Best Easy Vegan Maple Pecan Cookies Recipe

Craving a cookie that’s both decadent and totally vegan?

Look no further! These Vegan Maple Pecan Cookies are incredibly delicious, surprisingly easy to make, and guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Get ready to bake up a batch of chewy, nutty goodness!

Why You’ll Love It

• They’re incredibly flavorful, boasting the rich taste of maple and toasted pecans.
• The texture is spot-on, with a perfectly soft and chewy center and slightly crisp edges.
• This recipe is surprisingly quick and simple – even beginner bakers can nail it!
• These cookies are naturally vegan, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
• They’re perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to a simple afternoon treat.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets these vegan maple pecan cookies apart is the combination of pure maple syrup, which provides a depth of flavor and natural sweetness, along with the generous amount of toasted pecans which create a wonderful crunch and nutty taste. Unlike many vegan cookies that rely on overly processed ingredients or rely on artificial sweeteners for flavour, this recipe uses wholesome ingredients to achieve a fantastic taste that everyone will love.

Ingredient List

• 1/2 cup (113g) vegan butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (100g) pecans, roughly chopped and toasted – Toasting the pecans enhances their nutty flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the maple syrup and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
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. Do not overmix.
6. Fold in the toasted chopped pecans.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Feel free to get creative with these cookies! Here are a few ideas:

• Drizzle melted vegan chocolate over the cooled cookies.
• Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty combination.
• Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.

Expert Tips

• Make sure your vegan butter is softened for easy creaming.
• To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
• Avoid overmixing the dough, which can lead to tough cookies.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – give the cookies space to spread.
• Let the cookies cool completely before storing them to ensure they don’t become soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I substitute another type of nut for the pecans? Yes, walnuts or hazelnuts would also work well in this recipe.
• Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup? Agave nectar or brown rice syrup can be used as a substitute, but may alter the flavor slightly.
• How should I store these cookies? Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
• Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, the dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• My cookies spread too much, what did I do wrong? Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, and chill the dough for 30 minutes to help prevent spreading.

Variations and Customization Options

Here are some delicious twists to make the recipe your own:

• Chocolate Chip Maple Pecan Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of vegan chocolate chips to the dough for extra decadence.
• Cranberry Maple Pecan Cookies: Incorporate 1/2 cup of dried cranberries for a festive and fruity flavor.
• Spiced Maple Pecan Cookies: Include 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger for a warm spice profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free treat.
• Mini Cookies: Use a small cookie scoop to make mini cookies, just reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes.

Serving Suggestions

These Vegan Maple Pecan Cookies are perfect on their own with a glass of plant-based milk, a cup of coffee, or a scoop of vegan ice cream. They also make a lovely addition to a dessert platter or a thoughtful gift for friends and family.

Conclusion

These Vegan Maple Pecan Cookies are not just delicious; they’re a testament to how amazing vegan baking can be. They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing, and utterly satisfying. So, go ahead, bake a batch and experience the delightful combination of maple and pecans. Don’t forget to share your creations and subscribe for more tasty recipes!