As the first hints of autumn breeze through my window, I find myself drawn to the comforting aromas of warming spices and tender apples. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of these chewy Vegan Apple Pie Cookies. They perfectly capture the essence of a classic apple pie in a delightful, eggless, and dairy-free treat! What I love most about this recipe is not just how quickly they come together, making them a perfect option for surprise guests or a cozy afternoon snack, but also how they offer a healthier twist on an all-time favorite. So, are you ready to indulge in the flavors of fall from the comfort of your home? Let’s get baking!
Why are Vegan Apple Pie Cookies irresistible?
Decadent flavors: With warm spices and gooey apple filling, these cookies deliver a comforting taste of autumn in every bite.
Healthier option: Made with wholesome ingredients, they cater to vegan, eggless, and dairy-free diets without sacrificing flavor.
Quick to prepare: Ready in under an hour, these cookies are perfect for last-minute gatherings or casual afternoons at home.
Versatile substitute: Easily adapt this recipe to gluten-free standards, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful treat.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for a party or a quiet night in, they pair perfectly with a warm cup of chai or even a scoop of vegan ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Vegan Apple Pie Cookies Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful treats!
For the Apple Filling
- Honeycrisp Apple – Adds natural sweetness and moisture; fresh, ripe apples yield the best flavor.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the apple flavor and prevents browning; you can use fresh or bottled.
- Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture; swap with coconut sugar for a refined-sugar-free option.
- Vegan Butter – Adds creaminess and richness; coconut oil is a great non-dairy substitute.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – A blend of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg; feel free to adjust to your taste.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the filling; essential for achieving that gooey consistency.
For the Cookie Dough
- Flax Egg – Acts as a binder instead of eggs; mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water to create.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the cookie structure; gluten-free all-purpose flour works perfectly as a substitute.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture to the dough, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Vegan Butter – Used for creaminess; ensures a tender, cookie-like texture.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; always choose pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
These Vegan Apple Pie Cookies will surely be a treat everyone can enjoy!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Apple Pie Cookies
Step 1: Make Apple Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped Honeycrisp apple, lemon juice, brown sugar, vegan butter, and pumpkin pie spice. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until bubbling and the apples are tender. Once the mixture is bubbling, add a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water) and stir until thickened, then set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the vegan butter and brown sugar until fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add in the prepared flax egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt until a thick dough forms. Cover the bowl and chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour for optimal texture.
Step 3: Shape Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in a little sugar for extra sweetness, then flatten them slightly, creating an indent in the center to hold the apple pie filling.
Step 4: Bake Cookies
Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. Fill each indent with the cooled apple pie filling. Bake in the preheated oven for 14-16 minutes until the edges are golden and caramelized, keeping an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes until they are a bit firmer. Transfer the Vegan Apple Pie Cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. The smell of warm spices will fill your kitchen, making these cookies a delightful treat for any occasion!
What to Serve with Vegan Apple Pie Cookies?
Indulge in the heartwarming goodness of autumn flavors and create an unforgettable dessert experience.
- Creamy Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of your favorite dairy-free ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the chewy cookies, making every bite feel luxurious.
- Warm Chai Latte: The spiced notes from a fragrant chai beautifully complement the flavors of apple and cinnamon in your cookies, creating a cozy pairing.
- Fresh Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and airy, this topping enhances the cookies, offering richness without dairy, and a touch of sweetness without overpowering.
- Apple Cider: Serve with warm or chilled apple cider for a nostalgic taste of fall that echoes the cookie’s apple pie essence.
- Toasty Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts on the side provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the chewy texture, balancing flavors wonderfully.
- Soft Caramel Sauce: Drizzle a touch of vegan caramel over the cookies for an indulgent treat that enhances their sweetness and adds lingering depth.
- Homemade Granola: For a breakfast treat, pair these cookies with a bowl of granola topped with fresh fruit and plant-based yogurt for a nutritious start to the day!
- Chocolate Espresso: Enjoy with a cup of rich, dark coffee or a mocha to elevate the entire dessert experience, bringing out the cookie’s spices beautifully.
- Cinnamon Sugar Puff Pastry: Serve alongside warm cinnamon-sugar baked pastry bites for a delightful mix of flaky and chewy textures that will enchant your guests!
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad filled with autumn fruits like pears and berries brightens the plate, offering a vibrant and healthy contrast to these rich cookies.
Storage Tips for Vegan Apple Pie Cookies
Fridge: Store your Vegan Apple Pie Cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 48 hours to maintain freshness and chewiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer; once solid, layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat frozen cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, bringing back that delightful chewy texture.
Layering: Always separate layers of cookies with parchment paper, preventing them from sticking together and ensuring easy access to each delicious Vegan Apple Pie Cookie.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Apple Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the apple filling up to 3 days in advance—just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Additionally, the cookie dough can be made and chilled for up to 24 hours before baking; this not only enhances texture but also makes it easy to pop them in the oven whenever a craving strikes. When you’re ready to bake, simply shape the cookies, fill them with the chilled apple filling, and bake as instructed. With these prep tips, you’ll enjoy the comforting flavors of fall with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Vegan Apple Pie Cookies
• Chill the Dough: Don’t skip this step; chilling helps prevent spreading and ensures a perfect chewy texture for your Vegan Apple Pie Cookies.
• Monitor Baking Time: If making smaller cookies, reduce the baking time to avoid overbaking and maintain that delightful chewy bite.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Honeycrisp apples are key for maximum flavor and moisture in the filling—choose ripe ones for best results.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your apple filling before adding more brown sugar; depending on the apples’ natural sweetness, you might need less than the recipe suggests.
• Storage Secrets: Layer cookies with parchment paper when storing to prevent sticking—these treats keep well in the fridge for up to 48 hours or freeze nicely for up to 1 month.
Vegan Apple Pie Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these Vegan Apple Pie Cookies your own with these simple twists and substitutions!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend to cater to gluten-sensitive eaters without sacrificing texture.
- Sugar-Free: Replace brown sugar with a natural sugar substitute like erythritol for a refined sugar-free version of these delightful cookies.
- Coconut Flavor: Use coconut oil instead of vegan butter for a subtle coconut taste that perfectly complements the apple pie filling.
- Different Apples: Swap Honeycrisp for tart Granny Smith apples for a zingy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweet filling.
- Nutty Addition: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and a heartier cookie experience!
- Spice Variation: Try swapping pumpkin pie spice for a combination of cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon for a unique twist on the traditional flavors.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of maple syrup to the cookie dough for an extra hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with apple.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Finish your cookies with a light drizzle of vegan chocolate for a decadent addition that adds a lovely touch of indulgence.
These variations offer endless possibilities to suit your cravings or dietary needs. If you’re interested in a lighter dessert experience, consider pairing them with a refreshing Green Apple Mocktail. Happy baking!
Vegan Apple Pie Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh, ripe Honeycrisp apples for their natural sweetness and moisture. If you prefer a slightly tarter flavor, swapping them for Granny Smith apples works wonderfully.
How should I store the cookies?
To keep your Vegan Apple Pie Cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 48 hours. For longer storage, layer the cookies with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Very! To freeze the cookie dough, scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer the dough balls to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, you can bake them directly from the freezer; you may need to add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
What if my cookie dough is too wet?
If you find the dough is too sticky or wet, don’t worry! Simply add a tablespoon of flour at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Always ensure you’re using the correct measurements, and remember that chilling the dough will also help firm it up.
Are these cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, these Vegan Apple Pie Cookies can easily be adapted for gluten-free diets by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, like baking powder and vanilla extract, are gluten-free as well. Enjoy guilt-free!
Can my pets eat these cookies?
Unfortunately, I wouldn’t recommend sharing these with pets. While the ingredients are safe for most humans, items like brown sugar and certain spices may not sit well with our furry friends. Always keep human treats out of reach from pets!
Chewy Vegan Apple Pie Cookies for Cozy Fall Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped Honeycrisp apple, lemon juice, brown sugar, vegan butter, and pumpkin pie spice. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until bubbling and the apples are tender. Once bubbling, add a cornstarch slurry and stir until thickened, then set aside to cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the vegan butter and brown sugar until fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the prepared flax egg and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the flour and a pinch of salt until a thick dough forms. Cover and chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized cookie portions and roll into balls. Flatten slightly, creating an indent in the center for the filling.
- Place the shaped cookies on the baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Fill each indent with apple pie filling. Bake for 14-16 minutes until the edges are golden, watching to avoid overbaking.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
