Crispy Baked Falafel

Name: Crispy Baked Falafel
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon coriander; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Highlighted under: Lean & Tasty

I absolutely love making Crispy Baked Falafel for a delicious and healthy meal option. The combination of chickpeas, herbs, and spices creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Baking instead of frying not only makes it healthier but also gives me the satisfying crunch I crave. I usually serve these delightful bites in pita wraps or atop a fresh salad, and they always impress my family and friends. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, I can whip up this dish anytime, knowing everyone will enjoy it.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:57:35.665Z

When I developed my Crispy Baked Falafel recipe, I wanted to create something baked that wouldn’t compromise on flavor or texture. After several trials, I found that blending the chickpeas with fresh herbs and spices really enhanced the flavor while keeping the consistency perfect. The use of breadcrumbs instead of flour gives them that delightful crunch that I missed from traditional fried falafel.

One crucial tip I learned is to let the falafel mixture chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to form them into perfect balls. Trust me, this small step elevates the final outcome significantly!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful center
Packed with protein and fiber for a healthy meal
Versatile and can be enjoyed in various dishes

      

Perfectly Balanced Flavors

The beauty of Crispy Baked Falafel lies in the harmony of flavors from its key ingredients. Chickpeas serve as the base, providing a nutty taste and creamy texture. Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro not only add vibrant color but also infuse the falafel with a refreshing zest that brightens each bite. The spices—cumin and coriander—are essential for achieving that classic Middle Eastern flavor, so don’t skimp on them. Toasting the spices briefly in a dry pan before adding them to the mixture can enhance their essential oils, making the flavors pop even more.

Another component that shouldn’t be overlooked is the binding agent—breadcrumbs. They contribute to the falafel's structure, ensuring it holds together during baking while also adding slight crunch. If you want a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute with crushed gluten-free crackers or omit the breadcrumbs altogether if you prefer a lighter version. Just remember that this may require adjusting the liquid ingredients slightly to maintain the desired consistency.

Baking for the Perfect Texture

Baking falafel instead of frying is not only healthier but also quite straightforward. The key is preheating your oven sufficiently, as this allows the exterior of the falafel to crisp up nicely while keeping the interior tender. Using a parchment-lined baking sheet prevents sticking and promotes even browning. I like to lightly spray or brush the falafel with olive oil before baking; this small step adds extra crunch and encourages golden edges that are visually appealing.

During baking, flipping the falafel halfway through is crucial to achieve uniform crispiness on both sides. Keep an eye on their color; they should be golden brown and firm to the touch at the end of the baking time. If you notice they are browning unevenly or not crisping up, consider lowering the oven rack or adjusting the baking temperature slightly to ensure even heat distribution.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients:

Falafel Mixture

1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Mix well and prepare for baking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your falafel:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Blend Ingredients

In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon juice, and baking powder. Pulse until the mixture is well blended but still slightly chunky.

Chill Mixture

Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Form Falafel

Once chilled, use your hands to form the mixture into balls or patties, about 1.5 inches in diameter.

Bake

Place the falafel on the prepared baking sheet and lightly brush or spray them with olive oil. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

Serve

Remove from oven and serve warm with tahini sauce, in pitas, or over a salad!

Enjoy your homemade crispy baked falafel!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the mixture.

Storing and Freezing Tips

If you're making falafel ahead of time, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, place the cooked falafel in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy again. This method helps retain their delicious texture without the risk of sogginess from microwaving.

For longer storage, uncooked falafel balls can be frozen. After forming the balls, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, you can transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. When you're ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure they are cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Baked Falafel is incredibly versatile and can elevate a variety of meals. Serve them in warm pita bread spread with tahini sauce or hummus, topped with fresh vegetables like cucumber and tomato for a satisfying wrap. Alternatively, they make a great protein-packed addition to salads; I love adding them to a bed of greens with a drizzle of lemon-tahini dressing and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for extra flavor.

Feel free to experiment with different dipping sauces as well. Besides tahini, a spicy harissa sauce or creamy tzatziki can complement the falafel perfectly. For a twist, try crumbling leftover falafel into grain bowls or as a topping for avocado toast. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe not just a meal, but a building block for countless culinary creations!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these falafels?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid.

→ What can I serve with falafel?

They are delicious in pita with veggies and tahini sauce or served over a fresh salad.

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned ones?

Definitely! Soak dried chickpeas overnight and cook them before blending.

→ How do I know when the falafel is cooked?

They should be golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch.