Cherry Tomato Bruschetta with Vegan Cream Cheese (Easy & Fresh)
This is hands down my favorite bruschetta recipe and once you try it, you’ll see why. It’s simple, fresh, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect vegan appetizer for summer.
Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving something light and satisfying, this cherry tomato bruschetta delivers every time. Juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlicky goodness are layered on golden sourdough with a creamy layer of vegan cream cheese. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy without the fuss—and comes together in under 20 minutes.
This one’s a go-to for summer gatherings, patio lunches, or anytime you want to taste sunshine on a slice of toast.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Tomato Bruschetta
This plant-based Italian recipe brings together the classic flavors of summer ripe cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and garlic layered over toasted sourdough with a creamy vegan twist. The vegan cream cheese toast base adds richness that balances perfectly with the fresh, juicy topping.
Whether you’re hosting a get-together or just craving something quick and satisfying, this vegan bruschetta is ready in under 20 minutes and it’s so much more than just toast.
How to Make Cherry Tomato Bruschetta
Making this vegan bruschetta couldn’t be easier:
This quick process brings bold Mediterranean flavor with minimal effort exactly the kind of easy vegan snack that fits into any day.
What Makes This Vegan Bruschetta Stand Out?
- 100% plant-based and dairy-free
- Takes under 20 minutes
- Uses simple ingredients you probably already have
- Customizable swap in heirloom or grape tomatoes, or use gluten-free bread
Plus, it’s one of those easy vegan snacks that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Tips for the Perfect Cherry Tomato Bruschetta
- Use ripe cherry tomatoes: Sweet and firm cherry tomatoes give the best texture and burst of flavor.
- Don’t skip the garlic: The raw garlic blends into the tomatoes, infusing the whole dish with depth.
- Let the tomato mix sit: Even 5–10 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Serve immediately: Bruschetta is best when fresh the bread stays crisp and the topping juicy.
Optional Add-ons & Variations
Want to spice things up? Try these ideas:
- Add chili flakes for a kick
- Mix in finely chopped red onion or shallots
- Top with sliced olives or a drizzle of balsamic glaze
- Swap cream cheese with a vegan pesto spread for a herby version
Serving Suggestions
Serve this bruschetta:
- As a light starter for dinner parties
- On a charcuterie board alongside olives, nuts, and fruits
- Paired with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon
- As a quick lunch with a side salad
FAQs About Cherry Tomato Bruschetta (Vegan Version)
You can prep the tomato mixture a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. However, wait to toast the bread and assemble the bruschetta until just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
Sourdough, ciabatta, or a rustic baguette all work well. Choose something with a sturdy crust so it holds the toppings without getting soggy.
Yes! Just make sure to dice them small and remove excess juice or seeds to prevent sogginess. Cherry tomatoes are preferred for their natural sweetness and lower water content.
Not at all it adds creaminess, but you can skip it or substitute with other spreads like mashed avocado, vegan ricotta, or even a garlic hummus.
Absolutely. Just use your favorite gluten-free bread as the base, and the rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free and plant-based.
Final thoughts on this Cherry Tomato Bruschetta
This cherry tomato bruschetta with vegan cream cheese is everything we love in a recipe fresh, flavorful, and ridiculously easy. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re dining al fresco in Italy, even if you’re just snacking at home.
Looking for more plant-based Italian recipes or simple, delicious vegan meals?
Visit Dr. Vegan for more game-changing vegan recipes, kitchen hacks, and plant-powered inspo.
Cherry Tomato Bruschetta with Vegan Cream Cheese
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet or grill pan
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Toaster or oven
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 450 g cherry tomatoes halved or diced
- 1 handful fresh basil leaves finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 60 ml olive oil divided
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 3 slices sourdough bread
- Vegan cream cheese or regular, to spread
- Chili flakes optional for topping
Instructions
- Make the Tomato Mixture:In a bowl, mix the diced cherry tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, half of the olive oil (2 tbsp / 30 ml), salt, and pepper. Let it sit to release the juices.
- Prepare the Bread:Slice the sourdough at a 45° angle into slices about ⅔ inch thick (1.5–2 cm). Brush both sides with the remaining olive oil (2 tbsp / 30 ml). Toast in a pan or broil in the oven for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
- Assemble:Spread cream cheese on each slice. Top with the tomato-basil mixture and spoon over some of the juice.
- Finish & Serve:Sprinkle with chili flakes if desired. Serve and enjoy immediately!
Nutrition
Cherry Tomato Bruschetta with Vegan Cream Cheese
Equipment
- Skillet or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Toaster or oven
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes halved or diced (about 450 g)
- 1 handful fresh basil leaves (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup olive oil divided (60 ml)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 3 slices sourdough bread
- Vegan cream cheese (or regular), to spread
- chili flakes for topping (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Make the Tomato Mixture:In a bowl, mix the diced cherry tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, half of the olive oil (2 tbsp / 30 ml), salt, and pepper. Let it sit to release the juices.
- 2. Prepare the Bread:Slice the sourdough at a 45° angle into slices about ⅔ inch thick (1.5–2 cm). Brush both sides with the remaining olive oil (2 tbsp / 30 ml). Toast in a pan or broil in the oven for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
- 3. Assemble:Spread cream cheese on each slice. Top with the tomato-basil mixture and spoon over some of the juice.
- 4. Finish & Serve:Sprinkle with chili flakes if desired. Serve and enjoy immediately!