Finding delicious snacks that are both vegan and budget-friendly doesn’t have to be a challenge. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, a flexitarian, or just looking for more plant-based options, having a handful of cheap vegan snack recipes up your sleeve can make healthy snacking easy and satisfying.
In this blog post, I’ll share some of my top go-to vegan snacks that are simple, require minimal ingredients, and won’t break the bank. Each recipe here is designed to use pantry staples you likely already have, making them perfect for busy days, meal prep, or even last-minute munchies.
From crunchy roasted chickpeas to creamy hummus and sweet banana oat cookies, these snacks will keep your taste buds—and your wallet—happy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Affordable: All the recipes use easy-to-find, low-cost ingredients you may already have at home.
- Quick & Easy: Most of these snacks come together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules or unexpected cravings.
- Healthy: Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins—these snacks are both nutritious and filling.
- Customizable: Each recipe is easy to adapt to your taste preferences or whatever you have on hand.
- Kid-Friendly: Great for lunch boxes, after-school snacks, or family movie nights.
Cheap Vegan Snack Recipes List
Below you’ll find a list of my favorite cheap vegan snack recipes, complete with detailed instructions for each. Choose your favorite, or try them all!
- Crispy Roasted Chickpeas
- 3-Ingredient Banana Oat Cookies
- Classic Vegan Hummus
- Stovetop Popcorn with Nutritional Yeast
- No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites
Crispy Roasted Chickpeas
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Mixing bowl
- Colander
- Clean kitchen towel or paper towels
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas. Pat them dry thoroughly with a clean towel—this step is crucial for crispiness!
- Place the chickpeas in a mixing bowl. Toss with olive oil, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread chickpeas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, shaking the pan or stirring halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips & Variations
- Spice it up: Try curry powder, chili powder, or Italian herbs.
- Sweet version: Toss with a pinch of cinnamon and coconut sugar after roasting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Fiber | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/2 cup | 120 | 5g | 4g | 3g |
Serving Suggestions
- Pack in lunchboxes as a crunchy, protein-rich snack.
- Top salads or grain bowls for extra texture.
- Enjoy as a movie night treat instead of chips.
3-Ingredient Banana Oat Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 large ripe bananas
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup raisins or chocolate chips (dairy-free)
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Spoon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mash bananas thoroughly with a fork or masher.
- Add rolled oats and raisins. Mix well until combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the baking sheet. Flatten slightly with the back of the spoon.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are golden. Let cool before eating.
Tips & Variations
- Add-ins: Try chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a dash of cinnamon.
- Make it gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oats.
- Freeze extras for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 cookies | 90 | 2g | 2g | 7g |
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a sweet afternoon snack.
- Crush and sprinkle over vegan yogurt or oatmeal for extra texture.
- Pack in kids’ lunches or grab for on-the-go energy.
Classic Vegan Hummus
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini (sesame paste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1–2 cloves garlic
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2–3 tbsp water (as needed for blending)
Equipment
- Food processor or blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Instructions
- Add chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and salt to a food processor.
- Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time for desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Scoop into a bowl, drizzle with extra olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Flavor variations: Add roasted red peppers, fresh herbs, or a pinch of cumin.
- No tahini? Substitute with sunflower seed butter or omit for a lighter dip.
- Store in fridge for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Fiber | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4 cup | 100 | 4g | 3g | 5g |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with sliced veggies, pita chips, or crackers.
- Spread on wraps or sandwiches for a protein boost.
- Use as a dip for homemade lemon crackers for a zesty twist.
Stovetop Popcorn with Nutritional Yeast
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup popcorn kernels
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or coconut oil)
- 1–2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
Equipment
- Large pot with lid
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large bowl
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add 2–3 kernels and cover.
- When the test kernels pop, add the rest of the popcorn kernels. Cover and shake gently.
- Continue shaking occasionally as the kernels pop, until popping slows to a few seconds between pops.
- Remove from heat, uncover, and pour popcorn into a large bowl.
- Sprinkle with nutritional yeast and salt. Toss to coat evenly.
Tips & Variations
- Spice it up: Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, or chili flakes for extra flavor.
- Sweet version: Sprinkle with cinnamon and a touch of coconut sugar.
- Perfect for movie nights or as a light afternoon snack.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Fiber | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 cups | 100 | 3g | 2g | 4g |
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy during movie nights as a healthy, savory snack.
- Pack in small bags for lunchboxes or road trips.
- Toss popcorn into homemade trail mix for added crunch.
No-Bake Peanut Butter Energy Bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
- 1/4 cup mini vegan chocolate chips or raisins
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet (optional, for chilling)
Instructions
- Combine oats, peanut butter, maple syrup, flaxseed, chocolate chips, vanilla, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Mix until well combined and a thick dough forms.
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into a ball. Place on a plate or baking sheet.
- Repeat with remaining mixture (makes about 15–18 bites).
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Tips & Variations
- Nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
- Flavor options: Add shredded coconut, dried cranberries, or a dash of cinnamon.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for a quick grab-and-go snack.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 bites | 120 | 4g | 2g | 5g |
Serving Suggestions
- Pack for school, work, or gym snacks.
- Great as a pre- or post-workout energy boost.
- Serve alongside a smoothie for a light breakfast.
Tips & Variations (General)
- Batch prep: Make several snacks at once and store in airtight containers for the week.
- Mix and match: Swap out ingredients based on what’s in your pantry—like swapping peanut butter for almond or cashew butter.
- Try pairing these snacks with Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Arugula for a wholesome vegan meal plan.
- For more savory options, check out these Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes.
- If you want a unique savory snack, try the Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for a fun twist.
“Snacking smart doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up wholesome vegan snacks anytime!”
Nutrition Facts (General Overview)
| Snack | Calories (per serving) | Protein | Fiber | Cost per serving (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roasted Chickpeas | 120 | 5g | 4g | $0.40 |
| Banana Oat Cookies | 90 | 2g | 2g | $0.25 |
| Classic Hummus | 100 | 4g | 3g | $0.50 |
| Popcorn with Nutritional Yeast | 100 | 3g | 2g | $0.20 |
| No-Bake Energy Bites | 120 | 4g | 2g | $0.35 |
Serving Suggestions (General)
- Combine sweet and savory snacks for a balanced snack platter.
- Use small containers to portion out snacks for on-the-go convenience.
- Pair snacks with fresh fruit, nut butter, or raw veggies for variety.
- Create a DIY snack bar with different toppings and dips for parties or gatherings.
Conclusion
Eating vegan on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. These cheap vegan snack recipes prove that plant-based eating can be affordable, tasty, and easy.
With just a few core ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create snacks that nourish your body and delight your taste buds. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a last-minute treat, these recipes have you covered.
Experiment with flavors, keep your pantry stocked with the basics, and don’t be afraid to get creative!
For even more inspiration, explore other creative recipes like Lemon Straws Recipe or mix up your snack game with options from our Low FODMAP Appetizer Recipes collection. And remember, making your own snacks is not just healthier—it’s also a fun way to enjoy the process of cooking and sharing food with loved ones.
Happy snacking!
📖 Recipe Card: Spicy Roasted Chickpeas
Description: Crispy roasted chickpeas make a flavorful and protein-packed vegan snack. They're easy, cheap, and perfect for on-the-go munching.
Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat chickpeas dry with a paper towel.
- In a bowl, toss chickpeas with olive oil and spices.
- Spread chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 130 | Protein: 5g | Fat: 4g | Carbs: 18g
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