New Year Caramel Vegan Cookies (Print Version)
Soft, chewy vegan cookies with caramel-style frosting, perfect for festive celebrations and plant-based enjoyment.
# List of Ingredients:
→ Cookie Base
01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 tsp baking soda
03 - 1/2 tsp baking powder
04 - 1/2 tsp salt
05 - 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted and cooled
06 - 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
07 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
08 - 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
09 - 2 tbsp non-dairy milk
10 - 2 tsp vanilla extract
→ Caramel Frosting
11 - 1/3 cup vegan butter
12 - 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
13 - 2 tbsp non-dairy milk
14 - 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
15 - Pinch of salt
# Step-by-step Instructions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl until evenly distributed.
03 - In a large bowl, combine melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until thoroughly incorporated and smooth.
04 - Stir in applesauce, non-dairy milk, and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture until well combined.
05 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
06 - Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
07 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
08 - Melt vegan butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and non-dairy milk. Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
09 - Remove from heat and let cool for 3 to 5 minutes. Whisk in powdered sugar and salt until smooth and spreadable consistency is achieved.
10 - Spread caramel frosting generously over completely cooled cookies. Allow frosting to set for 15 to 20 minutes before serving.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- That caramel frosting tastes rich and indulgent but comes together in minutes with pantry staples
- The cookies stay perfectly soft and chewy for days, making them ideal for prep ahead parties
02 -
- The frosting thickens as it cools, so spread it while it is still slightly warm for the smoothest results
- Room temperature coconut oil mixes more evenly, but let melted oil cool slightly so it does not seize the applesauce
03 -
- Press a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt into the frosting before it sets for an elevated salted caramel version
- Chill the scooped dough for 15 minutes if your kitchen is warm to prevent spreading too much