The joy of baking creates a special connection to food, and homemade treats can brighten anyone’s day. One of the most beloved recipes you can whip up is vegan sugar cookies. Not only are they soft and chewy, but they also cater to a variety of dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or texture. These cookies provide a delightful sweetness that can fit in with any occasion, making them a must-try for both vegan and non-vegan bakers alike.
Why We Love This Vegan Sugar Cookies
Vegan sugar cookies are a delightful treat that does not compromise on taste or texture. You get a soft and chewy bite with every cookie, which is why they are so popular among cookie lovers. The combination of simple and wholesome ingredients gives these cookies a classic sweetness that is impossible to resist. Plus, they are incredibly versatile. You can decorate them for holidays or make them plain for a more casual treat. Since they are vegan, you can feel good about serving them to a wider audience, catering to friends and family with various dietary preferences. They are also easy to make, which means you can whip up a batch whenever the cookie craving strikes, making them a convenient and delicious option.
Ingredients for Vegan Sugar Cookies
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: decorative sprinkles or powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and applesauce. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the sugars are incorporated.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until fully combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Use a small scoop or spoon to portion out the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each dough ball, as they will spread while baking.
- Optionally, you can sprinkle the tops of each cookie with decorative sprinkles or a light dusting of powdered sugar for some flair.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops no longer appear wet. The cookies should remain soft in the center.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Vegan Sugar Cookies
You can serve vegan sugar cookies in numerous delightful ways. For a simple treat, enjoy them warm right out of the oven with a glass of plant-based milk. This classic pairing brings out the comforting flavors and textures of the cookies. If you want to add a festive twist, consider decorating them with vegan frosting or melting some dairy-free chocolate and drizzling it on top. For a special occasion, present them beautifully arranged on a platter, perhaps garnished with fresh fruit or edible flowers to create an appealing display. You can also package a few cookies in cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift. These cookies are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth any day of the week.
Expert Tips for Vegan Sugar Cookies
To make the best vegan sugar cookies, pay attention to the ingredient measurements and mixing methods. Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for a superior taste. If your dough seems too sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before baking, as this helps the cookies hold their shape better. Ensure your oven is properly preheated before placing the cookies inside; this will help them bake evenly. Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake; they can go from perfectly golden to overdone in a matter of seconds. It’s always better to underbake slightly, as they will continue to firm up as they cool. Lastly, have fun with customization! Add in vegan chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for an additional flavor boost that suits your tastes.
How to Store Vegan Sugar Cookies
To ensure the freshness of your vegan sugar cookies, allow them to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer longer storage, you can also freeze them. Just make sure to layer the cookies with parchment paper in between each one to prevent sticking. Store the container in the freezer, and you can enjoy the cookies for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in the oven for a freshly baked taste. For a quick snack, microwave a cookie for a few seconds to bring back that chewy goodness.
Variations of Vegan Sugar Cookies
The beauty of vegan sugar cookies lies in their versatility. You can easily change up the flavors and appearances to keep things exciting. For a citrusy twist, add lemon or orange zest to the dough, giving the cookies a refreshing brightness. You can also fold in a teaspoon of almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty flavor profile. If you enjoy spices, try incorporating cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy note. For a seasonal spin, include pumpkin or finely grated zucchini during the autumn months. Chocolate lovers can mix in dairy-free chocolate chips or create a marbled effect by swirling in some cocoa powder into half of the dough. Also, consider rolling your cookies in colored sugar before baking for a festive touch that’s perfect for celebrations or holidays. Experimentation is key, and each variation can create a different delightful experience.
FAQ about Vegan Sugar Cookies
If you have questions about vegan sugar cookies, you’re not alone. Many people wonder what makes them soft and chewy. The trick lies in balancing the ingredients. Using both granulated and brown sugars gives moisture along with sweetness. Also, the addition of applesauce plays a big role in creating a tender crumb. Another common question is whether these cookies can be made gluten-free. Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and adjust the baking time as necessary. Some people ask how to keep the cookies from flattening too much during baking. Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes can help maintain their shape. Lastly, you might wonder how long these cookies last. When stored in an airtight container, they can stay fresh for about a week at room temperature or up to three months when frozen. Enjoy baking and sharing these wonderful vegan sugar cookies!
Vegan Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil Use melted coconut oil for a hint of coconut flavor.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce This replaces the need for eggs.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- to taste decorative sprinkles or powdered sugar for dusting Use for decoration before baking if desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and applesauce. Whisk until smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture, stirring until fully combined; do not overmix.
Baking
- Use a small scoop or spoon to portion dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Optionally, sprinkle the tops with decorative sprinkles or powdered sugar.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes until edges are set and tops appear dry but cookies are soft in the center.
- Allow to cool briefly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!