Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s both comforting and indulgent, you’ve come to the right place! These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are my go-to dessert for all occasions. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering, a sweet surprise for friends, or just a moment of self-care with a warm cookie and a cup of tea, these cookies hit the spot every time. The combination of soft, chewy cinnamon cookies with a gooey homemade pecan pie filling is simply irresistible!

One of the best things about these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies is how easy they are to make. You can whip them up in no time and enjoy them fresh out of the oven. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing—everyone will love the unique twist on classic flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in just about an hour, making them perfect for a last-minute treat.
• Deliciously Nutty: The rich pecan filling adds a wonderful depth of flavor that makes each bite special.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love these cookies as much as adults do. They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
• Vegan Delight: Made without eggs or dairy, these cookies are suitable for everyone, including those with dietary restrictions.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh when you’re ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create these tasty treats! Everything you need is easy to find and packs in plenty of flavor.

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)
• 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 Filling

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix it up based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Add chocolate chips: Toss in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra sweet touch!
• Use different nuts: Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds if you’re looking for a change.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for a spiced twist.
• Make them gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities.

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. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. This acts as your egg replacement, binding everything together beautifully.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature vegan butter and sugars until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into your dough, giving your cookies that lovely chewy texture! Add in the prepared flax egg, maple syrup, and vanilla bean paste. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients while stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies tender!

Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Filling

In a separate bowl, mix together chopped pecans with brown sugar and cornstarch. Adding cornstarch helps create that rich filling texture we love in pecan pie.

Step 5: Form Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out balls of cookie dough and place them on a lined baking sheet. Use your thumb to create an indent in each ball—this is where your gooey pecan filling will go! Fill each indent generously with the pecan mixture.

Step 6: Bake

Bake your cookies for about 12-15 minutes until they are golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Let them cool on the baking 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 become your new favorite treat! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Making these cookies is a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can make the process even smoother!

• Use room temperature butter: This ensures that the vegan butter blends easily with the sugar, creating a light and fluffy cookie dough.
• Chill the dough: If you have time, refrigerate the cookie dough for about 30 minutes. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, resulting in a thicker, chewier cookie.
• Don’t skip the flax egg: The flax egg acts as a binding agent, giving structure to your cookies. It’s essential for achieving that perfect chewy texture.
• Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure your flour accurately. Too much flour can make your cookies dry and crumbly.
• Watch baking time closely: Ovens can vary greatly, so check your cookies a few minutes before the suggested baking time. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

How to Serve Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies not only taste amazing but also look delightful on any dessert table. Here are some fun ideas to present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overpowering the cookies.
• Chopped pecans: Scatter some finely chopped pecans over each cookie right after baking for added texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vegan vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with these warm cookies, creating a delicious contrast of temperatures and textures.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can add a burst of flavor and balance out the sweetness of the cookies. Consider using seasonal fruits like berries or citrus for brightness.
• Coffee or Herbal Tea: Serving these cookies with a nice cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances their flavor profile and makes for a cozy treat experience.
• Vegan Hot Chocolate: For an indulgent pairing, serve these cookies alongside rich vegan hot chocolate—perfect for chilly days or special occasions!

Enjoy your baking adventure, and don’t forget to share these delicious Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat whenever the craving strikes! With just a few simple storage tips, you can keep your cookies fresh and delicious for days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• If you prefer, you can layer the cookies between parchment paper in the container to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze the cookies, allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• You can also freeze the cookie dough before baking. Simply scoop out the dough balls and freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a bag or container.
• Cookies and dough can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• If reheating from frozen, bake directly from frozen without thawing; it may take an extra few minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies that might help you while baking!

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

Absolutely! While pecans give these cookies their signature flavor, feel free to substitute with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.

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

To make these delicious Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies gluten-free, simply replace all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

What makes Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies special?

These cookies combine the chewy texture of cinnamon-infused dough with a gooey pecan pie filling, creating a unique dessert that offers both comfort and indulgence—all while being completely plant-based!

How long do Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies can last up to 5 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies as I am! They truly capture the essence of comfort food while being completely plant-based. Whether you’re enjoying them with friends or savoring one on your own, I know you’ll love every bite. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!