Showing posts with label Ilchester. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ilchester. Show all posts

Sunday, 5 October 2025

The Best Vegan Alternatives to Stilton Cheese for Christmas

Following on from our feature on the best Stilton cheeses for Christmas, That's Christmas 365 is now looking at the best vegan alternatives to Stilton cheese for your vegan Christmas cheeseboard

For many, Christmas simply wouldn’t be complete without a wedge of creamy, crumbly Stilton on the cheeseboard. 

Traditionally paired with port or a crisp glass of dessert wine, it’s a festive staple that brings rich flavour and indulgence to the table. 

But what if you or your guests are vegan—or simply trying to cut down on dairy? The good news is that there are now some truly impressive vegan alternatives to Stilton available in the UK that deliver all the taste without the cow’s milk.

Here’s a look at some of the best options for a dairy-free Christmas cheeseboard.

1. Ilchester Vegan Blue

Made by the same team behind classic British cheeses, Ilchester’s Vegan Blue is one of the most authentic-tasting plant-based Stilton alternatives you’ll find. It’s made with coconut oil and vegan cultures, and it even has that distinctive blue-veined appearance. 

The texture is firm yet creamy, perfect for slicing or crumbling over festive salads. It’s widely available at major supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury’s, making it an easy choice for your Christmas shop.

2. Honestly Tasty “Blue”

Honestly Tasty’s Blue is something of a vegan cult favourite—and for good reason. Made using a combination of cashews, live cultures and Penicillium Roqueforti (the same mould used in traditional blue cheese), it has a delicious tang and depth of flavour. 

This one’s best enjoyed at room temperature so its creamy, rich texture really shines. It’s ideal for spreading on crackers or pairing with slices of pear and walnuts. Available online and through select independent delis.

3. Palace Culture “Blue Veganoma”

Handcrafted in London, Palace Culture’s Blue Veganoma is an artisanal option made from organic cashews and aged for several weeks to develop a punchy, complex flavour. 

It’s not a direct Stilton clone, but its characterful, umami-rich notes make it a worthy replacement on any festive cheeseboard. Pair it with oatcakes and a drizzle of vegan honey or chutney for a refined Christmas treat.

4. Sheese Blue Style

From Scotland’s long-standing vegan brand Bute Island Foods, Sheese Blue Style is a reliable supermarket find that’s both affordable and tasty. 

It’s coconut-based and slightly milder than traditional Stilton, but still delivers a lovely blue flavour that works beautifully in sauces or on crackers. It’s also free from palm oil, which will please environmentally conscious hosts.

5. La Fauxmagerie “Brixton Blue”

If you’re going all-out for a gourmet Christmas, La Fauxmagerie’s Brixton Blue deserves a spot on your table. This cashew-based cheese is aged for several weeks to develop its distinctive blue veins and robust, tangy taste. 

It’s firm enough to cut cleanly, making it perfect for an elegant cheeseboard presentation. Available via La Fauxmagerie’s website or from select stockists around the UK.

How to Enjoy Vegan “Stilton” at Christmas

Vegan blue cheeses pair wonderfully with festive accompaniments. Try serving them with:

Chutneys – especially fig, plum or caramelised onion varieties.

Fruits – fresh pear slices, dried apricots, or grapes balance the saltiness beautifully.

Crackers & bread – oatcakes, sourdough or walnut bread all work a treat.

Drinks – port, dessert wine or even a rich stout complement vegan blue cheeses wonderfully.

Final Vegan Cheese Thoughts

Going vegan (or hosting vegan guests) doesn’t mean sacrificing your favourite festive flavours. With these dairy-free Stilton alternatives, you can create a Christmas cheeseboard that’s every bit as indulgent and delicious as the traditional version—just a little kinder to animals and the planet.