If you’ve been on the hunt for the perfect sweet treat that’s both delightfully soft and kind to your vegan lifestyle, look no further! This Chewy Vegan Sugar Cookies Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Every bite melts in your mouth with that perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness, making it one of my all-time favorite recipes to share with friends and family. These cookies feel classic but have that special vegan twist that guarantees you don’t miss a thing — whether it’s a snack, a party treat, or a cozy afternoon indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chewy Vegan Sugar Cookies Recipe starts with simple, straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully. Each plays a crucial role in giving these cookies their signature soft texture, rich flavor, and inviting golden color.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): The base that creates the perfect soft and chewy structure.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle lift to keep the cookies tender and puffy.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works alongside baking powder to give just the right rise and browning.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the sweetness and deepens the flavor.
- Vegan butter, softened (3/4 cup): For richness and that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds the perfect level of sweetness and helps with that lovely crisp edge.
- Non-dairy milk (1/4 cup): Almond or soy milk keeps the dough moist and tender without dairy.
- Ground flaxseed (1 tablespoon): A natural vegan egg substitute that binds the dough perfectly.
- Vanilla extract (1 1/2 teaspoons): Gives a warm, inviting flavor that makes you crave the next cookie.
- Extra sugar for rolling: Creates that classic sugary crust and sparkle on each cookie.
How to Make Chewy Vegan Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Flax Egg
Begin by combining the non-dairy milk with ground flaxseed in a small bowl. Let this mixture rest for 5 minutes until it thickens into a gel-like consistency — this flax egg will hold your cookie dough together wonderfully without any eggs.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened vegan butter and granulated sugar until the texture is light and fluffy. This airiness is key to the cookies’ chewiness and tender crumb.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Stir the flax egg mixture and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar. Make sure everything is thoroughly combined to create a smooth, cohesive base.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents for consistent rising and texture throughout your cookies.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix gently until a soft dough forms—avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender and chewy.
Step 6: Shape and Roll Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Then, roll those balls in extra sugar to get that classic sparkle and subtle crunch on the outside.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place your sugar-coated dough balls on parchment-lined baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten them with your hand or the bottom of a glass. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, until edges are just turning golden. Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Chewy Vegan Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, consider sprinkling colored sanding sugar or a light dusting of powdered sugar once the cookies have cooled. These small details turn your everyday cookies into something festive and irresistible.
Side Dishes
Serve these chewy vegan sugar cookies alongside a hot cup of your favorite herbal tea or a smooth, creamy latte using plant-based milk. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit for a balanced snack platter full of contrasting textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Make cookie gift boxes using colorful ribbons and parchment sheets for birthdays or holidays. You can also sandwich two cookies with vegan jam or dairy-free chocolate spread for a luscious twist everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps them retain their perfect chewy texture without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, the cookie dough can be frozen after shaping into balls. Freeze on a baking sheet and then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Reheating
To bring back the delicious warmth and softness, gently warm the cookies in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or briefly in a low oven. This warmth enhances their chewy, comforting deliciousness perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour is ideal for this recipe’s texture, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free blends, but expect some changes in chewiness and flavor. Adjustments in liquid may be needed for best results.
Is it possible to make these cookies nut-free?
Absolutely! Just choose a nut-free non-dairy milk like oat or rice milk in place of almond to keep everything safe and delicious for nut-sensitive eaters.
How do I make sure my cookies stay chewy and don’t get crunchy?
Be careful not to overbake them. Pull the cookies out as soon as the edges start to turn golden; they will continue to firm up as they cool, remaining soft inside.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins?
Definitely! Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or lemon zest for extra flavor, or fold in dairy-free chocolate chips or dried fruit to personalize your batch of chewy vegan sugar cookies.
What’s the best way to roll the dough balls in sugar?
Use a shallow bowl with your sugar. Simply roll each dough ball around until fully coated. This creates a lovely, crackly surface that’s both eye-catching and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like biting into one of these Chewy Vegan Sugar Cookies Recipe treats — they are truly a cozy little hug in cookie form. Whether you’re baking for a vegan friend or just want to enjoy a sweet snack that’s dairy-free and egg-free, this recipe will not disappoint. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I love sharing them. Go ahead, whip up a batch and watch these cookies disappear in no time!
Print
Chewy Vegan Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These chewy vegan sugar cookies offer a delightful plant-based twist on a classic favorite. Made with simple ingredients like vegan butter, ground flaxseed, and non-dairy milk, they maintain a perfect balance of softness and sweetness. Ideal for festive occasions or everyday treats, these cookies are easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup vegan butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy)
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For Rolling
- Extra sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make Flax Egg: In a small bowl, combine the non-dairy milk and ground flaxseed. Allow this mixture to sit for 5 minutes until it thickens, acting as a vegan egg substitute to bind the dough.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened vegan butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy, ensuring a tender cookie texture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir the thickened flax mixture and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring continuously until a soft dough forms without overmixing to maintain chewiness.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Coat each ball in extra sugar for a sparkling finish, then place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Flatten Dough Balls: Gently press each sugared dough ball with your hand or the bottom of a glass to slightly flatten, promoting an even bake and classic sugar cookie shape.
- Bake: Place the trays in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden but the centers remain soft to keep the cookies chewy.
- Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- For a festive appearance, roll the cookies in colored sugar before baking.
- Avoid overbaking to maintain the chewy texture; watch the edges for just slight golden coloring.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh.
