Vegan chocolate oatmeal cookies are a delightful twist on the classic oatmeal cookie, offering a rich chocolate flavor without any animal products. These cookies are perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike, providing a satisfying treat that’s both wholesome and indulgent. Follow along to learn how to bake these chewy, chocolatey cookies that are sure to become a favorite in 2024.
Why Choose Vegan Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies?
Vegan chocolate oatmeal cookies are:
- Plant-Based: Made without eggs, butter, or dairy, these cookies are entirely vegan-friendly.
- Wholesome: Oats provide fiber and nutrients, while dark chocolate adds antioxidants and rich flavor.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can bake these cookies at home.
Ingredients for Vegan Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
Wet Ingredients:
- Coconut Oil: 1/2 cup, melted (or use any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil)
- Brown Sugar: 3/4 cup, packed
- Applesauce: 1/2 cup, unsweetened
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
Dry Ingredients:
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup
- Cocoa Powder: 1/4 cup, unsweetened
- Baking Soda: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: 1 1/2 cups
- Dark Chocolate Chips: 1 cup (ensure vegan-friendly)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Chopped Nuts: 1/2 cup (such as walnuts or pecans)
- Dried Fruit: 1/2 cup (such as cranberries or raisins)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Vegan Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
- Combine: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, brown sugar, applesauce, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
- Sift: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add Oats and Chocolate: Stir in the rolled oats and dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Form Cookie Dough
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a thick and cohesive cookie dough forms.
Step 5: Shape and Bake Cookies
- Form Dough Balls: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out the cookie dough and roll into balls (about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough per cookie).
- Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten Cookies: Gently flatten each cookie with the palm of your hand or the back of a spoon to your desired thickness.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and slightly firm.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Enjoy!
- Serve: Once cooled, serve these vegan chocolate oatmeal cookies with a glass of almond milk or your favorite non-dairy beverage.
Tips for Perfect Vegan Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
1. Use Melted Coconut Oil: Coconut oil adds moisture and a hint of coconut flavor. Ensure it’s melted but not hot when adding to the dough.
2. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter cookies, increase the amount of brown sugar slightly.
3. Add-Ins: Customize your cookies with nuts, dried fruit, or even shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
4. Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and certified gluten-free oats to make these cookies gluten-free.
Common Questions About Vegan Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
1. Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, instant oats can be used, but the texture may be slightly different. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture.
2. How do I make these cookies nut-free?
Simply omit the nuts or substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
3. Can I use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar?
Yes, coconut sugar can be used as a 1:1 substitute for brown sugar in this recipe.
4. Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
Chilling the dough can help cookies retain their shape, but it’s not necessary for this recipe.
5. Can I make larger or smaller cookies?
Adjust the size of the dough balls to make larger or smaller cookies, but remember to adjust baking time accordingly.
Conclusion
Vegan chocolate oatmeal cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion, offering a balance of chocolatey goodness and wholesome ingredients. Whether you follow a vegan diet or simply enjoy trying new recipes, these cookies are sure to please with their rich flavor and chewy texture. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy baking these delicious cookies in 2024 and beyond!