Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

These Vegan Apple Pie Cookies are the perfect blend of chewy cookie goodness and spiced apple filling. Combining the classic flavors of apple pie with a delightful cookie format, these treats are ideal for any occasion—from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. With their eggless and dairy-free ingredients, they cater to various dietary preferences while ensuring everyone can enjoy a taste of fall.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet honeycrisp apples and warm pumpkin pie spice creates a delightful taste experience.
• Simple Preparation: This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice bakers and experienced cooks looking for a quick dessert option.
• Versatile Treat: Serve these cookies at parties, as an afternoon snack, or as a comforting dessert after dinner.
• Plant-Based Goodness: Made without eggs or dairy, these cookies are suitable for vegan diets without sacrificing taste or texture.
• Homemade Delight: The combination of homemade apple pie filling with a soft cookie base provides a unique twist on traditional desserts.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking your Vegan Apple Pie Cookies, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your cookies evenly without burning.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier—no one likes scrubbing pans!

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 (8 grams) 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 small saucepan, whisk together the water and cornstarch until smooth.
• Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, vegan butter, lemon juice, and pumpkin pie spice.
• Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and apples soften. Stir occasionally. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

• In a mixing bowl, cream together the vegan butter and both sugars until light and fluffy.
• Add in the flax egg and vanilla bean paste; mix until well combined.
• In another bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt.
• Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Scoop out dough using an ice cream scoop. Flatten each scoop slightly in your palm.
• Place about one tablespoon of cooled apple filling in the center of each flattened dough ball. Fold edges over filling to seal.
• Roll in additional sugar if desired and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake

• Bake in preheated oven for about 15–18 minutes or until edges are golden.
• Let cool on sheets for several minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Enjoy your delightful Vegan Apple Pie Cookies!

How to Serve Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

Vegan Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, here’s how to serve them for maximum enjoyment.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair your cookies with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert experience.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A gentle drizzle of vegan caramel sauce adds an extra touch of sweetness and richness.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside slices of fresh fruit like pears or berries for a refreshing contrast to the warm cookies.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Create an inviting dessert platter with various treats, including these cookies, for guests to sample.

With a Cup of Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy your cookies alongside a warm cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.

How to Perfect Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

To ensure your Vegan Apple Pie Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips.

• Use Fresh Apples: Choose ripe honeycrisp apples for the best flavor and texture in your filling.
• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill before baking helps maintain its shape and enhances flavor.
• Measure Ingredients Carefully: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale if possible to ensure precision.
• Avoid Overmixing: Gently mix your ingredients until just combined to keep your cookies tender.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the pumpkin pie spice according to your taste preferences; add more for extra warmth.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

While Vegan Apple Pie Cookies are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Coconut Whipped Cream: This light and fluffy topping adds creaminess without dairy, perfect for enhancing the flavors of apple pie cookies.
2. Vegan Chocolate Mousse: A rich chocolate mousse offers a decadent contrast to the spiced apple flavors in the cookies.
3. Chia Seed Pudding: Light and nutritious, chia pudding can provide a refreshing balance to the sweetness of cookies.
4. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and brightness, making it an ideal companion.
5. Nut Butter Dip: Pair with almond or cashew butter for a protein-rich option that complements the cookie’s flavors.
6. Oatmeal Parfait: Layer oatmeal with fruit and vegan yogurt for a wholesome side dish that feels indulgent yet healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Vegan Apple Pie Cookies, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Skipping the Flax Egg: Don’t forget to prepare the flax egg before starting. It acts as a binding agent in the cookie dough, giving it the right texture.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Stir just until combined for a soft and chewy result.
• Not Chilling the Dough: If you skip chilling, your cookies may spread too much while baking. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for better shape and texture.
• Ignoring Measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use a kitchen scale for precise ingredient amounts, especially flour and sugar.
• Choosing the Wrong Apples: Using apples that aren’t sweet or flavorful can affect the filling. Opt for Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a deliciously balanced taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep Vegan Apple Pie Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating Vegan Apple Pie Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm cookies on a skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes these Vegan Apple Pie Cookies different from regular apple pie?

These Vegan Apple Pie Cookies use plant-based ingredients and no eggs or dairy, making them suitable for vegan diets while still delivering delicious flavors.

Can I use different types of apples in this recipe?

Yes, feel free to experiment with various apple types! Just ensure they are sweet and flavorful; options like Fuji or Gala work well too.

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

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free to maintain overall compatibility.

Can I customize the spices in my Vegan Apple Pie Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add more cinnamon or even nutmeg if you want extra warmth and flavor in your cookies. Adjust according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Apple Pie Cookies are not just delightful; they’re versatile as well! Enjoy them as a sweet treat any time of year or customize with different spices and fillings. Try this recipe today, and indulge in a warm, comforting dessert that everyone will love!