Creamy Mushroom Soup (Dairy-Free)

Last Updated on August 3, 2026 by Tanya

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of rich, creamy soup to warm you up on a chilly day — and this Vegan Creamy Mushroom Soup delivers all that comfort without a drop of dairy. Ready in under an hour, it’s silky, deeply savoury, and made with a cashew-cream base that even committed dairy-lovers won’t question.

I have to say this is honestly my absolute favourite soup! I made this soup for my non-vegan friends and family, and they were surprised it wasn’t made with real cream! The savoury mushroom flavour with the rich, creamy texture is the perfect combination. In this recipe I used both shiitake and brown mushrooms to add depth of flavour- I always come back to this combo because the shiitake brings a deeper, more savoury note than button mushrooms alone. This soup is not only vegan but also gluten-free and full of healthy fats and protein.

Ingredients

  • Cashews– Natural cashews are a game-changer in plant-based cooking! When blended well, they create a creamy consistency, replacing milk or cream in recipes. They also have a subtle sweetness that balances out the savoury flavours of the mushrooms. I recommend soaking them in hot water for at least 15 mins or more, and blending them with a small amount of water in a high-powered blender like a to make them as smooth as possible.
  • Shiitake and brown mushrooms– I like mixing different types of mushrooms to add different textures to this soup, and I particularly like shiitake mushrooms due to their bold flavour. But you could experiment with a combination of brown, button, or even portobello mushrooms.
  • Soy sauce-Soy sauce adds extra depth to the savoury flavour of the mushrooms.
  • Plant-based cream-I used ‘Oatly’ single cream as it is my favourite brand but other plant-based creams such as soy cream would work well.
  • Fresh parsley– adds some colour and a fresh, earthly flavour. You can try other fresh herbs such as coriander or thyme.

FAQs

Can I make this soup nut-free?

Yes — swap the cashews and cashew cream for coconut milk or coconut cream instead. Use it in place of both the soaked cashew mixture and the plant-based cream for a nut-free version that’s just as rich and creamy.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze mushroom soup?

Yes — this freezes well for up to 2 months. Note that the texture may be slightly less smooth after thawing; blend briefly or stir well when reheating.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread or a slice of sourdough is perfect for dipping — see the toasted bread in the photos above.

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A rustic wooden table cradles a black bowl brimming with creamy mushroom soup. Garnished with fresh parsley and a swirl of cream, it invites you to savor each silky spoonful. A slice of toasted bread rests on the rim, completing this cozy culinary moment.

Creamy Mushroom Soup

Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Soups
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

  • Approx 10 shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • Approx 10 brown mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely diced
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 vegetable stocks (I use vegetable ‘stock pots’)
  • Half cup raw cashews, soaked for around 15 mins in boiling water
  • 1 large tablespoon soy sauce
  • Half cup dairy free milk, unsweetened
  • 3 tablespoons of plant-based cream of choice
  • 1 small handful of fresh parsley, chopped

Method
 

  1. Heat oil in pot over a medium heat
  2. Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Saute for a few minutes until softened
  3. Add chopped shiitake and brown mushrooms. Add soy sauce. Cook over medium heat and stir regularly for around 10 mins until mushrooms are cooked well.
  4. While cooking blend the soaked cashews and a small amount of cold water. Blend until mixture is smooth and creamy (around a minute). Your may need to add more water to achieve this.
  5. Add salt, black pepper and vegetable stock to mushrooms, stir.
  6. Add dairy free milk and blended cashew mixture, stir
  7. Cover pot with lid and allow to cook another 10-15 mins.
  8. Add fresh parsley and stir.
  9. Ladle soup into serving bowls. Add extra vegan cream and extra fresh parsley (optional). Enjoy!

Video

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