Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that captures the essence of fall while being entirely plant-based, then you’ve come to the right place! These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, featuring chewy cinnamon cookies filled with a gooey, homemade pecan pie filling. They are perfect for cozy family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even just a quiet afternoon treat with your favorite cup of tea. Trust me; once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has become one of my all-time favorites!

The magical combination of flavors and textures in these cookies is simply irresistible. Plus, they are super easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe whenever I need a quick dessert. Whether you’re entertaining guests or indulging yourself, these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies will surely bring joy to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies! These sweet treats are sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh when you need them.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and pecans creates a warm and inviting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Vegan Delight: These cookies are entirely plant-based, so everyone can enjoy them without worry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our wholesome ingredients! You’ll find that everything you need for these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies is simple and accessible. They come together beautifully to create that rich flavor we love about pecan pie without any animal products.

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 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

One of the best things about these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make them your own with these fun variations:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Swap some chopped pecans for dairy-free chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.
• Change Up the Nuts: If you prefer walnuts or almonds, feel free to use those instead of pecans for a different flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

How to Make Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the 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 will act as our binding agent in place of traditional eggs.

Step 2: Create the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the room temperature vegan butter and both sugars until creamy. Then add in your prepared flax egg and vanilla bean paste. Stir until well blended. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until fully combined.

Step 3: Make the Pecan Filling

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt three tablespoons of vegan butter and stir in the chopped pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup, cornstarch mixed with water, and vanilla bean paste. Cook until bubbly and thickened—this gooey filling is what makes these cookies special!

Step 4: Assemble Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the cookie dough into balls and then flatten each ball slightly on a lined baking sheet. Use your thumb or a spoon to create an indent in the center of each cookie where you’ll spoon in some of that delicious pecan filling.

Step 5: Bake

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Allow them to cool on the tray before transferring them to a wire rack.

And there you have it! Your very own batch of Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies awaits—warm, gooey goodness that’s perfect any time of year!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Making these cookies can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature butter: This helps create a smooth and creamy dough, ensuring that the cookies have the perfect texture and spread evenly while baking.
• Chill the dough: If you find your dough too soft to handle, chilling it for about 30 minutes can make rolling and shaping much easier. It also helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
• Don’t skip the flax egg: The flax egg acts as a binder in vegan baking, giving your cookies structure and moisture. It’s an essential component that ensures your cookies hold their shape.
• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is fantastic, feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger to enhance the flavor profile of your cookies. It adds a unique twist that will impress your taste buds.
• Watch them closely while baking: Oven times can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies in the last few minutes of baking. You want them to be golden brown but not overcooked for that perfect chewy texture!

How to Serve Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Serving these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies is all about making them look as good as they taste! Here are some fun ideas to present this sweet treat at your next gathering or cozy night in.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkling some additional chopped pecans on top adds a lovely crunch and enhances the nutty flavor.
• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar provides a touch of elegance and makes your cookies look irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Vegan vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vegan vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm cookies, creating a delicious contrast of temperatures.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance the richness of the cookies. Think seasonal fruits like berries or citrus for a bright pop of color and flavor.
• Coffee or chai latte: These warm beverages complement the sweet notes of the cookies beautifully, making for a cozy treat combination.
• Dairy-free whipped topping: A dollop of dairy-free whipped topping adds an indulgent finish that makes each bite even more delightful.

Enjoy creating your own batch of Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies! They’re sure to be a hit whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them solo with a cozy drink. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them a delightful treat to have on hand throughout the week. With just a little planning, you can enjoy these gooey, flavorful cookies anytime!

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze for about an hour.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.
• Enjoy with a cup of your favorite plant-based milk or coffee!

FAQs

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

Can I make Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it has a similar texture for the best results.

What is the best way to enjoy Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies?

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or a drizzle of vegan chocolate sauce!

How long do Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Are there any alternatives I can use for maple syrup in this recipe?

You can use agave syrup or brown rice syrup as alternatives if you prefer different flavors or sweetness levels!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies as much as I do! They are not only delicious but also a wonderful way to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping things plant-based. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!