Vegan Peanut Butter Pretzel Cookies: Easy Recipe

Craving something sweet, salty, and utterly irresistible?

Get ready to fall head over heels for these Vegan Peanut Butter Pretzel Cookies! They’re the perfect combination of chewy, crunchy, and peanut buttery goodness, and they’re surprisingly easy to make. These cookies are not only delicious, but they’re also completely plant-based, so everyone can enjoy them. Ready to bake up a batch of pure happiness?

Why You’ll Love Vegan Peanut Butter Pretzel Cookies

• They’re the ultimate sweet and salty treat.
• The perfect chewy texture with a satisfying crunch from the pretzels.
• Super easy to make with minimal ingredients and steps.
• A crowd-pleaser for parties, gatherings, or just a cozy night in.
• Completely vegan, so everyone can enjoy these tasty treats!

What Makes This Vegan Peanut Butter Pretzel Cookies Unique?

What sets these cookies apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy, nutty peanut butter is complemented by the salty crunch of the pretzels, creating a symphony of deliciousness in every bite. We also use a specific ratio of peanut butter to ensure the perfect chewiness, avoiding dry and crumbly cookies. Plus, we’re keeping it 100% vegan without sacrificing any of the flavor or texture!

Ingredient List for Vegan Peanut Butter Pretzel Cookies

• 1 cup (240ml) unsweetened applesauce
• 1 cup (240ml) creamy natural peanut butter (ensure it’s runny, not dry)
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (120ml) packed light brown sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ½ cups (150g) roughly broken vegan pretzels

Step-by-Step Instructions for Vegan Peanut Butter Pretzel Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the applesauce, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and stir to combine.
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. Don’t overmix!
6. Gently fold in the broken pretzels.
7. Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Enjoy!

Optional Toppings/Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun ways to spice up your cookies!

• Chocolate drizzle: Melt vegan chocolate chips and drizzle over cooled cookies.
• Sea salt sprinkle: Add a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie before baking.
• Peanut butter chips: Mix in ½ cup of vegan peanut butter chips for extra peanut butter flavor.

Expert Tips

• Make sure your peanut butter is runny for the right consistency. If it’s too thick, it could make the cookies dry.
• Don’t overmix the dough – this can make the cookies tough. Mix until just combined.
• Press extra pretzel pieces on top of the cookies before baking for a more visually appealing look.
• Use a cookie scoop for consistently sized cookies that bake evenly.
• Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack for the best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I substitute the applesauce?
  Yes, you can substitute with mashed banana, but it will affect the final flavor slightly.
• Can I use a different type of nut butter?
  Yes, almond butter or cashew butter can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be different.
• How do I store these cookies?
  Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Can I make the dough ahead of time?
  Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. Bring it back to room temperature before scooping onto the baking sheet.
• Can I make these gluten-free?
  Yes, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free all purpose blend, though this might affect the final texture slightly. Be sure your pretzels are also gluten free.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to make these cookies your own? Here are some ideas:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy peanut butter pretzel experience.
• Oatmeal Cookies: Replace half of the flour with rolled oats for a chewier texture.
• Double the Chocolate: Add vegan chocolate chips to the dough and drizzle melted chocolate on top.

Serving Suggestions

These Vegan Peanut Butter Pretzel Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Serve them with a glass of your favorite plant-based milk, alongside a scoop of vegan ice cream, or as a delicious treat to share with friends and family. They’re also amazing packed into lunch boxes for a fun, afternoon pick-me-up!

Conclusion

These Vegan Peanut Butter Pretzel Cookies are a delightful treat that’s easy to make and even easier to love. They’re the perfect balance of sweet and salty, crunchy and chewy, and they’re completely plant-based! So, go ahead, grab your ingredients, and let’s bake up some happiness! Share your cookie creations with us using #VeganPBPretzelCookies, and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious plant-based recipes!