If you are on the hunt for a truly irresistible, simple treat that’s both plant-based and bursting with peanut buttery goodness, this Vegan Peanut Butter Sugar Cookies Recipe is your new best friend. These cookies combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with just the right touch of sweetness, resulting in soft, chewy bites that won’t last long on any cookie plate. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply curious about plant-based baking, these cookies deliver a perfect balance of flavor and texture that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering ingredients for this cookie recipe is delightfully straightforward. Each item plays a crucial role in creating that perfect cookie texture and flavor, whether it’s the smoothness of peanut butter or the subtle sweetness of granulated sugar. Here’s what you want on hand before you dive into baking.
- Peanut butter: Choose smooth or chunky depending on your texture preference; it’s the star that gives rich flavor and moisture.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve that classic sugar cookie crispness on the edges.
- Almond milk (or any plant-based milk): Provides just enough moisture to bring the dough together without making it too sticky.
- Vanilla extract: Lifts the flavor, adding a warm and inviting aroma.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the dough, giving structure and chewiness.
- Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps your cookies rise just right with a tender crumb.
- Salt: Enhances the peanut butter and balances the sweetness.
- Extra sugar for rolling (optional): For that extra sparkle and crunchy texture on the cookie surface, if you like.
How to Make Vegan Peanut Butter Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper; this will prevent sticking and help your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Stir vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This silky combination is where the magic starts, infusing your cookies with incredible flavor and creamy texture.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—the dough will be slightly thick, holding together beautifully without being too stiff.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Roll the dough into one-inch balls using your hands. For an added touch of sweetness and a delightful crunch, you can roll each ball in extra granulated sugar before placing them on the baking sheet.
Step 5: Flatten the Dough
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each one. Use a fork to gently flatten each ball, pressing down enough to create a beautiful crisscross pattern. This technique not only helps the cookies bake evenly but also adds that classic peanut butter cookie look.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the centers are just set but still soft. Remove from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step lets the cookies firm up to the perfect chewy texture.
How to Serve Vegan Peanut Butter Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these cookies, consider sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt on top just after baking—this contrast enhances the sweet and nutty flavors beautifully. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted vegan chocolate can also add a delightful decorative touch.
Side Dishes
These Vegan Peanut Butter Sugar Cookies pair marvelously with a cold glass of almond milk or your favorite plant-based milk. For a cozy treat, serve alongside a warm cup of herbal tea or vegan hot chocolate to complement the rich peanut butter notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Make cookie sandwiches by spreading vegan chocolate ganache or fruit jam between two cookies for an extra indulgent twist. For gatherings, arrange them on a festive platter decorated with fresh berries and mint leaves, turning a simple plate into a show-stopping dessert display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep your baked Vegan Peanut Butter Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. This ensures they stay soft and fresh, perfect for a quick snack or a sweet surprise whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze the baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They freeze well for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge.
Reheating
To refresh your cookies, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This will soften the cookies and revive their fresh-from-the-oven appeal without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds delightful texture to the dough, giving your cookies a little extra nutty bite. Both work well in this Vegan Peanut Butter Sugar Cookies Recipe.
What if I don’t have almond milk? Can I use another plant milk?
Yes, any plant-based milk such as soy, oat, or coconut milk will work perfectly. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to keep the sugar balance right.
Is it necessary to roll the cookies in extra sugar?
Not at all. Rolling the dough balls in sugar is optional, but it adds a lovely little crunch and sparkle on the cookie surface if you want that extra flair.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
While the recipe uses all-purpose flour, you can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend that’s designed for baking. Just keep an eye on the dough’s consistency and adjust if needed.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for golden edges and centers that are still slightly soft but set. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so it’s better to take them out just before they look fully firm to keep them chewy and tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully comforting about homemade cookies, and this Vegan Peanut Butter Sugar Cookies Recipe truly hits all the right notes with ease and heart. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, these cookies bring joy with every bite. Give this recipe a whirl—you might just find you’ve discovered your new favorite plant-based treat.
Print
Vegan Peanut Butter Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Vegan Peanut Butter Sugar Cookies are a deliciously simple treat combining creamy peanut butter with a touch of sweetness, perfect for those seeking a plant-based dessert. Soft on the inside with a delightful crisscross pattern on top, these cookies are quick to prepare and bake, making them an ideal recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Extra sugar for rolling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined, forming a slightly thick dough.
- Shape the dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. For added sweetness and crunch, optionally roll the balls in extra sugar.
- Flatten the dough: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten each with a fork, creating a classic crisscross pattern on top.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes until the edges are golden and the centers appear slightly firm but not hard.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they set properly.
Notes
- Choose smooth or chunky peanut butter based on your texture preference.
- Almond milk can be substituted with any other plant-based milk like oat, soy, or cashew milk.
- Rolling the cookie dough balls in sugar before baking adds a sweet, crunchy coating but is optional.
- Do not overbake to keep the cookies soft in the center.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
