Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly marries the flavors of classic pecan pie with the charm of cookies, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are a family favorite in my home. They bring a smile to everyone’s face, whether I’m serving them at holiday gatherings or enjoying them on a cozy weekend. The combination of chewy cinnamon cookies and gooey pecan filling creates a heavenly bite that’s simply irresistible!

What makes these cookies even more special is how easy they are to whip up. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends and family without spending all day in the kitchen, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to desserts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these wholesome ingredients in your pantry already!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies, and these are no exception; kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Option: Bake these cookies ahead of time and store them for an easy dessert option whenever you need it.
• Delicious Flavor: The sweet pecan filling paired with the spiced cookie dough delivers a flavor experience that’s hard to beat.
• Vegan Delight: Enjoy all the goodness without any animal products—perfect for vegan friends or anyone looking to reduce their dairy intake!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies come together beautifully with simple, wholesome ingredients. Get ready to gather everything you’ll need to create these delicious treats!

For the Cookie Dough

• 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 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)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra layer of deliciousness.
• Try Different Nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cookie dough for a warm spice twist.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those avoiding gluten.

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 becomes gel-like. This will help bind your cookie dough together beautifully.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, combine your room-temperature vegan butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Use an electric mixer or whisk until it’s light and fluffy. This step is key because it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that perfect soft texture.

Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Add your prepared flax egg and vanilla bean paste to the buttery mixture. Mix well until everything is combined. The rich flavors from the vanilla will enhance every bite of these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. Don’t overmix; just combine until you see no more dry flour.

Step 5: Prepare the Pecan Filling

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt vegan butter. Stir in chopped pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup, water, cornstarch, and vanilla bean paste. Cook until bubbly and thickened—this gooey filling will be what makes each cookie special!

Step 6: Shape Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll them in additional sugar before placing them on a lined baking sheet. Create an indentation in each ball using your thumb—this is where you’ll spoon dollops of that delicious pecan filling.

Step 7: Bake Away!

Spoon about half a teaspoon of pecan filling into each cookie indentation. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. Let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to wire racks—this waiting period helps set their shape!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these amazing Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies! Each bite is like having dessert and nostalgia wrapped into one perfect treat!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

Baking is all about enjoying the process, and these tips will help you create the perfect batch of Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh baking soda, spices, and pecans will enhance the flavors of your cookies, ensuring they taste as good as possible.

• Chill the dough: If time allows, refrigerate the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and leads to a chewier texture.

• Use parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. It also promotes even baking for all your cookies.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a bit more cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to give your cookies an extra layer of flavor. These spices enhance the warm, cozy feeling that comes with pecan pie.

• Store properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper!

How to Serve Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies

These delightful cookies can be enjoyed in various ways, whether you’re serving them at a gathering or just indulging yourself at home!

Garnishes

• Drizzle with maple syrup: A light drizzle adds sweetness and enhances that pecan pie flavor.
• Sprinkle of chopped pecans: Adding some chopped pecans on top before baking gives a lovely crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vegan ice cream complements the chewy texture of the cookies and balances out their sweetness. Choose flavors like vanilla or caramel for the perfect pairing.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the rich cookies. The tartness of berries or citrus can cut through the sweetness beautifully.

• Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and fluffy whipped coconut cream is a delicious topping that elevates your cookie experience. It’s airy and adds a touch of indulgence without being overly heavy.

• Coffee or Herbal Tea: Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a comforting atmosphere, perfect for relaxing afternoons or post-dinner treats.

Enjoy every bite of these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies—they’re not just delicious but also bring warmth and joy into your kitchen!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the dough or the cookies ahead of time, making them a convenient and delicious treat whenever you need a sweet fix.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them, where they will last for about a week.

Freezing

• To freeze the cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply place the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy that freshly baked taste!

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help clarify your baking experience with these delightful cookies!

Can I make Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s designed for baking to achieve the right texture.

How do I store leftover Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate them for a week to maintain freshness.

What can I use instead of flax eggs in Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies?

You can use chia seeds mixed with water as an alternative. Just combine 1 tablespoon of ground chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens.

Can I add chocolate chips to these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies?

Absolutely! Adding vegan chocolate chips is a delicious way to enhance the flavor and texture of these cookies.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these Vegan Pecan Pie Cookies as I am! They are not only scrumptious but also easy to make, making them a wonderful addition to your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or sharing them with friends and family, I’m sure they’ll bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to come back and share your experience!