Name: Vegan Garlic Dough Balls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 250g strong white bread flour (about 2 cups); 1 tsp instant yeast; 1/2 tsp sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil; 160ml warm water (2/3 cup); 2 tbsp vegan butter, melted; 2–3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; Sea salt, for sprinkling

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Fluffy, buttery, and bursting with garlicky goodness, these vegan garlic dough balls are everything I love in a comfort snack. Soft and warm on the inside with a perfectly golden crust, they make an irresistible side for pasta dishes, a party platter favorite, or just something I enjoy pulling apart and devouring straight from the oven. Whether I dip them in marinara or eat them plain, they always hit the spot.

Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

250g strong white bread flour (about 2 cups)

1 teaspoon instant yeast

½ teaspoon sugar

½ teaspoon salt

1 ½ tablespoon olive oil

160ml warm water (⅔ cup)

2 tablespoon vegan butter, melted

2–3 garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Sea salt, for sprinkling

Directions

I start by mixing the bread flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.

I add olive oil and warm water, stirring everything into a soft dough.

I knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it turns smooth and elastic.

Then I place it into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

When ready, I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

I punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces, rolling each into a ball and placing them in the dish.

I cover the dough loosely and let it rest for another 20–30 minutes to puff up.

While the dough rests, I melt the vegan butter and stir in the minced garlic and chopped parsley.

I brush the garlic butter over the dough balls and sprinkle sea salt on top.

I bake them for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

For an extra flavor boost, I brush them again with garlic butter just before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 dough balls

Prep time: 20 minutes

Rising time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Cooking time: 25 minutes

Total time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Calories: 165 kcal per dough ball

Variations

I sometimes add vegan cheese into the center of each dough ball for a gooey surprise. If I’m in the mood for spice, I mix in some chili flakes with the garlic butter. For a herby twist, rosemary or thyme also work really well in place of parsley. I’ve even made these with whole wheat flour for a heartier version.

Storage/Reheating

To store, I let the dough balls cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They keep well at room temperature for 1–2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, I pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes until warmed through. A quick microwave heat works too, though the oven keeps them crispy outside.

FAQs

How do I know when the dough balls are done baking?

I look for a golden brown top and a hollow sound when I tap the bottom. They should feel light and firm, not doughy.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, I often prep the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge. I bring it back to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What can I serve with these dough balls?

Marinara sauce is my go-to for dipping. I also love them with vegan cheese sauce or served alongside pasta, soup, or salad.

Can I freeze these dough balls?

Absolutely. After baking and cooling, I freeze them in a sealed bag. When I want one, I reheat it directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes.

Is it okay to use regular all-purpose flour?

I’ve used all-purpose in a pinch. The dough is slightly less chewy, but it still works well for this recipe.

Conclusion

These vegan garlic dough balls are one of those recipes I keep coming back to. They’re quick to whip up, satisfyingly fluffy, and packed with flavor. Whether it’s for a party tray or a quiet night in, I find these little golden bites always bring comfort and joy.

📖 Recipe:

Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 12 dough balls
Diet: Vegan

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Description

Fluffy, buttery, and bursting with garlicky goodness, these vegan garlic dough balls are the perfect comfort snack. Soft inside with a golden crust, they make a delicious side or appetizer for any meal.

Instructions

In a large bowl, mix the bread flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
Add the olive oil and warm water, stirring into a soft dough.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball and place in the dish.
Cover the dish loosely and let the dough balls rest for 20–30 minutes.
Meanwhile, melt the vegan butter and mix in the minced garlic and chopped parsley.
Brush the garlic butter over the dough balls and sprinkle sea salt on top.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
Optional: Brush again with garlic butter just before serving for extra flavor.