Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a treat that captures the essence of cozy gatherings and sweet memories, these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are just the thing! Imagine biting into a chewy cookie with a warm, gooey pecan pie filling nestled inside. It’s like getting the best of both worlds: the classic pecan pie and delightful cookies all in one bite. This recipe is a favorite for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even just a quiet evening at home when you’re craving something sweet.

These cookies are easy to make and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, they are sure to impress. Plus, they fit wonderfully into any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of rich pecans and warm cinnamon creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you’ll be baking these delightful cookies in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: These cookies are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them great for family gatherings or bake sales.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time and store them for those unexpected guests or sweet cravings.
• Vegan Goodness: Enjoy all the flavors without any animal products; it’s a guilt-free indulgence!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that these simple, wholesome components come together beautifully to create your Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies.

For the 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

Variations

The beauty of these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies is their flexibility. You can easily tweak them to suit your tastes or what you have on hand!

• Add Chocolate Chips: For a chocolatey twist, fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips to the dough before baking.
• Try Different Nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
• Enhanced Spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon for extra warmth and complexity.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make these cookies gluten-free.

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 thickens. This will serve as your binding agent and keep your cookies moist.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature vegan butter, brown sugar, and regular sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, making your cookies soft and chewy. Then add in the flax egg, maple syrup, and vanilla bean paste—mix well until combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients while stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; this keeps your cookies tender.

Step 4: Prepare Pecan Filling

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt together the vegan butter with brown sugar and chopped pecans until bubbly but not boiling. Stir in water and cornstarch until thickened. This filling gives each cookie its signature gooey center!

Step 5: Assemble Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Roll small balls of cookie dough in your hands before placing them on a lined baking sheet. Make an indentation in each ball with your thumb – this is where you’ll spoon in that delicious pecan filling! Top with more chopped pecans if desired.

Step 6: Bake Away!

Bake your cookies for about 12-15 minutes or until they’re golden around the edges but still slightly soft in the middle. Allow them to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

And there you have it—delicious Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies that are sure to bring joy to any occasion! Enjoy every 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 butter: This helps create a smooth batter that incorporates air for a lighter texture in your cookies.

• Don’t skip the flax egg: The flax egg binds the ingredients together and adds moisture, ensuring your cookies are chewy and delicious.

• Chill the dough: If time allows, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes can improve the texture of your cookies and prevent them from spreading too much while baking.

• Toast your pecans: Toasting enhances the flavor of the pecans, giving them a deeper, nuttier taste that elevates the overall cookie experience.

• Check for doneness: Cookies may appear soft when you take them out of the oven, but they will firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!

How to Serve Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Presenting your Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies beautifully can make all the difference. Here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a lovely visual appeal and a touch of sweetness.

• Chopped toasted pecans: Add some extra crunch on top by sprinkling finely chopped toasted pecans for added texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Coconut whipped cream: This light and fluffy topping complements the flavors of your cookies wonderfully while keeping it vegan-friendly.

• Vegan vanilla ice cream: Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can balance out the richness of the cookies, adding brightness to your dessert spread.

• Coffee or herbal tea: Pair these cookies with your favorite hot beverage. The warmth enhances their flavors while providing a cozy atmosphere.

Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies; they’re sure to become a favorite in your home!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and store them for a quick treat whenever you crave something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze cookies, allow them to cool completely.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-8 minutes until they are soft.
• Alternatively, you can microwave one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common queries about Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies!

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just ensure they are chopped and toasted for added flavor.

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

To make these cookies gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure that the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

What makes these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies so special?

These cookies combine the delightful chewy texture of cinnamon cookies with rich, gooey pecan pie filling. It’s a unique twist that brings together holiday flavors into every bite!

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time for Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies as much as I do! They bring together comforting flavors that are perfect for sharing or savoring by yourself. Remember, whether it’s an afternoon snack or a dessert after dinner, these little delights will surely impress anyone who tries them. Happy baking!