Plant-Based Pizza Poppers

Vegan Pizza Bites: Easy Grain-Free Recipe

4.94 from 16 votes

By: Vegan Richa

Prep: 10 minutes mins

Cook: 12 minutes mins

Total: 22 minutes mins

Servings: 10

Course: Snack

Cuisine: American

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These simple Vegan Pizza Bites capture all the deliciousness of pizza in a convenient, bite-sized format. Made with almond flour and sun-dried tomatoes, these pizza snack balls are both grain-free and gluten-free. This recipe yields approximately 10-14 flavorful balls.

Ingredients  

• 1/2 cup sundried tomato, (dry-packed or oil-packed)
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/8 tsp onion powder
• 2-3 tsp nutritional yeast
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, (see notes for oil-free option)

Instructions 

• Begin by combining the sun-dried tomatoes and almond flour in a food processor. Process these ingredients until the sun-dried tomatoes are finely chopped and resemble a coarse meal.
• Next, add all the remaining dry ingredients to the food processor. Pulse a few times until everything is well combined and evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
• The mixture should now have the consistency of well-moistened crumbs that hold together easily when pressed between your fingers. If the mixture is too crumbly or doesn’t bind well (especially if using very dry sun-dried tomatoes or almond meal), you may need to add a bit more olive oil. Alternatively, you can introduce a flax egg (1 tbsp flax seed meal mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) along with 1-2 tablespoons of regular flour to help with binding.

  Transfer the prepared mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for 15 minutes. This chilling step helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to handle. After chilling, remove the bowl from the refrigerator, and firmly press and roll the mixture into small, uniform balls. Arrange these balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 12 minutes.

• Once baked, allow the pizza bites to cool completely on the baking sheet before storing. They can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, making them perfect for meal prep!

Video Tutorial

Chef’s Notes & Pro Tips

• For an Oil-Free Version: To make these bites oil-free, simply omit the olive oil from the recipe. Instead, use a flax egg for binding: combine 1 tablespoon of flax seed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken before adding to the mixture.
• Spice Level Adjustment: If you’re sensitive to spice or preparing these for children, feel free to skip the crushed red pepper flakes entirely. The bites will still be incredibly flavorful without the added heat.
• Food Processor Size: This recipe works best with a small food processor due to the relatively small volume of ingredients. If you only have a large food processor, consider doubling the recipe to ensure the ingredients are processed efficiently and thoroughly.
• Herb Alternatives: Instead of separate dried basil and oregano, you can substitute with 1.5 teaspoons of a pre-mixed Italian herb blend or Italian seasoning for convenience.
• Binding Issues: Sun-dried tomatoes can vary in moisture content. If your mixture feels too dry and doesn’t bind well after processing, don’t worry! You can easily fix this by adding a flax egg (1 tablespoon flax seed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) and an additional 1-2 tablespoons of regular flour as needed until the desired consistency is achieved. This ensures your pizza bites hold their shape perfectly.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 61kcal, Carbohydrates: 5g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 4g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 74mg, Potassium: 196mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 2g, Vitamin A: 78IU, Vitamin C: 2mg, Calcium: 22mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Did you make this recipe? Rate and comment below!

Key Ingredients for Perfect Vegan Pizza Bites

Crafting these delectable vegan pizza bites relies on a few core ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering that authentic pizza flavor and satisfying texture. Understanding the function of each component will not only help you appreciate the recipe but also empower you to make informed adjustments if needed.

• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These concentrated flavor bombs are central to our pizza bites. I recommend using dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes, though those packed in olive oil will also work beautifully. Beyond their intense savory and slightly sweet notes, sun-dried tomatoes act as a natural binder, similar to how dates function in sweet energy bites. Their rich umami profile provides a deep, authentic base for the pizza flavor.
• Almond Flour: This is the star of our grain-free and gluten-free base. Almond flour not only keeps these bites moist and tender but also provides a sturdy, yet delicate, structure. It’s an excellent alternative to traditional flours, contributing to the healthy profile of this snack. Furthermore, its mild, nutty flavor provides a perfect canvas for the savory, cheesy notes we’re building.
• Italian Seasoning Blend: To capture that quintessential pizza taste, we go all-out with classic Italian herbs. The recipe specifically calls for dried basil and oregano, two indispensable components of any good pizza. These herbs infuse the bites with aromatic, earthy undertones that are instantly recognizable and deeply satisfying. If you prefer, a ready-made Italian herb blend works just as well.
• Umami Boosters: Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: To truly amp up the savory depth, we incorporate a touch of garlic powder and onion powder. These pantry staples are fundamental in Italian cooking, adding layers of aromatic flavor that elevate the overall profile of the pizza bites, making them even more irresistible.
• Nutritional Yeast: This magical ingredient is our secret weapon for achieving that cheesy, umami flavor without any dairy. Nutritional yeast has a distinct, savory, and slightly nutty taste that beautifully mimics the flavor of cheese, making it essential for these vegan pizza bites. It’s also a great source of B vitamins!
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A decent drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil is non-negotiable for authentic pizza flavor. It adds richness, moisture, and helps to bind all the ingredients together, ensuring a consistent texture. If your mixture feels a bit too dry or crumbly, a little extra olive oil can work wonders to bring everything into perfect harmony.

Essential Tips and Clever Substitutions for Your Pizza Bites

Making these vegan pizza bites is straightforward, but a few tips and potential substitutions can help you customize them to your liking and ensure perfect results every time. Whether you’re adapting for dietary restrictions or just tweaking flavors, these insights will prove invaluable.

• Adjusting the Spice Level: The inclusion of crushed red pepper flakes provides a delightful hint of warmth, mimicking the traditional spice often found in pizza. However, if you or your family members are sensitive to spice, or if you’re preparing these bites for young children, feel free to omit the red pepper flakes entirely. The bites will still be incredibly flavorful and enjoyable without the heat. You can always add a pinch of individual flakes to your serving if desired.
• Choosing the Right Food Processor: The volume of ingredients in this recipe is perfectly suited for a small food processor. Using a small appliance ensures that the ingredients are processed efficiently and uniformly, creating the ideal coarse meal. If you only have access to a larger food processor, don’t worry! A simple solution is to double the recipe. This increases the total volume of ingredients, allowing the blades of a larger food processor to engage more effectively and achieve the desired consistency.
• Herb Alternatives for Convenience: While dried basil and oregano are specified for their classic Italian flavors, you can easily substitute them with a pre-mixed Italian herb blend or Italian seasoning. For this recipe, using 1.5 teaspoons of an Italian herb mix will provide a similar aromatic profile and is a convenient option if you don’t have individual herbs on hand or prefer a ready-made blend. Ensure your seasoning blend is fresh for the best flavor.
• Ensuring Optimal Binding: The moisture content of sun-dried tomatoes can vary significantly. If, after processing, you find that your mixture is too crumbly and doesn’t hold together well when pressed, it’s an easy fix. You might need to add a bit more extra virgin olive oil, a teaspoon at a time, until the mixture achieves the desired consistency. For an even stronger bind, or if you’re making an oil-free version, a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon flax seed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, allowed to sit for 5 minutes) can be added along with 1-2 tablespoons of regular flour. This will help create a cohesive dough that forms into perfect balls.
• Creative Add-ins: Feel free to experiment with other finely chopped vegan-friendly ingredients. A tablespoon of finely diced black olives, capers, or even finely grated vegan parmesan can enhance the flavor profile and add a delightful textural contrast. Just be mindful not to add too many wet ingredients, as this could affect the binding.

Combine the sun-dried tomatoes and almond flour in your food processor. Pulse and process until the sun-dried tomatoes are finely chopped and form a coarse, uniform meal. This initial step is crucial for establishing the base texture and flavor of your pizza bites.

Next, add all the remaining dry ingredients – the dried basil, oregano, pepper flakes, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and nutritional yeast – to the food processor with the sun-dried tomato and almond flour mixture. Pulse a few times to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined and evenly distributed, infusing the mix with those irresistible pizza flavors.

At this stage, your mixture should resemble well-moistened crumbs that easily hold their shape when you press them together. If it feels too dry or crumbly, add a tiny bit more olive oil, just a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. Transfer the entire mix to a bowl and refrigerate it for 15 minutes. This chilling period is key; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes the dough much easier to handle and roll into firm, sturdy balls. After chilling, remove the bowl from the refrigerator, and firmly press and roll the mixture into uniform, bite-sized balls. Arrange these balls neatly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for just 12 minutes. This baking process helps to set the bites, enhance their texture, and further meld the savory flavors.

Once baked, it’s important to let your delicious vegan pizza bites cool completely on the baking sheet. This allows them to firm up even further, preventing them from crumbling. After they have cooled, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. These versatile snacks will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks, making them an excellent option for meal prepping healthy, on-the-go treats throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions & Customization Ideas

These savory vegan pizza bites are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways beyond just a simple snack. Their robust flavor makes them a fantastic addition to various meals, adding a burst of pizza goodness wherever they go.

• As a Standalone Snack: The most obvious way to enjoy them! Grab a few whenever hunger strikes for a satisfying, wholesome treat.
• Lunchbox Hero: Pack them in school or work lunchboxes for a nutritious and exciting alternative to sandwiches or sugary snacks. They hold up well and are easy to eat on the go.
• Salad Topper: Crumble or halve these bites and sprinkle them over your favorite green salads. They add a delightful texture, rich flavor, and a protein boost, transforming a simple salad into a more fulfilling meal.
• Grain Bowl Enhancer: Integrate them into warm grain bowls alongside quinoa, brown rice, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a truly satisfying and flavorful meal.
• Appetizer Platter: Serve them on a party platter with a side of vegan ranch, marinara sauce, or a creamy cashew dip for an impressive and crowd-plepleasing appetizer.
• Stuffed in Wraps: Add a few pizza bites inside a whole wheat or gluten-free wrap with some fresh greens, hummus, and thinly sliced vegetables for a creative and hearty lunch.
• With Soup: Pair these savory bites with a warm bowl of tomato soup or a hearty lentil stew for a comforting and complete meal. They offer a delightful textural contrast to the soup.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your serving! Their adaptable nature means they can fit into almost any meal plan, bringing a touch of pizza magic to your plate in a healthy way.

MORE PIZZA RECIPES FROM THE BLOG:

If you’ve fallen in love with these bite-sized pizza delights and are craving more vegan pizza inspiration, be sure to explore these other fantastic recipes from the blog. Each one offers a unique twist on the classic, proving that plant-based pizza can be incredibly diverse and delicious.

• Spicy Chipotle Red Lentil Pizza with Vegan Ricotta: Experience a bold fusion of flavors with a smoky chipotle red lentil tomato sauce, fresh basil, and creamy homemade vegan ricotta. It’s a hearty and flavorful pizza that’s truly unforgettable.
• Tangy Sriracha BBQ Tofu Pizza with Vegan Pepperjack: For those who love a bit of heat and tang, this pizza features marinated Sriracha BBQ tofu, perfectly complemented by a spicy vegan pepperjack cheese. A vibrant and exciting pizza experience!
• Hearty Deep Dish Black-eyed Pea Pizza: A truly unique and satisfying deep-dish pizza featuring a rich base of black-eyed peas, paired with a savory tofu and thyme ricotta. This one is a hearty meal in itself, perfect for a cozy night in.
• Zesty Buffalo Chickpea Pizza with White Garlic Sauce and Celery Ranch Dressing: Indulge in the iconic flavors of buffalo wings, but in pizza form! This recipe boasts spicy buffalo chickpeas, a luscious white garlic sauce, and a cooling celery ranch dressing to balance the heat. A fun and flavorful option for game night or any casual gathering.

Whether you prefer traditional toppings, a spicy kick, or something truly innovative, these vegan pizza recipes offer a world of flavor to explore. Enjoy experimenting and discovering your next favorite plant-based pizza creation!