Vegan Oatmeal Cookies

Name: Vegan Oatmeal Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: ¾ cup 145g packed light brown sugar: This adds a rich sweetness along with a slight molasses flavor.; ½ cup 115g vegan butter: It should be softened to room temperature for an easy mix. If you prefer, coconut oil can also work.; 2 tablespoons 25g granulated sugar: You can adjust this based on your sweetness preference—coconut sugar also makes for a great substitute.; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: It brings out the sweetness and enriches the overall flavor.; 2 tablespoons 30g unsweetened dairy-free milk: This will help achieve just the right amount of moisture.; 1 ½ cups 180g rolled oats: Besides being a delightful base, oats provide a rich source of dietary fiber.; ¾ cup 95g all-purpose flour: Noticeably, you can opt for gluten-free flour if that's your preference.; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: It brings warmth to every bite.; ½ teaspoon baking soda: This helps the cookies rise to perfection.; A pinch of fine sea salt: Perfect for balancing sweetness (if you use unsalted butter.); 2 tablespoons 20g chopped walnuts: For that delightful crunch!; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a sprinkle of holiday magic to the mix.

When I think about enjoying vegan oatmeal cookies, my mind quickly wanders to the perfect pairings. A steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee makes for a wonderful companion. The rich, bold flavors of coffee contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies. A glass of almond milk is another excellent option—not only does it enhance the vegan aspect, but its creaminess complements the cookies’ texture exceptionally well.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a dollop of coconut yogurt on the side. The tangy taste lifts the flavor profile of the cookies. Better yet, consider serving them alongside a fruit salad. Fresh fruits bring a colorful, juicy brightness that rounds out the indulgence of a cookie.

Lastly, envision a scoop of vegan ice cream melting slightly on top of a warm cookie, creating a delightful dessert experience that any guest would willingly surrender to.

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As a food enthusiast, I often find myself entangled in the world of flavors, textures, and nostalgia. One treat that always feels like home is the vegan oatmeal cookie. It’s not just the cookie that I enjoy; it’s the stories and memories associated with it.

I recall baking these delights with my grandmother, who would always toss in the extra chocolate chips and nuts—a culinary adventure for young taste buds.

Today, I want to take you on a journey to explore how to make these golden-brown cookies that are not just vegan, but also deliciously satisfying. They are ideal for any occasion, from cozy evenings at home to lively summer gatherings.

What is Vegan Oatmeal Cookies?

Vegan oatmeal cookies are sweet treats that capture the essence of traditional oatmeal cookies while excluding any animal products. The base primarily consists of rolled oats, flour, and naturally, plant-based ingredients. What separates these cookies from their non-vegan counterparts? Well, the absence of eggs and dairy, usually replaced by alternatives that provide similar moisture and binding properties.

These cookies are celebrated not just for their taste but also for their versatility. Whether you prefer them chewy, crispy, or a balance of both, you can adjust your baking time and ratios to achieve your desired texture. Furthermore, they can incorporate a variety of add-ins — from nuts to dried fruits — making each batch uniquely yours.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Oatmeal Cookie

Let me start by saying, if you’re ready for a cookie that’s bursting with flavor and texture, you’re in for a treat. First, the blend of oats and spices creates a warm, comforting aroma as they bake. You can’t deny that sweet smell wafting through your home is pure nostalgia.

Healthier Indulgence: These cookies often contain less fat and sugar than traditional recipes. Swapping refined sugars for more natural options makes them a healthier choice.

Customizable: Want chocolate in your cookies? Toss in some vegan chocolate chips. Prefer a nutty crunch? Walnuts or pecans work wonders. The sky’s the limit for creativity.

Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal kitchen wizardry. Mix a few ingredients and you’re well on your way to enjoying homemade cookies.

Vegan-Friendly: No need for dairy or eggs here! A whole new audience can indulge without hesitation.

Perfect for Meal Prep: These cookies are easily made in batches, which means you can have a delicious snack on hand whenever the craving hits.

Trust me, when you take the first bite, the crispy edges give way to a chewy center infused with warm spices. Add a cup of goodness on the side and you’ve unlocked joy in a simple snack.

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Vegan Oatmeal Cookies

Now, let’s get down to the essentials. Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need:

¾ cup (145g) packed light brown sugar: This adds a rich sweetness along with a slight molasses flavor.
½ cup (115g) vegan butter: It should be softened to room temperature for an easy mix. If you prefer, coconut oil can also work.
2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar: You can adjust this based on your sweetness preference—coconut sugar also makes for a great substitute.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: It brings out the sweetness and enriches the overall flavor.
2 tablespoons (30g) unsweetened dairy-free milk: This will help achieve just the right amount of moisture.
1 ½ cups (180g) rolled oats: Besides being a delightful base, oats provide a rich source of dietary fiber.
¾ cup (95g) all-purpose flour: Noticeably, you can opt for gluten-free flour if that’s your preference.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: It brings warmth to every bite.
½ teaspoon baking soda: This helps the cookies rise to perfection.
A pinch of fine sea salt: Perfect for balancing sweetness, if you use unsalted butter.
2 tablespoons (20g) chopped walnuts: For that delightful crunch!
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a sprinkle of holiday magic to the mix.

Combine these ingredients, and you’ll have the foundation of the perfect vegan oatmeal cookie.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking right from the get-go.

Step 2: Mixing the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the softened vegan butter and the brown sugar. Beat these together until they form a smooth, creamy mixture. Gradually add the granulated sugar, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Introducing the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, nutmeg, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the components.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir just until everything is combined. If the dough feels too dry, add your unsweetened dairy-free milk a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 5: Add Crunchy Extras

Now, fold in the chopped walnuts, or any other desired additions like raisins or chocolate chips. Mix this in gently.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.

Step 7: Bake Away!

Pop the cookies in the preheated oven. Bake them for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Remember to keep an eye on them as the time approaches—every oven is a little different!

Step 8: Cooling

Once baked, remove them from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This lets them firm up a bit.

Notes

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your baking experience is smooth and successful:

Measure Accurately: Make sure to use a kitchen scale for the most precise measurements.
Don’t Over Mix: Mix just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to dense cookies.
Chill the Dough: If you have the time, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and can create thicker cookies.
Cookie Size: Uniform cookie sizes help ensure even baking. Consider using a cookie scoop for consistency.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to switch up the spices or add different nuts and seeds. Get creative!

Storage Tips

Storing your cookies properly keeps them fresh and delicious:

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for up to three months. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Dough Storage: You can freeze the unbaked dough as well! Just scoop them onto a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen.

Nutrition Information

Considering nutrition can sometimes feel daunting, but vegan oatmeal cookies are relatively wholesome. Here’s a rough breakdown per cookie (depending on size and specific ingredients used):

Calories: Approximately 150
Protein: 2 g
Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 8 g

This nutrient profile highlights the balance of natural sugars, fiber from oats, and healthy fats when using the right ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Here are five delightful ways to serve your vegan oatmeal cookies:

Ice Cream Sandwiches: Sandwich two warm cookies with a scoop of your favorite vegan ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Coffee or Tea Pairing: Serve with a cup of your preferred brew. The flavors complement each other wonderfully, elevating the experience.
Cheese Plate: Who says cookies can’t be gourmet? Pair them with some vegan cheeses for an intriguing mix of flavors on a charcuterie board.
Breakfast Treat: Enjoy one (or two) for breakfast alongside a serving of fruit. Why not start your day with a delicious twist?
Dessert Platter at Gatherings: Display a platter of assorted cookies at your next get-together. They’re sure to be a hit!

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Vegan Oatmeal Cookies?

You might need to swap some ingredients. Here are some substitutes that work well:

Coconut Oil: Replace vegan butter with an equal amount of coconut oil for a coconutty touch.
Applesauce: Substitute part of the fat with unsweetened applesauce for moisture and a hint of natural sweetness.
Flax Eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg you wish to replace. It acts as a great binder!
Maple Syrup: Use maple syrup instead of refined sugars for a unique flavor. You may need to reduce the liquid in your recipe slightly.
Nut Butters: Almond or peanut butter can be folded in for added richness and flavor depth.

Pamela Dunlap

Vegan Oatmeal Cookies

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 12

Total Time 32

Servings: 15

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

¾ cup 145g packed light brown sugar: This adds a rich sweetness along with a slight molasses flavor.
½ cup 115g vegan butter: It should be softened to room temperature for an easy mix. If you prefer, coconut oil can also work.
2 tablespoons 25g granulated sugar: You can adjust this based on your sweetness preference—coconut sugar also makes for a great substitute.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: It brings out the sweetness and enriches the overall flavor.
2 tablespoons 30g unsweetened dairy-free milk: This will help achieve just the right amount of moisture.
1 ½ cups 180g rolled oats: Besides being a delightful base, oats provide a rich source of dietary fiber.
¾ cup 95g all-purpose flour: Noticeably, you can opt for gluten-free flour if that’s your preference.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: It brings warmth to every bite.
½ teaspoon baking soda: This helps the cookies rise to perfection.
A pinch of fine sea salt: Perfect for balancing sweetness if you use unsalted butter.
2 tablespoons 20g chopped walnuts: For that delightful crunch!
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a sprinkle of holiday magic to the mix.

Equipment

Oven, Spoon

Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking right from the get-go.

Step 2: Mixing the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the softened vegan butter and the brown sugar. Beat these together until they form a smooth, creamy mixture. Gradually add the granulated sugar, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Introducing the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, nutmeg, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the components.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir just until everything is combined. If the dough feels too dry, add your unsweetened dairy-free milk a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 5: Add Crunchy Extras

Now, fold in the chopped walnuts, or any other desired additions like raisins or chocolate chips. Mix this in gently.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.

Step 7: Bake Away!

Pop the cookies in the preheated oven. Bake them for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Remember to keep an eye on them as the time approaches—every oven is a little different!

Step 8: Cooling

Once baked, remove them from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This lets them firm up a bit.

Nutrition

Calories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2gFat: 6gFiber: 2gSugar: 8g

Notes

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your baking experience is smooth and successful:

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and make sure your oats are labeled gluten-free.

2. How can I make these cookies sugar-free?

To create a sugar-free version, consider using erythritol or monk fruit sugar. Adjust the quantity based on the sweetener you choose. Keep your eye on the texture, as not all sugar substitutes behave the same way during baking.

3. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough is critical to prevent spread. Additionally, don’t forget to ensure your baking soda is fresh, as old leavening agents can affect how cookies hold their shape.

4. How do you know when the cookies are done baking?

Look for golden edges and a soft center. They will continue to cook slightly after coming out of the oven, so don’t overbake to avoid a dry cookie.

5. Can I add chocolate chips to my vegan oatmeal cookies?

Certainly! Vegan chocolate chips not only add flavor but also introduce a delightful texture. Feel free to fold them into the dough just like nuts.

6. How long can I freeze these cookies?

When properly stored in an airtight container, baked cookies can last up to three months in the freezer. Just ensure they are fully cooled before freezing.

Conclusion

As you embark on the journey of baking vegan oatmeal cookies, remember: it’s about enjoying the process just as much as the delicious results. These cookies embody that warmth, nostalgia, and creativity we all cherish. They serve as a reminder that with just a few simple ingredients, you can create something that draws smiles and evokes memories.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the delightful aroma of fresh cookies fill your home. Whether you are sharing them or keeping them all to yourself, vegan oatmeal cookies are bound to bring joy to your taste buds—and maybe even inspire you to bake some more.

Now, who’s ready for a cookie?