Why You’ll Love Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
These cookies are incredibly easy to make and require simple pantry ingredients. The applesauce replaces eggs beautifully, keeping the cookies moist and tender. You’ll love how customizable they are—whether you prefer extra chocolate, crispy edges, or soft centers. Plus, they’re naturally dairy-free and can be made gluten-free, making them a great option for a variety of dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1/2 cup softened vegan butter
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
1/4 cup apple sauce
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups gluten free all purpose flour (or regular flour)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 to 1 1/4 cups semi sweet chocolate chips
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened vegan butter with the brown sugar and white sugar for 30–60 seconds until combined. If the butter is too firm, soften it slightly in the microwave.
- Add the applesauce and vanilla extract, then mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Add the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix on low speed until just combined, making sure not to overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips. The dough will be thick.
- Scoop the dough into balls using a medium cookie scoop and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- For thicker cookies, roll each ball and add a small piece of dough on top to create a crinkled effect.
- Bake for 12–16 minutes, depending on your preferred texture. For soft and chewy cookies, aim for about 13–14 minutes.
- Remove from the oven when the edges are golden but the centers still look slightly soft.
- Optionally, use a round cookie cutter to gently shape the cookies while they’re still warm.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Sprinkle with flaky salt if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12 cookies.
Total time is approximately 20 minutes, including preparation and baking.
Variations
You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste. Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or white vegan chocolate. For a richer flavor, use coconut sugar instead of white sugar. You can also mix in shredded coconut or a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds to restore their soft, gooey texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour?
Yes, regular all-purpose flour works perfectly in this recipe.
What can I use instead of applesauce?
You can substitute mashed banana or a flax egg as an alternative.
Why are my cookies too flat?
This could be due to overly soft butter or not enough flour. Try chilling the dough before baking.
How do I make the cookies crispier?
Bake them a few minutes longer until the edges are deeper golden brown.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours before baking.
Are these cookies fully vegan?
Yes, as long as you use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely, scoop the dough into balls and freeze. Bake مباشرة from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes.
Why is my dough too thick?
That’s normal for this recipe, but you can add a splash of plant-based milk if needed.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but it may slightly affect the texture and sweetness.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for golden edges and slightly soft centers—they will firm up as they cool.
Conclusion
These vegan chocolate chip cookies are a delicious and simple treat that proves you don’t need dairy or eggs to make amazing cookies. With their soft centers, crisp edges, and rich chocolate flavor, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe for any occasion.
