Vegan Cheesy Kale Chips Recipe: A Crunchy, Guilt-Free Snack
Discover the recipe, health benefits, and pro tips for making the perfect vegan cheesy kale chips—a crunchy, savory snack for everyone.
Vegan Cheesy Kale Chips: Crunchy, Satisfying, and Guilt-Free
If you can’t make it through the afternoon without snacking, you’re not alone. Kale chips have emerged as one of the most popular healthy snacks, and this vegan cheesy version delivers all the salty, crunchy, and savory satisfaction without any dairy or processed ingredients. Perfect for plant-based eaters, these chips are packed with nutrients and flavor—ideal for lunch, an afternoon pick-me-up, or movie night.
Why Choose Vegan Cheesy Kale Chips?
- 100% Plant-based: No animal products—just whole-food ingredients for everyone to enjoy.
- Loaded with Nutrients: Kale provides vitamins K, A, and C as well as iron, calcium, and fiber.
- Guilt-free Crunch: No trans fats or preservatives, just satisfyingly crispy chips.
- Dairy-free Cheesiness: Nutritional yeast and chickpea flour mimic cheese flavor without dairy.
- Versatile: Easily adapted to gluten-free, nut-free, or oil-free diets.
Ingredients for Vegan Cheesy Kale Chips
Quality ingredients are the key to crispy, flavorful kale chips. Here’s what’s commonly used:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Kale | Main base; provides crunch and nutrition |
| Olive Oil (or Avocado/Grape Seed) | Aids crisping, coats the kale |
| Chickpea Flour | Gives body to the ‘cheese’ coating |
| Nutritional Yeast | Imparts cheesiness and B vitamins |
| Salt & Pepper | Seasoning |
| Lemon Juice | Adds tang, helps brighten flavor |
| Cayenne Pepper/Garlic Powder | Optional for extra flavor |
| Cashews/Sunflower Seeds (optional) | Optional for added creaminess |
Step-by-Step Recipe: Vegan Cheesy Kale Chips
Follow these steps for foolproof, delicious chips every time:
- Prep the Kale
Wash and thoroughly dry one large bunch of kale. Remove tough stems, tearing leaves into chip-sized pieces. Drying the leaves is crucial for crispiness. - Make the Cheese Coating
In a bowl, whisk together:- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 1/2 cups chickpea flour
- 2 cups warm water (adjust for consistency)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
For extra flavor, add 1/2–1 tsp cayenne and juice from half a lemon. For a creamier sauce, blend in 1/4 cup soaked cashews or sunflower seeds.
- Coat the Kale
Pour the cheesy mixture over the kale. Massage gently to ensure every leaf is coated but do not overwork or soften leaves too much. - Arrange and Bake
Preheat oven to 300°F (148°C). Spread kale pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer without overlapping.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, flip chips, and bake another 5–10 minutes until crispy and edges are browned. Watch closely—chips burn easily! - Cool and Enjoy
Let chips cool, then enjoy immediately for maximum crunch. Chips are best eaten fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for 1–2 days.
Nutrition Snapshot: Why Kale Chips Are Good for You
- Kale: High in vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber, calcium, and iron; supports bone health, immunity, and digestion.
- Nutritional Yeast: Delivers B vitamins, plant-based protein, and a cheese-like taste without the fat or dairy.
- Chickpea Flour: Rich in protein, fiber, and naturally gluten-free.
- Healthy Fats: Use of olive, avocado, or grape seed oil adds monounsaturated fats, which may support heart health (optional and can be omitted for oil-free versions).
- Low in Calories: Compared to fried chips, kale chips offer all the flavor with far fewer calories and fat.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Kale Chips Every Time
- Dry Thoroughly: Wet kale won’t crisp up, so be sure to dry with a towel or salad spinner.
- Don’t Overlap: Arrange chips in a single layer for even crispiness.
- Bake Low and Slow: If time allows, use a lower temp and longer bake for ultimate crunch.
- Flip Halfway: Turn chips mid-bake for even roasting.
- Try a Dehydrator: For a raw snack, use a food dehydrator at 105°F overnight for a crispy, uncooked chip.
- Season Smart: Nutritional yeast is the backbone—add spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne for more depth.
- Eat Fresh: They’re crunchiest the day they’re made. Store leftovers loosely covered for short-term; chips will soften over time.
Vegan Cheesy Kale Chips Variations
Customize your kale chips to suit various tastes and dietary needs:
- Nut-Free: Stick to chickpea flour and nutritional yeast, omit cashews or swap for seeds.
- Oil-Free: Massage in lemon juice instead of oil or skip oil altogether.
- Gluten-Free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free with chickpea flour.
- Extra Cheesy: Double the nutritional yeast or sprinkle more before baking.
- Spicy: Increase cayenne or add chipotle or smoked paprika.
- Raw Prep: Skip baking and use the dehydrator for 10–12 hours.
What others are reading
Serving Ideas
- As a crunchy side with sandwiches or wraps
- Topping for salads and soups
- Dip into vegan ranch or hummus
- Pack for lunch boxes or road trips
- Healthy party snack or appetizer
Storage Tips for Kale Chips
- Best Fresh: The crispy texture diminishes after storage, so enjoy promptly.
- Short-Term: Place in an airtight container for up to 2 days; add a sheet of paper towel to help absorb moisture.
- Re-Crunch: If chips soften, pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to revive the crunch.
- Freezing: Not recommended; texture will degrade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make vegan kale chips without oil?
A: Yes, you can use lemon juice or simply omit oil for an oil-free version. The chips may be slightly less crispy but still delicious.
Q: Is nutritional yeast necessary?
A: Nutritional yeast is recommended for that signature cheesy flavor, but you can substitute with vegan parmesan or other savory seasonings if preferred.
Q: How do kale chips compare nutritionally to potato chips?
A: Kale chips are significantly lower in fat and calories, and they contain far more micronutrients like vitamins K, A, and C.
Q: Can I use other greens instead of kale?
A: Yes, greens like collard or swiss chard work but may require slight adjustments to baking time and flavor.
Q: Are vegan kale chips suitable for kids?
A: Absolutely—these chips are nutritious, allergen-friendly, and popular with children, especially when extra cheesy!
Q: Can I use a dehydrator instead of an oven?
A: Yes, for a raw, nutrient-rich chip, dehydrate at 105°F for 10–12 hours or overnight. Dehydrated chips tend to be even crunchier and retain more micronutrients.
Q: How long do homemade kale chips stay crisp?
A: Best enjoyed within 24 hours. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 2 days; after that, chips may soften but can be re-crisped in the oven or dehydrator.
Kale Chip Flavor Ideas and Add-Ons
- Southwest: Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika
- Pizza: Italian herbs, garlic, sun-dried tomato powder
- Garlic Lovers: Extra garlic powder or roasted garlic puree
- Herb Garden: Sprinkle dried oregano, thyme, or basil
- Chili-Lime: Lime zest, chili flakes, a touch of agave syrup
Expert Tips for Kale Chip Success
- Invest in a Salad Spinner: It’s the fastest way to dry kale thoroughly.
- Use Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
- Blend Cheese Sauce Smooth: For creamy, even coating, use a food processor or blender.
- Experiment! The cheese mixture can be adapted—try adding bell pepper for natural color, turmeric for antioxidants, or swap chickpea flour for cashew cream.
Troubleshooting Your Kale Chips
- Too Soggy? Dry kale more thoroughly and bake longer at a slightly lower temperature.
- Not Cheesy Enough? Increase nutritional yeast or add a vegan parmesan sprinkle after baking.
- Chips Burned? Lower oven temp and watch closely—bake times vary depending on kale thickness and oven calibration.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Plant-Based Snack
Vegan cheesy kale chips are more than a trend—they’re a flavorful, wholesome snack that’s quick to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you crave salty snacks or want a crunchy side for sandwiches, kale chips deliver vibrant nutrition and irresistible flavor. Grab a bunch of kale, a splash of olive oil, and plenty of nutritional yeast—then get baking for a guilt-free treat everyone will love.
References
- https://www.cearaskitchen.com/cheesy-oil-free-kale-chips-vegan/
- https://minimalistbaker.com/30-minute-cheesy-kale-chips/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjYFiTbbmRQ
- https://littlegreendot.com/best-ever-cheesy-kale-chips-recipe/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/a33994141/vegan-cheesy-kale-chips-recipe/
- https://www.whitneyerd.com/2016/03/how-to-make-kale-chips.html
- https://www.worldofvegan.com/kale-chips/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3ugcOrkyvw
- https://blog.katescarlata.com/2020/01/06/cheesy-kale-chips/
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