The first cool breeze of autumn always brings a wave of nostalgia, doesn’t it? It’s the perfect time to cozy up with something sweet that combines the warmth of spices and the comforting aroma of baked apples. That’s exactly what inspired these Vegan Apple Pie Cookies—a delightful twist on the classic dessert!
Imagine biting into a chewy cookie with a spiced base cradling a warm, gooey apple pie filling. As the flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg mingle with the natural sweetness of Honeycrisp apples, you experience a taste that’s both familiar and uniquely comforting. These little pockets of joy not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also align with a vegan lifestyle, making them ideal for gatherings with friends or quiet evenings at home.
In just a few simple steps, you’ll create a batch of these delectable cookies that capture the essence of fall. Whether you’re looking to impress at a potluck or simply treat yourself after a long day, these vegan delights are sure to bring a smile to your face! So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe.
Why Should You Try Vegan Apple Pie Cookies?
Vegan Apple Pie Cookies are the perfect blend of comfort and creativity.
- Deliciously Unique: These cookies combine the classic flavors of apple pie with the convenience of a handheld treat.
- Warm Spices: Filled with pumpkin pie spices, every bite warms the soul and brings the essence of fall to your kitchen.
- Vegan Delight: Enjoy a dessert that satisfies your sweet cravings while adhering to a vegan lifestyle.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip these up without any fuss—perfect for busy schedules or spontaneous gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleasing: These cookies are bound to impress friends and family at any occasion, making them a standout treat!
- Try Pairing: Serve them warm with a scoop of vegan ice cream for an added touch of indulgence. Don’t miss out on this scrumptious recipe that will wow your taste buds!
Vegan Apple Pie Cookie Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- Honeycrisp Apple – Provides natural sweetness and flavor; any firm, sweet apple like Fuji or Gala can be used as a substitution.
- Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and deep caramel flavor; coconut sugar works for a refined sugar-free alternative.
- Vegan Butter – Acts as the fat component for a rich, buttery flavor; other plant-based margarines can ensure you stay vegan.
- Lemon Juice – Enhances the flavor and prevents apples from browning; lime juice can be a zesty substitution!
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Offers warming spice notes reminiscent of apple pie; mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger as an alternative.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the apple pie filling; no substitution necessary, although tapioca starch may change the texture.
For the Cookie Dough
- Flax Egg – Acts as a binder in place of eggs; you can substitute one regular egg if you’re not maintaining vegan status.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the main structure for cookies; gluten-free flour is suitable, but avoid coconut or almond flour for this recipe.
- Baking Powder – Provides lift for a lighter texture; no suitable substitution exists.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; can be omitted for low-sodium diets but is recommended for taste.
- White Sugar – Contributes sweetness and helps achieve a chewy texture; coconut sugar can also be used for a different flavor profile.
These Vegan Apple Pie Cookies are not just a delicious indulgence; they’re a sweet way to celebrate the fall season!
How to Make Vegan Apple Pie Cookies
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Prepare the Apple Pie Filling: In a saucepan, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with a bit of water. Peel and chop the Honeycrisp apple into small pieces, then combine with brown sugar, vegan butter, lemon juice, and pumpkin pie spice. Cook over medium heat until bubbling, then add the cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened, about 5-10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
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Make Cookie Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream together vegan butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the flax egg and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually incorporate all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until a thick, cohesive dough forms. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour for better handling.
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Bake the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into balls, coat each ball lightly in sugar, and place them on a parchment-lined baking tray. Press a gentle indent in the center of each ball, fill with about 1 tablespoon of the cooled apple filling, and space them a couple of inches apart. Bake for 14-16 minutes until golden, and allow them to cool on the baking tray before transferring to a wire rack.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Vegan Apple Pie Cookies Variations
Get ready to explore delightful twists on these cookies that will take your taste experience to new heights!
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Gluten-Free: Use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
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Sweet Spice: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of allspice or cardamom to the dough for an aromatic surprise in every bite.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for added texture and a satisfying crunch.
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Fruit Twists: Swap out Honeycrisp apples for pears or a mix of both for a unique flavor profile that’s equally scrumptious.
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Chocolate Delight: Mix in vegan chocolate chips into the dough for a rich, chocolatey twist on this classic cookie treat.
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Dried Fruit: Include a handful of chopped dried cherries or apricots in the dough for a burst of sweetness and chewy texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling for a surprising heat that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness.
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Powdered Sugar Topping: After baking, dust the warm cookies with powdered sugar for an elegant touch that elevates their appearance.
What to Serve with Vegan Apple Pie Cookies?
Create a charming spread that perfectly enhances these cozy, spiced delights.
- Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop atop the warm cookies adds creaminess, perfectly balancing the textures of chewy and soft.
- Spiced Chai Latte: This warm, aromatic drink harmonizes beautifully with the spices in the cookies, creating a comforting experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits contrasts with the rich flavors of the cookies, cleansing the palate.
- Maple Drizzle: Drizzling pure maple syrup over the cookies amplifies sweetness and creates an indulgent twist—absolutely irresistible!
- Nutty Granola: Serve with a side of crunchy granola for extra texture and a healthful balance to the sweet goodness.
- Herbal Tea: Pair with soothing herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, which complements the spices while enhancing relaxation.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy coconut cream brings richness and a hint of tropical flavor, elevating each bite.
- Homemade Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider echoes the cookie’s flavors and ties in the autumn theme perfectly.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace fall with this delightful coffee drink alongside your cookies, creating a delightful flavor harmony.
Expert Tips for Vegan Apple Pie Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in perfectly shaped Vegan Apple Pie Cookies.
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Indents Matter: Make shallow indents in the cookie balls. Deep indents can lead to overly thin and flat cookies; shallow ones yield a thicker texture.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh, firm apples for the best flavor and texture in your apple filling. This ensures your cookies are deliciously juicy!
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Overbaking can dry them out; underbaking will keep them chewy and soft—just how we love our Vegan Apple Pie Cookies!
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Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add a twist by including dried fruits like raisins or cranberries in the dough for a burst of flavor and texture.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Apple Pie Cookies
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Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their chewy texture while allowing the flavors to develop further.
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Fridge: If you prefer a firmer cookie, store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Ensure they are in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 1 month. Layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container to avoid sticking. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
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Reheating: To enjoy your Vegan Apple Pie Cookies warm, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will bring back the delightful gooey filling, making them irresistible once again!
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Apple Pie Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the apple pie filling up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. The cookie dough can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, roll the chilled dough into balls, press your indents, fill with the prepared apple filling, and bake as usual. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, homemade cookies that are just as delicious, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen!
Vegan Apple Pie Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of apples are best for Vegan Apple Pie Cookies?
Absolutely! For these cookies, Honeycrisp apples are fantastic for their natural sweetness and texture. If you can’t find them, feel free to use other firm, sweet apples like Fuji or Gala. Just avoid softer varieties, which may turn mushy in the filling.
How should I store my Vegan Apple Pie Cookies?
The more the merrier! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture. If you prefer a firmer cookie, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days—just ensure they’re sealed tightly!
Can I freeze Vegan Apple Pie Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, layer your cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature, and you can even warm them in the microwave for a gooey filling!
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very! If your cookie dough is too sticky to handle, try chilling it in the fridge for an additional 15-30 minutes. This will help firm it up for easier rolling. Alternatively, you can lightly dust your hands with flour while shaping the cookies to minimize stickiness.
Are these cookies safe for those with nut allergies?
Definitely! This Vegan Apple Pie Cookies recipe doesn’t include any nuts, making it generally safe for nut-free diets. However, always check your ingredients, especially for store-bought items like vegan butter, just to ensure there are no hidden allergens.
Can I add different spices or flavors to the filling?
Very much! Feel free to customize the spices in your filling! While pumpkin pie spice beautifully complements the apple flavor, you can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra depth of flavor. Additionally, adding a few raisins or cranberries can offer a fun twist!
Vegan Apple Pie Cookies That Will Wow Your Sweet Tooth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, mix cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Peel and chop the Honeycrisp apple into small pieces, then combine with brown sugar, vegan butter, lemon juice, and pumpkin pie spice. Cook over medium heat until bubbling, then add the cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened, about 5-10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together vegan butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the flax egg and mix well. Gradually incorporate all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until a thick, cohesive dough forms. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll chilled dough into balls, coat each in sugar, and place on a parchment-lined tray. Press a gentle indent in the center of each ball, fill with about 1 tablespoon of the apple filling, and bake for 14-16 minutes until golden. Cool on the tray before transferring to a wire rack.
