagel, although it was quite delicious as a spread on crackers or sandwiches.

Calories 70

Total Fat 6g, Saturated Fat 0g

Protein 2g

Miyoko’s Sensational Scallion Vegan Cream Cheese

While this formula was a little heavier and harder to spread than the others, it was the taste that left something to be desired. Strangely, the most overpowering flavor was a lemony citrus taste, masking even the divine savoriness of the scallions. When I mixed equal parts of Miyoko’s Sensational Scallion with another plain cream cheese it evened out this zingy, acidic taste and was far more pleasant. Next time, I might try to mix chopped scallions into my favorite cream cheese instead of buying this pre-made option.

Calories 90

Total Fat 7g, Saturated Fat 2.5g

Protein 3g

Philadelphia Plant-Based Original Cream Cheese

When Philadelphia Cream Cheese announced it was coming out with an all-plant-based dairy-free formula I practically leaped at the chance to try it. A family favorite for generations, I was practically raised on it. The taste and consistency did not disappoint. On a bagel or in a recipe (cream cheese frosting anyone?) this is the exact same as its parent brand and you could easily fool anyone. Glancing at the label, I was shocked to see it has 6 grams of Saturated Fat and the first ingredient is coconut oil. If you are eating plant-based to avoid unhealthy heart-disease-promoting foods, sat fat from coconut oil is as clogging as that from animal products like butter. If you’re in it for the planet, animals, or a dairy allergy, this is a great choice for you. Keep it handy all during the holidays and everyone will spread it on with abandon!

Calories 60

Total Fat 6g, Saturated Fat 6g

Protein 0g

Tofutti Better than Cream Cheese

Tofutti is probably the most widely available cream cheese, so it’s likely the non-dairy cream cheese served in most bagel spots that actually carry non-dairy options.  This spread is muted beige and slightly grainy, and its tofu roots definitely don’t go unnoticed. While this spread is by no means bad, and I would use it in a pinch, there is something about the aftertaste that I’m not sold on. Almost playdough-y, there’s a distinct bitterness that comes through after the bite.

Calories 90

Total Fat 8g, Saturated Fat 4g

Protein 1g

Trader Joe’s Vegan Cream Cheese

Trader Joe’s has recently updated its vegan cream cheese formulation this year, and it’s made quite an improvement to the taste of this spread. Thick, creamy, and reminiscent of a block of Philadelphia cream cheese, this dairy-free schmear is a great, affordable vegan cream cheese option. It has a mild flavor and doesn’t come across as too tofu-y. It spreads nicely on a bagel or toast, and benefits from mix-ins like scallions or TJ’s everything bagel seasoning.

Calories 90

Total Fat 9g, Saturated Fat 8g

Protein 0g

Treeline Dairy-Free Herb Garlic Soft French-Style

This is not your average plant-based cheese, or in fact, any cheese. This kind of cashew-based creation elevates any meal and could fool cheese lovers into believing that it’s real dairy cheese. When I gave my friend a slice of a baguette and Treeline cheese, she couldn’t believe it was vegan and we basically finished the entire container in one sitting. This option is one of the best for shoppers looking for a heart-healthy option with only 1 gram of saturated fat per serving.

Calories 90

Total Fat 7g, Saturated Fat 1g

Protein 3g

Violife Just Like Cream Cheese

Wow. This stuff is the real deal: texture, appearance, taste, and slight inclination to melt. Violife’s Just Like Cream Cheese Original leaves almost nothing to be desired, besides maybe a larger tub. Creamy, smooth, and spreadable, this has none of the grainy texture or watery formulas that other non-dairy cream cheeses often have. Mix in sriracha hot sauce or scallions and this easily becomes flavored cream cheese, or try Violife’s garlic & herbs flavor.

Calories 70

Total Fat 7g, Saturated Fat 6g

Protein 0g

The Bottom Line: When it comes to comfort foods, it can be hard to find plant-based options that feel like they fill the void left after eliminating animal products. Luckily, our taste buds adapt to a plant-based lifestyle, and things that may have tasted far from similar to their animal-product predecessors end up tasting nearly identical to the “real thing” after 1-2 months of going entirely plant-based.

Want to make dairy-free cream cheese from scratch? Try this plant-based homemade cream cheese recipe. 

The post The Best Non-Dairy Cream Cheeses That Taste As Good As The Real Thing appeared first on The Beet.

To get to the bottom of this vegan bacon mystery, we tracked down six of the latest and most widely available plant-based kinds of bacon on the market to see how they would stack up. Here is our take, and we would love to hear from you if you have any that you prefer! Plus, you may want to try making these bacons in the oven, for an even more crispy bacon taste.

Avoiding Processed Meat for Your Health

Bacon is America’s favorite processed meat with some estimates claiming that the average American consumer eats 18 pounds of bacon per year. But now, increasing research has shown eating processed meats such as bacon regularly can lead to several chronic health conditions including heart failure, kidney disease, and several forms of cancer, among others. Eating processed or red meat regularly can increase your heart disease and cancer risk by 18 percent and 29 percent, respectively.

To help improve your overall well-being and lower your risk of heart disease, introducing new plant-based bacon to your diet can significantly help improve your health for longer. Adding a few plant-based meals to your diet can reduce your risk of heart disease 30 years later, according to a recent study. Another study shows that switching to a more dominantly plant-based diet can actually prolong your life expectancy by 10 years or more. So next time you are cooking breakfast or making a B.L.T., check out some of these top bacon alternatives for a healthier protein.

For all the Beet Meters, check out the best vegan products.

Be Leaf Vegan Bacon

BeLeaf’s vegan bacon hits all the right taste and texture notes. For that reason, it tops our list. It cooks up extremely easily and yields a consistency and is easy to work with to create any bacon dish you desire. BeLeaf captures that meaty, salty bacon-like taste.

Price: $9.99, 10 oz package

Where to buy: Besties Vegan Paradise, Lassens, and other local natural grocery stores. Also on online retailers like Vegan Essentials, GTFO It’s Vegan, and more.

Calories 44

Total Fat 1g, Saturated Fat 0g

Protein 3.5g

Hooray Foods Plant-Based Bacon

Hooray Foods is a plant-based bacon designed to look, cook, and taste like the real thing. The pieces stick together if they touch while cooking so make sure you use a large pan to keep separate. This bacon has a heavy coconut aftertaste so we would recommend using it on salads or as a topping.

Price: $8.49-$8.99, 5 oz package

Where To Buy: Select Whole Foods Market

Calories 60

Total Fat 4g, Saturated Fat 3g

Protein 0g

LightLife Smart Bacon

LightLife is a long-time player in the vegan food space and you can feel good about eating its Smart Bacon which is easy to find on most grocery store shelves. LightLife’s Smart Bacon has a slight soy taste which some people might not love. Use this Bacon on a plant-based patty or vegan BLT the next time you have a hankering for bacon.

Price: $5.99, 5 oz package

Where to buy: Various mainstream grocery stores, health-food retailers, and online shops.

Calories 20

Total Fat 1g, Saturated Fat 0g

Protein 2g

Prime Roots Superprotein Bacon

Prime Roots uses fermentation technology to mimic real bacon. Their secret weapon is an ingredient called Koji, a Japanese fungus that is actually a whole-food protein, packed with nutrients. It certainly smells and tastes like bacon. It can overcook easily, so it’s a good option if you like “crispier” bacon. This would go well in a sandwich or as crumbles on a salad.

Price: $9.99, 8 oz package

Where to buy: Online at www.primeroots.com

Calories 110

Total Fat 8g, Saturated Fat 6g

Protein 6g

Sweet Earth Benevolent Bacon

Sweet Earth has been a consistent plant-based brand that doesn’t ever disappoint. And their Benevolent Bacon is no exception. This bacon is teeming with flavor and a “meaty” texture. You’ll enjoy notes of hickory, sage and garlic in every bite. It cooks like the real thing is available for purchase both in frozen and refrigerated packaging.

Price: $3.99, 5.5 oz package

Where to buy: Check out Sweet Earth’s online locator tool to find a store closest to you, including select SafeWay, Whole Foods Market, Walmart, and more.

Calories 45

Total Fat 1.5g, Saturated Fat 0g

Protein 4g

SUPRIMA Bacon Crack

As if we needed reminding just how addictive bacon is, along comes a plant-based bacon product called “Bacon Crack” that is cooked and crispy and ready to eat right out of the box. Bacon Crack from Superhumn, is an all-natural, gluten-free, soy-free plant-based formula that “checks all the boxes” when you’re searching for healthier bacon. The most important box of all? When it comes to bacon, that’s taste. When it comes to the savory, smoky, slightly sweet, crispy salty fix that bacon lovers have come to count on, many plant-based versions fall short. Bacon Crack checks that box too.  At 60 calories for 2 strips, a saturated fat content of 2.5 grams, and 2 grams of protein per serving, this bacon has half the fat and 40 percent less sodium than real bacon. We see a BLT in our future.

Price: $6.99 for one 2.5 oz package.

Where to Buy: Check out Superhumn’s website to purchase this tasty bacon. Currently offers limited availability.

Calories 60

Total Fat 3g, Saturated Fat 2.5g

Protein 2g

Upton’s Bacon Seitan

Upton’s makes a tasty and smokey bacon that is well suited in a BLT, or crumbles on a salad. While it doesn’t quite resemble the real thing, it’s still a good substitute when you need bacon in a recipe. We suggest you cook it longer to get a crispy bacon crunch.

Price: $4.69, 5 oz package

Where to buy: Whole Foods Market and other retailers as well as online Amazon.com, ThriveMarket.com and more.

Calories 100

Total Fat 0.5g, Saturated Fat 0g

Protein 15g

The post The Best Vegan Bacon That Tastes Just Like the Real Thing appeared first on The Beet.

Before you head for the red wine (which you know to be healthy because of the polyphenols in the pigment), here are the best boozy beverages that are healthier for you than others. Take this guide to the liquor store and know you’re buying the healthiest, vegan adult beverages this holiday season and beyond.

The Healthiest Kinds of Alcohol

Hard Kombucha

Hard kombucha is a fermented tea drink that is packed with probiotics. It often includes other good-for-you ingredients like adaptogens, while keeping sugar and carbs in check. Hard kombucha is growing in popularity and increasingly making beer and hard seltzer seem like antiquated drinks of the past. You can typically find a selection of hard kombucha at your local grocery store (usually found in or near the beer section).

Many companies sell directly on their website as well. California is quickly becoming the birthplace of the best hard kombucha around. Here are some of our vegan-friendly recommendations to stock up on:

Flying Embers is known for its adaptogenic blends and wide array of flavors. The brand also manages to deliver a zero-sugar, zero carbs, low-calorie drink, void of any added flavoring or artificial sugars. Not only do they taste good, but they also do good, by donating a portion of their proceeds to firefighters and first responders. Bootchcraft is a San Diego-based company that is perhaps the OG of hard kombucha. These people know how to brew some seriously good — and seriously strong — ‘bucha.

With a 7 percent ACV per can, you can get a buzz pretty quickly, so pace yourself. Bootchcraft recently released a number of seasonal flavors, like Spiced Pear, perfect for coupling with your festive holiday meal. You’ll feel good about supporting this eco-conscious brand that embodies what it means to be a good environmental steward because it contributes to the Regenerative Organic Alliance for each bottle sold.

For a lighter alcohol option, reach for NOVA Easy Kombucha, another San Diego-born company with expert brewmasters at its helm that’s been quietly whipping up a seriously-great tasting brew that is easy drinking at its finest. NOVA’s straightforward and familiar flavors are sure to please any palate.

Clean Wine

If you’re confused when it comes to buying a clean, healthy wine, you’re not alone. Because winemakers are not required to display ingredients and nutritional info on their labels, it’s hard to make an informed decision. Some wines have tons of additives, artificial flavors, dyes, sulfites, added sugars, and even animal products — like egg whites often used to achieve a certain color, or fish blatter used to filter the wine — none of which they have to list.

The point is, it’s hard to find a wine you can trust. The good news is, there are plenty of transparent and clean-wine brands popping up that promise transparency so you can know you aren’t putting junk in your body. What does clean wine mean? While there is no official or regulated definition of clean wine, we define it with the following criteria:

• Low sulfites: Typically a “low sulfite” wine has less than 100 parts per million (ppm) of sulfur dioxide, whereas regular wine can have up to 350 ppm.
• Organic grapes: Grown with organic farming principles, and pesticide-free, so no nasty chemicals.
• Vegan: No animal products or by-products are used in the winemaking process or added to the wine.
• No synthetic additives.

Not that a “clean wine” is not to be confused with “natural wine,” which typically has no, or very little, sulfites, 10-35 ppm, and follows some other criteria. Below are a few wine brands that meet the above clean-wine criteria and are certainly worthy of your holiday festivities. They’ll likely even earn a place on your wine rack all year round:

Avaline, founded by Cameron Diaz and her partner Katherine Power last year with a promise of a transparent clean wine void of additives and made with organic grapes and low sulfites. Diaz has certainly delivered on her promise. Avaline is also one of the few wines that actually lists nutritional information directly on the label. With white wine and rosé in their initial lineup, the latest addition is a red wine, which is a Grenache and Syrah blend, at an affordable $24 price point.

Made in Rhône, France, it’s light to medium-bodied, with bright red fruit and delicate aromas that will pair perfectly with your veggie-forward holiday meal. For a psychedelic ‘70s-vibe throwback, an organic wine company, Wonderful Wine Co., is also one to consider. While they make red and whites, you’ll most certainly want to try the orange wine.

It’s a perfect way to kick off your meal and have a fun conversation starter for the table since orange wine may be an out-of-this-world concept to your guests: Orange wine is technically a white wine but gets its orange color from grape skins left on during fermentation.

Vodka

Vodka is often considered the overall healthiest choice since it is low in calories, carbs, and sugar. Vodka is said to help increase blood flow and circulation which can aid in preventing clots, strokes, and other heart diseases. Dating back many centuries, vodka was used for its medicinal properties, rather than for enjoyment. (Of course, drinking vodka — or any alcohol for that matter — should always be done so in moderation.)

Vodka is one of the world’s most popular spirits and is perfect for mixing up a cocktail, serving in a martini, or sipping straight up. Vodka can be made from a variety of plant ingredients, from corn to wheat, to olives … and even grapes. Here are a few quality, storied vodkas to consider having on hand and getting creative with this season:

Made in California, Hangar 1 is unique in that its made from grapes and grain to produce a smooth and subtly floral-tasting vodka. It’s a taste of the luxurious California coast wrapped up in a bottle, well worth the $41 splurge. For a do-gooder brand, try Hera the Dog, a triple-distilled vodka — which matters because distillation removes impurities and yields a cleaner flavor. Hera donates a percentage of each bottle sold to animal rescue causes. You can follow Hera’s journey on Instagram for a healthy balance of helping save animals and delectable cocktail recipes.

Finally, for an elegant vodka designed with a martini in mind, try Kate Hudson’s King St. Vodka, made in Santa Barbara and inspired by her time living in NYC’s Greenwich Village, on King St. Non-GMO and crafted with alkaline water, plus distilled 7 times for purity, the vodka goes down smooth with floral notes. The taste is complemented by its beautiful bottle, sure to be the belle of the ball on your at-home bar.

Tequila

Leave it to the friends south of the border to come up with the perfect drink for a sandy palm-lined beach that is both healthy, smooth, and “diet-friendly” since it contains Avagins, a kind of natural sugar that is considered “non-digestible” because it acts like fiber in the body and won’t spike blood sugar levels when you drink it. Of course all the sugary mixes you add with your frozen margarita might, however, so don’t kid yourself that the frozen sweet marg is as healthy as a straight Dos Amigos sipped chilled.

But the sugar in tequila is also known to lower cholesterol and because it acts like fiber, it could even help you lose weight (crazy, we know). So enjoy tequila but make it a good one because the healthiest way is to sip it straight.

For more recommendations, check out The Beet’s Product Reviews. 

The post The 4 Healthiest Alcohol Choices to Drink This Holiday Season appeared first on The Beet.

Here are the best vegan baked goods, hot drinks, and candies that you should add to your list this winter to celebrate the holiday season in a totally plant-based way. For our favorite year-round vegan products at Trader Joe’s, visit this handy guide of the best meatless and dairy-free buys.

The Best Vegan Holiday Products at Trader Joe’s

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1. Vegan Gingerbread Loaf

If I were to recommend one item on this list as a must-try, it’s this dairy-free gingerbread loaf. Moist, festive, and topped with crystallized sugar which gives it a very welcome crunch in contrast to the soft spicy bread, this is one of those ‘bet you can’t just have one slice’ items, and I’ve capped off many a night devouring the entire thing. Toast a slice, smother it in some plant-based butter, and you have yourself a holiday treat that will be a hit with anyone.

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2. Wintry Blend Ground Coffee

Why not make every part of your routine festive? TJ’s Wintry Blend coffee amps up your morning cup of joe with spices like clove, cinnamon, and peppercorn. Get this fan-favorite soon because it will only be on shelves during the winter months, and sells out fast.

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3. Non-Dairy Mint and Chip Bon Bons

To add to Trader Joe’s roster of dairy-free delights, these Mint & Chip Bon Bons are completely vegan and marry two of the best flavors for a wintry treat: Dark chocolate and mint. Find these in the frozen aisle.

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4. Peppermint Mini Marshmallows

Trader Joe’s is one of the few trusty places where you’re able to find gelatin-free marshmallows. During the holiday season, they bulk up their offerings with these peppermint-flavored mini marshmallows which are the perfect topping for a steaming cup of cocoa.

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5. Scandinavian Tidings

Trader Joe’s is an expert at taking traditionally animal-based items and making them accidentally vegan, such as these gummies which trade gelatin for tapioca syrup and cornstarch and get their colors from natural sources like turmeric, spirulina, and vegetable extracts.

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6. Candy Cane Green Tea

While we’re spicing up your coffee, could we interest you in some Candy Cane Green Tea to get into the spirit of the season? In addition to peppermint, this holiday tea also features notes of vanilla and is a great decaffeinated option to accompany your vegan dessert.

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7. O’Nog Non-Dairy Oat Beverage

If you love the syrupy sweetness of egg nog, why not trade in the traditional recipe for a dairy-free version made from oats? Equally as delicious, this plant-based beverage is great alongside cookies or can be used as a creamer in your morning cup of coffee.

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8. Winter Wassail Punch

What would the holidays be without a good punch? Trader Joe’s Winter Wassail Punch is a fan favorite for a reason. The brand describes the taste as a “sweetened blend of black currant, apple, and lemon juices, with cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, cardamom, ginger, and orange peel.” Add slices of citrus and rosemary for a beautiful garnish, this punch is a great alcohol-free beverage option for guests, and can also be infused with whatever liquor you please, but we’d recommend a woodsy Bourbon.

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9. Candy Cane Joe Os

Trader Joe’s well-loved copycat Oreo cookies get a holiday makeover with a candy cane flavor. If you love chocolate and peppermint, pick up a box of these vegan cookies and you’ll discover that the dairy-free creamy filling is freckled with bits of candy cane pieces for extra cheer.

For more plant-based recommendations, visit The Beet’s Product Reviews. 

The post The 9 Best Vegan Holiday Products to Buy at Trader Joe’s appeared first on The Beet.

Even though water will consistently be your best option to hydrate, choosing coconut water to enjoy an electrolyte-packed drink with an addictive flavor is hard to pass up. Coconut water contains minimal amounts of sugar, and more than often, it is not processed, unlike other popular hydrating beverages.

For when you visit the grocery store’s coconut water section after your next run, we put together a comprehensive guide ranking these coconut waters for taste and health to make your decision as easy as possible.

Sipping coconut water is excellent after a night out, fighting a cold, or just outside on a hot summer day. This simple yet refreshing beverage will easily become a part of your daily routine. And even though coconut water is perfect by itself, you can add coconut water to several recipes to craft cocktails or make smoothies. Try making a coconut water lemonade when warm weather rolls in. There’s nothing better than a drink that’s hydrating, tasty, and highly versatile.

What is Coconut Water?

Coconut water contains several important minerals including manganese, potassium, and calcium. On average, coconut water holds 9.9 milligrams of vitamin C per 100 grams. Most importantly, coconut water is extremely low in sugar content and calories.

Coconut water is also extremely low-fat, and should not be confused with the much fattier coconut milk. This beverage typically contains 94 percent water and minimal fat derived from the coconut. Coconut water has been associated with lowering blood sugar levels and minimizing the risks of diabetes, according to a study. However, more research is needed to confirm the health implications for humans.

In general, drinking coconut water is a hydrating option after a long, exhausting day of any kind. Although more research is needed to understand the extent of coconut water’s benefits on heart disease, diabetes, and other illness, research suggests that coconut water is a smart choice when it comes to hydration.

Here are the best coconut waters to buy, taste-tested for flavor and ranked for health.

The Best Coconut Waters to Buy

365 Whole Foods Coconut Water

Next time you find yourself at Whole Foods, grab a 33.8-ounce coconut water. Not only will it help you stay hydrated and energized for the rest of your day but it’s a relative bargain, compared to other coconut waters. Priced at only $4 for a container, 365 by Whole Foods Coconut Water is three times the size of its competitors for less. Use this coconut water instead of tap water to add electrolytes to your morning smoothie.

Calories 50

Total Sugars 11g, Added Sugars 0g

Bai Antioxidant Cocofusion

Bai’s signature Cocofusion is not 100 percent coconut water, but it deserves a place on this list for shoppers looking for a more exciting beverage. Bai Cocofusion is slightly thicker than other coconut drinks, with one gram of sugar and caffeine. However, those looking for more hydration should stick to other coconut waters. This is a decadent variation, sweetened with stevia and with a little caffeine kick to keep you energized throughout your day.

Calories 10

Total Sugars 1g, Added Sugars 0g

Harmless Harvest Organic Coconut Water

Harmless Harvest is tough to beat. Our testers loved the ultra-hydrating, perfectly sweetened taste. Packed with natural electrolytes including potassium, this coconut water is the top choice for anyone looking to rehydrate after running or working outside for long hours. With no added sugar, Harmless Harvest still contains 20 grams of natural sugar per bottle, so take that into account.

Calories 90

Total Sugars 20g, Added Sugars 0g

Naked Coconut Water

Naked’s website advises its customers, “After you’re done working your body into shape, treat it to a tropical getaway,” and we have to agree. Naked’s organic coconut water is a great refreshment packed with magnesium and potassium to help replenish the body after exhausting exercise or a stressful work day. Each 16.9-ounce bottle contains the natural juice from 2 ¾ coconuts. Split one of these bottles with your running buddy to cool off. And take note that each serving only contains 6 grams of sugar, which is way better than the top sports drinks!

Calories 40

Total Sugars 6g, Added Sugars 0g

Pure Brazilian Coconut Water

Made from 100 percent raw Brazilian coconuts, this company remains true to its name and provides customers with one of the most sustainable coconut water options available. Pure Brazilian helps replenish one square foot of the Amazon rainforest for every bottle purchased, and after you try this authentic coconut water, you will likely return for more. The brand ensures that all its coconut water is always raw––never heated, concentrated, or compromised in any way. And note, there are no added sugars!

Calories 40

Total Sugars 6g, Added Sugars 0g

Vita Coco Coconut Water

Purchasing a four-pack of Vita Coco’s original Pure Organic coconut water for approximately $10 could be the best thing you do this week. This coconut water is packed with electrolytes and vital nutrients including vitamin C and potassium. This beverage has even more potassium than a banana! Most importantly, Vita Coco provides thirsty customers with an authentically refreshing taste of the tropics. Compared to sports drinks, this is a healthy low sugar, and low-calorie option for everyone to enjoy.

Calories 60

Total Sugars 13g, Added Sugars 1g

Zico Coconut Water Drink

Sold in a bottle more reminiscent of your favorite performance beverages, Zico’s coconut water is pure juice that does not come from a concentrate. This refreshing drink is packed with five natural electrolytes and delivers a light, sweet flavor that is nearly identical to the freshest coconut water. And to top it all off, this hydrating drink contains no added sugars and 15 percent of your daily value of potassium.

Calories 45

Total Sugars 9g, Added Sugars 0g

The post The Best Coconut Waters to Keep Yourself Hydrated, Naturally appeared first on The Beet.

Konscious Foods’ initial vegan sushi selection will feature four onigiri and four sushi rolls. The company will debut the plant-based frozen seafood at Whole Food Markets and Choices Markets in Vancouver, British Colombia. The company stated that it plans to extend both its product selection and distribution in the coming year.

The vegan sushi rolls will come in eight pieces, featuring California Rolls, Tuna Avocado Rolls, Spicy California Rolls, and Rainbow Rolls. The two-piece onigiri products feature Japanese Vegetable Curry, Roasted Corn & Poblano, Kale Gomae, and Korean BBQ Mushroom varieties. Potvin expects to expand this selection to include over 20 plant-based seafood products available across North America.

“At Konscious, our chefs create plant-based seafood that people can choose over traditional options for their own health and the health of the planet,” Potvin said in a statement. “We saw a gap that wasn’t being filled. People want choices, regardless of whether that’s for meat or seafood. Here, we match the delicious taste of plant-based sushi and onigiri with the convenience of ready-to-eat meals and snacks.”

From Vegan Meat to Vegan Seafood

Before entering the vegan seafood market, Potvin launched Yves Veggie Cuisine and then helped turn Gardein into an internationally recognized plant-based brand. Now, the vegan leader partnered with Protein Industries Canada (PIC), Merit Foods, and seaweed company Canadian Pacifico Seaweed to launch Konscious Foods. The brand received $15.3 million of funding from these partnering companies. Beyond funding, the partnering companies provide the necessary ingredients and create these sushi alternatives.

The partners claim that the affiliated companies will work together to develop a successfully plant-based sushi brand using sustainable ingredients. With a blend of market expertise and food technology experts, Konscious Foods plans to rapidly expand its market presence. For the last three years, PIC and the industry partners have allocated over $485 million dedicated to expanding Canada’s sustainable and plant-based food industries.

“Our skilled team of Konscious chefs has created culinary excellence using quality plant-based ingredients,” Potvin said. “We are grateful for the support from Protein Industries Canada that has helped us to bring this unique line of delicious plant-based sushi and onigiri to grocery freezer aisles. It is our goal to give people the conscious food choices they’ve been waiting for.���

Commercial Fishing is Damaging the Oceans

Despite increased concerns about pollution and climate change, consumers are reluctant to give up their favorite seafood dishes. However, last March, Netflix released a documentary exposing the planetary dangers of the seafood industry entitled Seaspiracy. The documentary intended to raise awareness of the dangers of commercial fishing, claiming that at the current rate, oceans will likely be completely empty by 2048. On top of that, commercial fishing nets account for 46 percent of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.

Commercial fishing also impacts the fish that consumers eat. One recent study found that regularly consuming seafood impacted by pollution is linked to an increased risk of skin cancer. This relation is attributed to the massive level of toxins and microplastics released into the ocean and consumed by the fish.

Other than Konscious Foods, several plant-based brands have started launching products aimed at convincing seafood lovers to try a more sustainable and healthier option. This week, Vegan Zeastar (which also has a line of plant-based sashimi) debuted its first realistic vegan shrimp.

For the best plant-based seafood available, check out our Beet Meter for the top vegan seafood. 

31 Delicious, Plant-Based Recipes to Make on Repeat

Want fresh ideas for meals that are healthy, plant-based, and delicious? This free newsletter is for you. Sign up to get a recipe of the day delivered to your inbox every morning.

The post Coming Soon: Eco-Friendly Vegan Sushi. Here’s Where to Buy It appeared first on The Beet.

Still, this vegan brownie recipe called for making vegan brownies with bananas, so I swapped out the eggs and used the fruit instead. I also added a few other key health hacks to make my brownies even healthier, filled with protein, and yet still completely satisfying.

So I started with a mix. I used a mix from PB2 Foods, a baking company that makes mixes for baked goods made with plant-based protein. Along with their healthier brownie mix, they also make cookie and muffin mixes, all with peanut flour which boosts the protein and fiber content.

What set this mix apart from the get-go: It has only recognizable ingredients – Peanuts, sugar, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, tapioca starch, sodium bicarbonate, and salt. In each brownie, there are 4 grams of plant-based protein and only 120 calories. I was sold.

Vegan Protein-Packed Brownies

I decided this was just what I needed to maintain a somewhat healthy plant-based diet but also find a satisfying fix for my nightly chocolate cravings.

I added a few other health hacks to make them even healthier. Instead of processed vegetable oil, I used extra virgin olive oil and sprayed the pan using avocado oil (which is a healthier oil with a high smoke point).

And because I wanted to make them even healthier, I swapped out half the oil for organic apple sauce. This is a trick  I learned long ago and continue to use it in all my baking to lower the calories and oil in each bite.

3 Tips for Making Healthy Brownies:

1. Use half a ripe banana instead of eggs in any brownie recipe to lower your cholesterol and saturated fat intake.
2. Use apple sauce instead of half the oil when baking. You can lower your fat and calories and add more fiber.
3. Choose extra virgin olive oil when baking instead of highly processed vegetable oil which can be full of chemicals. Spray the pan with avocado oil to use even less vegetable oil.

Why Avoid Eggs?

Eggs contain cholesterol and saturated fat, which when consumed on a regular basis can increase your risk of heart disease. One large egg contains 187 mg of cholesterol and 1.6 grams of saturated fat. Saturated fat drives up your blood cholesterol, which can lead to plaque in the bloodstream and raise blood pressure.

So giving up eggs when baking and using ripe bananas instead is a great way to cut down on your egg consumption and reduce your longterm risk of heart disease.

Read More: 6 Reasons Why You Should Give Up Eggs to Live Longer, Healthier

Is Vegetable Oil Bad for You?

When I bake vegan, I always try to come up with healthy swaps. I also love using olive oil instead of vegetable oil, which the recipe had called for. I try to avoid vegetable oil whenever possible, ever since I wrote a story on how vegetable oils are usually highly processed. Vegetable oil contains Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (or PUFAs) which make it harder for the body to burn fat. Americans use so much oil in their food (especially packaged foods like crackers, cookies, and store-bought products) that it’s hard to escape. Americans get 80 percent of their fat calories from processed vegetable oil, or about 650 calories a day, as compared to your grandparent’s generation when Americans ate fewer than 100 calories of oil a day.

While Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids are considered heart healthier than saturated fat, which is found in animal products like meat and dairy, the fewer PUFAs you take in overall, the better. So first I used apple sauce instead of half the oil. Next, I cut down on the oil in this recipe by greasing the pan with a spray of avocado oil instead of any other type of vegetable oil.

Baking Without Eggs

Back to the bananas for eggs. I would recommend you use a very ripe banana instead of a stiff or slightly green banana because the softer the banana is, the easier it will be to smush and whisk into the liquified oil and water mix (and apple sauce in my case) to make a thick base for the brownie mix. Once you whisk the oil, water, apple sauce, and banana together add the brownie mix. After you mix all that together so there are no lumps, these brownies are so easy: you just pour the mixture into a greased pan and pop them into the oven, and bake for 20 minutes at 350.

Read More: 9 Egg Substitutes to Use in Baking That Are Vegan and Healthy

Now I will say, having licked the batter before washing the bowl, that you can taste a trace of banana. Depending on how you feel about bananas, that could either be a positive, a negative, or a neutral. I happen to like bananas, so for me, it’s somewhere the positive side.

But everything has its taste. You don’t realize it but you can taste the eggs or butter in most batters. It’s just that you’re so used to it, growing up with lots of traditional baking, or in a household where your mom or dad or siblings or grandparent or whoever you baked with used those ingredients, it became what you expected brownies or cookies to taste like.

My mom was a big baker and always used margarine, which is often unintentionally vegan. So I figured if I could find a decent substitute for eggs in baking, I could work my way through her impressive recipe box (praline cakes, lemon squares, brownies, meringues…) and find substitutes for all her dairy ingredients and recreate these traditional baked goods as vegan versions of my childhood favorites. Trying this banana instead of eggs was the first step.

Here’s How Vegan Brownies With Bananas Tasted

Call me easy to please, but these tasted amazing. I was delighted to find that the banana taste from the batter is nowhere to be found once these are baked. Also, they seemed to need a little more time than the recipe called for.

I like brownies soft in the middle and hard on the edges so I tried cooking them a little less, 15 minutes instead of the called-for 20 minutes but had to keep adding more time in the oven, for a total of about 23 minutes taking them in and out twice to test them.

Since every oven is different and everyone likes their brownies differently, I underbaked mine. For me, nice and chewy, with a hard edge, these are about as good as any brownie I have ever baked, and they are entirely vegan and gluten-free.

Because they use peanut flour these vegan brownies are also high in protein and are gluten-free. If you have a peanut allergy they are not the right choice for you of course.

Bottom Line: Use Banana Instead of Egg in Brownies

Swapping a banana for eggs when baking brownies will take some of the saturated fat and cholesterol out of the recipe, making it a healthier choice. When you need to satisfy a chocolate craving, baking healthier vegan brownies is the way to go.

For more plant-based recommendations, visit The Beet’s Product Reviews. 

The post “I Baked Vegan Brownies With Banana Instead of Eggs. Here’s How It Went” appeared first on The Beet.

These days you can even find delicious, egg-free nog in your refrigerator case at the supermarket, and some of the milk carton versions actually do a pretty good job of mimicking that iconic creamy, nutmeg-y taste of everyone’s favorite festive winter drink. If you’re living the dairy-free life, you might even think of having fun making your own batch for friends (you don’t even have to tell them it’s vegan –– that’s between you and Santa). Here are our favorite store-bought dairy-free eggnogs to help celebrate the holidays.

The Best Vegan and Dairy-Free Eggnog Brands

Almond Breeze Almondmilk Nog

Almond Breeze is a classic-tasting eggnog that everyone will love for the holidays. Almond Breeze milk alternatives have never failed us and the brand’s eggnog lives up to all expectations we have of the taste and texture, despite the fact that it’s dairy-free. It’s one of the most allergen-friendly options. since it’s not only dairy-free but also soy-free, lactose-free, peanut-free, casein-free, egg-free, and gluten-free.

We loved this one served up plain, but we also think Almond Breeze is a tasty option for your spiked eggnog. Almond Breeze’s nog will fool your non-vegan guests into thinking they’re drinking the real deal. Serve it up and then show them the carton after!

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 75mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 14g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 11g
• Protein: 1g

Trader Joe’s Almond Nog

Trader Joe’s almond-based eggnog was an office favorite and you should run, don’t walk, to get your hands on a container. If you don’t like overly sweetened eggnog and you are happy with a thinner consistency, this one is the nog for you. A true eggnog lover will search for the spicy and sweet flavors found in traditional eggnogs, but healthier is always our goal so we were thrilled with TJ’s formula. The thinner pour makes this the perfect choice for a nog latte.

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 65mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 9g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: <1g

Califia Farms Holiday Nog

The office was divided on Califia’s Holiday Nog: Some of our coworkers found the spices and taste to resemble the exact taste of the traditional nog they grew up with, whereas others thought it tasted too sweet, like liquid candy. This nog is for anyone who loves notes of nutmeg and ginger. Califia’s is also the creamiest option of the bunch, and makes you feel like you’re indulging in a sweet treat – but with only 1.5 grams of fat and no saturated fat, it’s the kind of plant-based treat that isn’t too terrible for you. So enjoy!

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 90mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 9g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 1g

Good Karma Dairy-Free Holiday Nog

Good Karma’s Flaxmilk Holiday Nog is perfect for anyone who is nut-free or who doesn’t like the taste and consistency of almond milk. This nog is the most allergen-friendly since it is free of the top eight allergens including, gluten, dairy, and nuts. The holiday nog is made with flaxseed oil and most closely resembles the texture of traditional nog.

If you enjoy a creamer on the sweeter side, then you will love Good Karma’s nog. Want to fancy up your morning joe? This “veg-nog” blends perfectly with a cup of strong coffee, creating a sweetened holiday-infused morning beverage.  We appreciate the relatively low carbs (8g per serving), so this is your best bet if you’re watching your waist and still want to feel like you’re celebrating the holidays in style.

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 1.5g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 80mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 8g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 0g

So Delicious Coconutmilk Holiday Nog

So Delicious is one of those companies that named itself perfectly. Sip their almond milk eggnog and you want to say the words! The consistency of their nog mimics conventional ones perfectly, with a rich taste and the same creamy thickness as real nog.  The coconut flavor adds a nice taste for a holiday bevy, but treat this nog as an indulgence since it has 2 grams of saturated fat and 15 grams of carbs. So what? It’s the holidays! Add this sweet dairy-free nog to your grocery list.

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 115mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 15g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 0g

Elmhurst 1925 Oat Nog

What can we say? We love Elmhurst, which switched from being a dairy company to a plant-based company back in 2017 (way ahead of its time) and changed the name to Elmhurst 1925. Now it’s the fastest-growing plant-based beverage company on the market! You can tell your guests that as you serve them this amazingly homemade-tasting eggnog, which is made with oat milk, and just the right amount of sweetness and spice.

Elmhurst 1925’s Oat Nog formula is that holy grail of eggnogs: the perfect combination of flavor and sweetness without being too thick or too sweet. It’s as good as real without being over the top. Made with only six ingredients, Elmhurst 1925’s Oat Nog makes the perfect holiday coffee creamer or mixer for your holiday gathering. Do leave the carton in view, since it will be a conversation starter among your guests.

Nutrition Facts:

• Total Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 60mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 2g

How to make the best vegan eggnog

Not a fan of store-bought vegan eggnogs? (If you taste our favorites you might change your mind.) But if you prefer to make your holiday treats and beverages from scratch, this recipe will become a family favorite for years to come.

Vegan Eggnog

Prep Time: 1
Cook Time: 15
Total Time: 16 minutes (make it 1 to 2 hours ahead to allow it to cool)
Yield: 6 1x

Ingredients

• 2 cups oat milk
• 2 tbsp sweetened condensed coconut milk (or more oat milk)
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar or 2-4 tbsp of maple syrup (for desired sweetness)
• 1 tbsp arrowroot powder
• 2 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

• Please read through the entire instructions before beginning.
• Prep: Measure out all ingredients.
• Whisk: In a large pot on the stove, whisk together all of the ingredients until combined. Vigorously whisk until there are no more clumps of arrowroot starch.
• Heat: Then turn the stovetop up to medium-high, and heat the vegan eggnog until right before it boils. You should see a few small bubbles appear. Reduce heat to low, and whisk until it thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
• Cool: Remove the eggnog from the heat and allow the eggnog to cool for 5 minutes. Then carefully pour the eggnog into an airtight glass and store. Allow the mixture to cool until it’s not warm. Then place eggnog safely in the fridge to chill for 1-2 hours.
• Enjoy: Serve with or without alcohol and enjoy!

For more great product reviews, check out The Beet Meters. 

The post The Best Vegan Eggnog to Buy Plus a Homemade Dairy-Free Recipe appeared first on The Beet.