Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that brings all the warmth of a cozy family gathering right into your kitchen, these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are just what you need. Imagine chewy cinnamon cookies filled with a gooey pecan pie filling that feels like a hug in every bite. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or delightful family gatherings. Once you take a bite, you’ll understand why these cookies have become a beloved treat in my home.

What makes these cookies truly special is their ability to bridge the gap between dessert and comfort food. They’re ideal for any occasion, be it a casual snack or an impressive addition to your holiday cookie platter. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Family-friendly: These cookies are sure to please kids and adults alike. Who doesn’t love the combination of sweet pecans and warm cinnamon?
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge for an impromptu baking session whenever cravings hit!
• Deliciously unique: The gooey pecan pie filling inside adds a delightful twist that sets them apart from regular cookies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is half the fun! They’re simple and wholesome—perfect for creating those delicious Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies we all crave.

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 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients or add different flavors that suit your taste buds.

• Add chocolate chips: For a chocolatey twist, mix in some vegan chocolate chips along with the pecans.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or cardamom for an extra depth of flavor.
• Use different nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Make them gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Flax Egg

Start by making your flax egg. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about five minutes until it thickens. This step is crucial as it acts as a binding agent in our vegan cookie dough!

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature vegan butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in soft and tender cookies.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Stir in your prepared flax egg, maple syrup, and vanilla bean paste until fully combined. Each ingredient adds flavor and moisture to our cookie base, making sure they stay chewy!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and cornstarch. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those cookies to be perfectly tender!

Step 5: Prepare the Pecan Filling

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt three tablespoons of vegan butter. Stir in chopped pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup, water, cornstarch, and vanilla paste. Cook until bubbly and thickened—it should resemble a gooey pecan pie filling!

Step 6: Assemble Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a scoop or spoon, form balls of cookie dough and roll them in sugar before placing them on a lined baking sheet. Make an indentation in each ball using your thumb—this is where we’ll add our delicious filling!

Step 7: Fill with Pecan Mixture

Spoon the warm pecan filling into each indentation you’ve made on the cookie dough balls. Don’t be shy—let’s make these cookies extra special!

Step 8: Bake!

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes until they’re lightly golden around the edges. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

And there you have it! Your Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are ready to be enjoyed warm from the oven or stored for later snacking! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Making these cookies is a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can enhance the outcome even more!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures that the vegan butter creams well with the sugars, leading to a better texture in your cookies.

• Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much in the oven.

• Toast your pecans: Lightly toasting the chopped pecans before adding them to the filling enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to every bite.

• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out of the oven. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to swap ground cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice or add a pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth and flavor in your cookies.

How to Serve Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Presenting them beautifully can make all the difference at gatherings or special occasions.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
• Caramel drizzle: A simple homemade or store-bought vegan caramel sauce drizzled over the top can elevate these cookies to another level of indulgence.

Side Dishes

• Coconut whipped cream: This airy topping complements the chewy texture of the cookies and adds a creamy element that balances their sweetness.

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies, making for a balanced dessert platter.

• Vegan ice cream: Pair these cookies with a scoop of your favorite dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress.

• Chai tea or coffee: Serve alongside a warm cup of chai or coffee to enhance the cozy flavors of these cookies, making them perfect for any gathering or afternoon snack.

Enjoy creating and sharing these delightful Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies! They’re sure to become a favorite among friends and family alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them properly, and enjoy their delicious flavors whenever a cookie craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you prefer them chilled, you can also keep them in the refrigerator for a slightly firmer texture.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours.
• 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

• For best results, reheat cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave; just heat them for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overdo it!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about these delightful Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies:

Can I make Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your blend is suitable for baking.

What makes Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies different from regular pecan cookies?

Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies combine chewy cinnamon cookies with gooey pecan pie filling, creating a luscious texture and rich flavor without any animal products.

How should I store leftover Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies?

Store your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge if you prefer them firmer.

Can I freeze Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies?

Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just make sure they’re fully cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.

What can I use instead of brown sugar in this recipe?

You can use coconut sugar or date sugar as alternatives to brown sugar while still maintaining that delightful sweetness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies as much as I do! They’re not just delicious; they bring warmth and comfort with every bite. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own, these cookies are sure to delight. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you!