Bread Bowl Recipe Vegan: Easy and Delicious Ideas

Updated On: October 7, 2025

There is something incredibly comforting about a warm, crusty bread bowl filled with creamy, hearty soup. Now, imagine enjoying all that goodness while sticking to a vegan lifestyle!

This vegan bread bowl recipe is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a delicious, plant-based treat that’s both satisfying and easy to make at home. Whether you’re serving up a rich vegetable stew or a velvety vegan chowder, these bread bowls add a rustic charm and an edible container that makes every bite more exciting.

Plus, baking your own bread bowl means you can control the ingredients, avoid preservatives, and customize the flavors to suit your preferences.

In this post, I’ll guide you through a simple step-by-step recipe to create the perfect vegan bread bowl. From the fluffy, chewy bread to tips on how to hollow it out without tearing, you’ll be a bread bowl pro in no time.

Don’t forget to check out some amazing vegan soups to fill your bowls with, like our Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe, for a match made in heaven!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan bread bowl recipe is a game-changer for homemade soup presentations. Here’s why:

  • Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples, no complicated or hard-to-find items.
  • Customizable Size: Make mini bread bowls for appetizers or large ones for a hearty meal.
  • Vegan & Allergy-Friendly: Completely plant-based, perfect for vegans and those avoiding dairy and eggs.
  • Impressive Presentation: Instantly elevate your soup or dip party with edible bowls that wow your guests.
  • Delicious Crust & Soft Interior: Crispy outside with a tender crumb inside that soaks up your soup beautifully.

Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness)
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp sugar or maple syrup
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • Optional: 1 tbsp nutritional yeast for a subtle cheesy flavor
  • Olive oil or melted vegan butter for brushing

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)
  • Baking sheet or stone
  • Parchment paper
  • Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
  • Sharp serrated knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. This indicates the yeast is active.
  2. Mix the dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour, salt, and nutritional yeast (if using). Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for 5-7 minutes.
  4. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the bread bowls: Punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal portions (for large bowls) or 6-8 portions for smaller ones. Shape each portion into a tight round ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Second rise: Cover the dough balls loosely with a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  7. Preheat and prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Just before baking, brush the tops of the dough balls with olive oil or melted vegan butter for a golden crust.
  8. Bake: Bake the bread bowls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack.
  9. Hollow the bread bowls: Once cooled, use a serrated knife to cut a circle on the top of each bread ball. Remove the “lid” and scoop out the soft interior, leaving about a 1/2-inch thick shell to hold your soup.
  10. Serve: Fill the bread bowls with your favorite vegan soup or stew and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a softer crust, cover the bread with foil halfway through baking.

  • Flavor Boost: Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder to the dough for extra aroma and taste.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but note texture and rise may vary.
  • Mini Bowls: Use dinner rolls or small dough portions for bite-sized bread bowls perfect for dips.
  • Storage: Bread bowls are best fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
  • Soup Pairings: Try filling your vegan bread bowls with creamy soups like our Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe (vegan-adapted) or tangy tomato-based stews.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Bread Bowl (approx.)
Calories 280 kcal
Carbohydrates 55 g
Protein 8 g
Fat 4 g
Fiber 3 g
Sodium 350 mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegan bread bowl pairs wonderfully with a wide range of soups and dips. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Hearty Vegan Chili: Fill your bread bowl with a spicy black bean or lentil chili for a filling meal.
  • Classic Tomato Basil Soup: The acidity and sweetness of tomato soup complement the bread’s subtle flavor perfectly.
  • Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Use a creamy cashew-based vegan cheese soup for a comforting experience.
  • Chunky Mushroom Stew: Try the Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe inside your bread bowl for a rich earthy taste.
  • Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip: Serve as an appetizer with this savory dip inside mini bread bowls.

Conclusion

Making your own vegan bread bowls at home is both a fun and rewarding experience. Not only do these bowls add a rustic and charming presentation to your meals, but they also elevate the simple act of enjoying soup or dips into a memorable occasion.

With a few basic ingredients and some patience during the rising process, you can create a crusty, soft, and flavorful bread bowl perfect for any vegan filling.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these bread bowls are a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. Don’t forget to explore more plant-based recipes such as the delightful Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or finish your meal on a sweet note with the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.

Happy baking and enjoy your cozy, vegan-friendly bread bowls!

📖 Recipe Card: Bread Bowl Recipe Vegan

Description: A delicious and crusty vegan bread bowl perfect for soups or dips. Easy to make with simple ingredients and no animal products.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT50M

Servings: 4 bread bowls

Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water (flax egg)
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
  • 1 tbsp oat milk (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast; let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix flour and salt in a large bowl.
  3. Add yeast mixture, olive oil, and flax egg to flour; stir to form dough.
  4. Knead dough on floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
  5. Place dough in oiled bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour until doubled.
  6. Divide dough into 4 equal portions and shape into balls.
  7. Place on baking sheet, cover, and let rise 30 minutes.
  8. Brush tops with oat milk and sprinkle sesame seeds if using.
  9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  10. Cool completely before cutting tops and hollowing out centers.

Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 7 g | Fat: 4 g | Carbs: 45 g

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Marta K

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