Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly combines the richness of pecan pie with the comforting chewiness of cookies, then these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are just what you need! They’re not only a fantastic dessert but also a wonderful way to bring smiles during family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even just a cozy night in. Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight, making them an ideal choice for any occasion.

What makes these cookies truly special is their unique blend of flavors and textures. The chewy cinnamon cookie base pairs beautifully with the gooey pecan pie filling, creating a little slice of heaven in each bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will have you feeling like a pro in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip these cookies up in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies! These treats are sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an everyday snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Deliciously Indulgent: Enjoy the rich flavors of pecan pie without any animal products—how great is that?
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake them ahead of time and store them for when you need a sweet pick-me-up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies! You probably have many of these items in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookie Dough

• 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

For the Pecan Pie Filling

• 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 Tablespoon water
• 1/2 Tablespoon cornstarch

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies combine chewy cinnamon cookies with a gooey homemade pecan pie filling for an amazing vegan cookie recipe.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add Chocolate Chips: For an extra layer of sweetness, stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Use Different Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try walnuts or almonds for your filling.
• Spice it Up: Swap out the ground cinnamon for nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor twist.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour to cater to gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Flax Egg

Start by preparing 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 thick and gel-like. This acts as an excellent egg substitute and helps bind your cookies together!

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room-temperature vegan butter, sugar, and light brown sugar until smooth. Add in the prepared flax egg and vanilla bean paste. Mix until fully combined. Next, sift together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt in another bowl before gradually adding it to your wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix!

Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Filling

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the vegan butter. Stir in chopped pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup, water, and cornstarch. Cook just until everything is well combined and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and allow it to cool while you shape your cookie dough.

Step 4: Shape Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take about one tablespoon of cookie dough and roll it into a ball. Use your thumb to create an indentation in each ball—this is where your delicious pecan filling will go!

Step 5: Fill Your Cookies

Spoon about half a teaspoon of the pecan filling into each indentation you’ve made in the cookie dough balls. Don’t worry if it looks messy; that gooey goodness will spread as they bake!

Step 6: Bake

Place your filled cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and sprinkle with additional sugar if desired. Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes until lightly golden around the edges. Allow them to cool on the pan for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

And there you have it—your very own batch of delectable Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies! Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or stored away for later indulgence; either way, they’re sure to be loved by all!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

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

• Use room temperature vegan butter: This helps create a smooth, creamy dough that mixes well with the sugars, resulting in a tender cookie texture.

• Let the flax egg sit: Allowing the flaxseed meal mixed with water to thicken for about 5-10 minutes mimics the binding property of an egg, giving your cookies a great structure.

• Chill the dough: After mixing, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking and enhances the flavors of the spices.

• Don’t skip the rolling sugar: Rolling the cookies in sugar before baking adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to the exterior, making each bite even more tempting.

• Watch your baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.

How to Serve Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are not just delicious; they also make for a beautiful presentation. Here are some fun ideas on how to serve them!

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some extra chopped pecans on top of each cookie right after baking for an appealing finish and added crunch.

• Drizzle of maple syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup over the cookies can enhance their sweetness and add a lovely touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

• Coconut whipped cream: Serve these cookies alongside coconut whipped cream for a rich and creamy complement that balances their chewy texture.

• Vegan ice cream: Pairing these cookies with your favorite vegan ice cream creates a delightful dessert sandwich that’s perfect for warm days.

• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to your dessert table, balancing out the richness of the cookies.

• Coffee or tea: Offer a cup of your favorite coffee or herbal tea to accompany these cookies. The warmth and flavors will enhance your overall tasting experience.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Follow these simple guidelines for storing, freezing, and reheating your delicious cookies.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the cookies cool completely and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label the bag with the date and type of cookie to keep track.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen cookies, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.
• Enjoy them warm for that freshly baked taste!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies.

Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! While pecans give these cookies their signature flavor, you can substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just chop them finely and follow the recipe as directed.

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

You can easily make these cookies gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. This will maintain the texture while keeping it suitable for those avoiding gluten.

What makes Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies special?

Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies stand out because they combine the chewy goodness of cinnamon cookies with a rich pecan pie filling. They’re indulgent yet made without any animal products!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies! They are not only delicious but also a delightful blend of flavors that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring them by yourself, each bite is sure to bring a smile. Happy baking, and don’t forget to try this recipe soon!