Vegan Cherry Blossom Sugar Cookies (Print Version)
Floral vanilla sugar cookies with cherry blossoms, entirely plant-based and easy to bake.
# List of Ingredients:
→ Dry
01 - 2½ cups all-purpose flour
02 - ¾ cup granulated sugar
03 - ½ teaspoon baking powder
04 - ¼ teaspoon salt
→ Wet
05 - ¾ cup vegan butter, softened
06 - ¼ cup unsweetened plant milk (almond, soy, or oat)
07 - 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
→ Flavor & Decoration
08 - 2 tablespoons dried edible cherry blossoms, rinsed and patted dry
09 - Extra granulated sugar, for sprinkling
# Step-by-step Instructions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly distributed.
03 - In a large bowl, beat the softened vegan butter and granulated sugar with a hand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
04 - Mix in the plant milk and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture until well combined.
05 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a soft, cohesive dough forms. Do not overmix.
06 - Gently fold in the dried cherry blossoms, reserving a small handful for garnishing the tops.
07 - Scoop 1½-tablespoon portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
08 - Lightly press each dough ball to flatten slightly. Top with the reserved cherry blossoms and sprinkle with extra granulated sugar.
09 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are just turning golden. Do not overbake for a softer texture.
10 - Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire cooling rack to cool completely before serving.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The subtle floral flavor from cherry blossoms makes these feel like something from a specialty bakery, but they come together with basic pantry staples.
- They are completely vegan, yet nobody will guess because the texture is perfectly soft and buttery.
02 -
- Overbaking is the enemy here. Pull the cookies when the edges are faintly golden because they firm up considerably as they cool.
- Not all dried flowers labeled as cherry blossom are food grade, so always check that the package specifically says edible before using them.
03 -
- Chill the dough for 20 minutes before scooping if your kitchen is warm, as this helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents excessive spreading.
- The quality of your vegan butter makes all the difference, so choose one you enjoy eating on its own.