Easy Vegan Almond Joy Cookies: Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Recipe

Craving a sweet treat that’s both decadent and completely vegan? Look no further! These Vegan Almond Joy Cookies are a total game-changer – chewy, coconutty, chocolatey bliss in every bite. And the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make!

Why You’ll Love It

• They deliver that iconic Almond Joy flavor you crave, but in a delicious cookie form.
• The chewy texture, thanks to the coconut, is absolutely irresistible.
• They’re completely vegan, so everyone can enjoy them!
• They’re quick and easy to make, perfect for satisfying sudden sweet cravings.
• They’re impressive enough to share, but simple enough to make on a weeknight.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets these cookies apart is the way we incorporate the coconut for both flavor and texture. We’re not just sprinkling it on top; we mix it right into the dough, which creates an amazing chewiness and ensures that every bite is bursting with that tropical coconut flavor. The use of almond extract enhances the almond element, and using a vegan chocolate ensures the recipe is fully plant-based, without losing any of the rich flavor.

Ingredient List

• 1 cup (2 sticks) vegan butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
• ½ cup vegan chocolate chips
• ½ cup sliced almonds

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the vanilla extract and almond extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in the shredded coconut and vegan chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
8. Gently press a few sliced almonds onto the top of each cookie.
9. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers will still be slightly soft.
10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to take these cookies to the next level? Here are a few options:

• Drizzle of melted chocolate: After the cookies have cooled, drizzle with melted vegan chocolate for extra decadence.
• Toasted Coconut: Lightly toast your shredded coconut in a dry pan before adding it to the dough for a deeper flavor.
• Extra Almonds: Add a few more sliced or slivered almonds after baking for an extra crunchy topping.

Expert Tips

• Make sure your vegan butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with the sugars. This is critical for the texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough after adding the dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Be careful not to overbake the cookies; they should still be slightly soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
• For perfectly uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop to measure out the dough.
• If your cookies spread too much, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I substitute the vegan butter with coconut oil? While coconut oil can work, it will change the texture and make the cookies a bit more delicate. Vegan butter is recommended for the best results.
• Can I use a different type of nut? Yes, you can substitute the almonds with other nuts like pecans or macadamia nuts, but this will change the flavor profile.
• How do I store these cookies? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or in the freezer for longer storage.
• Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature slightly before baking.
• Can I use sweetened shredded coconut? Using sweetened coconut will make your cookies much sweeter, it’s recommended to use unsweetened to control the overall sweetness level.

Variations and Customization Options

Get creative with these cookies! Here are some ideas:

• Mini Chocolate Chips: Use mini vegan chocolate chips for more chocolate in every bite.
• Dark Chocolate: Swap out the standard vegan chocolate for dark chocolate for a deeper, more intense flavor.
• Add a Pinch of Sea Salt: Sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top of each cookie after baking to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor.
• Coconut Flakes: Use larger coconut flakes for a more pronounced coconut texture.
• Add Oats: Incorporate 1/4 cup of rolled oats for a chewier cookie.

Serving Suggestions

These Vegan Almond Joy Cookies are perfect on their own with a glass of plant-based milk or a hot cup of coffee. They’re also a great addition to a dessert platter for gatherings or a special treat after dinner. They pair well with other vegan desserts too!

Conclusion

These Vegan Almond Joy Cookies are a dream come true for any coconut and chocolate lover. They are easy to make, bursting with flavor, and completely vegan. So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try, share your photos, and let me know what you think! Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter for more delightful vegan recipes.