Name: Caramelized Onion Vegan Dip Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (15 ounce) can white beans, rinsed and drained; 4 ounces cream cheese; ½ cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt (or sour cream); 2/3 cup medium or hot buffalo sauce; 1 (15 ounce) can white beans, rinsed and drained; ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; ¾ cup sharp cheddar cheese (or a spicy cheddar), divided; ¼ cup diced green onion (green part only); Fresh cilantro; Extra green onion; Tortilla chips; Carrot sticks; Celery sticks

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 9 reviews

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings bold flavors and creamy texture together, this Caramelized Onion Vegan Dip Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. With that irresistible sweetness from caramelized onions combined with plant-based creaminess and a punch of savory goodness, this dip is perfect for game days, casual get-togethers, or just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be reaching for this delicious, wholesome dip again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear food processor bowl with four distinct layers inside shows white beans on the left side, soft cream cheese in white on top, bright orange sauce on the right, and a dollop of white yogurt at the bottom. The food processor is placed on a white marbled surface with a white and black striped cloth next to it. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Caramelized Onion Vegan Dip Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Each element plays a special role—from the deep sweetness of slow-cooked onions to the creamy base that holds it all together, creating a perfect balance of flavor and texture.

2 large yellow onions: The star ingredient, caramelized slowly to bring out their natural sweetness and rich flavor.
3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps caramelize the onions perfectly and adds a subtle fruity note.
1 cup raw cashews (soaked): Provides a creamy, dairy-free base when blended smooth.
½ cup water: Used to soften the cashews and adjust the dip’s consistency.
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast: Adds a cheesy, savory undertone without any dairy.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness with a little zing.
1 clove garlic: Infuses subtle depth and warmth to the dip.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.

How to Make Caramelized Onion Vegan Dip Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by slicing the yellow onions thinly and heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Slowly cook the onions, stirring frequently for about 30-40 minutes. Patience is key here—this slow caramelization process unlocks the natural sugars in the onions, turning them golden brown and wonderfully sweet. If the onions begin to stick or brown too fast, reduce the heat and add a splash of water to keep them glistening and tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Cashew Cream Base

While the onions caramelize, soak raw cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes or overnight if you plan ahead. Drain and rinse them well, then place the cashews in a blender with fresh water, nutritional yeast, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until you get a luxuriously smooth and creamy mixture. This cashew cream is our luscious vegan alternative to dairy, turning this into a dip that’s silky yet satisfying.

Step 3: Blend Onions Into the Cream

Once your onions are golden and soft, let them cool slightly. Transfer them to the blender with the cashew cream and pulse gently until the onions are incorporated but still have some texture. You want that lovely contrast between creamy base and soft caramelized onion bits to shine through every bite. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed to get that perfect balance.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Transfer your dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a robust, rich taste experience. When you’re ready, give it a final stir and prepare your favorite dippers. Simple, luscious, and guaranteed to impress.

How to Serve Caramelized Onion Vegan Dip Recipe

A round black skillet filled with a thick cheesy orange frittata featuring green herbs mixed inside. Two pieces of flatbread with browned spots stand vertically on one side near the top. Fresh green cilantro leaves are scattered on top. A silver spoon scooping some of the frittata is held by a woman's hand from the bottom left corner. The skillet rests on a white marbled surface with fresh green celery and orange carrot sticks in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing your dip not only boosts its visual appeal but layers in extra flavor and freshness. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives, thyme leaves, or a little smoked paprika on top for a vibrant pop of color and an aromatic finish. A drizzle of good olive oil also adds a glossy sheen that says “homemade love.”

Side Dishes

This dip pairs wonderfully with an array of crunchy, fresh veggies like crisp celery sticks, sweet carrots, and cool cucumber slices. For a more indulgent experience, serve with toasted pita wedges, crunchy tortilla chips, or crusty sourdough bread. The versatility of this Caramelized Onion Vegan Dip Recipe makes it perfect for any occasion!

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the dip in a hollowed-out round sourdough loaf for a rustic touch that’s both charming and practical. Or layer it in a clear dish with colorful bell pepper strips and radish slices to create a stunning appetizer platter. Hosting a party? Portion the dip into small jars or ramekins as personalized servings to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover dip in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. This dip holds its creamy texture and flavor well, making it perfect for enjoying the next day as a quick snack or part of a meal.

Freezing

You can freeze this vegan dip in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to leave a little space at the top as it may expand slightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving—textures might mellow slightly but the flavor remains delicious.

Reheating

For best results, gently warm your dip in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Adding a splash of water or plant-based milk can help regain a creamy texture if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving directly to prevent uneven heating.

FAQs

Can I make this dip nut-free?

Absolutely! Instead of cashews, you can use cooked white beans or silken tofu for the creamy base. The texture may be a little different but the flavor is just as delightful.

How long does caramelizing onions take?

It typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes on medium-low heat for onions to caramelize properly. Rushing this process can result in burnt onions rather than sweet, soft ones, so patience really pays off.

Can I use vegan cheese in this recipe?

Yes, adding vegan cheese is optional but can enhance the creaminess and flavor. Nutritional yeast also contributes a cheesy note, making it a great base even without dairy or vegan cheese.

Is this dip suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! This dip keeps well and tastes even better the next day. It’s a great addition to your weekly meal prep for quick lunches or snacks on the go.

What are the best dippers for this vegan dip?

Fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and cucumber, crunchy pita chips, tortilla chips, or even toasted bread slices all make fantastic partners for scooping up this dip.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a well-made dip that combines simple ingredients into a bowl of joy, and this Caramelized Onion Vegan Dip Recipe does just that. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or sneaking spoonfuls when no one’s watching, it’s a deliciously comforting treat. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how quickly it becomes a staple in your recipe collection!