Chocolate chip cookies are a classic, and whether you're vegan or not, there's something undeniably satisfying about biting into a warm, chewy, slightly crispy cookie with melty chocolate chips. But what if you could make that favorite snack without dairy, eggs, or any animal products? That’s where vegan chocolate chip cookies come in. These cookies are not only a delicious treat, but they also cater to those following a plant-based diet. Let’s dive into the world of vegan baking with this classic cookie recipe that anyone can enjoy!
Ingredients
Making vegan chocolate chip cookies doesn’t require any special ingredients or hard-to-find products. In fact, most of the ingredients in a standard chocolate chip cookie recipe can easily be swapped out for plant-based alternatives. Here's what you'll need:
Flour – All-purpose flour is the most common choice, but you can experiment with whole wheat flour, oat flour, or gluten-free flour if you prefer. The texture of the cookie may vary depending on your choice of flour, but the flavor will still be just as delightful.
Baking soda – This will help the cookies rise and become light and fluffy. It’s a common ingredient in all kinds of cookies and is easily accessible.
Salt – A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances out the flavors in the cookies.
Vegan butter – This is the fat that helps the cookies become chewy and crispy. Vegan butter is made from plant oils, and there are plenty of options available in supermarkets nowadays.
Brown sugar – Brown sugar adds richness and moisture, creating a lovely chewy texture. You can use coconut sugar or maple sugar as a substitute if you prefer.
Granulated sugar – This adds sweetness and also helps the cookies spread while baking.
Non-dairy milk – Almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk all work well in vegan baking. The milk helps bind the ingredients together and contributes to the cookie’s moisture.
Vanilla extract – The vanilla adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with the chocolate chips.
Vegan chocolate chips – Of course, you can’t make chocolate chip cookies without chocolate! Look for dairy-free chocolate chips or use chopped dark chocolate, which is often naturally vegan.
Ground flaxseed (optional) – For an extra boost of fiber, some people like to add flaxseed meal, which also helps bind the dough together in the absence of eggs. This is an optional ingredient but worth considering for a nutritional boost.
Preparation Time
Vegan chocolate chip cookies are relatively quick and simple to prepare. The prep time involves gathering and mixing the ingredients, and you can expect to spend around 15-20 minutes on this step. If you're using flaxseed as an egg substitute, you’ll need to mix it with water and let it sit for a few minutes to create a gel-like consistency. This extra step might add a few minutes, but it's totally worth it!
Cook Time
After prepping your dough, it’s time to bake! The baking process typically takes 10-12 minutes depending on your oven’s temperature and how chewy or crispy you like your cookies. If you prefer soft, gooey cookies, aim for the shorter baking time. For crispier cookies, leave them in for a few extra minutes. The cookies should turn a golden-brown color around the edges when they are done.
Total Time
With prep time and cook time combined, you’ll have a batch of vegan chocolate chip cookies ready in about 30-35 minutes. This makes them a perfect go-to dessert for last-minute cravings or when you're entertaining guests. Whether you need an afternoon pick-me-up or a midnight snack, this recipe will deliver.
Servings and Yield
This recipe makes around 24 cookies if you roll your dough into 1-inch balls. The number of cookies may vary depending on the size you choose, so feel free to adjust the portion sizes according to your preferences. If you want to make smaller cookies for a bite-sized snack, you can yield up to 30-36 cookies. However, if you prefer larger cookies, you may end up with around 18-20 cookies.
Directions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready and know how long it will take, let's dive into the step-by-step process of making these delightful vegan chocolate chip cookies!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure the cookies don’t stick during baking.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Prepare the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the vegan butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. This can be done with an electric mixer or by hand with a whisk. The goal is to incorporate air into the mixture, making it light and fluffy.
Add the non-dairy milk and vanilla extract: Stir in your plant-based milk and vanilla extract. If you’re using flaxseed meal, mix it with water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency. Then, add it to the wet ingredients.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring as you go. Be careful not to overmix. Once the dough starts to come together, fold in the vegan chocolate chips, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Form the cookies: Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough and roll it into small balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. They will spread as they bake, so give them room to expand.
Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown and the center looks set. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
Cool and enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If you can resist the temptation, let them cool for a bit longer for a firmer texture, or go ahead and enjoy them warm with a glass of plant-based milk!
Tips for Perfect Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chill your dough: If you have the time, consider chilling your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This will help the dough firm up, leading to thicker, chewier cookies with less spreading.
Use room temperature butter: Make sure your vegan butter is at room temperature before mixing. Cold butter can cause the dough to be too stiff, and your cookies may end up being dense rather than light and airy.
Don’t overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stir just until combined. Overmixing can cause the cookies to be tough and lose their delicate texture.
Experiment with chocolate: Try mixing different types of chocolate for a more complex flavor. Dark chocolate, milk chocolate (vegan, of course), or even white chocolate can be used. Just remember to ensure that any chocolate you use is dairy-free.
Add-ins: While this recipe is for classic chocolate chip cookies, you can customize it with additional add-ins. Walnuts, pecans, or even a handful of dried fruit can add a fun twist to the flavor and texture of your cookies.
Storing leftovers: If you manage to have any cookies left over (though that's unlikely), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Gluten-free option: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a flour that is specifically made for baking to get the best results.
Final Thoughts on Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Vegan chocolate chip cookies are an easy and indulgent way to satisfy your sweet tooth without sacrificing flavor. These cookies are just as delicious as the classic version, if not more so! With simple substitutions, you can make a plant-based version of this beloved treat that anyone can enjoy—whether they’re vegan or not.
As you bake these vegan chocolate chip cookies, feel free to make them your own. Adjust the sweetness, texture, or add-ins to match your tastes. In no time, you’ll have a batch of golden, gooey, and irresistible cookies ready to share with friends and family. Enjoy the process of vegan baking and savor each bite of these delightful, plant-based treats!
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