Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies are the perfect blend of a soft and chewy cookie dough with a creamy pumpkin pie filling. These delightful cookies are suitable for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy fall evenings. Their unique combination of flavors and textures makes them a standout treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The warm spices and creamy pumpkin filling create a mouthwatering taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Versatile Treat: Great for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or simply as an everyday snack, these cookies can be enjoyed anytime!
• Vegan Friendly: Made without any animal products, they cater to various dietary preferences.
• Perfectly Chewy: The cookie base is soft and chewy, providing a delightful contrast to the smooth pumpkin filling.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
• Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper helps with easy removal of cookies after baking and keeps cleanup simple.

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

For Serving

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

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Flax Egg

In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. This acts as a binding agent in your cookies.

Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together the vegan butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
1. Add in the prepared flax egg and vanilla bean paste; mix well.
2. Gradually add in the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.

Step 4: Form the Cookies

Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form small balls from the dough. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them onto a lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, oat milk, cornstarch, vanilla bean paste, and additional pumpkin pie spice. Stir until smooth.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Flatten each cookie ball slightly in the center and add about one teaspoon of pumpkin filling on top.
Bake in preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let cool on baking sheets for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Serve with vegan whipped cream on top and sprinkle with additional pumpkin pie spice if desired. Enjoy your delicious Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies!

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

These Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies are delightful on their own, but they can be elevated with a few serving suggestions. Here are some creative ways to enjoy them!

With Vegan Whipped Cream

• Serve your cookies topped with a dollop of vegan whipped cream for added creaminess and sweetness.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of maple syrup enhances the flavor of the cookies and adds a touch of sweetness.

Paired with Hot Beverages

• Enjoy these cookies alongside hot coffee or tea. The warm beverages complement the spices in the cookies perfectly.

Sprinkled with Extra Spice

• For an extra kick, sprinkle some pumpkin pie spice on top just before serving. This will enhance both the aroma and taste.

As a Dessert Sandwich

• Create a fun dessert sandwich by placing two cookies together with vegan frosting or more whipped cream in between.

How to Perfect Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

To ensure your Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your vegan butter is at room temperature for easy mixing and better texture.

• Don’t skip the flax egg: This acts as a binder in vegan baking, so it’s crucial for achieving the right consistency.

• Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cookies.

• Chill the dough if needed: If your dough feels too soft, chill it for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape.

• Watch baking time closely: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when done.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Chai Latte
   A spiced chai latte complements the flavors of pumpkin and warms you up during fall.

2. Coconut Milk Hot Chocolate
   Rich and creamy, coconut milk hot chocolate pairs beautifully with the spices in the cookies.

3. Fruit Salad
   A fresh fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.

4. Spiced Apple Cider
   Warm spiced apple cider is a classic fall beverage that enhances the cozy vibe of pumpkin treats.

5. Caramel Dip
   Serve with a small dish of caramel dip for those who enjoy an extra layer of sweetness.

6. Roasted Nuts Mix
   A mix of roasted nuts provides a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft cookies.

7. Oatmeal Cream Pies
   For an extra cookie treat, pair these pumpkin pie cookies with homemade vegan oatmeal cream pies.

8. Cold Brew Coffee
   Iced or cold brew coffee is refreshing and provides a nice balance to sweet desserts like these cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using the wrong pumpkin puree: Always use pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that will alter the flavor and texture of your cookies.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Ignoring chilling time: If you have time, refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and prevents spreading during baking.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients. Precise measurements ensure consistent results.
• Skipping the rolling sugar step: Coating the cookie dough in sugar before baking adds a delightful sweetness and texture. Don’t skip this step for the perfect finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies:

What makes these cookies vegan?

These cookies use plant-based ingredients like vegan butter, flax eggs, and oat milk instead of traditional animal-derived products.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies gluten-free.

How can I customize my Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture. Adjust spices according to your preference as well.

How do I store leftover Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies?

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. The combination of soft cookie dough with creamy pumpkin filling makes them a delightful treat. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins or spices. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the warm flavors of fall!