Baked Kale Chips Snack

Featured in: Cozy Baking Ideas

Discover how to transform fresh kale into a crispy, flavorful snack using simple ingredients like olive oil, sea salt, and pepper. This method involves wiping the kale dry, coating it lightly, and baking at a low temperature until just crisp. Optional seasonings such as smoked paprika can add extra depth of flavor. These baked kale chips are an easy, nutritious way to satisfy crunch cravings while keeping it light and vegan-friendly.

Perfect for snacking or pairing with light beverages, the preparation requires minimal time and common kitchen tools. Storing in an airtight container helps maintain their crunch, and re-crisping in the oven freshens them after a couple of days.

Updated on Wed, 19 Nov 2025 08:51:00 GMT
Golden, crunchy baked kale chips, delightfully salted, arranged on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Save
Golden, crunchy baked kale chips, delightfully salted, arranged on a parchment-lined baking sheet. | birchplate.com

Crispy, flavorful kale chips baked to perfection—a trendy, healthy, and budget-friendly snack that satisfies your crunch craving.

The first time I made baked kale chips, I was amazed by how they transformed from leafy greens into delicate, crisp snacks right before my eyes. Now they're my go-to treat whenever I want something crunchy but guilt-free.

Ingredients

  • Kale: 1 large bunch, about 200 g, washed and thoroughly dried
  • Olive oil: 1½ tablespoons
  • Sea salt: ½ teaspoon
  • Freshly ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
  • Optional seasonings: ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika or chili flakes for extra flavor

Instructions

Prep the oven:
Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
Prepare the kale:
Remove tough stems and tear leaves into bite-sized pieces.
Season:
Place kale in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings. Toss thoroughly to coat every leaf.
Arrange on sheets:
Spread kale in a single layer on prepared sheets, ensuring pieces don't overlap.
Bake:
Bake for 12–15 minutes, rotating sheets halfway through, until edges are crisp but not browned. Watch closely towards the end to avoid burning.
Cool:
Remove from oven and let cool for several minutes before enjoying.
Freshly baked kale chips, tossed with spices, offering a satisfying, crisp texture and flavorful goodness. Save
Freshly baked kale chips, tossed with spices, offering a satisfying, crisp texture and flavorful goodness. | birchplate.com

My kids love making these kale chips with me—they enjoy tossing the leaves and watching them crisp up in the oven. It's become a fun family ritual for our snack times.

Required Tools

Large bowl, baking sheets, parchment paper, salad spinner or kitchen towel, oven

Allergen Information

Contains olive oil. Naturally free from gluten, dairy, nuts, and soy. If adding cheese, check for dairy allergens. Always check spice labels for cross-contamination if concerned.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 60 calories, 3.5 g total fat, 6 g carbohydrates, 2 g protein

A close-up view of crispy, homemade baked kale chips—the light, healthy snack, ready to eat! Save
A close-up view of crispy, homemade baked kale chips—the light, healthy snack, ready to eat! | birchplate.com

Baked kale chips stay crisp if stored in an airtight container: enjoy them fresh for peak crunch and flavor!

Recipe Questions & Answers

How do I make kale leaves crispy when baking?

Ensure kale leaves are thoroughly dried before coating them lightly with oil. Bake at a low temperature and monitor closely to crisp edges without burning.

Can I add extra flavors to these baked kale leaves?

Yes, spices like smoked paprika, chili flakes, or nutritional yeast can enhance the taste and add variety to the snack.

What’s the best way to store these crispy kale leaves?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat briefly in a low oven to restore crispiness if needed.

Is olive oil necessary for baking this snack?

A light drizzle of olive oil helps the kale crisp nicely and carry seasonings, but excessive oil can cause sogginess.

Can these baked kale leaves be served with drinks?

Yes, they pair well with light white wines or sparkling water, making them a refreshing, healthy snack choice.

Baked Kale Chips Snack

Crispy kale leaves baked with olive oil and spices to a flavorful, crunchy snack perfect for any time.

Prep Duration
10 minutes
Time to Cook
15 minutes
Overall Time
25 minutes
Created by Elena Hart


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Servings produced 4 Serving Size

Diet Details Plant-Based, No Dairy, Wheat-Free, Reduced Carb

What You'll Need

Vegetables

01 1 large bunch kale (approximately 7 ounces), washed and completely dried

Oils

01 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil

Seasonings

01 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
02 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
03 Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili flakes for added flavor

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Preheat oven and prepare trays: Set the oven to 300°F and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 02

Prepare kale leaves: Discard tough stems and tear kale into bite-sized pieces.

Step 03

Season kale: In a large bowl, toss the kale pieces with olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and optional spices until evenly coated.

Step 04

Arrange kale for baking: Spread kale in a single layer on the prepared sheets, avoiding overlap to ensure even crisping.

Step 05

Bake until crisp: Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating sheets halfway through. Monitor closely near the end to prevent burning. Remove when edges are crisp but not browned.

Step 06

Cool before serving: Allow the kale chips to cool on the trays for several minutes before serving.

Tools Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Salad spinner or kitchen towel for drying kale
  • Oven

Allergy Details

Review all components to spot allergies and check with a doctor if you're unsure.
  • Contains olive oil. Naturally free from gluten, dairy, nuts, and soy. Check for dairy allergens if cheese is added. Verify spice labels for potential cross-contamination.

Nutrition Breakdown (each serving)

Nutritional info is for reference. Please consult your doctor for specifics.
  • Energy (Calories): 60
  • Fats: 3.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Proteins: 2 g