Vegan Zucchini Clouds

Light, crispy, golden, and absolutely addictive — these Vegan Zucchini Clouds are the ultimate healthy snack or side dish! Thinly sliced zucchini coated in a flavorful vegan batter and fried (or baked/air-fried) to perfection create these delicate, cloud-like crisps with beautifully lacy edges and a satisfying crunch.

Why You’ll Love These Vegan Zucchini Clouds

Super crispy with tender zucchini inside.
Quick & easy — ready in under 30 minutes.
Customizable seasoning and cooking method (fry, bake, or air fry).
Kid-friendly and great for parties or movie nights.
Low-carb and veggie-packed.

Vegan Zucchini Clouds Recipe

(Serves 4 as a snack | Makes about 4–5 cups)

Ingredients:

2–3 medium zucchinis (about 600–700g), sliced into thin rounds (⅛–¼ inch thick)
½ cup (60g) chickpea flour (or all-purpose/gluten-free flour)
¼ cup (20g) nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
½ tsp salt (plus more for sprinkling)
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup (120ml) plant milk (unsweetened almond, soy, or oat)
1–2 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot (for extra crispiness)
Oil for frying (or cooking spray for baking/air frying)
Optional toppings: fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, or everything bagel seasoning

Instructions:

Prep the zucchini: Wash and slice the zucchinis into thin rounds. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture (this is key for crispiness!).
Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together chickpea flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cornstarch. Gradually add plant milk and whisk until smooth — it should be a thin pancake-like batter.
Coat the slices: Add zucchini rounds to the batter in batches. Toss gently to coat evenly, letting excess drip off.
Cook your way:
- Pan-fry (for the crispiest results like the photo): Heat ¼ inch of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side until deep golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt immediately.
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Spray coated slices with oil and air fry in a single layer for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Oven Bake: Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment, arrange slices in a single layer, spray with oil. Bake 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.
Serve hot with your favorite dip — vegan ranch, marinara, garlic aioli, or just a squeeze of lemon.