Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings together the warm flavors of fall and the joy of baking, these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are just what you need! Imagine biting into a chewy cookie with a sweet, gooey filling that tastes just like your favorite pecan pie. They’re perfect for cozy family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even a sweet pick-me-up on a busy weeknight. Trust me, once you try these cookies, they’ll become a beloved staple in your home.

These cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring everyone together with their deliciousness. Plus, they are vegan-friendly, making them suitable for all your friends and family. Let’s dive into why this recipe is going to be your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have these cookies whipped up in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the classic pecan pie flavor; kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake fresh cookies whenever you need a tasty treat.
• Deliciously Unique: These cookies combine the best of both worlds—classic cookies with the rich taste of pecan pie.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or just a cozy night in, these cookies fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies! You probably have most of them in your kitchen already. Here’s what you’ll need:

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)

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

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

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get started on making these scrumptious cookies!

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your taste preferences.

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Try Different Nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an aromatic twist.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs.

How to Make Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Flax Egg

Start by making your flax egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes gel-like. This step is crucial as it binds our cookie dough without using eggs!

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In another bowl, cream together the room temperature vegan butter and sugars until fluffy. Add in your prepared flax egg and vanilla bean paste and mix well. Combining these ingredients creates a deliciously sweet base that sets the stage for our chewy cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In yet another bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies to remain soft and tender!

Step 4: Create the Pecan Filling

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine chopped pecans with brown sugar, maple syrup, and cornstarch mixed with water. Stir until everything is well-combined and gooey—this filling will provide that irresistible pecan pie flavor inside each cookie.

Step 5: Form Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll tablespoon-sized amounts of dough into balls and then roll them in sugar before placing them on a lined baking sheet. Use your thumb or finger to create an indentation in each ball where you’ll spoon some of that delicious pecan filling.

Step 6: Bake and Enjoy!

Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes until edges turn golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before transferring them onto a wire rack. The result? A batch of Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies that are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Making these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies is a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature vegan butter: This helps your cookies achieve that perfect creamy texture during mixing, resulting in a dough that holds together beautifully.

• Don’t skip the flax egg: A flax egg acts as a binder in vegan baking, providing moisture and structure to your cookies. It’s essential for ensuring they don’t crumble apart.

• Chill the dough if needed: If your dough feels too soft or sticky, simply chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and shape into cookies.

• Monitor baking time closely: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake—take them out when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underbaked for a chewy texture.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is delicious, feel free to try pumpkin pie spice or even a hint of nutmeg for a warm flavor twist that complements the pecans beautifully.

How to Serve Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some creative ideas for presenting them!

Garnishes

• Dust with powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness while contrasting beautifully against the rich cookie color.

• Drizzle with maple syrup: A quick drizzle of pure maple syrup gives an extra layer of flavor and makes these cookies look irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with these chewy cookies, creating a delightful contrast in textures.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies while adding brightness to your dessert table.

• Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy coconut whipped cream offers a dairy-free alternative that complements the rich flavors of the pecan filling without overpowering it.

• Spiced Chai Tea: A warm mug of spiced chai tea enhances the cozy vibes of these cookies, making for a comforting pairing that’s perfect for any time of day.

Enjoy your baking adventure with these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, making them a delightful treat whenever you crave something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge where they can last for up to a week.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen. Just place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers, and they will stay fresh for about 2 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warm, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• If reheating from frozen, let them thaw at room temperature before microwaving or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies that might help you out!

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just ensure that any nuts used are chopped finely to maintain the cookie’s texture.

How do I make Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies gluten-free?

To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Adjust the liquid as needed since different flours absorb moisture differently.

What makes Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies so special?

These cookies combine the chewy goodness of cinnamon-spiced dough with a rich, gooey pecan filling that mimics the classic pecan pie experience without any animal products.

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

Certainly! Adding vegan chocolate chips is a delightful way to enhance the flavor. Just fold them into the dough along with the pecans for an extra indulgent treat.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies! They’re not just delicious; they’re also a wonderful way to share love through baking. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, these cookies are bound to bring smiles around the table. Enjoy making this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!