I recently experimented with a Vegan Iced Sugar Cookie recipe topped with aquafaba royal icing, and the results were surprisingly delightful. These cookies are not only soft and chewy but also cater to those with dairy sensitivities. By combining simple ingredients like all-purpose flour and vegan butter, I’ve found a perfect base for creativity. The icing adds a colorful touch, but there’s so much more to explore with this dish that might just inspire your next baking project.
What kind of recipe is it?
The Vegan Iced Sugar Cookie is a delightful dessert that perfectly combines sweetness and a soft, chewy texture, making it a favorite among cookie lovers.
This recipe stands out due to its plant-based ingredients, ensuring it’s suitable for vegans and those with dairy sensitivities.
With its colorful icing, it’s not only tasty but also visually appealing, making it ideal for parties or baking with kids.
Baking these cookies is a fun and easy way to enjoy a classic treat while adhering to a vegan lifestyle.
Preparation Time
| Recipe Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Difficulty of the Recipe | Easy |
| Preparation Time | 30 minutes (including icing) |
| Number of Servings | 12 cookies |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup |
| Powdered sugar (for icing) | 1 cup |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
| Vegan butter | ½ cup (1 stick) |
| Plant-based milk | ¼ cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Almond extract (optional) | ½ teaspoon |
| Cornstarch (for icing) | 1 tablespoon |
| Food coloring (optional) | As needed |
| Non-dairy sprinkles (optional) | As needed |
This table outlines all the necessary ingredients and their respective quantities for preparing Vegan Iced Sugar Cookies.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose | Alternative Option |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls (large and medium) | Used to mix dry and wet ingredients separately, ensuring an even consistency before combining. | Any large bowls available in your kitchen. |
| Measuring Cups (dry and liquid) | Essential for accurately measuring flour, sugar, and liquids for the cookie dough and icing. | Use standard cups (8 oz) as a general guide; conversions can help if you don’t have specific measuring cups. |
| Measuring Spoons | Necessary for measuring small quantities of ingredients like baking powder, salt, and extracts. | Use the same standard tablespoons and teaspoons for approximate measurements, if varying sizes may apply. |
| Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer | Helps to cream the vegan butter and sugar mixture together thoroughly to achieve a light texture. | A whisk and some elbow grease can work in place of an electric mixer, though it requires more effort. |
| Rubber Spatula | Perfect for scraping the sides of mixing bowls and ensuring all ingredients are well combined. | A regular spoon can work, but a spatula is generally more effective at incorporating ingredients. |
| Wooden Spoon | Useful for mixing the dough, especially when adding dry ingredients. | A sturdy plastic or silicone spoon can substitute effectively. |
| Baking Sheets (2-3) | Needed to spread the cookies out for baking; having multiple sheets allows for efficiency when baking in batches. | Any flat, oven-safe trays can be used; just ensure they aren’t too crowded with cookies. |
| Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats | Prevents cookies from sticking to baking sheets, ensuring they come off easily and bake evenly. | Greasing the baking sheet lightly with vegetable oil or a non-stick spray can serve as an alternative. |
| Cookie Scoop or Spoon | Helps to portion out uniform amounts of cookie dough for even baking and portion control. | A tablespoon can work for scooping out dough, though sizes will be less consistent. |
| Cooling Rack | Provides proper air circulation around cookies as they cool, preventing sogginess. | A heat-safe platter or even the back of the baking sheet can work for cooling if a rack isn’t available. |
| Oven Thermometer | Ensures the oven is at the proper temperature for baking, as oven thermostats can often be inaccurate. | If unavailable, using a reliable recipe with recommended baking times can help gauge readiness. |
This table outlines the essential kitchen equipment needed for making Vegan Iced Sugar Cookies, along with their purposes and budget-friendly alternatives.
Cooking Steps
- Mise en Place: Gather all ingredients and tools. In separate bowls, measure 240 ml (1 cup) of granulated sugar, 240 ml (1 cup) of vegan butter, 60 ml (1/4 cup) of almond milk or soy milk, 10 ml (2 tsp) of vanilla extract, 525 g (4 1/4 cups) of all-purpose flour, 5 g (1 tsp) of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Place the oven rack in the center position.
- Prepare Baking Sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats, ensuring they’re flat and covered entirely.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment on medium-high speed to cream together the vegan butter and granulated sugar for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. You can also use a hand mixer or whisk if necessary.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Reduce mixer speed to low, then gradually add 60 ml (1/4 cup) of almond milk and 10 ml (2 tsp) of vanilla extract. Blend until incorporated, about 30 seconds.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium mixing bowl, whisk together 525 g (4 1/4 cups) of all-purpose flour, 5 g (1 tsp) of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix Dough: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix; the dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
- Scoop Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them approximately 5 cm (2 inches) apart for even baking.
- Bake Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and the center still appears soft. The cookies should have a light aroma and a pale surface.
- Cool Cookies: Remove baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
- Rest Cookies: If desired, allow the cookies to rest for a further 20 minutes on the cooling rack to enhance their texture and flavor before icing or serving.
Ensure to monitor the cookies closely during the final minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
Variations
- Lemon Zest Cookies: Add 15 g (1 tbsp) of lemon zest to the wet ingredients for a refreshing citrus twist.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Fold in 180 g (1 cup) of dairy-free chocolate chips to the dough for a classic cookie variation.
- Gluten-Free Cookies: Substitute 525 g (4 1/4 cups) of all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- Chai Spice Cookies: Mix 5 g (1 tsp) of chai spice blend into the dry ingredients for a warm and aromatic flavor.
- Almond Flour Cookies: Replace 240 g (2 cups) of all-purpose flour with 120 g (1 cup) of almond flour for a nutty flavor and added protein.
- Pumpkin Spice Cookies: Incorporate 120 g (1/2 cup) of pumpkin puree and 5 g (1 tsp) of pumpkin spice into the wet ingredients for a seasonal treat.
- Nut Butter Swirl Cookies: Blend in 60 g (1/4 cup) of almond or peanut butter to the dough for depth and richness.
- Bake in Air Fryer: Place cookie dough balls in an air fryer basket at 160 °C (320 °F) for 8-10 minutes for a quicker cooking method that yields a crispy exterior.
Tips on plating and presentation
Creating an appealing presentation for your vegan iced sugar cookies can elevate their charm and delight those who taste them.
Use simple plating techniques like stacking the cookies on a decorative plate or arranging them in a colorful box.
Add some edible flowers or fruit for a pop of color.
Remember to keep it clean and minimal for the best presentation tips!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
When I think about pairing dishes with vegan iced sugar cookies, a few delightful options come to mind.
These cookies go wonderfully with fresh fruit, providing a refreshing contrast. I also love serving them alongside rich chocolate desserts for sweet flavor combinations.
Furthermore, consider pairing them with nut-based cheeses for unique dessert pairings that tantalize the palate and create a memorable experience.
What drinks can I pair it with?
What drinks can truly elevate the experience of enjoying vegan iced sugar cookies?
For me, coffee pairings are a fantastic choice—especially a smooth latte or a rich espresso that balances the cookie’s sweetness.
If I’m in the mood for something lighter, I love tea selections like chamomile or green tea, which complement the flavors beautifully while ensuring a refreshing contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Aquafaba With Other Egg Alternatives?
You can definitely substitute aquafaba with other egg alternatives! I’ve had great success using tofu replacement or chia gel in my recipes, which both work well to provide the right texture and binding properties.
How Long Do These Cookies Last When Stored?
These cookies last about a week when stored properly. For the best storage, I keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. This way, I enjoy their freshness for longer without compromising taste.
Is Aquafaba Safe for Everyone to Consume?
Aquafaba’s generally safe for most people, but I’ve learned it’s wise to consider aquafaba allergies. Some individuals may react, especially those with legume sensitivities. Always check with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure!
Can I Freeze the Cookies After Decorating?
Yes, you can freeze decorated cookies! Just ensure they’re fully dried first. I’ve found using parchment between layers helps preserve those decorating techniques. Once thawed, they taste as fresh as when I baked them!
What Is the Best Way to Store Royal Icing?
I store royal icing in an airtight container, ensuring it’s sealed to maintain its consistency. This prevents drying out, preserving its benefits for decorating. It’s best used fresh, but proper storage extends its life.