Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

These Vegan Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining soft, chewy cookie dough with a delicious homemade apple pie filling. Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration—these cookies are sure to impress with their rich flavors and comforting spices. The best part? They’re completely vegan, making them suitable for everyone to enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh apples and warm spices creates a mouthwatering treat that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile: Perfect for dessert tables, holiday parties, or just an afternoon snack, they fit every occasion.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with plant-based ingredients, these cookies are a guilt-free indulgence.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping you make these cookies, from mixing the dough to rolling them in sugar.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for an efficient baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients thoroughly without any spills.
• Baking sheets: Provide an even surface for baking your cookies to perfection.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Whisk: Helps to blend the dry ingredients smoothly into the wet mixture.

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 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

How to Make Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine water and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Add in the chopped honeycrisp apple, brown sugar, vegan butter, lemon juice, and pumpkin pie spice.
3. Cook until apples soften slightly; set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

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

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Take about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it in your palm.
3. Place a spoonful of cooled apple filling in the center and fold the dough around it to seal.
4. Roll into a ball and roll in additional sugar before placing on parchment-lined baking sheets.

Step 4: Bake

• Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. Let cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.

Enjoy your delightful Vegan Apple Pie Cookies as they bring warmth and sweetness to any gathering!

How to Serve Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

Vegan apple pie cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these cookies can be paired with different accompaniments to enhance their flavor.

With Dairy-Free Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies with a scoop of your favorite dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of maple syrup adds sweetness and complements the spiced flavor of the cookies.

Paired with Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh slices of apple or pear for a refreshing contrast and added texture.

Accompanied by Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee. The spices in the cookies pair well with many brews.

Topped with Vegan Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of vegan whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and a festive look.

How to Perfect Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

Creating the perfect vegan apple pie cookies involves a few key techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, crisp apples will enhance the flavor and texture of your filling. Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their sweetness and crunch.
• Chill the Dough: Letting the cookie dough chill before baking helps prevent spreading, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.
• Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice according to your preference. More spice can add warmth and depth to each bite.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when removed from the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

These vegan apple pie cookies can be complemented by several delightful side dishes. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dessert experience:

1. Chilled Coconut Yogurt: This creamy option adds a cool contrast, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.
2. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of vegan caramel sauce creates an irresistible sweet touch that pairs beautifully with apple flavors.
3. Nuts and Seeds Mix: A crunchy mix of walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds brings texture and healthy fats to balance out the sweetness.
4. Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor that echoes traditional apple pie.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring berries or citrus can brighten up the plate and provide freshness alongside the rich cookies.
6. Vegan Cheese Plate: Offer a selection of vegan cheeses for guests who might enjoy contrasting flavors while enjoying their dessert.
7. Herbal Tea Blend: A warm cup of herbal tea can cleanse the palate after indulging in sweet treats, making it a soothing pairing option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Baking without measuring: Always measure your ingredients accurately. This ensures that your Vegan Apple Pie Cookies turn out just right.
• Skipping the flax egg: Don’t forget the flax egg! It’s crucial for binding and provides moisture in this eggless recipe.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix gently and just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, rather than the soft texture we want.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allow cookies to cool properly. This helps them firm up and enhances their flavor.
• Not adjusting baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. Ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overdo it as they can become chewy.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Vegan Apple Pie Cookies?
These are delightful cookies made with a spiced cookie dough base and filled with a delicious homemade apple pie mixture, perfect for dessert lovers.

Can I use different apples for the filling?
Yes! You can use any variety of apples you prefer, but Honeycrisp offers a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

How do I make my cookies more flavorful?
Consider adding extra spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavors of your Vegan Apple Pie Cookies.

Are these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Vegan Apple Pie Cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.

Can I customize the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries or add nuts for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the warmth of apple pie with the convenience of cookies. They are perfect for gatherings or as a cozy snack at home. You can easily customize them by adding nuts, extra spices, or even a drizzle of vegan caramel. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the chewy goodness!