Vegan beef jerky with vegetables and herbs on a plate as a high-protein plant-based meal.

25 Easy High-Protein Vegan Snacks to Keep You Energized

Written by: Dr James Pendleton

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Published

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Time to read 8 min

Struggling to stay full and energized on a vegan diet? Getting enough protein without animal products can be a challenge, especially if you're always on the go.


Protein plays a vital role in maintaining muscle function and providing lasting energy. Still, many plant-based diets fall short without the proper planning or snack options.


This article shares 25 easy high-protein vegan snacks—from roasted chickpeas to vegan beef jerky—that pack serious plant-based protein and help you meet your nutrition goals.

What Makes a Great Plant-Based Protein Vegan Snack?

Great vegan snacks do more than just taste good. They offer high protein content, are easy to prep, portable, and satisfy cravings without relying on processed meats or animal products.


For busy days or snack time between meals, options like almond butter on whole grain toast or chia pudding with plant-based milk deliver quick fuel. Many of these protein vegan snacks are perfect for meal prep and fit right into a plant-based lifestyle.

Why Do Vegans Need High-Protein Snacks?

High-protein vegan snacks help support strong muscles, stable energy, and overall wellness, especially when following a vegan diet. Unlike animal protein, plant-based protein needs to be more varied to supply all essential amino acids.


One common myth is that vegan diets can’t provide enough protein. But smart snacking with foods like hemp seeds, roasted chickpeas, and protein bars makes it easier to meet daily goals. These nutrient-dense, protein-rich options may support longer-lasting satisfaction between meals.

"Unlike animal protein, plant-based protein needs to be more varied to supply all essential amino acids.”

Fresh vegan wraps filled with vegetables and tofu being topped with lemon juice.

25 Easy and Yummy High-Protein Vegan Snacks

These quick, satisfying snacks make it simple to boost your protein intake with plant-based ingredients. They’re great for meal prep, post-workout bites, or a protein-rich option during snack time. Try one or all for a nutritious bite anytime.

1. Vegan Beef Jerky

This chewy, high-protein snack is perfect for long days out or after a workout. Look for versions made with soy, tempeh, or seitan for high protein content, and experiment with bold flavors like BBQ or teriyaki.

2. Roasted Chickpeas

These super crunchy legumes are rich in both protein and fiber. Coat them in olive oil and spices like cumin or paprika, then roast until crispy for a savory, shelf-stable snack.

3. Edamame Pods with Sea Salt

Packed with plant-based protein and essential amino acids, edamame is a satisfying snack that’s easy to steam and sprinkle with salt. Keep frozen packs on hand for convenience.

4. Nut Butter on Apple Slices

Almond butter or peanut butter adds healthy fats and protein to crisp apple slices. This snack is naturally sweet, nutrient-dense, and easy to prep in minutes.

5. Chia Seed Pudding

Made with almond milk or soy milk, this protein-rich snack is great for breakfast or dessert. Mix chia seeds, plant-based milk, and a little maple syrup, then let steep overnight for a thick, pudding-like texture.

6. Vegan Protein Bars

Ideal for on-the-go snacking, vegan protein bars are widely available in most grocery stores. Choose bars with clean ingredients, minimal added sugar, and enough protein to keep you full.

7. Hummus with Veggie Sticks

Hummus made from chickpeas or white beans offers plant-based protein and healthy fats. Pair with raw veggies like sweet peppers, cucumbers, or carrot sticks for a crunchy, balanced snack.

8. Tofu Cubes with Dipping Sauce

Tofu provides a wide range of essential amino acids and is a strong plant-based protein option. It works well warm or chilled—try air-fried tofu dipped in tamari, peanut sauce, or your favorite dip for a protein boost.

9. Vegan Greek Yogurt with Berries and Nuts

Choose unsweetened vegan Greek yogurt for extra protein and pair it with berries and nuts like walnuts or pumpkin seeds. This combo adds antioxidants, healthy fats, and crunch.

10. Lentil Salad Cups

Pre-cooked lentils and kidney beans create a protein-dense, portable salad. Add herbs, veggies, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing, ready-to-go snack.

A variety of high-protein vegan snacks including chickpeas, tofu, hummus, and apple slices with nut butter.

11. Air-Fried Edamame

Toss edamame in a bit of oil and seasoning, then cook in an air fryer until crispy. It’s a high-protein, super crunchy snack with a savory kick.

12. Vegan Cheese and Crackers

Dairy-free cheese paired with seeded crackers or whole-grain bread makes for a simple, filling snack. Look for cheese alternatives fortified with protein and calcium.

13. Seitan Jerky

Made from vital wheat gluten, seitan is one of the best high-protein vegan foods. Turn it into jerky with spices and a low-temp bake or dehydrate for a chewy, savory treat.

14. Smoothies with Vegan Protein Powder

Blend almond milk, protein powder, frozen banana, and your favorite fruit or spinach for a satisfying protein shake. Customize it for breakfast or post-workout fuel.

15. Peanut Butter Banana Rice Cakes

Spread peanut butter on brown rice cakes and top with banana slices. Add chia seeds or a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet snack with extra protein and fiber.

16. Roasted Edamame with Spices

Roasting edamame with chili flakes or smoked paprika creates a bold, crunchy snack loaded with plant-based protein and fiber. Great for on-the-go munching.

17. Black Bean Dip with Whole Grain Chips

This protein-packed dip is easy to blend with garlic, lime juice, and spices. Use tortilla chips, raw veggies, or whole-grain crackers to scoop it up.

18. Veggie Wraps with Hummus and Tofu

Whole grain wraps filled with grilled tofu, hummus, and raw veggies make a convenient, high-protein snack or mini-meal. Ideal for quick meal prep.

19. Sunflower Seed Butter on Whole Grain Toast

Nut-free and packed with protein, sunflower seed butter is rich in vitamin E and healthy fats. Spread on whole grain toast and top with sliced banana for sweetness.

20. Tempeh Sticks with Spicy Mustard Dip

Tempeh is a fermented, protein-rich food that may support digestion, though probiotic content can vary. Slice into sticks, bake until golden, and serve with spicy mustard or your favorite dip.

Vegan snack spread with edamame, vegan jerky, banana rice cakes, smoothies, and wraps.

21. Vegan Popcorn with Nutritional Yeast

Popcorn is naturally low-calorie and filling, but adding nutritional yeast bumps up the protein content while giving it a cheesy flavor without dairy.

22. Trail Mix with Nuts and Seeds

Mix almonds, pumpkin seeds, hemp hearts, dried fruit, and dark chocolate chips for a sweet and salty protein snack. Great for hiking or long workdays.

23. Quinoa Patties with Veggies

Quinoa is often recognized as a nutritionally complete food due to its high-quality protein and balanced amino acid profile.

24. Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas and Veggies

This cold salad delivers protein, fiber, and nutrients in every bite. Chickpeas, quinoa, raw veggies, and a citrusy dressing make it a refreshing and filling option.

25. Protein-Packed Energy Balls

Mix oats, nut butter, protein powder, and maple syrup into bite-sized balls. These no-bake snacks are perfect for fridge storage and grab-and-go energy.

High-protein plant-based snacks including trail mix, quinoa salad, energy balls, and veggie patties.

Benefits of Including High-Protein Snacks in a Vegan Diet

High-protein vegan snacks do more than just fill you up—they offer lasting health benefits that support your plant-based lifestyle. Here’s how they can make a difference:


  • Supporting steady energy throughout the day

  • Maintaining muscle mass as part of a balanced diet

  • Reducing cravings and preventing overeating between meals

  • Increasing intake of nutrient-dense foods like whole grains, legumes, and seeds

  • Meeting daily protein needs with sources like hemp hearts, almond butter, and soy milk

Have a Taste of the Best High-Protein Vegan Snacks Today

With plenty of high-protein vegan snack options to choose from, finding the right fit for your lifestyle is simple. Whether you're meal-prepping or grabbing something quick, there’s a delicious way to fuel up.


  • Air-fried tofu for a crispy, protein-rich bite.

  • Overnight oats with chia seeds for a filling, make-ahead option.

  • Trail mix with nuts and seeds for on-the-go snacking.

  • Smoothies with vegan protein powder for a quick nutrition boost.

  • Roasted chickpeas for a crunchy, savory snack anytime.


Mix and match your favorites to stay full, energized, and on track with your wellness goals.

Assorted high-protein vegan snacks including tofu cubes, chia pudding, trail mix, and a protein smoothie in bowls.

Fuel Your Day with the Best Plant-Based Protein Picks

High-protein vegan snacks are more than just a quick bite. They're a smart way to stay energized, support muscle health, and meet your daily nutrition needs on a plant-based diet.


From roasted chickpeas and vegan protein powder smoothies to trail mix packed with nuts and seeds, there are plenty of easy ways to boost your protein without relying on animal products.


Stay consistent with your snack game, fuel your body with nutrient-dense options, and enjoy every bite along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best high-protein snacks for vegans?

Top picks include roasted chickpeas, vegan protein bars, trail mix, tofu cubes, and smoothies with protein powder for both convenience and variety.

How much protein do vegans need daily?

Most vegans should aim for about 0.8 to 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight, depending on age, activity, and health goals.

Are store-bought vegan protein snacks healthy?

Many are healthy if they’re low in added sugar, use whole ingredients, and offer solid protein content from plant-based protein sources.

Can I make high-protein vegan snacks at home?

Yes—easy homemade options include protein energy balls, chia pudding, roasted edamame, and peanut butter banana rice cakes.

Do plant-based snacks provide enough protein without animal foods?

Yes, combining foods like legumes, seeds, whole grains, and vegan protein powder can help support protein intake without relying on animal products.

REFERENCES

  1. Abugoch James L. E. (2009). Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.): composition, chemistry, nutritional, and functional properties. Advances in food and nutrition research, 58, 1–31. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1043-4526(09)58001-1

  2. Lopez, M. J., & Mohiuddin, S. S. (2024). Biochemistry, Essential Amino Acids. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing.

  3. Polak, R., Phillips, E. M., & Campbell, A. (2015). Legumes: Health Benefits and Culinary Approaches to Increase Intake. Clinical diabetes: a publication of the American Diabetes Association, 33(4), 198–205. https://doi.org/10.2337/diaclin.33.4.198 

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. James Pendleton

Dr. James Pendleton is a primary care physician specializing in a naturopathic approach to family medicine. He has nurtured a family practice in Seattle, directed a VIP medical center in Abu Dhabi, published several books and scientific articles, and designed innovative nutritional supplements for manufacturers worldwide.