Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

Vegan garlic dough balls – these incredible dough balls with garlic butter are easy to make and so very moreish! Perfect for gatherings, they create a delightful centerpiece for any celebration and are an excellent choice for party food. The combination of soft, fluffy dough balls paired with a cheesy cashew dip makes them irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of garlic butter and cheesy cashew dip offers a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Appetizer: These dough balls can be served at various occasions, from casual get-togethers to formal events.
• Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy this delicious recipe without compromising on dietary choices, as it’s completely plant-based.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 29 servings, these dough balls are sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start creating your Vegan Garlic Dough Balls, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (optional)
• Baking sheet
• Ramekin
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen scale (for precision)
• Blender

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading the dough easier and faster, ensuring a smooth texture without much effort.
• Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution when baking the dough balls, leading to a perfectly golden exterior.
• Blender: Essential for creating a smooth cashew dip that enhances the overall dish.

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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

• 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

1. Place the bread flour in a large bowl or stand mixer. Add the yeast to one side and salt with sugar to the other side.
2. Pour in the olive oil, lukewarm non-dairy milk, and water. Mix until a rough dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

1. Knead by hand on an unfloured surface or using the stand mixer on medium/high speed for about 5–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Ensure the dough is tacky but pulls away cleanly from the bowl. If too wet, add a little more flour cautiously.

Step 3: Let It Rise

1. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl.
2. Cover it and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which should take about 1–2 hours.

Step 4: Prepare Cashews for Dip

1. While waiting for the dough to rise, soak raw cashews in boiling water until softened.

Step 5: Shape Dough Balls

1. Punch down risen dough and knead briefly to remove air bubbles.
2. Divide into approximately thirty pieces, each about 30g.
3. Roll each piece into a ball by gathering edges together and pinching them closed.

Step 6: Arrange Dough Balls

1. Arrange dough balls spaced apart around a greased ramekin placed on a lined baking sheet.
2. Cover loosely and let rise again for about 30–40 minutes until puffy.

Step 7: Preheat Oven & Make Garlic Butter

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 over gentle heat until melted.

Step 8: Blend Cashew Dip

1. Drain soaked cashews and blend with garlic, tapioca starch, salt, nutritional yeast, cider vinegar, and water until smooth.
2. Pour mixture into a pan over medium heat; whisk until thickened.

Step 9: Bake & Serve

1. Pour cheese mixture into ramekin; brush dough balls with garlic butter.
2. Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown; serve warm with remaining garlic butter drizzled over top.

Enjoy these Vegan Garlic Dough Balls as an irresistible treat at your next gathering!

How to Serve Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

Vegan garlic dough balls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s for a party, a cozy dinner, or just a snack, serving them creatively can elevate the experience.

Pair with Dips

• Cheesy Cashew Dip: This creamy dip made from soaked cashews pairs perfectly with the dough balls, adding a rich flavor.
• Spicy Salsa: A fresh and zesty salsa can bring a kick to your dough balls, balancing the garlic’s richness.
• Herbed Olive Oil: Drizzling some herbed olive oil adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the garlic beautifully.

Create a Platter

• Mixed Veggies: Include crunchy carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips for a refreshing crunch alongside the warm dough balls.
• Olives and Pickles: A selection of olives and pickles can add a savory touch to your platter, making it visually appealing and tasty.
• Fresh Breads: Serve with slices of crusty bread or breadsticks for variety.

Use as an Appetizer

• Party Starter: Serve these dough balls as an appetizer at gatherings. They are easy to grab and eat while mingling.
• Game Day Snack: Perfect for watching sports; set out a bowl for guests to enjoy during the game.

How to Perfect Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

To achieve the best vegan garlic dough balls, consider these essential tips. Proper technique can make all the difference in texture and flavor.

• Use Lukewarm Ingredients: Ensure your water and non-dairy milk are lukewarm to activate the yeast effectively.
• Knead Thoroughly: Kneading for at least 5-10 minutes develops gluten, giving your dough balls the right structure.
• Don’t Rush Rising Time: Allowing the dough to rise until doubled in size ensures light and fluffy dough balls.
• Shape Carefully: Pinching and rolling each ball ensures they are well-sealed, preventing them from opening during baking.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your oven; baking until golden will enhance flavor without drying them out.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

Complement your vegan garlic dough balls with these delicious side dishes that enhance flavors and provide variety.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized creates a sweet contrast to the garlic flavor.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with herbs adds protein and balances richness with its bright flavors.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with grains or legumes, these peppers add color and heartiness to your meal.
4. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic echo the flavors of your dough balls beautifully.
5. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch that pairs well with soft doughy bites.
6. Creamy Avocado Dip: A smooth avocado dip brings creaminess that contrasts nicely with the chewy texture of the dough balls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Garlic Dough Balls can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your results. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using Incorrect Yeast – Always use fast action or instant yeast to ensure a good rise. Regular active dry yeast requires proofing, which can complicate the process.
• Ignoring Temperature – Ensure your liquids are lukewarm. Too hot can kill the yeast, and too cold won’t activate it properly.
• Over-Kneading the Dough – While kneading is essential, overdoing it can make the dough tough. Knead just until it’s smooth and elastic.
• Skipping the First Rise – Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for flavor and texture. Don’t rush this step; give it 1-2 hours in a warm spot.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately – Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour. This affects dough consistency.
• Underbaking the Dough Balls – Ensure they are baked until golden. A thermometer should read at least 90°C/194°F in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep Vegan Garlic Dough Balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Store them at room temperature if consuming within a few hours.

Freezing Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

• Layer them in a freezer-safe container separated by parchment paper for easy removal.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Garlic Dough Balls

• Oven – Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and reheat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individually on medium power for 20-30 seconds; they may lose some crispness.
• Stovetop – Sauté in a pan with a little vegan butter on low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Garlic Dough Balls that you might find helpful.

Can I make Vegan Garlic Dough Balls gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute white bread flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking. Ensure your yeast is also gluten-free.

How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size and feel puffy when gently poked; it should spring back slowly but not completely.

What can I serve with Vegan Garlic Dough Balls?

These delicious balls pair well with various dips like marinara sauce or hummus, making them versatile appetizers.

Can I customize the flavors of these dough balls?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs, spices, or even vegan cheese into the dough for extra flavor.

How long does it take to make Vegan Garlic Dough Balls?

The total time from start to finish is about 2 hours, including rising times and baking!

Final Thoughts

Vegan Garlic Dough Balls are not only fun to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving them as party snacks or enjoying them as a cozy appetizer at home, their delightful garlic flavor will surely impress everyone. Feel free to customize your dough balls with different herbs or dips to suit your taste!