If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s both delicious and guilt-free, vegan almond cookies might just become your new favorite snack. These cookies are not only packed with the nutty goodness of almonds but also free from any animal products, making them perfect for vegans and those with dairy or egg allergies.
Almonds bring a delightful crunch and a rich, buttery flavor to these cookies, while also offering a boost of protein and healthy fats. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and fun to make. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce plant-based baking to your friends and family.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make these delightful vegan almond cookies. Make sure to measure everything accurately for best results.
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional, for extra crunch)
Substitutions
- Replace coconut oil with an equal amount of vegan butter for a richer flavor.
- Substitute almond milk with any other plant-based milk such as soy milk or oat milk.
- Swap coconut sugar with brown sugar or granulated sugar if preferred.
- Almond Flour: Almond flour gives these cookies a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and contributes to the soft texture. Ensure it’s finely ground for best results.
- Coconut Oil: Used in a melted state, coconut oil keeps the cookies moist and adds a subtle coconut undertone. If solid, warm briefly to liquefy.
- Coconut Sugar: This unrefined sugar adds a caramel-like sweetness. If you don’t have coconut sugar, use brown sugar or granulated sugar.
- Slivered Almonds: Adding slivered almonds is optional, but they offer an extra crunch that elevates the texture of these cookies. Toast them lightly for an intensified flavor.
Specific Tools and Equipment
To achieve the perfect vegan almond cookies, having the right tools and equipment is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls:
- Use a large mixing bowl for combining dry ingredients.
- A medium mixing bowl for wet ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons:
- Accurate measurements of almond flour, coconut oil, and other ingredients are essential.
- Use standard size measuring spoons and cups.
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer:
- A hand mixer or stand mixer helps blend ingredients thoroughly.
- Ensure it has a whisk attachment for best results.
- Baking Sheet:
- A non-stick baking sheet or one lined with parchment paper is vital to prevent cookies from sticking.
- Ensure it’s large enough to space cookies evenly.
- Silicone Spatula:
- Useful for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring every bit of batter is used.
- Also helps in folding ingredients gently.
- Cooling Rack:
- Necessary for cooling cookies evenly without moisture buildup.
- Cookie Scoop:
- For uniform cookie sizes.
- A medium-sized scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons) yields perfect portions.
- Rolling Pin (optional):
- If you prefer a more uniform thickness for your cookies.
- Ensure it’s lightly floured to avoid sticking.
These specific tools and equipment not only make the baking process smoother but also ensure your vegan almond cookies turn out perfectly each time.
Instructions
I’m excited to guide you through creating scrumptious vegan almond cookies. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time.
Prep
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat fully.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Gather Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are measured and ready to use.
Make the Vegan Almond Cookies
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of almond flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of sea salt.
- Blend Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Use a silicone spatula for efficient mixing.
Assembling the Cookies
- Portion the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to portion out the dough into uniform sizes. This ensures even baking.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll each portion into a ball and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Gently press down to flatten each ball into a cookie shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Optional Step: If desired, press a whole almond into the center of each cookie for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success
To make sure your vegan almond cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips and tricks.
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is key. Stale ingredients can affect texture and flavor. Ensure your almond flour is fresh and stored in an airtight container.
Measure Accurately
Precision in measurements is crucial. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy, especially with ingredients like almond flour and coconut oil. This ensures consistent results.
Properly Mix Wet And Dry Ingredients
When mixing wet and dry ingredients, be sure to combine them just until mixed. Over-mixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. A gentle mix helps maintain a tender texture.
Perfect Dough Consistency
The dough should be slightly sticky but firm enough to handle. If it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time. If too sticky, sprinkle a bit more almond flour.
Uniform Cookie Sizes
For even baking, make sure all cookies are the same size. Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop for uniform portions. This ensures every cookie cooks at the same rate.
Preheating And Temperature
Always preheat your oven to the specified temperature before baking. An accurate oven temperature ensures the cookies bake evenly and achieve the right texture.
Baking Time
Keep an eye on the baking time. Almond cookies can go from golden to overbaked quickly. Check them at the minimum time listed. They should be lightly golden around the edges.
Cooling Properly
After baking, let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to firm up and avoid breaking.
Storing Your Cookies
Store your vegan almond cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure your vegan almond cookies are consistently delicious and perfectly baked every time.
Flavor Variations
Exploring different flavors can elevate your vegan almond cookies to new heights. Here are a few exciting variations you can try:
Chocolate Chip Almond Cookies
- Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips
- Instructions:
- After mixing the wet and dry ingredients for the basic vegan almond cookie dough, gently fold in the vegan chocolate chips.
- Shape and bake the cookies as directed in the original recipe.
Lemon Almond Cookies
- Ingredients:
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Instructions:
- Add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the wet ingredients before mixing with the dry ingredients.
- Shape the dough and bake following the original recipe instructions.
Cinnamon Sugar Almond Cookies
- Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Instructions:
- Add the ground cinnamon to the dry ingredients.
- After shaping the dough, sprinkle granulated sugar on top of each cookie before baking as per the original recipe.
Almond Coconut Cookies
- Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
- Instructions:
- Fold the shredded coconut into the mixed dough.
- Proceed with shaping and baking the cookies per the original instructions.
Matcha Almond Cookies
- Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons matcha green tea powder
- Instructions:
- Sift matcha green tea powder with the dry ingredients.
- Mix with the wet ingredients, then shape and bake according to the original recipe.
- Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- Instructions:
- Add almond butter to the wet ingredients and mix well.
- Combine with dry ingredients, shape the dough, and bake as directed.
Experiment with these flavor variations to customize your vegan almond cookies to your preference. Each option enhances the cookies with unique tastes, creating exciting treats every time.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage of your vegan almond cookies keeps them fresh and delicious longer. Here’s how I do it:
- Cooling the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling them fully ensures they don’t become soggy when stored.
- Airtight Container: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container. I prefer using either glass or plastic containers with airtight seals. This prevents them from absorbing moisture or getting stale.
- Layering with Parchment: If stacking cookies, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer. This prevents them from sticking together and helps maintain their form and texture.
- Room Temperature Storage: You can store these cookies at room temperature for up to one week. Make sure they are kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the airtight container in the refrigerator. Chilled cookies can last up to two weeks, but be aware that refrigeration may slightly alter their texture.
- Freezing for Extended Storage: If you want to store them for even longer, freezing is the best option. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
- Thawing: When ready to eat, let the cookies thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This helps restore their flavor and texture.
By following these storage instructions, your vegan almond cookies will stay fresh and tasty, ready to enjoy whenever you like.
Conclusion
Exploring the world of vegan almond cookies opens up a delightful array of flavors and textures. With the right techniques and storage practices, you can enjoy these tasty treats anytime. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, these recipes offer something special for everyone. Happy baking!
