15+ Best High Protein Vegan Snacks (Easy Store-Bought Options)

Have you ever stumbled across a list of high-protein vegan snacks that are actually not all that high in protein content, especially when you consider the calories?

And while I love elaborate snack recipes and energy bites as much as the next gal, sometimes I don't want to make all of my healthy snacks from scratch. And again, that protein amount isn't usually as high as I'd like it to be.

Whether you're looking for a portable snack option for a road trip or high-protein options for an easy but satisfying snack, this list of snack foods from a registered dietitian nutritionist is sure to help you get plenty of protein throughout your day.

Make sure to check out these posts on the best vegan protein shakes and best vegan protein bars for more high protein options for on-the-go.

How Much Protein Do I Need?

While the RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance) for protein is currently 0.8 g/kg/day, many studies suggest that this number is too low, especially for the aging population, vegans, and athletes.

A better protein intake goal is 1.2-2.0 g/kg body weight per day for healthy adults. For example, someone who is 150 pounds would need anywhere between 82-136 grams of protein per day, depending on the situation.

And while it's definitely doable to get enough protein on a vegan diet, sometimes it does require a little extra intentionality.

Don't worry, I've got you. I've compiled a list of the best high protein snacks so you never have to fret about hitting your daily protein needs again.

Why Should I Choose Plant-Based High-Protein Foods When I Can Get Protein "Easier" With Animal Products?

Studies show that replacing animal proteins (especially red processed meats) with plant proteins is associated with lower mortality. Another study with data from 1985-2016 and 29,682 participants found that substituting nuts, legumes, and whole grains in the place of eggs, processed meat, unprocessed red meat, and poultry was associated with lower risk of heart disease and all-cause mortality.

The health benefits aren't only limited to heart health either. A meta-analysis found that each 100g increase in red meat intake was associated with increased risk of kidney stones. Furthermore, studies show that diets higher in meat and animal protein can decrease beneficial gut bacteria and increase harmful ones. A systematic review and meta-analysis also showed that each 100g increase in total meat consumption was associated with a 38% increase in risk of inflammatory bowel disease.

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that red meat and processed meat increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, while plant protein decreases risk. Another meta-analysis of 17 studies with 49,120 participants found that consuming more animal protein-rich foods led to an increase in gestational diabetes.

Not to mention, red and processed meats are associated with several types of cancers, while plant-based diets are associated with cancer prevention as well as improved prognosis in cancer survivors.

Click here for more information on the benefits of plant-based diets.

The Best High Protein Vegan Snacks

1. The Only Bean Crunchy Roasted Edamame Beans

These are one of my favorite high-protein snacks. Unlike most plant-based protein sources, edamame is a complete protein that provides all essential amino acids. These crunchy roasted edamame beans pack in 11 grams of plant-based protein in just 100-122 calories.

2. Vegan Protein Shakes

My go-to protein shake recipe is always 1 scoop plant-based protein powder (my favorite is BPN vegan protein powder in peanut butter cookie), about 1 cup unsweetened almond milk, a handful of spinach, and a frozen banana.

Sometimes I'll add in a spoonful of peanut butter, almond butter, chia seeds, or hemp seeds. It's delicious and provides 290 calories and 26g protein (or 395 calories and 29g protein with peanut butter).

For pre-made dairy-free protein shakes, make sure to check out my list of favorites.

3. Air-Fried Tofu

If you are able to meal prep these ahead of time, my air fried tofu nuggets can be a fantastic high protein & filling snack. One serving of these nuggets provides 314 calories and 21g protein. If you're short on time, you can also just air-fry tofu with some salt or your favorite seasonings. I also have a buffalo wings version of this recipe that's absolutely delicious and spicy.

4. Chia Pudding

There are so many different renditions of chia pudding, but I like to simply add ¼ cup chia seeds, 2 cups soy or pea milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon into a mason jar with a lid and shake it up. Then I wait about 10 minutes and shake it again, making sure all chia seeds have been mixed into the milk and aren't sticking at the bottom. Then just pop it in the fridge for a few hours to firm up and enjoy!

If you want it more sweet you can add some fruit or maple syrup on top before eating but that'll add extra calories, of course. Each jar is 2 servings and each serving has 180 calories and 11g protein!

5. Orgain Vegan Protein Snack Bar

I like that these protein bars are only 150 calories and 10 g protein. It's an easy grab-and-go sweet snack that tides you over without being too filling. My favorite flavor is the Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk.

For a bigger and detailed list of my favorite vegan protein bars, check out this post.

6. Coffee or Espresso with Soy Milk

Coffee can double as an afternoon pick-me-up and a protein-rich snack. A coffee or latte with one cup of steamed soy milk provides around 100 calories and 7-8g protein. The important thing is to choose soy milk (or pea milk) because other non-dairy milks are typically low in protein.

7. Bada Bean Bada Boom Crunchy Broad Beans

These crunchy broad beans (aka fava beans) are super crunchy, come in tons of different flavors, and are a good source of protein. They have 110 calories and 6g of protein per serving and are a convenient vegan snack to take on the go.

8. Air-Fried Chickpeas

I love air-fried chickpeas. They taste so savory and comforting. It's as easy as opening a can, rinsing, and pouring them into the air fryer with your favorite seasonings (and maybe some nutritional yeast). Simply cook to your desired crispiness. A half cup of roasted chickpeas is around 120 calories and 6g protein.

9. Protein Oatmeal

Just trust me on this one. This ThinkThin Madagascar Vanilla, Almonds, & Pecans protein oatmeal is the best tasting protein oatmeal I've tried on the market. It has 8g of added sugar, but also 10g of protein in 190 calories (and some whole grains!). I couldn't find it sold online, but you can get it at most grocery stores.

If you'd rather make your own, I have a post on my favorite protein oatmeal recipe that I eat nearly every morning.

10. Edamame

Edamame is such an easy and lazy way to add in extra protein. You can eat these frozen if you're feeling extra lazy, or you can usually find frozen bags that can steam right in the bag.

Simply cook it in the microwave and add a little salt and/or soy sauce and store it in an air-tight container in the fridge for 1-4 days to snack on a handful here and there. One serving is 160 calories and 16g protein!

11. Greek Style Vegan Yogurt

Plain Greek yogurt was one of the few things I did still eat when I was vegetarian, because it's packed with good bacteria and protein. So, of course, I was pumped when Silk came out with the vegan Greek style yogurt. Each serving has 190 calories and 10g of plant protein.

12. Pistachios

Another good option for snack time is pistachios. Nuts are a great source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber (aka the best combo for satiety and blood sugar control). Each serving of pistachios provides 160 calories and 6g protein.

13. Catalina Crunch

Catalina crunch products are high in protein and super convenient. They have a slight protein flavor, but I like the honey nut almond pairings flavor the best. Even though it says "honey" this flavor is actually vegan. Not all flavors are completely vegan, so make sure to check the ingredients. I like to eat these as a dry snack instead of a cereal but totally up to you! They are 150 calories per serving with 10g of protein. I also love that they are very high fiber and zero sugar.

Honorable Mentions

These don't quite hit my criteria for high protein, but they do contain some protein and they taste amazing. Therefore, they are definitely worth a mention.

14. Apple and Peanut Butter

An apple or apple slices with peanut butter is one of my all-time favorite snacks. Not only does it taste wonderfully nostalgic, but it's also incredibly quick and easy. A medium apple and 2 tablespoon peanut butter provides around 300 calories and 8g protein. Make sure to choose natural peanut butter made with just peanuts and salt.

15. Hippeas Chickpea Puffs

I am a big chip girl. I absolutely love chips. The cool thing about these puffs is that they are made from chickpeas so they are higher in protein than other chips or puffs. They are also cheesy and delicious all while still being vegan. Each serving provides 130 calories and 4g protein.

16. Hippeas Ranch Chips

Did I mention I'm a chip girl? Sure these are not SUPER high in protein, but they are such a delicious snack that are still higher in protein than regular chips. They're made from chickpeas and are the absolute best vegan alternative to cool ranch Doritos. Each serving provides 140 calories and 3g protein. I grab a bag of these nearly every time I go to the store because I'm obsessed.

17. Seven Sundays Sunflower Cereal

What I love most about this sunflower cereal are the natural ingredients. There are only a handful of ingredients and no refined sugar. It also has 170 calories and 5g of protein per cup. If you eat it with soy milk, it'll add in more protein. You could also add a little extra protein and omega-3s by topping it with hemp hearts. I like to drizzle on some date syrup or maple syrup if I'm wanting it more sweet.

18. Lenny & Larry's Protein Cookies

So here's the thing. This is a cookie, so it has much more sugar than the other items on this list. And honestly, the protein is not that high when you factor in the calories. However, they can be a good balanced snack choice when you're on the go and need something with a decent ratio of protein, fat, and carbs. They provide 460 calories and 16g protein.

And that does it for the 15+ best high protein vegan snacks! Now you never have to worry about getting all of the protein you need during the day on a plant-based diet.

Have you tried and loved one of the items I mentioned? Let me know in the comments!

Feeling More Meal Hungry?

Try the Vegan Pesto Lasagna Rolls or Buddha Bowl for delicious high protein meals.