Vegan Sugar Cookies with Autumn Spice
As the crisp air of autumn settles in and the vibrant leaves dance to the ground, it’s the perfect time to embrace the season’s warmth with the delightful aroma of freshly baked goods. These Vegan Sugar Cookies with Autumn Spice promise to fill your home with cozy scents and bring joy to your gatherings—whether they be with family, friends, or a comforting moment alone with a cup of tea. I’m so grateful to share this recipe with you, and I hope it brings a little extra happiness to your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are a celebration of the senses! They combine the classic sweetness of sugar cookies with a hint of autumn spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg, making them irresistibly warm and comforting. You’ll appreciate how easy they are to whip up, whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro. Plus, they’re family-friendly—everyone will want to join in on the fun of baking, decorating, and of course, enjoying these delicious treats together!
Ingredients
– 1 cup vegan butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Optional: decorative sugar or icing for topping
Necessary Tools
– Large mixing bowl
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Electric mixer (or a whisk for some arm workout!)
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Cookies spatula or cooling rack
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to get creative! You can easily swap out the applesauce with mashed bananas for a different flavor profile. If you want a nutty twist, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans. For a hint of chocolate, incorporate dairy-free chocolate chips. And don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices—ginger or allspice could be delightful!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy—such a satisfying step that gives your cookies their texture!
3. Mix in the unsweetened applesauce and vanilla extract until everything is well combined—a heavenly scent will begin to fill your kitchen!
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until blended.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a smooth dough forms. It’s a good idea to get in there with your hands if the dough feels a bit too crumbly!
6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and space them out on the prepared baking sheet—these little spheres of joy will puff up beautifully!
7. Slightly flatten each cookie ball using the back of a spoon—this gives them a nice shape and helps them bake evenly.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your home!
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack for complete cooling.
10. If you’re feeling fancy, decorate with some sparkly sugar or icing once they’ve cooled down.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect on their own, but they can also shine when paired with a cup of warm apple cider, pumpkin spice latte, or your favorite herbal tea. They also make fabulous additions to dessert platters during parties or gatherings!
Pro Tips for Success
– Make sure your vegan butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
– Don’t overbake; they should be soft in the center and lightly golden on the edges for the best texture.
– If your dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before rolling.
Storing and Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw and enjoy—no need to bake all over again!
FAQ Section
– Can I use coconut oil instead of vegan butter?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s softened or melted, similar to using vegan butter.
– What’s the best way to decorate these cookies?
You can drizzle with icing, sprinkle with decorative sugar, or even dip them in melted dairy-free chocolate for an extra treat!
Conclusion
These Vegan Sugar Cookies with Autumn Spice encapsulate the essence of fall—warm, sweet, and utterly comforting. They’re simple to make and sure to delight anyone who takes a bite. I encourage you to whip up a batch, share your creations, and spread the joy of baking! Feel free to leave your reviews, share photos, or tag the recipe on Pinterest or Instagram. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per cookie:
– Calories: 120
– Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 18g
– Protein: 1g
– Fiber: 0g
– Sugar: 7g
Enjoy every bite of these delightful cookies!
