Indulging in a sweet treat doesn’t have to mean compromising on a plant-based lifestyle. I love these Perfect Soft and Chewy Vegan Sugar Cookies because they combine a tender, buttery texture with just the right hint of vanilla and sweetness. Whether I’m baking for family, friends, or simply treating myself, these cookies never fail to satisfy that sugar craving without any animal products.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I’ve found that many vegan cookies can turn out dry or crumbly, but these sugar cookies stay soft and chewy every time. The combination of vegan butter and almond milk keeps the texture just right, while the vanilla adds a warm flavor that makes the cookies feel comforting and classic. They’re also simple to make with common pantry ingredients, so I can whip up a batch any time I want.
Ingredients:
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup vegan butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream the softened vegan butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using a mixer.
Add vanilla extract and almond milk to the butter mixture, beating until fully incorporated.
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion the dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
Flatten each dough ball gently with the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar to add a sugary crunch.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set and just starting to turn golden.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 24 cookies. Preparation takes around 15 minutes, and baking time is about 12 minutes per batch. The whole process is quick enough for an easy weekday treat or a last-minute dessert.
Variations
I sometimes like to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of vegan chocolate chips for a twist. If I want a softer cookie, I reduce the baking time by a minute or two. Alternatively, rolling the dough balls in colored sugar before baking is a fun way to customize them for holidays or parties.
Storage/Reheating
I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, and they stay soft and chewy. For longer storage, I freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, I thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven or microwave to regain that fresh-baked softness.
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FAQs:
How do I make sure my vegan sugar cookies stay soft?
I find that not overmixing the dough and baking for just the right amount of time helps keep the cookies tender. Using vegan butter and a small amount of almond milk adds moisture too.
Can I use a different plant-based milk?
Yes! I’ve used oat milk and soy milk as substitutes with great results. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to avoid altering the flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have vegan butter?
Coconut oil is a good alternative, but it might slightly change the flavor and texture. I recommend using refined coconut oil to keep the taste neutral.
Can I add frosting or decorations to these cookies?
Absolutely! These sugar cookies hold up well to vegan icing or sprinkles, making them perfect for celebrations.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free as is. However, you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, but results may vary.
Conclusion:
These Perfect Soft and Chewy Vegan Sugar Cookies are a reliable go-to whenever I want a simple, delicious, plant-based sweet treat. Their classic flavor and satisfying texture make them a favorite among vegans and non-vegans alike. I hope you enjoy baking and sharing them as much as I do!
📖 Recipe:
Print
Perfect Soft and Chewy Vegan Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet vegan sugar cookies with a tender buttery texture and a hint of vanilla, ideal for plant-based lifestyles.
Ingredients
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup vegan butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl; set aside.
- Cream the vegan butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy using a mixer.
- Add vanilla extract and almond milk to the butter mixture, beating until fully incorporated.
- Gradually mix in the dry flour mixture until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Portion dough into balls using a cookie scoop or spoon, placing them on the baking sheet spaced apart.
- Flatten each dough ball gently with the bottom of a sugar-dipped glass to add a sugary crunch.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set and just starting to turn golden.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Do not overmix dough to keep cookies tender.
Use vegan butter and almond milk for moist texture.
Optional: Add cinnamon or vegan chocolate chips for variation.
Roll dough balls in colored sugar for festive cookies.
Store in airtight container at room temperature up to 5 days or freeze up to 3 months.
Thaw at room temperature or warm slightly to regain softness.
Substitute almond milk with oat or soy milk (unsweetened) if desired.
Use refined coconut oil as vegan butter alternative, noting possible flavor change.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
