These Vegan Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful treat that merges the flavors of traditional apple pie into a chewy, cookie form. Perfect for any occasion—from cozy fall gatherings to festive celebrations—these cookies offer a unique twist on a classic dessert. With a spiced cookie dough base and a homemade apple filling, this recipe is not only delicious but also vegan-friendly, making it suitable for everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: These cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet apples and warm spices creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Versatile Dessert: Enjoy these cookies as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast treat; they fit any occasion!
- Vegan-Friendly: Made without eggs or dairy, these cookies cater to various dietary preferences while still being indulgent.
- Homemade Goodness: The apple filling is made from scratch, giving each bite that fresh-baked taste that store-bought options can’t match.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cookie scoop or spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the cookies, ensuring they cook uniformly.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier by lining your baking sheet.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without making a mess.
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
Start by creating the apple filling to give your cookies that authentic apple pie taste.
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water and cornstarch over medium heat until thickened.
2. Add chopped apples, brown sugar, vegan butter, lemon juice, and pumpkin pie spice.
3. Stir occasionally until apples soften. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
While the filling cools, prepare your cookie dough.
1. In a large bowl, cream together vegan butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
2. Mix in the flax egg and vanilla bean paste until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.
Step 3: Combine Dough and Filling
Now it’s time to bring everything together!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Scoop out cookie dough onto a lined baking sheet.
3. Place a spoonful of cooled apple filling in the center of each cookie dough mound.
4. Cover with additional dough if desired or leave open-faced.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Bake your cookies to perfection!
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
2. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Enjoy these Vegan Apple Pie Cookies warm or at room temperature!
How to Serve Vegan Apple Pie Cookies
Vegan apple pie cookies are delicious on their own, but serving them with some creative additions can elevate your dessert experience. Here are a few ways to enhance your enjoyment of these delightful treats.
Pair with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla vegan ice cream complements the warm spices in the cookies.
- Cinnamon Coconut Ice Cream: This adds an extra layer of flavor while keeping everything dairy-free.
Drizzle with Glaze
- Maple Glaze: A simple maple syrup glaze can add a touch of sweetness and shine to your cookies.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melted dark chocolate can enhance the richness and make for a beautiful presentation.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Pears: Fresh slices of pear provide a juicy contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies.
- Berries: A mix of fresh berries can add brightness and balance to the dish.
Serve with Coffee or Tea
- Chai Tea: The spiced flavors of chai tea beautifully complement the apple pie cookies.
- Coffee: A rich cup of coffee serves as a perfect pairing for these sweet treats.
How to Perfect Vegan Apple Pie Cookies
To achieve the best vegan apple pie cookies, follow these helpful tips that ensure perfect results every time.
- Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith give the filling a delightful flavor.
- Check Dough Consistency: The cookie dough should be soft but manageable; adjust flour if too sticky or dry.
- Let Fillings Cool: Ensure your apple filling is cool before adding it to the dough; this helps maintain cookie structure.
- Chill Cookie Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading while baking.
- Preheat Your Oven Properly: Make sure your oven is fully preheated for even baking and optimal texture.
- Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Apple Pie Cookies
These vegan apple pie cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavors and textures. Consider serving them alongside one or more of these delicious options.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this dairy-free topping adds creaminess without overpowering the cookies.
- Spiced Nuts: A mix of roasted spiced nuts provides a crunchy contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can lighten up your dessert table while balancing out the sweetness.
- Vegan Cheese Platter: An assortment of vegan cheeses can create an interesting savory-sweet combination when paired with cookies.
- Hot Chocolate Bar: Set up a hot chocolate station where guests can customize their drinks with toppings, creating a cozy atmosphere.
- Apple Cider: Warm apple cider enhances the apple flavor in your cookies, making it a perfect seasonal pairing.
- Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of vegan caramel sauce adds richness and indulgence alongside your dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can help you create the best Vegan Apple Pie Cookies. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold vegan butter can lead to a dough that doesn’t hold together well. Always ensure your vegan butter is at room temperature for better mixing.
- Skipping the Flax Egg: The flax egg binds the cookie dough. Omitting it can result in crumbling cookies. Make sure to prepare the flax egg ahead of time and let it thicken before adding it.
- Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of chewy ones. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
- Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping this step affects the texture and flavor of your cookies. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking for optimal results.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: An improperly calibrated oven can cause uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Vegan Apple Pie Cookies in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Vegan Apple Pie Cookies
- Place baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Vegan Apple Pie Cookies
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
- Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 1-2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these Vegan Apple Pie Cookies special?
These cookies combine the classic flavors of apple pie in a portable format, making them perfect for any occasion while being completely plant-based.
Can I make these Vegan Apple Pie Cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.
How do I store leftover Vegan Apple Pie Cookies?
You can store leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for up to three months.
Can I customize the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or even other fruits to suit your taste preferences while keeping it vegan.
Final Thoughts
These Vegan Apple Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile enough to adapt to various dietary needs and preferences. With their chewy texture and spiced apple filling, they make a delightful treat any time of year. Experiment with different add-ins or toppings, and enjoy sharing these sweet delights with friends and family!
Vegan Apple Pie Cookies
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Vegan Apple Pie Cookies, where the essence of classic apple pie meets the convenience of a cookie. These scrumptious treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a cozy fall gathering or celebrating a festive event. Each cookie features a chewy, spiced dough lovingly filled with homemade apple filling crafted from fresh, tart apples and warm spices. Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast! With their vegan-friendly recipe, everyone can savor this delicious twist on a beloved dessert.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 large Honeycrisp apple
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 cup vegan butter
- 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons sugar (½ cup for dough, 2 tablespoons for rolling before baking)
- 1/4 cup 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 + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the apple filling by cooking chopped apples with water, cornstarch, brown sugar, vegan butter, lemon juice, and pumpkin pie spice until softened.
- Make the cookie dough by creaming together vegan butter and sugars; mix in the flax egg and vanilla before gradually adding flour and spices.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop dough onto a baking sheet, fill with apple mixture, and optionally cover with more dough.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown on edges; cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (25g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Use fresh apples for the best flavor. Chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading. You can customize the filling by adding nuts or dried fruits.
