These Kale Chips are light, crisp, and coated with a savory blend of spices and nutritional yeast. They satisfy my snack cravings in the healthiest way possible, and they’re ready in under 15 minutes. I love that they’re just as addictive as traditional chips but so much better for me.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it takes a humble bunch of kale and transforms it into a crunchy, flavor-packed snack. The nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, umami kick, while the spice blend gives it just the right amount of heat. They’re easy to make, super customizable, and completely plant-based. Plus, they’re perfect for meal prep or snacking on the go.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 large stalks kale (about 4 cups leaves)
1 tablespoon avocado oil (plus more for hands)
1 1/2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon pink salt (or to taste)
directions
I start by preheating the oven to 300ºF and prepping a large baking sheet by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
I remove the kale leaves from their stalks by pulling or cutting them, then tear them into large bite-sized pieces. After washing them thoroughly, I dry them really well using a salad spinner or paper towels. The drier they are, the crispier they get.
I place the kale in a large bowl and drizzle 1/2 tablespoon of avocado oil over them. I massage the oil into the leaves with my fingertips until they’re evenly coated.
Next, I sprinkle 1 tablespoon of nutritional yeast along with the garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, cayenne, and salt over the kale. I add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil and massage the spices in, making sure every leaf is seasoned.
I arrange the kale in a single layer on the baking sheet and sprinkle the remaining nutritional yeast and a bit more salt if I want.
I bake the kale for 7 to 9 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn. Once done, I let them cool on the tray for about 5 minutes so they crisp up fully before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 servings. It takes just 5 minutes to prep, 8 minutes to cook, and a total time of 13 minutes from start to finish.
Variations
- I swap avocado oil for olive oil when that’s what I have on hand.
- For a cheesy twist, I sometimes add a bit of vegan parmesan.
- I leave out the cayenne when I want a milder chip.
- A pinch of smoked paprika adds a nice smoky flavor.
- I add lemon zest or a dash of vinegar powder for a tangy version.
storage/reheating
I store cooled kale chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If they lose their crispness, I toss them back in a 250ºF oven for 2 to 3 minutes to revive them.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of kale?
Yes, I can use lacinato (dino) kale or red kale. I just make sure to adjust tearing and drying accordingly.
Why did my kale chips turn out soggy?
If the kale wasn’t fully dry or if I overcrowded the baking sheet, they can steam instead of crisp.
Can I make these oil-free?
Yes, but they won’t be quite as crispy. I use a splash of lemon juice or water to help the seasonings stick.
Can I use a dehydrator?
Absolutely. I dry them at 135ºF for 4 to 5 hours for a raw, ultra-crispy version.
What does nutritional yeast do?
It adds a savory, cheesy flavor without any dairy and is packed with B vitamins.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but I use two baking sheets to avoid crowding. Crispness depends on airflow.
Are these chips spicy?
They have a slight kick. I reduce or skip the cayenne for a milder batch.
Do I need parchment paper?
It helps with easy cleanup, but I also grease the tray if I don’t have any.
Can I add sweet flavors?
Yes, I’ve made cinnamon-sugar kale chips by skipping the savory spices and using coconut oil, cinnamon, and a sprinkle of sugar.
What can I serve these with?
I snack on them solo or pair them with hummus, guacamole, or even crumble them on salads for crunch.
Conclusion
These Kale Chips are my favorite healthy snack when I want something crunchy, savory, and satisfying without the guilt. They’re easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and so flavorful that I can’t stop at just one handful. Whether I’m meal prepping or just craving a crunchy treat, these always hit the spot.
Print
Kale Chips
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Crispy, savory kale chips coated in spices and nutritional yeast—baked to perfection in under 15 minutes. A healthy, vegan, and totally addictive snack.
Ingredients
- 2 large stalks kale (about 4 cups leaves)
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (plus more for hands)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon pink salt (or to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300ºF (150ºC). Grease a large baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
- Remove kale leaves from the stalks by pulling or cutting. Tear into large pieces, wash, and dry thoroughly with a salad spinner or paper towels. Ensure kale is completely dry.
- Place kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil and massage into the leaves using your hands.
- Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of nutritional yeast, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, cayenne, and salt. Add remaining 1/2 tablespoon oil and massage again until evenly coated.
- Arrange the kale pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle remaining nutritional yeast and extra salt if desired.
- Bake for 7–9 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Let chips cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving for maximum crispiness.
Notes
- Ensure kale is completely dry before baking to avoid sogginess.
- Massage oil and seasoning well into the leaves for even flavor.
- Adjust spice level by increasing or reducing cayenne pepper.
- Store leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5.3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
