The holiday season is here, and you know what that means—it’s time for delicious sweet treats like vegan Christmas cookies!
Who doesn’t love cozying up with a cup of hot cocoa and a plate of delicious cookies while watching a favorite holiday movie (National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation for me!)?
Vegan Christmas cookies are the perfect way to spread holiday cheer with family and friends.
In this guide, you’ll find:
Let’s get busy baking and make this holiday season as sweet as it is kind!
Rather listen than read? Check out episode 462 of our podcast to hear us talk all about vegan Christmas cookies.
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Essential Tips for Perfect Vegan Cookies
Here are a few tips and tricks before we get to the cookie recipes.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
If you’re starting with a vegan recipe, great! You’re all set. However, if you’re tweaking your favorite traditional recipe, you may need to make a few substitutions.
Vegan butter or coconut oil
For that classic buttery flavor, vegan butter works like a charm. Coconut oil is also a great option for a slight coconut twist.
Egg substitutes
You don’t need eggs to get the perfect texture. Flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground
Sugar options
Granulated sugar, coconut sugar, or even powdered sugar can be used depending on the recipe. Just make sure it’s labeled vegan since some sugars are processed with bone char.
Baking Techniques
Chill the dough
If your cookies spread too much in the oven, chilling the dough for 30 minutes (or longer) can work wonders. It helps the fats solidify to keep your cookies thick and chewy.
Distribute heat evenly
Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure even heat distribution and prevent sticking. No one wants cookies that burn on the edges while staying raw in the middle!
Measure accurately
Baking is a science, so measure your dry and wet ingredients carefully. A little too much flour or too little liquid can throw off the texture.
The Secret to Chewy Cookies
For that irresistible chew, use a mix of brown sugar (or coconut sugar – make sure they are vegan-friendly as not all are) and granulated sugar. The molasses in brown sugar adds moisture and depth of flavor.
Test Baking
Not sure if your cookie dough is perfect? Bake a small test cookie first. This quick step can save you from baking an entire batch that’s too dry, sweet, or otherwise yucky.
Mastering these basics will set you up for success, whether you’re making classic sugar cookies, chocolate crinkle cookies, or gingerbread men. Ready to explore some recipes? Let’s get to it!
Top 10 Vegan Christmas Cookie Recipes
Get ready to bring holiday magic to your kitchen with these 10 must-try vegan Christmas cookie recipes. Each one is packed with festive flavors, easy-to-follow instructions, and plenty of holiday cheer.
1. Classic Vegan Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies are pretty much a holiday staple. Whether you like them soft and chewy (like Larissa does) or crispy and crunchy (like I do), sugar cookies are yummy and fun to decorate! Use your favorite cookie cutters and vegan royal icing for a festive touch. Check out our recipe here!
2. Vegan Gingerbread Cookies
The ultimate holiday cookie! These spiced treats are as fun to decorate as they are to eat. Perfect for gingerbread men, trees, or even a mini cookie house. Here’s a recipe from Sweet Simple Vegan you can check out.
3. Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
Fudgy and pepperminty on the inside, crackly on the outside, and dusted with powdered sugar—these cookies from My Darling Vegan are a chocolate and mint lover’s dream.
4. Vegan Thumbprint Cookies (Gluten-Free!)
Buttery cookies with a dollop of vegan chocolate in the center—these thumbprint cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious. Perfect for cookie trays and holiday gifts. Check out this recipe from Vegan Richa.
5. Vegan Shortbread Cookies
Crisp, tender, and oh-so-buttery, these cookies practically melt in your mouth. Add a drizzle of vegan chocolate or sprinkles for extra flair. Here’s a go-to vegan shortbread recipe from Nora Cooks.
6. Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies
Rich, nutty, and wonderfully chewy, these cookies are made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. You’ll be thanking Chocolate Covered Katie for this awesome recipe!
7. Vegan Linzer Cookies
These elegant sandwich cookies are filled with fruit preserves and dusted with powdered sugar. A classy addition to any holiday spread. Here’s a fun linzer cookie recipe from Addicted to Dates.
8. Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
A comforting classic with chewy oats and bursts of sweet raisins. They’re a heartwarming addition to your holiday cookie lineup. Here’s a recipe from Sweet Simple Vegan.
9. Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
When I think of a plate of cookies for Santa, I always picture a big plate of chocolate chip cookies. You can never go wrong with a classic! Gooey chocolate chips in every bite make these cookies a favorite for kids and adults alike. Check out this recipe from The Banana Diaries.
10. Vegan Snickerdoodles
Cinnamon and sugar team up to create these soft and delicious cookies. They’re easy to make and even easier to devour. Here’s a great recipe from School Night Vegan.
Each recipe brings something special to the table, whether it’s nostalgia, decadence, or a perfect balance of spice and sweetness. Once you’ve picked your favorites, grab your mixing bowl and let the baking begin!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Vegan Christmas Cookies
We love watching holiday baking shows. Holiday Baking Championship is probably at the top of our list. If it’s one thing we’ve learned from watching these shows it’s that even the most experienced bakers face a baking flop from time to time.
To help you avoid the frustration of cookies that spread too much, taste “off”, or just don’t turn out quite right, here are some common mistakes to watch for—and how to fix them.
Skipping the Chill Step
The problem If your cookies flatten into sad puddles, it’s likely because the dough wasn’t chilled.
The fix If the recipe calls for it, chill your dough for at least 30 minutes, especially for recipes with vegan butter or coconut oil. This keeps the fats solid and helps cookies hold their shape.
Overmixing the Dough
The problem Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, making your cookies tough instead of tender.
The fix Mix just until the wet and dry ingredients are combined. For extra caution, fold in the flour with a silicone spatula instead of using an electric mixer.
Using the Wrong Flour
The problem Not all flours behave the same way. Swapping flours without adjustments can make cookies too dry, crumbly, or dense.
The fix Stick to the type of flour specified in the recipe. If you’re experimenting with gluten-free options, use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend.
Not Measuring Ingredients Properly
The problem A heavy hand with the flour or skimping on liquid ingredients can throw off the delicate balance of the recipe.
The fix Use dry measuring cups for dry ingredients and a liquid measuring cup for wet ingredients. Level off dry ingredients with a flat edge for precision.
Baking at the Wrong Temperature
The problem Cookies that burn on the edges or are undercooked in the center often result from incorrect oven temperatures.
The fix Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy. Preheat your oven fully and stick to the baking time in the recipe.
Neglecting to Test Bake
The problem You bake an entire batch only to realize the dough needs tweaking.
The fix Always bake a small test cookie first. This lets you adjust sweetness, texture, or baking time without wasting the entire batch.
Not Letting Cookies Cool Properly
The problem Moving cookies too quickly from the baking sheet can cause them to break or crumble. Putting cookies in a storage container before they’re completely cool can cause them to get soggy and mold more quickly.
The Fix: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Then let them cool completely on the rack before storing. Patience is key!
Keeping these tips in mind will help you avoid the common pitfalls that can derail even the best cookie bakers. Up next, let’s talk about decorating and how to make your cookies look as good as they taste!
Decorating Your Vegan Christmas Cookies
Once your cookies are baked and cooled, it’s time to have some fun decorating! Whether you’re going for simple elegance or an explosion of holiday colors, these ideas will make your cookies almost too pretty to eat (but we’ll manage!).
Vegan Royal Icing
Why Use It
Vegan royal icing is perfect for intricate designs, outlining shapes, or flooding cookie surfaces with smooth, glossy finishes.
How to Make
Mix powdered sugar, a little plant-based milk (like almond or soy), and a touch of corn syrup for shine. Add a dash of lemon juice or vanilla extract for flavor. Adjust the consistency with water or more sugar.
Pro Tip
Use piping bags with fine tips for detailed work. No piping bags? A zip-top bag with the corner snipped works in a pinch!
Natural Food Coloring
Why Use It
Brighten up your cookies without artificial dyes by using plant-based food coloring.
Ideas
Try using beet juice for red, turmeric for yellow, and spirulina or matcha powder for green. You can also find vegan-friendly food colorings at most grocery stores.
Festive Sprinkles and Decorations
Check the Label
Some sprinkles contain animal-based ingredients like gelatin or confectioner’s glaze, so double-check that they’re vegan.
Ideas
Use crushed candy canes, edible glitter, or colorful sanding sugars to give your cookies extra sparkle.
Creative Additions
Drizzles and Dips
Melt vegan chocolate chips and drizzle over cookies or dip half the cookie for a two-tone effect. Let them cool on parchment paper until the chocolate sets.
Nuts and Dried Fruit
Add texture and flavor by sprinkling finely chopped pistachios, cranberries, or shredded coconut on top of freshly glazed cookies.
Cookie Stamps and Cutters
Use holiday-themed cookie cutters to make trees, stars, snowflakes, or even reindeer. Stamped cookies also look beautiful without additional decoration—just dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
Get the Kids Involved
Decorating cookies is a great activity for kids. Set up a decorating station with bowls of icing, sprinkles, and edible decorations. Just be prepared for a little (or a lot!) of mess!
DIY Cookie Box Gifts
Arrange your decorated cookies in a festive tin or cookie box lined with parchment paper. Add a handwritten recipe card and a bow for the perfect homemade gift.
Decorating is all about creativity, so have fun with it! Your cookies don’t need to be picture-perfect to bring smiles—they just need a little love and a lot of sprinkles.
Storing and Sharing Your Vegan Christmas Cookies
After you’ve poured your heart into baking and decorating your cookies, the last thing you want is for them to go stale before they can be enjoyed. Follow these simple tips to keep your cookies fresh and ready for sharing—or for sneaking a few yourself.
Proper Storage Tips
Use Airtight Containers
The key to keeping cookies fresh is sealing out air. Use airtight containers or tins lined with parchment paper.
Layering Matters
To prevent sticking, especially with glazed or decorated cookies, layer them between sheets of parchment or waxed paper.
Room Temperature vs. Freezing
Most cookies will stay fresh at room temperature for 3-5 days. If you need to store them longer, freeze them instead.
Freezing Cookies
Freezing Baked Cookies
Allow cookies to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
Freezing Dough
Save time by freezing cookie dough. Roll the dough into balls, flash-freeze them on a baking tray, and then store in a freezer bag. When ready to bake, pop them straight in the oven—just add a minute or two to the baking time.
Gifting Ideas
Festive Cookie Boxes
Arrange assortments of cookies in decorative boxes or tins. Use cupcake liners to separate cookies and add visual appeal.
Add a Personal Touch
Include handwritten recipe cards, notes about the cookies, or even a little holiday ornament to make your gift extra special.
Perfect for Cookie Swaps
These are great for sharing at holiday cookie exchanges. Bring a mix of flavors like gingerbread, thumbprint, and chocolate crinkle cookies to impress everyone.
Refreshing Stale Cookies
Softening
If your cookies start to harden, place a slice of bread or a few vegan marshmallows in the container with them. They’ll absorb the moisture and soften up again.
Crisping
Prefer crispy cookies? Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes at a low temperature to restore their crunch.
Presentation Counts
Arrange cookies on a platter for a party or stack them neatly in a clear glass jar as a centerpiece. Even simple cookies look fancy when they’re beautifully displayed.
With these storage and sharing tips, your cookies will stay fresh and festive throughout the holiday season. Whether you’re keeping them for yourself (no judgment!) or gifting them to friends and family, these vegan treats are sure to spread holiday cheer.
We hope this article has given you plenty of ideas for some delicious vegan cookie recipes. If you decide to try any, please let us know how they turned out for you. You can always email us at [email protected] or why not join our closed Facebook group and share your pictures with our wonderful community there?
Also, be sure to follow us on Pinterest as we have links to all the cookies there PLUS we’ll be adding more recipes as we find them.
FAQs: Vegan Christmas Cookies
Can I make vegan cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Many vegan cookie recipes can be adapted to be gluten-free. Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. If a recipe calls for all-purpose flour, substitute it with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for best results.
What can I use as an egg substitute in vegan cookies?
There are several options depending on the recipe:
- Flax eggs Mix 1 tablespoon ground
flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water and let it sit for 5 minutes - Applesauce Use 1/4 cup as a substitute for one egg
- Commercial egg replacers like Ener-G or Bob’s Red Mill work well too
Why do my vegan cookies spread too much?
This often happens if the dough is too warm or the fat (like vegan butter) melts too quickly. Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
How can I make my cookies soft and chewy?
The secret lies in using the right mix of sugars. Brown sugar or coconut sugar adds moisture, while granulated sugar gives structure. Just remember to check that the sugar is vegan. Most organic sugar will be but can vary by brand.
Also, slightly underbake your cookies for that soft texture.
Can I freeze vegan cookie dough?
Yes! Roll the dough into balls, place them on a tray to freeze, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. You can bake them straight from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best way to decorate vegan cookies?
Use vegan royal icing (powdered sugar, plant milk, and corn syrup) for detailed designs. Natural food coloring made from beet juice, turmeric, or matcha can add festive colors without artificial dyes.
How long do vegan cookies stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, most vegan cookies stay fresh for 3-5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I use coconut oil instead of vegan butter?
Yes, coconut oil works as a great substitute. Use solid coconut oil for a buttery consistency. Keep in mind that it may add a slight coconut flavor to your cookies.
Are there vegan-friendly sprinkles for decorating?
Yes, but check the labels! Many sprinkles contain non-vegan ingredients like confectioner’s glaze. Look for brands that specifically label their products as vegan.
What’s the best way to prevent cookies from sticking to the baking tray?
Always use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Not only does it prevent sticking, but it promotes even baking and makes cleanup a breeze.