Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place with these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies! Imagine biting into a cookie that combines the rich, gooey filling of pecan pie with the delightful chewiness of cinnamon cookies. It’s a dessert that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, bringing everyone together around the table for something truly special. These cookies are not just delicious; they also showcase how easy it can be to whip up vegan treats that satisfy every sweet tooth.

I can’t tell you enough how these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies have become a staple in my household. They are simple to make and filled with wholesome ingredients, making them an ideal choice whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself on a quiet afternoon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, these cookies come together before you know it!
• Family-friendly: The sweet and nutty flavors are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can make the dough ahead of time and chill it for a quick baking session later.
• Deliciously unique: The combination of chewy cinnamon and gooey pecan pie filling will impress anyone who tries them!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday or just an ordinary day, these cookies are always a hit!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are simple and wholesome. Most of them you probably already have in your pantry! Let’s gather what we need to create this comforting treat.

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 Tablespoon water
• 1/2 Tablespoon cornstarch
• 3 Tablespoons vegan butter
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 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)

For the Dry Ingredients

• 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you want to switch things up or add your personal touch, here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add chocolate chips: For those who love chocolate, toss in some dairy-free chocolate chips to take these cookies over the top!
• Use different nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Make them gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Flax Egg

Start by making your flax egg. Combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Give it a stir and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens. This step is important because the flax egg acts as a binder in our vegan cookie dough!

Step 2: Mix the Cookie Dough Ingredients

In another bowl, cream together your room temperature vegan butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add in your prepared flax egg, maple syrup, and vanilla bean paste. Mix well! This mixture brings sweetness and moisture to our cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In yet another bowl, whisk together your flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix into your wet ingredients until combined. Don’t overmix; we want our dough to stay tender!

Step 4: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in the chopped pecans—this is where that signature pecan flavor comes into play! Remember, mixing gently helps keep your cookies soft.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the dough so that your cookies won’t spread too much while baking.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls and coat them lightly in sugar before placing them on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 12-15 minutes until golden around the edges. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Once they’re cool enough to handle, dig in! Enjoy each bite knowing you’ve created something truly special with these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies.

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Baking these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you’ll achieve cookie perfection!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your vegan butter and other ingredients are at room temperature helps create a smooth dough and promotes even baking.

• Chill the Dough: After mixing, chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes. This helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and ensuring your cookies hold their shape during baking.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Accurate measurements are crucial for cookie consistency; too much flour can lead to dry cookies.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

• Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add in other ingredients like dark chocolate chips or dried cranberries for added flavor and texture. Just make sure they’re vegan-friendly!

How to Serve Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

These delightful cookies are not just tasty; they can also be presented beautifully! Here are some ideas to elevate your cookie-serving game.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet touch and makes your cookies look extra special.

• Chopped Pecans: Sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top right before serving. They add a nice crunch and reinforce that delicious pecan flavor.

Side Dishes

• Coconut Whipped Cream: This dairy-free whipped cream is light, fluffy, and pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the cookies. Just whip up some chilled coconut cream with a bit of vanilla extract!

• Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vegan vanilla ice cream next to your warm cookie creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance out the sweetness of the cookies. Choose seasonal fruits for vibrant colors and flavors!

• Herbal Tea or Coffee: Brewed herbal tea or a cup of coffee provides a warm beverage that complements the cozy flavors of these cookies perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to delight family and friends with your Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them a delightful treat to have on hand. You can easily store or freeze them, ensuring that you have a delicious dessert ready whenever a sweet craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer softer cookies, you might want to add a slice of bread to the container; it helps keep the cookies moist!

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or zip-top bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the container with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave each cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a quick snack.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies.

Can I make Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How long do Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will last up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.

Are Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are great for meal prepping, making it easy to have a tasty treat on hand whenever you want.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies! They’re not only a delicious twist on classic flavors but also a wonderful way to share love through baking. Whether you’re enjoying them with friends or savoring them solo, I trust they’ll bring a smile to your face. Happy baking!