Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

These Vegan Apple Pie Cookies are the perfect blend of chewy cookie goodness and spiced apple pie filling. Ideal for any occasion, these cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring the warmth of autumn flavors to your kitchen. With their delightful texture and rich taste, they are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of warm spices and fresh apples creates a comforting taste that feels like a hug in cookie form.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these cookies whipped up in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for dessert, snacks, or even as a unique addition to holiday gatherings.
• Naturally Vegan: No eggs or dairy here! These cookies cater to various dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
• Chewy Texture: Enjoy the delightful chewiness that makes these cookies hard to resist!

Tools and Preparation

Before starting, gather your tools and create a cozy workspace. This will help streamline the baking process and ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk or fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your dry and wet ingredients effectively.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accuracy in your measurements for perfect results every time.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface for baking your cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

These decadent & chewy apple pie cookies combine an eggless spiced cookie dough base with a homemade apple pie filling for the best vegan apple cookies!

For the Apple Filling

• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 Tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 large honeycrisp apple (peeled and cut into small chunks)
• 3 Tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 Tablespoons vegan butter
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

For the Cookie Dough

• 1/2 cup vegan butter
• 1/2 cup + 2 Tablespoons sugar (½ cup for dough, 2 Tbsp for rolling before baking)
• 1/4 cup 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 + 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

How to Make Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
1. Combine the water and cornstarch, stirring until smooth.
2. Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, vegan butter, lemon juice, and pumpkin pie spice.
3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the apples soften slightly. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the vegan butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Mix in the flax egg and vanilla bean paste until fully incorporated.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Scoop a tablespoon of cookie dough onto the prepared sheet.
3. Create an indentation in the center with your thumb or finger; fill it with a spoonful of apple filling.
4. Take another tablespoon of dough to cover the filling lightly.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
Let them cool on a wire rack before enjoying these scrumptious Vegan Apple Pie Cookies!

How to Serve Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

Vegan Apple Pie Cookies are delightful on their own, but serving them with thoughtful accompaniments can elevate the experience. Here are some serving suggestions that will enhance the flavors and textures of these delicious cookies.

Pair with Dairy-Free Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy dairy-free vanilla ice cream complements the warmth of the cookies perfectly, adding a smooth texture.

Drizzle with Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of maple syrup over the cookies adds a natural sweetness and enhances their apple pie flavor.

Serve with Fresh Whipped Coconut Cream

• This light and airy topping provides a refreshing contrast to the chewy cookies while keeping everything vegan.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

• Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for a cozy afternoon treat.

Create an Apple Dessert Platter

• Mix your Vegan Apple Pie Cookies with other apple-based desserts for a themed dessert platter that impresses at gatherings.

Add Nuts or Dried Fruits

• Sprinkle chopped nuts or dried fruits on top for added crunch and flavor, making each bite unique.

How to Perfect Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

To ensure your Vegan Apple Pie Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips. They will help you achieve optimal texture and flavor in every batch.

• Chill the Dough: Letting your cookie dough chill for about 30 minutes helps solidify the fats, resulting in thicker cookies.

• Use Fresh Apples: Opt for fresh honeycrisp apples for the best flavor and texture in your filling. They hold their shape well during baking.

• Don’t Skip the Flax Egg: The flax egg is crucial as it binds ingredients together, ensuring your cookies have a nice chewy texture without eggs.

• Measure Flour Properly: Spoon your flour into measuring cups instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid overly dense cookies.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of pumpkin pie spice according to your taste preference for a more personalized flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

Vegan Apple Pie Cookies can be wonderfully complemented by various side dishes. Here are some ideas to consider:

1. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
   These fluffy donuts add an extra layer of sweetness and spice that pairs beautifully with apple flavors.

2. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits helps balance out the richness of the cookies and adds a burst of color.

3. Pumpkin Soup
   This warm soup brings a savory element to your dessert table, creating an interesting contrast with sweet cookies.

4. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels
   The salty crunch of pretzels coated in chocolate offers a delightful textural contrast alongside the chewy cookies.

5. Vegan Cheese Plate
   A selection of vegan cheeses can create an inviting appetizer before enjoying dessert, enhancing flavors throughout your meal.

6. Hot Chocolate
   A warm cup of rich hot chocolate creates a comforting pairing, perfect for chilly days when enjoying these cookies.

7. Caramelized Pears
   Sweet caramelized pears can serve as an elegant topping or side dish that elevates the overall dessert experience.

8. Almond Milk Smoothie
   A light smoothie adds a healthy touch while still being indulgent enough to satisfy after enjoying some cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Apple Pie Cookies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the flax egg: The flax egg is crucial for binding. Make sure to mix ground flaxseed with water and let it sit until it thickens.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science! Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you get the right amounts of flour and sugar.

• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough instead of soft and chewy.

• Using cold ingredients: For best results, ensure your vegan butter is at room temperature. Cold butter can lead to uneven baking.

• Ignoring chilling time: Allowing the cookie dough to chill helps improve texture and flavor. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

• Place baked cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for a minute or two until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Apple Pie Cookies:

How do I make Vegan Apple Pie Cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum for better structure.

Can I use other apples in this recipe?

Yes! You can use any apple variety you prefer, such as Fuji or Granny Smith, depending on your taste preference.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can create your own by mixing cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in equal parts as a substitute for pumpkin pie spice.

Are Vegan Apple Pie Cookies healthy?

These cookies are healthier than traditional ones as they contain no eggs or dairy. However, they should still be enjoyed in moderation!

Final Thoughts

Vegan Apple Pie Cookies bring together the warmth of apple pie with the convenience of a cookie. They’re not only delicious but also versatile; you can customize them with nuts or other spices. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats any time of year!