High protein vegan snacks rely on plant-based ingredients such as nuts, seeds, soy and legumes. A snack is usually considered ‘high protein’ if it contains 10 or more grams of protein per serving.
We’ve compiled a list of the very best high protein vegan snacks you can make at home or purchase.
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Why Are High Protein Vegan Snacks Important?
Protein is vital for our muscles and internal organs, especially the brain and heart. It’s important for growing, repairing, and maintaining tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, as well as supporting a healthy immune system.
Many vegan protein snacks contain essential amino acids which help with the normal function of the body. The body cannot make these essential amino acids itself, meaning they need to be consumed through a vegan diet.
As plant proteins are also less bioavailable than animal sources, a range of protein-rich foods are required to meet these needs.
23 Best Vegan Protein Snacks
#1 – Trail Mix
Trail mix is one of the easiest high protein vegan snacks to prepare, combining protein-rich nuts and seeds with ingredients such as dried fruit and granola.
As well as providing plant based protein, trail mix is typically high in fibre, helping you feel fuller for longer between meals. It’s also highly customisable, allowing you to add ingredients such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or almonds to increase the protein content.
For the healthiest option, make your own trail mix at home so you can control the ingredients and avoid added sugars or unnecessary additives. If you’re buying a ready-made version, always check the label to ensure it’s vegan friendly and contains minimal processed ingredients.
#2 – Glazed Maple Pecans
Maple glazed pecans are a great high protein vegan snack, providing around 9g of protein per 100g while also delivering healthy fats to help keep you satisfied between meals.
Their naturally rich flavour makes them an enjoyable alternative to plain nuts, and a light maple glaze adds sweetness without requiring heavily processed ingredients. To make them, simply coat pecans in a small amount of maple syrup and cinnamon before gently heating until glazed.
Enjoy maple glazed pecans as an on the go snack or sprinkle them over salads, porridge, or dairy free yoghurt for an easy protein boost. For the healthiest option, prepare them at home so you can control the amount of added sugar.
If you’re interested in more plant-based protein sources, check out our article: 18 Best Vegan & Vegetarian Protein Sources.
#3 – Roasted Chickpeas
Roasted chickpeas are one of the most versatile high protein vegan snacks, offering plant based protein, fibre, iron, and folate in one simple serving.
They’re easy to prepare at home by coating chickpeas in a small amount of olive oil, adding your chosen seasoning, and baking until crisp. Paprika, cayenne, garlic, cinnamon, or ginger all work well, depending on whether you prefer a savoury or sweeter flavour.
You can have roasted chickpeas on their own as a crunchy snack, or sprinkle them over salads, soups, and grain bowls for extra texture and protein. Packaged versions are widely available, but check the label for added salt, sugar, or unnecessary additives.
#4 – Avocado Protein Boats
Avocado protein boats combine the fibre and healthy fats of avocado with protein-rich fillings such as chickpeas or black beans, creating a satisfying snack that can help keep hunger at bay between meals.
Although avocados are not particularly high in protein on their own, they provide a nutrient-dense base for a variety of plant based toppings. Roasted chickpeas add crunch and extra protein, while black beans pair well with seasonings such as cumin, garlic, and chilli.
For a fresh twist, top your avocado boat with a simple tomato salsa or chopped vegetables. This makes it easy to increase your protein intake while adding extra flavour and texture to your snack.
#5 – Oat and Coconut Bars
Oat and coconut bars are a practical vegan snack for busy days, combining the protein content of oats with the flavour and texture of coconut.
Oats are naturally rich in plant based protein, while ingredients such as almonds, cashews, or peanut butter can be added to make each bar more filling. They can be prepared raw for a softer texture or baked for 10 to 20 minutes if you prefer a firmer snack.
These bars work well as a grab and go option, especially before or after a workout. Homemade versions also allow you to control the amount of maple syrup, nut butter, or other sweeteners used, while shop bought options should be checked for added sugar and vegan friendly ingredients.
#6 – Soya Yoghurt
Soya yoghurt is a simple way to increase your protein intake, with a single serving typically providing 10 to 14g of plant based protein. Many varieties are also fortified with calcium, making them a nutritious alternative to dairy yoghurt.
Its thick, creamy texture works well with a range of toppings. Adding granola, muesli, nuts, or seeds can increase the protein content further while providing extra fibre and crunch.
Widely available in UK supermarkets, soya yoghurt can be eaten on its own or incorporated into breakfast and snack recipes throughout the day. When choosing a product, opt for unsweetened varieties where possible to keep added sugars to a minimum.
If you want to treat yourself with a great dessert, look at our article on the best healthy ice creams.
#7 – Granola
Granola is a nutrient-rich vegan snack that provides a combination of plant based protein, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
Its blend of oats, nuts, and seeds makes it a satisfying option between meals, while the high fibre content can help support fullness throughout the day. Many protein-enriched varieties are also available, making granola a popular choice among those looking to increase their daily protein intake.
A small serving can be sprinkled over soya yoghurt, mixed into smoothie bowls, or eaten with plant based milk for a quick, protein-packed snack. If buying ready-made granola, check the label for added sugars and choose higher protein options where possible.
#8 – Rice Cakes
Rice cakes are a light, versatile snack that provides a combination of plant based protein, fibre, and carbohydrates. Their carbohydrate content makes them particularly popular among active individuals looking to replenish energy levels after exercise.
While rice cakes contain protein on their own, the nutritional value can be increased further with toppings such as peanut butter, hummus, smashed avocado, or soya yoghurt. This allows you to tailor the snack to your protein requirements while adding extra flavour and nutrients.
Their crisp texture and low calorie content make rice cakes a practical choice between meals, whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a simple post-workout option.
#9 – Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are one of the most protein-rich vegan snacks available. Providing around 21g of protein per 100g, they’re a brilliant way to top up your protein levels if you’re following a keto diet or working on muscle growth. They also supply fibre and vitamin E, making them a nutrient-dense addition to a balanced diet.
Their mild, nutty flavour makes them easy to incorporate into a variety of meals and snacks. A handful can be eaten between meals, while larger portions work well sprinkled over porridge, smoothie bowls, salads, or homemade granola.
For extra flavour, try lightly roasting sunflower seeds with spices such as cinnamon or ginger. When purchasing pre-packaged varieties, check the label carefully, as some products contain high levels of added salt.
#10 – Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are a nutrient-dense vegan snack, providing around 19g of protein per 100g alongside fibre, zinc, and magnesium. Their combination of protein and fibre can help support fullness between meals, making them a popular choice for those looking to increase their protein intake.
With a slightly sweet, earthy flavour, pumpkin seeds can be used in far more than just snacking. They work particularly well mixed into trail mixes, stirred through homemade granola, or scattered over porridge and salads to add extra texture and nutrition.
For the healthiest option, choose raw or unsalted varieties where possible. Some packaged products contain high levels of added salt, so it’s worth checking the nutrition label before buying.
#11 – Nut Butter
Nut butter is one of the most protein-rich vegan snacks, with some varieties providing around 25g of protein per 100g. It also contains fibre and healthy fats, helping to create a more satisfying snack.
There are plenty of options to choose from, including peanut, almond, cashew, and hazelnut butter, each offering a slightly different flavour and nutritional profile. Spread it over rice cakes, wholegrain toast, or banana slices, or blend it into smoothies for an easy protein boost.
For a more filling homemade option, nut butter can also be added to protein cookies, energy balls, or oat bars. Choose varieties made with minimal ingredients where possible, as some supermarket options contain added sugar, salt, or oils.
#12 – Vegan Protein Brownies
Vegan protein brownies offer a way to satisfy sweet cravings while still contributing towards your daily protein intake. By replacing traditional ingredients with options such as almond butter, pumpkin puree, and vegan protein powder, these brownies can provide significantly more protein than standard recipes.
Many homemade versions use protein powder in place of some or all of the flour, helping to increase the protein content without sacrificing texture or flavour. Natural sweeteners can also be used to reduce the amount of added sugar.
Unlike many high protein snacks, vegan protein brownies feel more like a treat than a health food. They work well as a post-workout snack, afternoon pick-me-up, or meal prep option, as they can be stored in the fridge for several days.
#13 – Roasted Edamame
Roasted edamame offers a simple way to add more plant based protein to your diet, with around 11g of protein per 100g serving. Made from young soybeans, it also provides fibre and a range of essential nutrients.
Unlike many traditional snack foods, edamame has a naturally sweet, nutty flavour that requires very little preparation. Roasting the beans with olive oil and seasonings such as sea salt, paprika, cumin, or curry powder creates a crunchy snack with plenty of flavour.
Roasted edamame can be enjoyed on its own between meals or used as a topping for salads and grain bowls. Preparing it at home also gives you greater control over the amount of salt and seasonings used.
If you’re looking for other soya protein sources, take a look at our article on the best soy protein powders.
#14 – Hummus
Hummus is a staple vegan snack made from blended chickpeas, giving it a naturally high protein content alongside fibre and healthy fats from ingredients such as olive oil or tahini.
It works especially well as a dip for vegetables, helping to make lighter options such as carrot sticks, cucumber, celery, and peppers more filling. You can also spread it onto rice cakes, wholegrain toast, or wraps for a more substantial snack.
Homemade hummus is simple to adapt with ingredients such as garlic, lemon juice, paprika, or roasted peppers. Making it yourself also gives you more control over the salt and oil content compared with some shop bought versions.
#15 – Tempeh
Tempeh is a fermented soy product that provides around 19g of protein per serving, making it one of the highest protein vegan snacks on this list. The fermentation process also gives it a firm texture and distinctive flavour that sets it apart from other soy-based foods.
Its dense, chewy consistency makes tempeh particularly satisfying as a snack. Sliced pieces can be baked, pan fried, or marinated to create a range of different flavours, from smoky and spicy to sweet and savoury.
For a simple option, bake tempeh with olive oil and your favourite seasonings before serving alongside a dipping sauce or adding it to salads and grain bowls. When buying tempeh, always check the use-by date, as freshness plays an important role in both flavour and texture.
#16 – Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are a nutrient-dense vegan snack, providing around 17g of protein per 100g alongside calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and other essential micronutrients. Their impressive nutritional profile has helped establish them as one of the most popular plant based superfoods.
One of the unique qualities of chia seeds is their ability to absorb liquid and expand, creating a thicker texture that works well in a variety of recipes. They can be stirred into smoothies, sprinkled over fruit, mixed into porridge, or soaked to create a simple chia pudding.
Although small in size, chia seeds can make a valuable addition to high protein vegan snacks and meals. Their mild flavour allows them to blend easily into recipes without overpowering other ingredients.
#17 – Popcorn
Popcorn may not be the first food that comes to mind when thinking about high protein vegan snacks, but homemade versions can be a surprisingly nutritious choice. As a whole grain food, popcorn provides protein, fibre, and carbohydrates while remaining relatively low in calories when prepared with minimal oil.
Unlike many packaged snacks, homemade popcorn allows you to control exactly what goes into it. A small amount of olive oil and your preferred seasonings can transform plain popping corn into a flavourful snack without the added sugars and artificial ingredients often found in cinema or pre-packaged varieties.
Its light texture also makes popcorn a useful option when you’re looking for something satisfying without feeling overly heavy. Experimenting with seasonings such as cinnamon, paprika, nutritional yeast, or a touch of maple syrup can help keep this simple snack interesting.
#18 – Vegan Protein Bars
Vegan protein bars are a convenient way to increase your daily protein intake, with most products providing between 15g and 23g of protein per serving. This makes them one of the highest protein options on this list.
Unlike homemade snacks, protein bars require no preparation and can be kept in a gym bag, desk drawer, or backpack for whenever you need a quick snack. They’re particularly useful after workouts or during busy days when preparing food isn’t practical.
With a wide range of flavours and formulations available, it’s worth comparing nutrition labels before buying. Look for bars with a high protein content and minimal added sugars to get the most nutritional value from each serving.
#19 – Vegan Protein Cubes
Vegan protein cubes are a smaller alternative to protein bars, offering around 7g of protein per serving in a compact, individually wrapped snack.
Their main appeal is flavour variety, with options often including brownie, chocolate orange, mint, or sticky toffee. This makes them a useful choice for anyone who wants a sweeter snack without moving too far away from their protein goals.
As they’re portioned into individual servings, protein cubes are easy to keep in a gym bag, work drawer, or lunchbox. However, with any packaged protein snack, check the nutrition label for added sugar, fibre content, and overall protein per serving before buying.
#20 – Lupin Beans
Lupin beans are one of the highest protein vegan snacks available, providing around 36g of protein per 100g. They are also a complete protein source and contain fibre, making them an excellent option for anyone looking to increase their protein intake from plant based foods.
Although less common than chickpeas or edamame, lupin beans require very little preparation. Most varieties are sold in brine and can be eaten straight from the jar, making them a simple addition to your snack rotation.
For a different texture, try roasting lupin beans with seasonings such as paprika, cumin, or garlic powder until crisp. Their high protein content, low carbohydrate levels, and versatility make them a strong choice for active individuals and anyone following a plant based diet.
#21 – Seitan
Seitan is one of the most protein-dense foods available to vegans, providing significantly more protein than many other plant based snacks. Made from wheat gluten, it has a firm, chewy texture that closely resembles meat, making it a popular ingredient in vegan cooking.
Unlike tofu, tempeh, and other soy-based protein sources, seitan is naturally soy free. This makes it a useful alternative for anyone looking to diversify their protein sources or avoid soy altogether.
Its savoury flavour works particularly well in marinated recipes. Sliced seitan can be baked, grilled, or turned into homemade ‘jerky’ or ‘wings’, creating a high protein snack that’s ideal for keeping hunger at bay between meals.
#22 – Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds are a nutrient-rich vegan snack that provides around 11g of protein per 30g serving. Unlike many plant based protein sources, hemp is considered a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids needed for muscle growth and recovery.
With a mild, nutty flavour similar to pine nuts, hemp seeds are easy to incorporate into everyday meals. They can be sprinkled over porridge, yoghurt alternatives, salads, and smoothie bowls, or blended into shakes for an extra protein boost.
Their small size makes them an effortless addition to a plant based diet, allowing you to increase the protein content of meals without dramatically changing the flavour or texture. For the simplest option, a handful can also be eaten straight from the bag as a quick snack.
#23 – Vegan Jerky
Vegan jerky is a savoury, high protein snack that typically provides around 10g of protein per serving. Often made from soy protein, it offers a chewy texture that closely resembles traditional jerky while remaining completely plant based.
Its rich flavour makes it a useful alternative to sweeter protein snacks such as bars, brownies, or protein cubes. Many varieties are seasoned with ingredients such as black pepper, barbecue spices, or chilli, creating a more substantial snacking experience.
Thanks to its compact packaging and long shelf life, vegan jerky is easy to keep on hand for busy days, travel, or post-workout nutrition. When comparing products, look for options with a high protein content and minimal artificial ingredients.
FAQs
What Are The Highest Protein Vegan Snacks?
The highest protein vegan snacks include edamame, roasted chickpeas, tofu jerky, vegan protein bars, and protein shakes. Depending on the serving size, these snacks can provide between 10 and 30 grams of protein, making them ideal for supporting muscle growth and recovery.
Why Are High Protein Vegan Snacks Important?
High protein vegan snacks help support muscle maintenance, recovery, and overall health. They can also help bridge the gap between meals, making it easier to meet your daily protein needs while following a plant based diet.
Can You Get Enough Protein From Vegan Snacks?
Yes, you can increase your daily protein intake with high protein vegan snacks. Combining protein-rich foods such as soy products, legumes, nuts, seeds, and vegan protein supplements can help you meet your protein requirements as part of a balanced diet.
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