Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion, combining a soft and chewy cookie base with a creamy pumpkin pie filling. These cookies capture the essence of fall, making them great for Thanksgiving gatherings, cozy nights at home, or even as a delightful snack any time of the year. With their unique flavor and satisfying texture, they are sure to impress family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice creates a warm, comforting taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies can be whipped up quickly, making them perfect for baking novices.
• Vegan-Friendly: These cookies fit perfectly into a vegan lifestyle without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for parties, holidays, or just an everyday snack; these cookies will be a hit on any occasion.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking these Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make your experience enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Having various sizes helps in preparing different components without mixing flavors too early.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking for all your cookies.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup after baking.

Ingredients

These cookies combine a soft & chewy vegan cookie dough base with a creamy pumpkin pie filling for the best pumpkin pie cookies!

For the Cookie Dough

• 1/2 cup vegan butter (room temperature)
• 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 + 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Pumpkin Filling

• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons oat milk (or any plant-based milk subbed 1:1)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Toppings

• Vegan whipped cream
• Pumpkin pie spice (to sprinkle on top of cookies)

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Flax Egg

To replace eggs in this recipe, start by creating your flax egg. In a small bowl:
1. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water.
2. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the vegan butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy.
2. Add in the prepared flax egg and vanilla bean paste; mix until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture:
1. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

In a separate bowl:
1. Combine the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, oat milk, cornstarch, vanilla bean paste, and additional pumpkin pie spice.
2. Mix until smooth.

Step 6: Assemble Cookies on Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On your prepared baking sheet:
1. Scoop out portions of cookie dough using a cookie scoop.
2. Flatten each scoop slightly before adding a spoonful of pumpkin filling in the center.
3. Top with more cookie dough to cover the filling completely.

Step 7: Bake Your Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges:
– Let cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.

Enjoy your Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies topped with vegan whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice!

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

These Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile in how you can enjoy them. Whether for a festive gathering or a cozy night in, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Vegan Whipped Cream

• Serve these cookies warm, topped with a dollop of vegan whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter alongside fruit slices and nuts for a colorful dessert spread at your next gathering.

With Hot Beverages

• Pair your cookies with hot beverages like coffee, tea, or vegan hot chocolate to enhance the cozy experience.

Crumbled Over Ice Cream

• Crumble the cookies over a scoop of vegan ice cream for a delightful texture contrast and added flavor.

Gift Them

• Package these cookies in a decorative box or tin as homemade gifts during the holiday season.

How to Perfect Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

To ensure your Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure the vegan butter is at room temperature for easy mixing and optimal texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Gently mix until just combined to keep your cookies tender and chewy.
• Chill the dough: Letting the dough chill for about 30 minutes can help prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
• Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately; too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Bake just until edges are lightly golden; they will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

These Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some delicious options:

1. Vegan Apple Crisp
   A warm apple crisp made with oats and cinnamon enhances the fall flavors beautifully.
2. Coconut Chia Pudding
   This creamy pudding adds a refreshing touch, balancing out the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Spiced Hot Cider
   A warm mug of spiced apple cider provides a cozy drink option that complements pumpkin flavors perfectly.
4. Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs well with the subtle spices in the cookies.
5. Cranberry Sauce
   A tart cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast.
6. Nutty Granola
   Serve crunchy granola on the side for added texture and nutty flavor that enhances each bite of cookie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong pumpkin: Always use pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling. The filling contains added sugars and spices that can alter the taste and texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking requires precision, so make sure to measure your ingredients carefully. Use a kitchen scale for best results.
• Skipping the flax egg: The flax egg acts as a binder in these cookies. Don’t skip it; instead, prepare it before starting the recipe for best results.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft and chewy texture.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Preheat your oven properly and ensure it’s at 350°F (175°C) for even baking. An incorrect temperature can affect your cookies’ rise and consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

• These cookies freeze well for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat until slightly warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies.

What are Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies?

Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies are soft and chewy cookies filled with creamy pumpkin pie flavor, perfect for fall or any dessert occasion.

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. Just ensure it’s suitable for baking.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I customize the spices used in Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spice levels or add different spices like nutmeg or ginger according to your taste preference.

How long do these cookies last?

If stored correctly in an airtight container, they can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies offer a delightful twist on traditional pumpkin pie, combining soft cookie dough with a rich pumpkin filling. They are versatile and can be customized with various spices or toppings like vegan whipped cream. Try making them for your next gathering; they’re sure to impress!