Vegan Garlic Dough Balls – Fluffy, Golden & Irresistibly Savory

Few shareable snacks can match the warm, buttery aroma and soft, pillowy texture of freshly baked Vegan Garlic Dough Balls. These little golden bites are infused with garlic, brushed with herbed vegan butter, and finished with a sprinkle of sea salt for a perfect savory snack. They’re ideal for parties, casual dinners, or a cozy night in, and they pair beautifully with everything from marinara sauce to vegan cheese dips. Simple to make and endlessly versatile, these dough balls prove that plant-based baking can be just as indulgent as the traditional version.

Why You’ll Love These Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

These dough balls are the definition of comfort food—soft on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and bursting with garlicky flavor. They’re completely dairy-free, but you’d never guess it from their rich, buttery taste. The recipe uses simple pantry staples, so you can whip them up anytime without a special trip to the store. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, making them a great make-ahead option for entertaining. Serve them warm and watch them disappear in minutes.

What You’ll Need – Ingredients List

This recipe uses accessible, everyday ingredients to create bakery-quality results. Using bread flour gives the dough a tender chew, while vegan butter and garlic transform them into a savory treat.

• 2½ cups bread flour (plus more for dusting)
  
• 2 tsp instant yeast
  
• 1 tsp sugar
  
• 1 tsp salt
  
• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  
• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
• 3 tbsp vegan butter, melted
  
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  
• Sea salt flakes, for sprinkling

Nutritional Benefits at a Glance

While these are definitely a comfort snack, they’re still made from wholesome, plant-based ingredients. Olive oil and vegan butter provide healthy fats, and the garlic adds both flavor and beneficial antioxidants.

• Calories: ~110 per dough ball (based on 16 balls)
  
• Protein: 3g
  
• Carbohydrates: 18g
  
• Fat: 3g
  
• Fiber: 1g
  
• Sodium: 180mg

How Much Time You’ll Need

Making vegan garlic dough balls is a two-part process—mixing and proofing the dough, then baking until golden brown. While the dough rises, you can prepare the garlic butter topping so it’s ready for brushing.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
  
• Rise Time: 1 hour
  
• Bake Time: 15–18 minutes
  
• Total Time: ~1 hour 40 minutes

How to Make Vegan Garlic Dough Balls – Step-by-Step

The secret to perfect vegan garlic dough balls lies in crafting a light, airy dough that bakes up soft and pillowy, combined with a fragrant garlic-herb butter that elevates every bite. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create these irresistible treats right in your own kitchen. Follow this straightforward process to enjoy warm, flavorful dough balls that everyone will love.

1. In a large bowl, mix bread flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
   
2. Add warm water and olive oil, then mix until a rough dough forms.
   
3. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
   
4. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
   
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
   
6. Punch down the dough and divide into 16 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball and place on the tray.
   
7. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until lightly golden.
   
8. While baking, melt vegan butter in a small pan with minced garlic.
   
9. Brush hot dough balls with garlic butter, sprinkle with parsley and sea salt, and serve warm.
   

Ingredient Swaps and Custom Variations

Vegan garlic dough balls are incredibly adaptable, allowing you to tailor them to your personal taste preferences. Experiment with swapping fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, or add a kick of heat by sprinkling chili flakes into the garlic butter. Whether you prefer them mild and fragrant or bold and spicy, these dough balls can easily be customized to suit any flavor craving.

• Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor
  
• Add dried oregano or rosemary to the dough for herbal notes
  
• Mix nutritional yeast into the garlic butter for a cheesy flavor
  
• Top with sesame seeds or poppy seeds before baking
  
• Swap parsley for chives or basil for a different finish

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

While vegan garlic dough balls are at their best fresh and warm, leftovers can still be enjoyed later with just a little care. Proper storage helps maintain their soft texture and delicious flavor, and reheating them correctly ensures they stay just as satisfying. Whether you’re saving them for a quick snack or planning ahead for another meal, these simple tips will help you bring your dough balls back to life without losing their irresistible charm.

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
  
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes
  
• Freeze for up to 1 month—thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving
  
• Brush with extra garlic butter after reheating for maximum flavor

What to Serve with Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

Vegan garlic dough balls are wonderfully versatile, making them the perfect accompaniment to countless meals and snacks. Their soft, savory flavor pairs beautifully with everything from hearty soups and fresh salads to rich pasta dishes and tangy dipping sauces. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or a cozy family dinner, these dough balls add a satisfying touch that complements any spread.

• With marinara or pizza sauce for dipping
  
• Alongside pasta dishes or vegan lasagna
  
• With soups like tomato basil or minestrone
  
• As a side for vegan BBQ or grilled vegetables
  
• On an appetizer platter with hummus and olives

Make It Kid-Friendly

Kids love the soft, pull-apart texture of freshly baked dough balls, and this vegan version is simple to tailor for younger taste buds. By keeping the garlic flavor mild and shaping the dough into smaller, bite-sized pieces, you can create a fun and easy-to-eat snack that little ones will enjoy. It’s also a great recipe to get children involved in the kitchen—letting them roll the dough or brush on the buttery glaze makes the experience even more exciting.

• Use less garlic for a milder flavor
  
• Shape the dough into fun forms like twists or mini knots
  
• Serve with ketchup or mild tomato dip for picky eaters
  
• Let kids help roll the dough balls before baking

Pro Tips for Fluffy, Flavorful Dough Balls

The secret to perfect vegan garlic dough balls lies in mastering a few simple techniques that elevate them from good to absolutely irresistible. From getting the dough just the right texture to ensuring the garlic flavor infuses every bite, these small details make a big impact. By following these pro tips, you’ll achieve light, fluffy centers with a golden, aromatic crust that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

• Make sure your water is warm, not hot, to activate yeast without killing it
  
• Knead thoroughly for a smooth, elastic dough
  
• Let dough rise in a draft-free, warm spot for the best lift
  
• Bake just until golden to keep them soft inside
  
• Brush with garlic butter immediately after baking for the most flavor

Final Thoughts – Soft, Savory, and 100% Plant-Based

These Vegan Garlic Dough Balls prove that plant-based baking can be just as indulgent as any traditional recipe. Soft, fluffy, and coated in garlicky goodness, they’re perfect for sharing—or not sharing at all. With minimal effort and maximum reward, they’re sure to become a regular in your baking rotation. Try a batch this week and tag your creations with #VeganGarlicDoughBalls—you might just inspire someone else to bake them too.

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