Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies are the perfect treat for those who crave the flavors of fall in a delightful cookie form. Combining soft and chewy cookie dough with a creamy pumpkin pie filling, these cookies are ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a holiday, or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these cookies stand out with their unique flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and spices creates a rich taste that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies make an excellent addition to any dessert table or holiday spread.
• Kid-Friendly Option: A fun treat that kids will love, making them perfect for family gatherings or school events.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast on-the-go!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference when baking. Gather your kitchen essentials to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking multiple cookies at once.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

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

Cookie Dough Ingredients

• 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 (8 grams) 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

Pumpkin Filling Ingredients

• 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 the Flax Egg

In a small bowl, combine ground flaxseed with water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together vegan butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the prepared flax egg and vanilla bean paste; mix well.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

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

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
1. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
2. Create an indentation in each cookie using your thumb or the back of a spoon.
3. Fill each indentation with the pumpkin filling.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Let cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Top with vegan whipped cream and sprinkle with additional pumpkin pie spice before serving. Enjoy your Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies fresh out of the oven or store them in an airtight container!

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

These delightful Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies are perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall season. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With Vegan Whipped Cream

• A dollop of vegan whipped cream on top adds a rich and creamy texture that complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.

Warm with Spices

• Serve the cookies warm, lightly dusted with extra pumpkin pie spice for an aromatic touch that elevates their flavor.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• A drizzle of maple syrup over the cookies brings a sweet, natural sweetness that pairs well with the pumpkin filling.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include these cookies on a dessert platter alongside other vegan treats, such as brownies or fruit tarts, for a varied dessert experience.

With Hot Beverages

• Pair your cookies with hot beverages like chai tea or almond milk latte for a cozy treat on chilly days.

How to Perfect Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

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

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smooth dough and ensures even mixing for a consistent cookie texture.
• Don’t skip the flax egg: The flax egg acts as a binder and adds moisture; it’s crucial for achieving the right texture in vegan baking.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level off. Avoid packing it down to prevent dense cookies.
• Chill the dough: If time allows, chill your dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances flavor.
• Monitor baking time closely: Every oven is different; check your cookies a few minutes before the suggested baking time to prevent overbaking.
• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

When serving Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes to create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Roasted Nuts
   A mix of roasted almonds and walnuts provides a crunchy contrast to the soft cookies, enhancing flavor and texture.

2. Fruit Salad
   A fresh fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cookies.

3. Vegan Ice Cream
   Serve with scoops of dairy-free ice cream like coconut or vanilla bean for an indulgent treat that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin flavors.

4. Coconut Chia Pudding
   This creamy pudding adds an exotic flair while being light enough not to overpower the cookies.

5. Spiced Tea Blend
   A warm spiced tea can accentuate the flavors of pumpkin spice in your cookies while providing comforting warmth.

6. Apple Compote
   A sweet apple compote serves as a lovely topping that adds moisture and complements the spices in your cookies perfectly.

7. Granola Parfait
   Layering granola with plant-based yogurt creates an interesting textural contrast when enjoyed alongside your pumpkin pie cookies.

8. Dark Chocolate Dipping Sauce
   A rich dark chocolate sauce offers an indulgent dipping option that enhances the overall dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies can be a fun experience, but there are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using the wrong type of pumpkin: Always choose pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to ensure your cookies have the right texture and flavor.
• Skipping the flax egg: The flax egg is crucial for binding. If you skip it, your cookies may crumble instead of holding together.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to get the correct amounts, especially for flour and sugars.
• Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies; aim for a soft center when you take them out.
• Ignoring cooling time: Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet helps them firm up. If you move them too soon, they might break apart.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

• For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• Frozen cookies can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking tray and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Cover and warm for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies, here are some common questions answered.

Can I use gluten-free flour for Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends. Ensure it has xanthan gum if needed.

How do I make my Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies chewier?

For chewier cookies, slightly reduce the baking time and consider adding an extra tablespoon of maple syrup.

What can I use instead of vegan butter?

You can use coconut oil or any plant-based margarine as a substitute for vegan butter in this recipe.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in walnuts or dairy-free chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them by adding spices or mix-ins according to your taste preferences. Enjoy these delightful treats during any occasion!