Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

Vegan garlic dough balls are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! These delightful bite-sized treats, infused with garlic and served with a creamy cashew dip, are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special event, or simply indulging in comfort food at home, these dough balls will impress everyone. Their fluffy texture combined with rich flavors makes them irresistible and a must-try for anyone who enjoys vegan cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these dough balls are perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Rich Flavor: The garlic butter adds a mouthwatering aroma and taste that complements the soft dough perfectly.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a main dish. They fit any meal!
• Crowd-Pleasing Dip: The cheesy cashew dip is not only delicious but also adds a creamy texture that enhances the overall experience.
• Great for Gatherings: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these dough balls will be the star of your table!

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make these vegan garlic dough balls effectively, you need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (optional)
• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Ramekin
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This can save time when kneading the dough, ensuring it’s smooth and elastic without much effort.
• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients easily while allowing room for mixing.
• Baking sheet: Provides ample space to arrange the dough balls for even baking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.

Ingredients

For the Dough Balls

• 500 g (4 cups) white bread flour
• 10 g (3 teaspoons) fast action (instant) yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 3 Tablespoons olive oil
• 160 ml (⅔ cup) unsweetened non-dairy milk (I use soy) (lukewarm)
• 160 ml (⅔ cup) water (lukewarm)

For the Cheesy Cashew Dip

• 75 g (2 + ⅔ oz / ½ cup) raw cashews
• 2 cloves garlic (peeled)
• 1 ½ teaspoons tapioca starch
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 Tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon cider vinegar
• 160 ml (⅔ cup) water

For the Garlic Butter Topping

• 85 g (rounded ⅓ cup) vegan butter/spread
• 4 cloves garlic (peeled and crushed)
• 1 Tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 heaped teaspoon dried oregano

How to Make Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough Mixture

1. Place the bread flour in a large bowl or in a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
2. Add the yeast to one side of the bowl and sprinkle salt and sugar on the other side to prevent direct contact with yeast.
3. Pour in olive oil, non-dairy milk, and lukewarm water; mix until it forms a rough dough.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

1. Knead by hand on an unfloured surface or use your stand mixer at medium/high speed for about 5–10 minutes.
2. The dough should be smooth and elastic but still slightly tacky to touch. Adjust with flour if too wet.

Step 3: Let It Rise

1. Transfer your kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and place it in a warm spot.
2. Allow it to rise until doubled in size, which will take around 1–2 hours.

Step 4: Prepare Cheese Dip Ingredients

While waiting for your dough to rise:
1. Place raw cashews in a bowl; pour boiling water over them to soak.

Step 5: Shape Dough Balls

1. Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air bubbles.
2. Divide into about 29 pieces weighing roughly 30g each.
3. Shape each piece into a smooth ball by gathering edges and pinching together.

Step 6: Arrange Balls on Baking Sheet

1. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper; grease an approximately 11cm wide ramekin.
2. Arrange shaped dough balls around the ramekin in two circles—11 on inner circle, 18 on outer circle.

Step 7: Second Rise

1. Loosely cover them with plastic wrap or damp cloth; let rise again for about 30–40 minutes until puffy.

Step 8: Preheat Oven & Make Garlic Butter

While waiting:
1. Preheat oven to 210°C/190°C fan/425°F/gas mark 7.
2. In a pan, combine vegan butter, crushed garlic, parsley, and oregano; heat gently until melted; set aside.

Step 9: Blend Cheesy Cashew Dip

After soaking:
1. Drain cashews; blend with garlic, tapioca starch, salt, nutritional yeast, cider vinegar, and water until smooth.
2. Pour mixture into pan over medium heat; whisk constantly until thickened; set aside covered with parchment.

Step 10: Bake Dough Balls

When ready:
1. Pour cheese mixture into ramekin; drizzle olive oil over top if desired.
2. Brush each dough ball with about two-thirds of garlic butter before baking.
3. Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown.

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Vegan Garlic Dough Balls!

How to Serve Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

Vegan garlic dough balls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. They complement numerous dips and side dishes, making them perfect for any gathering or celebration. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Cheesy Cashew Dip

• A creamy cashew dip pairs perfectly with these dough balls, offering a rich and nutty flavor that enhances the garlic taste.

Drizzled with Extra Olive Oil

• A splash of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness. This simple touch elevates the dough balls and makes them even more inviting.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an aromatic touch that brightens up the flavors of the dough balls.

Served Alongside a Fresh Salad

• A crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory dough balls. Think mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.

As Part of a Vegan Platter

• Arrange these dough balls on a platter with other vegan appetizers for a stunning centerpiece at your next gathering.

With Spicy Marinara Sauce

• For those who enjoy a kick, serve with homemade spicy marinara sauce for dipping. The heat balances beautifully with the garlic flavor.

How to Perfect Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

To ensure your vegan garlic dough balls turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips. Each step will help you achieve that ideal texture and flavor.

• Use lukewarm liquids – Using lukewarm water and milk helps activate the yeast properly, ensuring your dough rises well.

• Knead thoroughly – Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic; this helps develop gluten for better texture.

• Monitor rising times – Allow the dough to rise until it has doubled in size; this is crucial for fluffy dough balls.

• Shape evenly – Divide the dough into equal portions for uniform baking; consistency ensures even cooking and presentation.

• Don’t rush baking – Bake until golden brown and fully cooked; checking with a thermometer ensures they reach 90°C/194°F.

• Brush generously – Apply plenty of garlic butter before serving; this adds flavor while keeping the surface moist.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

Pairing your vegan garlic dough balls with delicious side dishes can create a well-rounded meal or snack. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Vegan Caesar Salad – A classic salad made with romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy vegan dressing adds crunch and freshness.

2. Roasted Vegetable Medley – Seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection bring vibrant colors and flavors that complement the savory dough balls.

3. Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip offers a rich taste that pairs nicely with the garlicky flavor of the dough balls.

4. Spicy Hummus – Serve alongside spicy hummus for an exciting flavor combination that’s perfect for dipping.

5. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, making them an enjoyable side option.

6. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Flavorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice provide a hearty addition to your meal.

7. Zucchini Fritters – Crispy zucchini fritters deliver great texture and taste, enhancing your snack experience.

8. Cucumber Salsa – A refreshing cucumber salsa brightens up the plate while providing a cool contrast to warm dough balls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making vegan garlic dough balls can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Incorrect Yeast Handling – Adding salt directly to the yeast can kill it. Always keep salt away from yeast until mixed into the dough.
• Over-kneading – Kneading too much can make the dough tough. Aim for a smooth and elastic texture without overworking it.
• Not Allowing Enough Rise Time – Rushing the rising process will lead to dense dough balls. Ensure the dough doubles in size for the best texture.
• Ignoring Dough Consistency – If your dough feels too wet, add flour gradually. Conversely, if it’s too dry, it might not rise properly.
• Skipping Preheating – Not preheating your oven can result in uneven baking. Always preheat before putting in your dough balls.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover vegan garlic dough balls in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

• To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

• Oven – Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Use medium power for about 30 seconds, but this may make them softer.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over low heat, turning frequently for even warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about vegan garlic dough balls:

Can I make Vegan Garlic Dough Balls gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute white bread flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it includes xanthan gum for proper texture.

How do I customize my Vegan Garlic Dough Balls?

Feel free to add herbs or spices like rosemary or chili flakes for added flavor. You could also experiment with different fillings.

Are Vegan Garlic Dough Balls suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for meal prep or parties.

What is the best way to serve Vegan Garlic Dough Balls?

These dough balls pair wonderfully with marinara sauce or your favorite vegan dip. They’re great as appetizers or snacks!

Final Thoughts

Vegan garlic dough balls are not only delicious but also versatile for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night at home, these treats will surely impress. Feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors and enjoy every bite!