Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings joy to any gathering, you’ve come to the right place! These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are not just cookies; they are little bites of happiness. Combining the chewy goodness of cinnamon cookies with a rich, gooey pecan pie filling, these cookies are perfect for everything from cozy family dinners to festive celebrations. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has earned a special spot in my heart!

Baking these cookies is an enjoyable experience that fills your kitchen with warm aromas. Plus, they’re super easy to make, making them a go-to recipe when you need something delightful without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique: These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are a fun twist on two classic desserts, combining the best of both worlds.
• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these cookies ready to bake in no time.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a family gathering or a potluck with friends, these cookies will impress everyone!
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for an easy dessert whenever cravings hit.
• Naturally Vegan: Enjoy all the flavors of pecan pie without any animal products—just pure plant-based goodness!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these delightful Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 Tablespoon water
• 1/2 Tablespoon cornstarch
• 3 Tablespoons vegan butter
• 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 Tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
• 1/2 cup vegan butter (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup + 2 Tablespoons sugar (½ cup for dough, 2 Tbsp for rolling before baking)
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 flax egg (1 Tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 Tablespoons water)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
• 1 1/2 cups + 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

These ingredients come together beautifully to create an unforgettable treat!

Variations

One of the best things about these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients. Here are some variation ideas:

• Add chocolate chips: For an extra indulgent twist, mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips before baking.
• Experiment with nuts: Try using walnuts or even hazelnuts instead of pecans for different flavors and textures.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to give your cookies an extra holiday flair.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap out regular flour for your favorite gluten-free blend to cater to those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Flax Egg

Start by making your flax egg. Combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about five minutes until it becomes gel-like. This acts as a binding agent in our cookie dough and gives it that chewy texture we love!

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature vegan butter and sugars until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into your mixture, ensuring your cookies will be soft and tender. Next, add in the prepared flax egg and vanilla bean paste—mix until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice), and cornstarch. Gradually add this mixture into your wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Filling

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt together the remaining vegan butter with brown sugar and maple syrup. Stir in chopped pecans along with water and cornstarch until everything is well blended and sticky. This filling is what makes our cookies so special!

Step 5: Form Cookies & Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out portions of cookie dough and flatten each one slightly before adding about a teaspoon of pecan filling in the center. Fold the dough around the filling and roll into balls before rolling them in granulated sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Place them onto a lined baking sheet and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until golden around the edges. Let them cool on wire racks—this is where patience pays off as they firm up nicely!

And there you have it—your very own batch of delicious Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies! Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later; either way, they’re sure to brighten anyone’s day!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Baking these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies can be a delightful experience, and a few handy tips will ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature vegan butter: This helps create a smooth dough that blends well with the sugars, leading to cookies that are both chewy and flavorful.

• Make your flax egg in advance: Allowing the flaxseed and water mixture to sit for about 5 minutes before using it helps it thicken, giving your cookies a better texture and binding properties.

• Chill the dough: After you’ve mixed the ingredients, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances their flavor.

• Keep an eye on your baking time: Ovens can vary! Start checking your cookies a couple of minutes early to prevent overbaking. You want them to be golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is delicious, feel free to substitute or add in other spices like nutmeg or ginger. This can give your cookies a unique twist that reflects your personal taste!

How to Serve Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Serving them creatively can enhance your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• A sprinkle of powdered sugar: Lightly dusting your cookies with powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and a hint of sweetness.

• Chopped pecans on top: Adding a few extra chopped pecans as a garnish not only looks beautiful but also gives an extra crunch to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Non-dairy ice cream: A scoop of vegan vanilla or caramel ice cream pairs wonderfully with these cookies, providing a creamy contrast to their chewy texture.

• Coconut whipped cream: Light and fluffy coconut whipped cream complements the nutty flavors of the cookies beautifully and adds richness without any dairy.

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with berries, apples, and citrus adds brightness to your plate, balancing the richness of the cookies perfectly.

• Coffee or herbal tea: Serve these cookies alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat that warms the soul.

Enjoy sharing these delightful Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies with friends and family—every bite is sure to bring smiles!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat any time you crave something sweet. With a bit of planning, you can have these cookies ready to go whenever you need a pick-me-up!

Storing Leftovers

• Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• To keep them fresh longer, consider placing parchment paper between layers of cookies.
• Avoid refrigerating them, as this can change the texture.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy the cookies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the desired number of cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave; heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies that might help you while making this delightful treat!

Can I make Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s suitable for baking cookies.

How do I ensure my Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are chewy?

To achieve that desirable chewy texture, don’t overbake the cookies. Remove them from the oven when they are lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

What makes Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies different from regular pecan cookies?

Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies incorporate a gooey pecan pie filling into traditional cookie dough, giving them a unique texture and flavor combo that stands out!

Can I add chocolate chips to my Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies?

Absolutely! Adding dairy-free chocolate chips will enhance the flavor even more and create a delightful twist.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and sweetness to your kitchen! These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also offer a wonderful vegan alternative that’s sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy making them and sharing the love—happy baking!