Creamy vegan buffalo sauce is a simple, healthy homemade spread made from cashews, hot sauce, and spices. Use it as a sauce, dip, toast spread, or wherever you want a tangy, creamy kick.
I finally perfected a creamy vegan buffalo sauce that’s spicy, smooth, and perfectly balanced. It makes a fantastic dip, taco topper, or spoonable snack—seriously addictive.
I’d been meaning to make a dairy-free buffalo sauce for dipping, tacos, and more, and once I tried this version I wished I’d done it sooner. It’s quick to prepare and full of flavor without any processed ingredients.
If you love condiments as much as I do, this sauce will become a staple. It brightens up simple meals and adds texture and heat with minimal effort.
If you enjoy this, try my Roasted Red Pepper Romesco Sauce for another vegan-friendly condiment option.
Ingredients in vegan buffalo sauce
This recipe uses simple, whole-food ingredients. It’s an easy way to make a flavorful condiment without artificial additives.
You’ll need:
- Raw cashews (or roasted unsalted cashews)
- Frank’s hot sauce (or any favorite buffalo-style hot sauce)
- Vegetable stock or water for thinning and extra flavor
- Chili powder
- Minced garlic
How to make vegan buffalo sauce
This sauce takes about five minutes of active blending and a short soak for the cashews. A high-powered blender yields the creamiest texture.
1. Soak the cashews in boiling water for at least 30 minutes. Boiling water softens them quickly; you can also soak overnight if preferred. Properly softened cashews are essential for a smooth sauce.
2. Drain the cashews and add them to a high-powered blender with the hot sauce, vegetable stock (or water), minced garlic, and chili powder.
3. Blend on high until completely smooth. If needed, use the blender’s tamper or toggle to push the cashews down so everything blends evenly. Add more liquid to reach your desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning or hot sauce to preference. Transfer to a sealed container and refrigerate. The sauce will keep for about one week.
Ways to use this creamy buffalo sauce
This versatile sauce works with many dishes. Here are some favorite ideas:
- Drizzle over breakfast tacos, regular tacos, or use as a quesadilla dip.
- Serve with raw veggies—carrots, celery, and cucumber—for a buffalo-flavored dip.
- Coat roasted cauliflower for a lighter buffalo cauliflower option.
- Spread on toast and top with a poached egg for a spicy breakfast twist.
- Use as a dressing for salads—pair with grilled protein, blue cheese, and green onions if desired.
- Toss with pasta for a creamy, vegan buffalo pasta sauce.
If you make this, leave a comment below and tag @erinliveswhole on Instagram with the hashtag #erinliveswhole so the recipe author can see your version.
Related recipes to try
- Maple Tahini Dressing
- Healthy BBQ Sauce
- Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Creamy Vegan Buffalo Sauce
Creamy vegan buffalo sauce is an easy, healthy spread made from cashews, hot sauce, and spices. It works as a sauce, dip, or spread.
Cook: 5
Total: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1/4 cup + 1 Tbsp Frank’s Hot Sauce
- 1/3 cup vegetable stock or water
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
Instructions
- Soak cashews in boiling water for a minimum of 30 minutes.
- Drain and pat dry.
- Add cashews to a high-powered blender.
- Add hot sauce, chosen liquid, garlic, and chili powder.
- Blend on high until completely smooth and creamy; use a tamper if needed.
- Add more liquid if necessary to reach desired consistency.
- Serve and enjoy.
Category: vegan, gluten-free