Baked Avocado Falafel 2025

I didn’t set out to make falafel that day, I just needed to use up half an avocado before it turned brown. The chickpeas were already thawed, and I figured I’d mash something together and call it lunch. What came out of the oven surprised me: crisp edges, a warm cumin kick, and a creamy green center that somehow made the whole thing feel fresher than usual. I ate three straight off the tray, no plate, no toppings. Since then, I’ve stopped thinking of falafel as just a street food staple, it’s become one of my favorite ways to clean out the fridge, reset my meals, and sneak something nourishing into the mix without it feeling like health food.

Key Benefits of Baked Avocado Falafel

Healthier Than Fried Falafel
Baking skips the oil bath, which means fewer calories and less mess while still giving you a crisp outer layer.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats that may help support heart health and reduce inflammation.
Naturally Gluten-Free
Using oats or oat flour makes this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive eaters, with no compromise on texture.
Plant-Based Protein
Chickpeas provide essential amino acids and fiber, offering a satisfying meatless option.
Great for Meal Prep
These falafel patties hold up well in the fridge or freezer perfect for weekday lunches or last-minute dinners.
Kid and Crowd-Friendly
The mellow flavor of avocado tones down strong spices, making these patties suitable for all ages and tastes.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes & Substitutions
Cooked chickpeas	1 ½ cups	Canned is fine, just drain and rinse thoroughly
Ripe avocado	1 medium	Soft but not mushy; adds creaminess and healthy fats
Rolled oats or oat flour	½ cup	Acts as binder; use gluten-free oats if needed
Fresh cilantro	½ cup (packed)	Sub with parsley if cilantro isn’t your thing
Red onion	¼ cup	Shallot or green onion work for a milder option
Garlic cloves	2 cloves	Use garlic powder (1 tsp) if needed
Ground cumin	1 tsp	Classic falafel spice; adds warmth
Ground coriander	1 tsp	Optional, for a hint of citrus
Baking powder	½ tsp	Helps make the texture light and airy when baked
Lemon juice	1 Tbsp	Adds brightness; lime juice also works
Olive oil	1 Tbsp	Brush over patties for browning; avocado oil works too
Fine sea salt	¾ tsp	Adjust to taste after mixing
Black pepper	¼ tsp	Optional pinch of cayenne for extra heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Baked Avocado Falafel takes minimal prep and relies on just a couple of everyday kitchen tools, nothing beyond a mixing device and an oven tray.

1. Blend the Base

Combine chickpeas, avocado, chopped red onion, garlic cloves, fresh cilantro, lemon juice, and olive oil in a food processor.
Pulse briefly in short bursts until the mixture is well-mixed but still has some texture, and should stick together without becoming completely smooth.

If the consistency is too dry, add a tiny bit of water or extra citrus juice to loosen it. If it’s sticky, mix in a little more oats.

2. Form the Patties

Use a spoon or small scoop to portion about 1½ tablespoons of the mixture at a time.
Shape each into small discs or nuggets and place them gently on a lined baking tray.

Lightly brushing the tops with oil helps them crisp up in the oven while keeping the inside soft.

3. Bake Until Crisp

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake for 15 minutes, then flip each patty carefully with a spatula.
Place them back in the oven for another 10 to 12 minutes, until the outside is nicely browned and firm to the touch.

Let them cool slightly, they’ll continue to firm up as they rest.

Recipe Variations

Tailor your falafel to match different tastes or needs:

Gluten-Free Option: Be sure to use certified GF oats or swap in cooked quinoa.
For Heat Lovers: Toss in a bit of red chili flakes or finely diced green chili for a spicy edge.
Fresh & Zesty: Add chopped mint leaves and a little lemon zest to brighten the flavor.
Protein Boost: Stir in sunflower seeds or crumbled tofu for added body.
Mild for Kids: Leave out stronger spices and serve with a mild dip like plain yogurt or tahini.
Onion-Free Version: Omit the onion entirely and replace it with extra herbs or a bit of grated zucchini.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Avocado Falafel is incredibly flexible, you can dress it up for a weekend dinner or keep it casual for weekday lunches. Here are some favorite ways to serve it:

Grain Bowls: Pile falafel on top of quinoa or brown rice, then add roasted veggies, a drizzle of tahini, and a handful of greens.
Stuffed Pitas: Layer the patties with shredded lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and a lemony yogurt sauce in soft pita bread.
Falafel Tacos: Use warm corn tortillas, red cabbage slaw, and a spicy avocado crema for a fusion twist.
Snack Platter: Serve chilled with carrot sticks, olives, hummus, and flatbread for a quick mezze board.
Brunch Favorite: Add falafel to a breakfast wrap with eggs, spinach, and feta for a hearty start to the day.
Seasonal Pairing Tip: In summer, serve with chilled cucumber salad. In winter, pair with warm lentil soup or roasted root vegetables.

Tips for Success

Making baked falafel at home is simple once you know the little tricks that elevate the texture and flavor. Here are a few to keep in mind:

Dry the chickpeas well – Extra moisture can make the mixture soggy and hard to shape.
Don’t over-blend – You want a chunky, cohesive mix, not a puree.
Chill the mixture – Let it rest in the fridge for 15–20 minutes before shaping if it feels too soft.
Line your baking tray with parchment for smooth release and hassle-free cleanup, no scraping required.
Keep patties similar in size – This helps them cook evenly and look neat when serving.
Taste the mix raw – Since there are no raw eggs or meat, you can adjust the seasoning before baking.

Try these Spicy Chicken Patties for a protein-packed, oven-baked alternative with bold flavor, perfect if you’re craving something meaty yet easy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you bake falafels in the oven?

Absolutely! Baking falafels is a cleaner, healthier alternative to frying. You still get a golden crust, especially when you brush or spray the tops with a bit of oil. It also reduces the fat content significantly.

Can you put avocado in falafel?

Yes, and it’s delicious. Avocado adds creaminess, healthy fats, and a slightly earthy note that pairs beautifully with traditional falafel spices. It also helps bind the mixture naturally.

Is it okay to bake avocado?

Definitely. While avocado is often eaten raw, baking it in recipes like falafel brings out a rich, smooth texture without losing its nutritional value. It blends seamlessly into the patties.

Are baked falafels healthy?

They’re a great choice for a nutrient-packed meal. Baked falafels are lower in fat than their fried counterparts, and this version includes fiber, plant-based protein, and heart-healthy fats from avocado and chickpeas.

Conclusion

Baked Avocado Falafel is more than just a plant-based spin on a classic, it’s a fresh, nourishing way to bring bold flavor to your table with very little effort. Whether you’re batch-cooking for the week or looking for something vibrant to serve guests, these green gems never disappoint. So go ahead, preheat the oven, and make something that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. Give them a try, you might find they earn a permanent spot in your weekly meal lineup.