Vegan Oatmeal Cookies: You Won't BELIEVE What Happens When I Ditched The Eggs… (🤯)

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The Ultimate Guide to Delicious & Easy Vegan Oatmeal Cookies

Craving a chewy, comforting treat that's also kind to animals and the planet? Look no further! This comprehensive guide unveils the secrets to creating the best vegan oatmeal cookies you've ever tasted. We'll dive into a world of wholesome ingredients, easy-to-follow instructions, and tempting variations that will transform your baking experience. Whether you're a seasoned vegan baker or just starting your plant-based journey, these vegan oatmeal cookie recipes are guaranteed to become a new favorite. Get ready to whip up a batch of delicious vegan cookies that everyone will love!

Why Vegan Oatmeal Cookies?

Beyond the ethical and environmental benefits of vegan baking, vegan oatmeal cookies offer a fantastic opportunity to experiment with exciting flavors and textures. They often boast a chewier, more tender crumb due to the absence of eggs, and the use of natural sweeteners and plant-based fats can add depth and complexity to the taste. Plus, they're easily customizable to suit your preferences, from adding chocolate chips to incorporating dried fruits and nuts. This vegan cookie recipe is perfect for any occasion, be it a casual weeknight treat, a festive holiday gathering, or a simple craving for something sweet and satisfying.

Ingredients You'll Need:

Gather these pantry staples to get started on your vegan oatmeal cookie adventure. This recipe is designed to be straightforward and accessible, ensuring baking success!

• Rolled Oats (Old-Fashioned Oats): 1 ½ cups - The star ingredient! Rolled oats provide the signature texture and wholesome goodness. Avoid quick-cooking oats, as they can result in a mushy cookie.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup - Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients. You can substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon - Acts as a leavening agent, giving the cookies their lift and airy texture.
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon - Adds warmth and spice, complementing the flavor of oats.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon - Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Vegan Butter (or Coconut Oil): ½ cup (1 stick), softened - Provides richness and contributes to a tender crumb. Ensure your vegan butter is the kind suitable for baking. Alternatively, for a healthier option, use refined coconut oil.
• Granulated Sugar: ½ cup - Sweetens the cookies and helps with browning.
• Brown Sugar (packed): ½ cup - Adds moisture, depth of flavor, and chewiness.
• Applesauce (unsweetened): ¼ cup - Replaces eggs and helps bind the ingredients, and contributes to the moist texture of the vegan cookies.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon - Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Chocolate Chips (Vegan): 1 cup - Choose your favorite vegan chocolate chips for that classic cookie experience.
• Optional Add-ins: ½ cup - Raisins, chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans), dried cranberries, or any other additions that you prefer.

Equipment:

• Mixing Bowls (2-3)
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper (optional)
• Electric Mixer or Whisk
• Spoon or Cookie Scoop

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Vegan Oatmeal Cookies:

Follow these simple steps, and you'll be enjoying warm, delicious vegan oatmeal cookies in no time!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes Baking Time: 10-12 minutes Yields: Approximately 24 cookies

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (optional, but it makes for easy cleanup).
2. Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening and flavoring agents.
3. Cream the Fats and Sugars: In a separate, larger bowl (or the bowl of your electric mixer), cream together the softened vegan butter (or melted coconut oil), granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender cookie. If using an electric mixer, use the paddle attachment.
4. Add the Wet Ingredients: Stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract until well combined. The applesauce will create a soft dough.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
6. Fold in the Oats and Add-ins: Gently fold in the rolled oats, chocolate chips (and any other optional add-ins) until evenly distributed.
7. Scoop and Place: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. The baking time may vary depending on your oven; keep a close eye on the cookies to prevent burning.
9. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to set properly.
10. Enjoy! Once cooled, savor the deliciousness of your homemade vegan oatmeal cookies!

Helpful Tips, Variations, and Serving Suggestions:

• For Chewier Cookies: Use more brown sugar relative to granulated sugar. Also, avoid overbaking.
• For Crispier Cookies: Flatten the cookie dough slightly before baking and consider reducing the amount of applesauce by a tablespoon.
• Flavor Variations:
  • Spiced Oatmeal Cookies: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg, cloves, and allspice along with the cinnamon.
  • Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies: Add ¼ cup of vegan peanut butter to the wet ingredients.
  • Coconut Oatmeal Cookies: Add ½ cup of shredded coconut along with the oats.
  • Maple Pecan Oatmeal Cookies: Substitute maple syrup for half of the brown sugar and add chopped pecans.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these vegan oatmeal cookies with a glass of your favorite plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, etc.), a cup of coffee, or a scoop of vegan ice cream. They are also a delightful addition to a dessert platter or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these vegan oatmeal cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion:

Congratulations! You've just learned how to bake amazing vegan oatmeal cookies that are sure to impress. We've covered everything from ingredients and instructions to tips and variations. Now it's your turn to head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and bake a batch of these delightful treats. Experiment with different add-ins, customize the recipe to your preferences, and most importantly, enjoy the process! Share your baking experience and photos of your creations with us – we’d love to see your vegan cookies come to life. Happy baking!