These vegan broccoli cheese bites are crispy outside and cheesy inside. An easy dairy-free snack everyone loves.
🧾 Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets, finely chopped
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko (use gluten-free if needed)
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast
- ½ cup vegan shredded cheese
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water (flax egg)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil or spray oil
Optional Dips
- Vegan ranch
- Marinara sauce
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ First, preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C) or preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Next, prepare the flax egg by mixing ground flaxseed with water. Set aside for 5 minutes.
3️⃣ Then, steam the broccoli for 3–4 minutes until tender. Drain well and finely chop.
4️⃣ After that, combine broccoli, breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, vegan cheese, flax egg, and spices in a bowl. Mix well.
5️⃣ Meanwhile, shape the mixture into small bite-sized balls or nuggets.
6️⃣ Then, place them on a lined baking sheet or air fryer basket. Lightly brush or spray with olive oil.
7️⃣ Afterward, bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, or air fry for 10–12 minutes until golden and crispy.
8️⃣ Finally, remove from heat and serve warm with your favorite dip.
💡 Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, add more breadcrumbs or panko.
- Alternatively, use almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- For spicy bites, add crushed red pepper flakes.
- For extra cheesy flavor, increase nutritional yeast.
- Additionally, add chopped onions or bell peppers.
🌟 Benefits of Vegan Crispy Broccoli Cheese Bites
First, broccoli is rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Additionally, nutritional yeast adds B vitamins and umami flavor.
Moreover, baking or air frying uses less oil than frying.
Furthermore, this recipe is dairy-free and cholesterol-free.
In addition, it’s perfect for meal prep and parties.
Finally, it’s a fun way to enjoy veggies.
📊 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 380mg
🧒 Kid-Friendly Version
To make these bites kid-friendly, reduce garlic and pepper. Use mild vegan cheese and shape them into fun nugget forms. Serve with ketchup or mild dairy-free ranch for dipping.
