These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon with the rich sweetness of a pecan pie filling. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also offer a unique twist on traditional dessert recipes. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special event, or simply indulging in a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and pecans creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will adore.
- Vegan-Friendly: Made without any animal products, these cookies are suitable for vegans and those with dairy allergies.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these cookies fit right in.
- Gooey Pecan Filling: The homemade pecan pie filling adds an irresistible gooeyness that elevates the cookie experience.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: These allow you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
- Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Parchment paper: Using parchment paper makes for easy cleanup and helps prevent the cookies from sticking.
Ingredients
These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies combine chewy cinnamon cookies with a gooey homemade pecan pie filling for an amazing vegan cookie recipe.
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
For the Filling
- 1 flax egg (1 Tablespoon (8 grams) ground flaxseed mixed with 3 Tbsp 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
How to Make Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Flax Egg
Begin by making your flax egg. In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, beat together the room temperature vegan butter, brown sugar, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Flax Egg
Once your mixture is creamy, add in the vanilla bean paste and your prepared flax egg. Mix until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice), baking powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients until combined.
Step 5: Incorporate Chopped Pecans
Gently fold in the chopped pecans into the cookie dough so they are evenly distributed throughout.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, form balls of dough. Roll each ball in sugar before placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet about two inches apart.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes until they are lightly golden around the edges. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies!
How to Serve Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies
Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies make a delightful treat for any occasion. These cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing their delicious flavors with simple pairings.
With a Glass of Plant-Based Milk
- Pair your cookies with almond or oat milk for a creamy, dairy-free option that complements the sweetness.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange them alongside other vegan treats like brownies and fruit bars for an appealing dessert spread at parties.
Warmed Up with Ice Cream
- Serve slightly warmed cookies topped with your favorite vegan ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
As a Coffee Companion
- Enjoy these cookies with your morning coffee or afternoon tea, as the flavors work wonderfully together.
Gift-Wrapped Treats
- Package them in a beautiful box to give as gifts during holidays or special occasions, sharing the joy of vegan baking.
How to Perfect Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies
To achieve the best results, keep these tips in mind while making your Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies.
Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and spices are fresh for optimal flavor and rise.
Chill the dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading during baking.
Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing too much flour, which can lead to dense cookies.
Adjust sweetness if needed: Taste the dough before baking. You can add more maple syrup or sugar if you prefer sweeter cookies.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies
Pairing side dishes with Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies can elevate your dessert game. Here are some wonderful options to consider:
Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
Vegan Whipped Cream: This adds a creamy texture that enhances the overall dessert experience without overpowering the cookies.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some rich vegan chocolate sauce on top for an extra layer of indulgence.
Nut Butter Dips: Almond or cashew butter can provide a nutty contrast that complements the pecan flavors well.
Coconut Yogurt: Serve chilled coconut yogurt on the side for a tangy contrast that’s also dairy-free.
Spiced Chai Tea: This warm beverage pairs beautifully with the spices in the cookies, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Granola Parfait: Layer granola with dairy-free yogurt and berries for a wholesome breakfast option that complements cookie leftovers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies, it’s easy to stumble upon some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
Skipping the Flax Egg: Not using a flax egg can lead to cookies that are crumbly and dry. Make sure to mix ground flaxseed with water ahead of time for a perfect binder.
Using Cold Butter: Cold vegan butter won’t cream properly with sugar. Ensure your vegan butter is at room temperature for a smooth, cohesive dough.
Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients combine to keep your Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies chewy and tender.
Ignoring Flour Measurements: Using too much or too little flour affects the texture. Always measure flour accurately, preferably by weight for best results.
Not Toasting Pecans: Skipping the step of toasting pecans can lessen their flavor. Toast them lightly before adding to the filling for an enhanced taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat cookies for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies:
Can I use regular eggs instead of flax eggs?
You can substitute regular eggs if you’re not following a vegan diet. One flax egg replaces one regular egg in this recipe.
How do I make these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free cookies, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum as a binding agent.
What makes these cookies chewy?
The combination of vegan butter and the right mixing technique helps create that chewy texture in Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies.
Can I add other nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other nuts like walnuts or almonds along with pecans for added flavor and crunch.
Final Thoughts
Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their chewy texture combined with gooey pecan filling makes them irresistible! You can customize this recipe by adding chocolate chips or different spices. Give them a try and enjoy these amazing treats!
Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies, a perfect blend of chewy cinnamon cookies and gooey pecan pie filling. These treats are not only vegan-friendly but also incredibly easy to make, making them ideal for any occasion—from festive gatherings to cozy nights in. With their rich sweetness and nutty texture, these cookies are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or paired with your favorite plant-based milk for an exquisite dessert experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup vegan butter (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (flax egg)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt
Instructions
- Prepare your flax egg by mixing one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water; let sit until thickened.
- In a bowl, cream together room temperature vegan butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Mix in vanilla and flax egg until fully combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt; gradually add to wet ingredients.
- Fold in chopped pecans.
- Scoop dough into balls, roll in sugar, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
