Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings the warm flavors of fall into every bite, these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are just what you need! Imagine sinking your teeth into a chewy cookie that’s perfectly spiced with cinnamon, only to discover a gooey pecan pie filling nestled inside. It’s like enjoying two desserts in one! These cookies are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something sweet but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. They also make a fantastic addition to family gatherings or holiday celebrations, spreading smiles around the table.

What makes this recipe so special is not just its flavor but also how easy it is to whip up. You can enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store some for later—if they last that long!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these cookies ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies, and these will please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh whenever you’re ready.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and pecans creates a comforting taste that feels like a warm hug.
• Vegan Delight: No animal products here, making these cookies perfect for everyone to enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create an unforgettable treat. Let’s gather everything we need for our Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies!

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
• 1 flax egg (1 Tablespoon 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

Variations

This recipe is flexible and allows for some fun twists! Here are a few ideas to make your Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies even more exciting:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Swap some pecans for vegan chocolate chips for a decadent chocolatey surprise.
• Mix in Other Nuts: Experiment with walnuts or almonds for different textures and flavors.
• Spice it Up: Try adding nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon for an extra kick!
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Flax Egg

Start by preparing your flax egg. Mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water will give your cookies moisture and help bind the ingredients together without any eggs. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the room temperature vegan butter, sugars, and flax egg until smooth. This step is crucial as it helps incorporate air into the mixture, yielding fluffy cookies. Add in your vanilla bean paste and mix well.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice), and cornstarch. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients, combining until just incorporated. Don’t overmix; we want those cookies to stay tender!

Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Filling

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine water, cornstarch, chopped pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup, and another splash of vanilla bean paste. Stir until it thickens slightly—it should be gooey but not overly runny.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Scoop out cookie dough onto a lined baking sheet. Make an indentation in each ball using your thumb or finger—this is where you’ll add that delicious pecan filling! Spoon a little bit of filling into each indentation before rolling them gently in sugar.

Step 6: Bake

Bake your cookies for about 10-12 minutes or until they’re lightly golden around the edges. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies! Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family, these cookies are sure to bring joy all around.

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll be sure to make the best Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies ever!

• Use room temperature butter: This helps the cookie dough become light and fluffy, ensuring a perfect texture for your cookies.

• Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This will help prevent spreading and result in thicker, chewier cookies.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet ones, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is a classic choice, feel free to explore other spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor twist.

• Check for doneness: Cookies may look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t be afraid to trust your instincts!

How to Serve Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies not only taste heavenly but also look charming on any dessert table. Here are some fun ideas on how to present and enjoy them!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely touch and makes the cookies visually appealing.
• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some finely chopped pecans on top right after baking for an added crunch and nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vegan vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast in temperatures.
• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies, making it a refreshing side option.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy coconut whipped cream serves as an excellent dip or topping, enhancing your dessert experience.
• Coffee or Tea: Enjoying these cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a comforting afternoon treat that’s hard to resist.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with your delicious Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them a delightful treat to enjoy throughout the week. You can bake a batch ahead of time and store them for those moments when you crave something sweet!

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw cookies at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
• Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

Got questions? No problem! Here are some common inquiries about Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies.

Can I make these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a one-to-one replacement for best results.

How do I get the gooey filling in my Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies?

For that delicious gooey filling, ensure you follow the instructions carefully when preparing the pecan pie mixture. The combination of maple syrup and vegan butter creates that signature texture.

Can I substitute maple syrup in the Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies recipe?

Yes! You can use agave syrup or brown rice syrup as an alternative to maple syrup. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly!

How should I store leftover Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you’d like them to last longer. They’re still delicious after a few days!

What makes these cookies different from regular pecan pie?

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies combine the flavors of classic pecan pie with a chewy cookie texture, offering a unique twist on traditional favorites.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies as much as I do! They bring together the warmth of cinnamon and the sweet nuttiness of pecans, creating a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Remember, baking is all about having fun and sharing joy with others—so gather your loved ones and enjoy these scrumptious cookies together. Happy baking!