Vegan Apple Pie Cookies Recipe

If you’ve ever longed for a delightful treat that perfectly captures the warm, cozy flavors of autumn without any animal products, this Vegan Apple Pie Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with spiced apple filling nestled inside tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie dough, these cookies bring together the familiar comforts of apple pie in a fun, handheld form. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, these cookies will quickly become your go-to indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Vegan Apple Pie Cookies Recipe comes together with simple yet essential ingredients that each play a special role. From the luscious vegan butter adding richness to the pumpkin pie spice that creates that signature warm aroma, every component works in harmony to make the flavors shine.

• Water (1/4 cup): Used to make the cornstarch slurry that thickens the apple filling to a glossy perfection.
• Cornstarch (1/2 Tablespoon): Helps give the apple filling a beautiful, thick consistency so it won’t ooze out.
• Honeycrisp apple (1 large, peeled and chopped): Juicy and crisp, it’s the heart of the filling delivering sweet-tart freshness.
• Brown sugar (3 Tablespoons + 1/4 cup): Adds deep caramel notes to both the filling and the cookie dough.
• Vegan butter (2 Tablespoons + 1/2 cup): Brings creamy richness and helps create a tender cookie crumb.
• Lemon juice (1 Tablespoon): Brightens the apple filling and balances the sweetness.
• Pumpkin pie spice (1/2 teaspoon + 1 teaspoon): Infuses warm, cozy flavors with cinnamon and other spices in both filling and dough.
• Sugar (1/2 cup + 2 Tablespoons): Sweetens the cookie dough and creates a crispy, crackly exterior when rolled.
• Flax egg (1): A simple vegan binder made from ground flaxseed and water that holds the dough together perfectly.
• Vanilla bean paste (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant vanilla aroma, elevating the overall flavor.
• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups + 1 Tablespoon): The foundation of the cookie dough, providing structure and softness.
• Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise just enough for a light, tender bite.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors.

How to Make Vegan Apple Pie Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Pie Filling

Start by mixing cold water with cornstarch until it forms a smooth, cloudy slurry. This mixture is crucial for thickening the apple filling so it holds up perfectly inside your cookies. Peel and finely chop your Honeycrisp apple into small cubes, then combine it in a saucepan with brown sugar, vegan butter, lemon juice, and pumpkin pie spice. As this mixture heats up, the butter will melt and the sugar will dissolve, creating a luscious base. Once bubbling, stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking for 5 to 10 minutes until the filling thickens and becomes glossy — just like the classic apple pie you adore. Set it aside to cool while you tackle the cookie dough.

Step 2: Make the Spiced Cookie Dough

In a mixing bowl, cream together room temperature vegan butter and sugars using an electric mixer until light and fluffy — this is where your cookies pick up that tender crumb and slight crunch on the outside. Add the flax egg and vanilla bean paste next, mixing just enough to combine these flavorful binders. Then, layer your dry ingredients: first all-purpose flour, followed by baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mixing everything produces a thick, fragrant dough that you’ll want to chill before shaping. Cover and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to 1 hour to make it easier to handle and to help the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect cookie bottoms. Use a cookie scoop to portion out 10 evenly sized dough balls. Roll each ball between your palms for smoothness, then coat them in a bowl with the reserved 2 tablespoons of sugar — this step creates a beautifully crackled, sparkling crust. Place the dough balls on the baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart since they spread as they bake. Press down gently on each to flatten slightly, then use your thumb to create an indent large enough to hold the apple filling. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cooled filling into each. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes until edges are crisp and centers remain slightly gooey. Let these beauties cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Vegan Apple Pie Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a light dusting of powdered sugar can add an extra touch of sweetness and beauty to your cookies. For festive occasions, consider a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce over the top to amp up the indulgence factor.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot chai tea or a frothy almond milk latte, enhancing the spiced flavors. For a perfect afternoon treat, serve alongside your favorite vegan vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Vegan Apple Pie Cookies Recipe on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of cinnamon sticks and star anise for a charming fall display. For gifting, tie a stack with twine and tuck in a fresh apple or a cinnamon stick for a heartfelt homemade present.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To maintain their delightful texture, place a slice of bread in the container — it helps keep the cookies soft without making them soggy.

Freezing

You can freeze baked cookies or unbaked dough balls. For baked cookies, place parchment paper between layers and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To freeze dough, shape and sugar-coat the dough balls, then freeze on a tray before transferring to a bag. Bake from frozen by adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

Warm your cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes to revive that freshly baked softness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them tough or dry out too quickly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for the filling?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, other firm apples like Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala will also work wonderfully. Just make sure to peel and chop them finely for the best texture.

What if I don’t have vegan butter on hand?

You can substitute vegan butter with coconut oil or margarine, but keep in mind coconut oil may add a slight coconut flavor. Make sure to use the solid form, not melted, for the best dough consistency.

How do flax eggs work in this recipe?

Flax eggs are a fantastic egg replacer made by mixing ground flaxseed with water. They mimic the binding properties of eggs, holding the cookie dough together while adding a bit of healthy fiber.

Can I add nuts or raisins for extra texture?

Yes! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins would be lovely additions for an extra chew or crunch. Fold them into the cookie dough gently before chilling to maintain the perfect texture.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

This particular recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free as written. However, you can experiment with a gluten-free baking blend, keeping an eye on the dough texture and adjusting as needed.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly heartwarming about baking treats that bring a slice of classic dessert nostalgia into a fresh, plant-based form, and this Vegan Apple Pie Cookies Recipe does just that with flair. The balance of spiced apples and tender cookie dough makes each bite a little celebration. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how these cookies quickly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen too!

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