It’s the 12 vegan cookies of Christmas! These vegan Christmas cookies are perfect for gifting or for guests, and include dietary options.
I’ve been thinking of my own version of The 12 Days of Christmas:
“On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me…“
Vegan Christmas Cookies!
Yep, I’ll take 12 days of vegan christmas cookies over pipers piping and maids a milking. How about you?
I thought so!
These are my 12 top vegan christmas cookies, perfect for gifting, cookie exchanges, or just for you to enjoy.
I offer the dietary labels for each, to help you identify cookies that are gluten-free, raw, nut-free, oil-free/plant-strong, and soy-free.
So, let’s pull out our fancy holiday aprons and get baking!
1. “Snifferdoodles” Dietary: soy-free, nut-free
Lightly spiced, but not as spicy as gingerbreads, these snickerdoodle cookies from LTEV are festive and loved by kids and adults alike.
They have just the right amount of sweetness, and are very special for gifting. If you love the flavor of anise, try my Biscochitos variation in the recipe.
“Snifferdoodles”: Vegan Snickerdoodles
I had originally called these Maple Sugar Snickerdoodles. However, one day my middle daughter called them Snifferdoodles. I loved the name so much I had to go with it! They are delicious, and terrific for bringing to school or other parties, where allergies such as to peanuts, nuts, wheat, and even chocolate are always an issue.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup + 1 tbsp spelt flour
- 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp oat flour
- 1/3 cup unrefined sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp rounded baking soda
- ¼ tsp cinnamon see note for anise “biscochitos” adaptation
- 1/4 tsp tsp sea salt
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp organic neutral-tasting oil
For coating:
- 2 tsp unrefined sugar fine textured
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine the dry ingredients, sifting in the baking powder and baking soda, mixing well. In a separate bowl, combine the maple syrup, vanilla, and oil. Add the wet mixture to the dry, and stir until just incor- porated. Place the mixture in the fridge for about 5 minutes. While the cookie mixture chills, mix the coating ingredients together in a separate small bowl. Remove the cookie mixture from the fridge, and take small spoonfuls of the batter (about 1⁄2 tablespoon each; see note) of the batter and roll in your hands to form balls. Place on the prepared (you will still need to coat them, so just place randomly on the lined pan until ready to move to that step). Continue until you have used all the batter. Roll each ball in the coating mixture, and then place back on the lined pan, this time spacing out the cookies evenly. Do not flatten them! Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven (if you bake for much longer, they will dry out), let cool on the pan for no more than a minute (again, to prevent drying), then transfer to a cooling rack. Makes 15-16 snifferdoodles.
Notes
- I make these cookies a little smaller than most of the others. They are perfect for little hands when bite size. Because they are smaller, you should get a yield of between 18 to 25 cookies, and the baking time will be only 10 to 11 minutes. If you choose to make them a little larger, the yield should be 13 to 15 cookies; bake for 11 to 12 minutes.
- You may have extra sugar mixture after coating the cookies. Don’t throw it away! Use it to sprinkle on ice cream, bagels, toast, yogurt, or cereal!
- If the batter is a touch dry when mixing, use another 1⁄2 to 1 teaspoon of oil and mix with another smidgen (about 1 teaspoon) of maple syrup. Depending on the brand of flour used and/or time of year, this is a good trick. Simply fold the oil and syrup into the batter, and repeat if needed. Just don’t overdo it—the batter should be thick and not too wet or oily, or the cookies will spread out flat and join when baking.
- Make It More-ish! After making these cookies, I learned about biscochitos, which are Mexican cookies flavored with anise and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. To make a biscochito instead of a Snifferdoodle, omit the 1⁄4 teaspoon cinnamon from the batter and replace it with 3⁄4 to 1 teaspoon of aniseeds, crushed just slightly between your fingers before mixing in (if you love that licorice flavor, use the full 1 tea- spoon, or more)!
- You can also make different shapes with the batter, if you first refrigerate it for 20 or more minutes to get firmer. Roll out about 1⁄4 inch thick and cut into shapes before dusting with the cinnamon sugar.
- To make ice cream sandwiches: Let ice cream soften in the refrigerator. Once ice cream is softened enough to easily scoop/spread, get started. Spread a layer of ice cream on the flat (under) side of one cookie. Place the underside of another cookie on top, and lightly press together. After making 3-4 sandwiches, transfer to freezer immediately to set. Continue in batches, freeze until firm, and store in a sealed container.
2. Crazy Brownies Dietary: gluten-free, nut-free, oil-free
As the name suggests… crazy. The ingredients look crazy, but combine into one heckuva brownie! You’ve just gotta try them. #promise
3. Award-Winning Frosted B-raw-nies Dietary: raw, oil-free, gluten-free, soy-free
These have been popular for years. For good reason. They are easy! Plus gluten-free and raw, sweetened with only dates and pure maple syrup. If you need a nut-free version, I have one in Plant-Powered Families.
Award Winning Frosted B-raw-nies!
Let them eat brownies! You can feel good about munching on these raw brownies, made with nuts and dates… and don’t pass on making the frosting, it’s what makes these brownies especially delicious. These brownies took 1st prize in Everyday Health’s gluten‐free recipe contest.
Servings 12 brownies
Ingredients
Base: 1 cup raw almonds (see note)
- 1/4 cup raw cashews see note
- 1/2 cup raw walnuts see note
- 1 3/4 cups packed pitted medjool dates (see note)
- 1/4 cup dried organic pitted cherries OR more dates, ie can use 2 cups dates in whole – omit almond extract if not using cherries
- 1/3 cup raw cocoa powder or regular cocoa if you prefer
- 1 vanilla bean see note
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp almond extract optional
Frosting:
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or raw agave nectar for pure raw version
- 2 tbsp raw cocoa powder or regular if you prefer
- pinch sea salt
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup coconut butter (not coconut oil) ‐ can substitute raw nut butter
Instructions
- Instructions In a food processor, first add almonds and cashews and process until very fine (the almonds are the hardest, and need to be worked until crumbly). Let them process for a minute or two until quite fine. Then add walnuts, dates and cherries and pulse/process until mixture is quite crumbly, but not yet coming together. Then, add cocoa powder, salt, and almond extract, and pulse through. With a sharp tip knife, slice the vanilla bean down the outer side to open up the bean. Using a blunt (butter) knife, scrape out all the tiny seeds from the bean on both sides, and add them to the processor (or add vanilla extract). Process again, along with the almond extract if using. Process until the mixture comes together. The mixture should be sticky and hold together when pressed with your fingers. You don’t want to overmix (to prevent the nuts from releasing their oils, see note), but the mixture does need to hold and be sticky. If it’s not doing so, add a few drops of water, as your dates might be dry. Once you have a good, sticky mixture that will hold together, remove it from the processor and press into a brownie pan (8” x 8”) lined with parchment paper. Use a small piece of the parchment to help press and flatten the mixture evenly into the pan. Press it firmly to ensure the mixture holds.
For the frosting, in a mini‐food processor, first combine the coconut butter and agave nectar until smooth. Then add the cocoa powder and salt, and pulse through again until just combined. Do not overprocess or the frosting will begin to separate with the heat of the churning and become oily. (If you don’t have a mini‐ processor, you can follow the same steps stirring by hand in a bowl). Smooth frosting over base, and refrigerate for an hour or more until set. Cut into squares and serve! You can also freeze the squares after cutting, and enjoy them out of the freezer!
Notes
Notes:
A combination of ¾ cup almonds and ½ cup cashews also works well, and I have also made these with only almonds and they still work beautifully ‐ you just need to be sure to process the almonds long enough to become fine/powdery before moving on with dates, etc.
You can substitute 1 – 1 ½ tsp of pure vanilla extract for the vanilla bean seeds.
If your dates are on the dry side, you can add 1‐2 tbsp of water to the mixture to help assist the pureeing and the mixture easily coming together.
If you process the mixture too long, the heat generated by the food processor will bring the oils out of the nuts. If this happens, the brownies won’t be ruined necessarily, but they will have an oily appearance and be oily to the touch. So, process minimally to begin, rather than over processing the nuts at the outset.
4. Homestyle Chocolate Chip Cookies Dietary: soy-free, nut-free, gluten-free option
image credit: Roger Bourland
My original version of these cookies might be my most popular cookie recipe ever. Some say it’s the best cookie recipe ever. The quintessential chocolate chip cookie, made healthier and of course, vegan. For those needing a gluten-free version, I have that version (just as delicious!) in eat, drink & be vegan.
Dreena’s Famous Homestyle Chocolate Chip Cookies
Any vegans missing that classic home-made chocolate chip cookie indulgence? Well, now you can indulge without need for the dairy, eggs, white sugar, or even refined flour if you choose. One other bonus – these are super-easy to make!
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour see note below for wheat-free version
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 cup unrefined sugar
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp blackstrap molasses
- 1- 1 1/2 tsp tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup organic neutral flavored oil a little generous 1/4 cup
- 1/3 cup non-dairy chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (176°C). In a bowl, sift in the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Add the sugar and salt, and stir until well combined. In a separate bowl, combine the maple syrup with the molasses and vanilla, then stir in the oil until well combined. Add the wet mixture to the dry, along with the chocolate chips, and stir through until just well combined (do not overmix). Place large spoonfuls of the batter on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flatten a little. Bake for 11 minutes, until just golden (if you bake for much longer, they will dry out). Let cool on the sheet for no more than 1 minute (again, to prevent drying), then transfer to a cooling rack. Makes 8-10 large cookies.
Notes
- Savvy Subs: For a wheat-free version, use spelt flour, adding an extra 1/4 cup of flour (for 1 1/4 cups total).
- Ingredients 411: If the batter is heavy and dense when mixing in the wet ingredients, add another 1-2 tsp each of maple syrup and oil and work through.
- If This Apron Could Talk: Make a really special dessert treat… ice cream cookie sandwiches! Using two cookies that have been completely cooled in the refrigerator, spread some softened non-dairy ice cream on the underside of one cookie, then place the other cookie on top. Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze until firm!
5. Chocolate Mint Melties Dietary: nut-free, soy-free
Think of these as your double-chocolate-mint-infused cousin of the Homestyle Chocolate Chip Cookies. If you enjoy that chocolate-mint combo, you just must make these!
Chocolate Mint Melties
These cookies are minty cool and magical! They have been compared to the Girl Guide Mint Cookies… so if you are longing for those non-vegan treats, be sure to try these mint melties! Image credit: alive magazine
Ingredients
- 1 – 3oz/85g bar mint dark chocolate (see note)
- 1 1/8 cups spelt flour see note
- 3 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ cup unrefined sugar
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp agave nectar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ tsp mint extract
- ¼ cup organic neutral-flavored oil a touch generous
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Break off 9 squares from chocolate bar (about 2/ 3 of bar, reserve remaining squares to top cookies) and place in mini-food processor, processing until finely chopped (or chop by hand). Transfer to a bowl and combine with dry ingredients, sifting in flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and baking soda, and stir until well combined. In a separate bowl, combine syrup, agave nectar, vanilla and mint extracts, and oil and stir until well mixed. Add wet mixture to dry, and stir until just well combined (do not overmix). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spoon batter onto baking sheet, spacing evenly. Break up or roughly chop reserved chocolate and place on top of each cookie, pressing in a little. Bake for 11 minutes (no longer, or they will dry out). Remove from oven, and let cool for 1 minute (no longer) on the sheet, then transfer to a cooling rack.
Notes
Notes:
1) Use a dark chocolate bar that is mint flavored, rather than a mint cream-filled dark chocolate bar. For this recipe, try the Endangered Species brand Dark Chocolate with Deep Forest Mint, or Cocoa Camino’s Mint Chocolate Bar (exceptionally good)!
2) If you want to use unbleached all purpose flour instead of spelt, use just 1 cup. If batter seems too dry or thick whichever flour you are using, stir in another 1–2 tsp each of oil and maple syrup.
3) For the holidays, make these cookies festive by sprinkling 1–2 tbsp crushed or chopped candy canes on cookies before baking, and lightly press in.
6. Nicer Krispie Squares Dietary: gluten-free, soy-free, oil-free
No kidding, these look and taste SO much like traditional rice krispie squares. Not just made vegan, but made withOUT vegan marshmallows or margarine. I think these are one of my most inventive cookie recipes ever, and you guys seem to love them as much as I do! There is a nut-free version in PPF, and now also updated in the original post.
7. Hello Vegan Bars Dietary: soy-free, oil-free
These vegan Christmas cookies are insanely good. They are my version of the ‘hello dolly bars’, with a cookie-like crust, caramel middle layer, and topped with chocolate chips, coconut, and chopped nuts. Sweet moreish deliciousness!
Hello Vegan Bars
This is my adaptation of the classic Hello Dolly Bars. Beyond being free of animal products and refined flours and sugars, these bars have an extra-thick caramel layer that is positively sumptuous. Instead of a graham cracker base, they have a more satisfying and toothsome oat and coconut crust. Topped with pecans, coconut, and chocolate chips, these are a little piece of cookie bar heaven!
Ingredients
Caramel Topping:
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk refrigerate can in advance if possible; using only thick cream on top
- 2 tbsp arrowroot flour
- ¾ cup unrefined sugar see note
- 1/8 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Base:
- 1 1/2 cups oat flour use certified gf oat flour for gluten-free option
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut look for unsulphured brand
- ¼ tsp rounded sea salt
- 3 tbsp brown rice syrup
- 2 tbsp organic extra-virgin coconut oil at room temperature; solid but soft for measuring
Toppings:
- 1/3 – 1/2 cup non-dairy chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup pecans broken up or roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- couple pinches sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square cake pan with parchment paper.
First, prepare the caramel topping: In a small saucepan, whisk about half of the milk with the arrowroot. Then add the remaining milk, whisking, and the remaining caramel ingredients. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, whisking frequently, until it just reaches a boil. Then remove from the heat and transfer to a bowl to let cool slightly while preparing the base. (Continue to whisk or stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on the caramel. If a skin does start to form, you can whisk it into the mixture, or if fairly thick, simply remove and discard the skin, if you prefer.)
Prepare the base: In a bowl, combine the oat flour, coconut, and salt, then add the brown rice syrup and coconut oil. Mix with your fingers to help work in the syrup and oil. Once the mixture can hold together somewhat when pressed, transfer to the prepared pan. Press evenly into the bottom of the pan. When caramel has cooled slightly (can still be warm, just not hot), pour over the base. Then layer on each of the toppings, sprinkling over the caramel, followed by sprinkling on a couple of pinches of salt. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and place the pan on a cooling rack. Let cool slightly and then refrigerate to fully cool before slicing into bars. Makes 16-20 bars.
Notes
- If This Apron Could Talk: You can chill the coconut cream if you want, though it isn’t necessary, but may help with some brands to separate the cream from the liquid. If refrigerating, after opening the can, scoop out 1 cup of the thick cream. If not refrigerating, carefully and slowly pour the cream to get your 1-cup measurement. As you pour, you will notice where the cream separates from the watery liquid, so don’t include this liquid.
- Ingredients 411: I use coconut sugar in this recipe, and it gives a beautiful caramel color to the cream. If you don’t have coconut sugar, Sucanat is a good substitute. Or, if using a light-colored un- refined sugar, add a smidgen of molasses (1⁄4 teaspoon or so, not too much as the flavor is strong) to your filling mixture while sim- mering, to help deepen the color.
8. Lemon-Kissed Blondie Bites Dietary: soy-free, oil-free, gluten-free option
When you’ve had enough of chocolate (did I just write that?) and want a sweet treat that tastes bright and vibrant and not sugary – these wee bites are just the thing! I think they are lovely for gifting too!
Lemon-Kissed Blondie Bites
A delicious tangy, lemony no-bake sweet treat!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
- 3/4 cup rolled oats use certified gluten-free for that option
- 1 cup pitted dates I use honey dates
- 1 1/2 – 2 tsp lemon zest can reserve some for coating, if using
- 1 1/2 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- seeds scraped from one vanilla bean see note; or 1/4 – 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- couple pinches sea salt
- 2 – 3 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut as desired
- Optional coating:
- Extra lemon zest about 1/2 tsp; optional
- Few teaspoons each coconut and oats
Instructions
- In a food processor, add the cashews, oats, dates, zest, lemon juice, vanilla seeds, and salt and process. At first it will appear as if nothing is happening, and the mixture is just whirring around crumbly, but soon it will start to become sticky (patience my pretties)! When you see it start to become a little sticky, add the coconut and process again. Continue to process until it forms a ball on the blade. Stop, and then remove the dough. Take small scoops of the dough (about 1 – 1 1/2 tbsp in size) and roll in your hand. Repeat until you have used all of the dough. If using coating, mix ingredients in a small bowl. Toss or roll the balls in the coating if using, and refrigerate. Eat and repeat often!
Notes
- To remove the vanilla seeds from the bean pod, slice the bean down the outer side using a sharp tip knife, to open up lengthwise. Press open the sides, and using a blunt (butter) knife, scrape out all the tiny seeds from the bean on both sides, and then add seeds to processor. The pod can be discarded or kept to infuse flavor in other dishes.
- The texture of these bites is somewhat soft, but firms with chilling. For a firmer texture, add another 2 tbsp of rolled oats. These are excellent to pack in school lunches (where nuts are permitted).
9. Raw Chai Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Dietary: soy-free, raw, oil-free, gluten-free
There are some hidden gems in LTEV, and this is one of them. I hope to eventually bring you photos of all the recipes in that book because the photo is what usually inspires us to try the recipe! My thanks to Lisa Pitman for the visual inspiration to try these yummy bars.
Raw Chai Bars
These bars couple the warm, enchanting spices of chai tea with the sweetness of a dessert bar and the healthy goodness of a raw treat!
Ingredients
Base:
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
- 1 cup pitted dates
- 1/3 cup raisins
- 3/4 cup raw pecans
- 1/4 tsp sea salt little scant
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/8 – 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
- couple pinches ground cardamom
- few pinches ground cloves about 1/16 tsp
- 3/4 tsp pure vanilla extract or 1 vanilla bean seeds scraped out
- 1 1/2 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
Frosting:
- 1/2 cup well packed raw coconut butter (not oil)
- 1/4 cup + 1 tbsp pure maple syrup or raw agave nectar
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar or freshly squeezed lemon juice
- couple pinches cinnamon
- Couple pinches sea salt
Instructions
- Line a loaf dish or similarly sized small pan with parchment paper. Place the cashews, dates, and raisins in a food processor. Pulse until the nuts and fruits are crumbly, then add the pecans and the remaining ingredients and process again, scraping down the sides of the bowl a couple of times, until the mixture has come together and becomes sticky (don’t overprocess, as pecans can make mixture too oily if overworked). Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf dish. Press the mixture firmly into the pan (using a small piece of parchment is easiest). Prepare the frosting: Combine all the ingredients in a mini food processor, or mix very well by stirring in a bowl). Smooth the frosting over the base. Refrigerate for an hour or more until set. Cut into bars or squares and serve!
10. Gingerbread Folks
Our list of vegan Christmas cookies must include gingerbread! These Gingerbread Folks from LTEV are not too spicy, and not overly fussy to make. Decorate as simply or elaborately as you like!
Gingerbread Folks
A variation on the holiday classic, these cookies have a slight chewiness and crunch, with a delicious, lightly spiced flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups + 1 tbsp sifted spelt flour see note
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 3/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 + 1/8 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- ¾ tsp ground ginger
- 1/8 tsp allspice
- 1/3 cup organic extra-virgin coconut oil at room temperature so softened, or can use organic canola oil (see note)
- 1/2 cup unrefined sugar
- 2 tbsp molasses blackstrap or regular cooking molasses
- 2 tbsp non-dairy milk see note
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
Simple Gingerbread Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar see note
- 1½ – 2 tbsp vanilla non-dairy milk ‘non-dairy nog’ is very nice here!
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and allspice. Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the coconut oil, sugar, molasses, milk, and maple syrup, beating on medium speed for several minutes until creamy, and stopping to scrape the bowl as needed. Mixing at low speed, add the dry mixture about 1⁄2 cup at a time, over about a minute or so. Continue blending until the dough comes together in one or two balls on the paddle, separating cleanly from the inside of the mixing bowl. Transfer to a clean, dry countertop. Roll out the dough to about 1⁄4 inch thick. (If you are having trouble rolling the dough—if it is sticking—sandwich the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll your pin on top of the parchment, instead of directly on the dough.) If the dough has become too pliable (this may happen if your room is slightly warm), transfer to the fridge for 10 to 15 minutes to firm slightly. Once rolled fairly evenly to 1⁄4 inch thick, use cookie cutters to cut the dough into shapes. A spatula (offset or regular) will help lift the cookies off your counter and to the prepared baking sheet. Space the cookies at least an inch or so apart. Bake for 10 to 11 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool on the pan for at least a couple of minutes. The cookies will firm more as they cool, and even more after they are chilled. Refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container. Decorate as desired, such as with the simple gingerbread icing.
To prepare the icing: In a bowl, mix the sugar with 11⁄2 tablespoons of the milk, until very smooth. Add the extra 1⁄2 tablespoon or so of milk, if needed, to thin mixture to a soft enough consistency that can be squeezed through a piping or resealable plastic bag (snip one corner if using a plastic bag). After decorating the gingerbread, allow the icing to dry on the cookies before stacking.
Notes
- Note: I use Wholesome Sweeteners Organic Powdered Sugar, which is powdered sugar made from unrefined cane sugar (rather than icing sugar that is made from white refined sugar). If you cannot find organic powdered sugar, you can easily make your own. To do so, use a blender and combine about 1¼ – 1½ cups of unrefined sugar with 1 tbsp of arrowroot powder or cornstarch. Blend on a high speed until powdery, scraping down the jug once or twice. The arrowroot or cornstarch may not be needed with a very high-powered blender such as a Vita-mix.
- If This Apron Could Talk: I like the size this batch of dough makes—enough for fifteen or more cookie cutouts. If, however, you prefer to bake in larger quantities, simply double this recipe and bake the cookies in batches. Finish cutting all of your cookies, and then refrigerate the shapes until ready to bake the next batch . . . or refrigerate the dough first and cut out only one batch’s worth at a time as they bake.
- Note: If you are refrigerating the dough for more than 30 to 40 minutes, it will need to soften briefly at room temperature to roll out, as the coconut oil hardens when cooled.
- Ingredients 411: Any nondairy milk can be used, though I like the hint of flavor a soy nog gives to the batter!
11. Vanilla Bean Almond Fudge Dietary: gluten-free, soy-free, oil-free
This recipe is now printed in PPF, so if you have it, flip to page 197. I also posted the fudge here. It’s such a treat, and must be on a list of vegan Christmas cookies (imho)!
12. Nanaimo Bars Dietary: soy-free, nut-free option, gluten-free, oil-free
Need I say more? I think the photo captures the decadence of these cookies! This recipe is one of my most pinned, so absolutely give it a try when making vegan Christmas cookies this year!
What are your favorite vegan Christmas cookies? Are you going to try any of these?
Joanne says
Thank you for sharing these recipes, they look amazing! Looking forward to making them!
Nancy says
Oh Dreena, oh Dreena, oh Dreena. After making your Protein Power Balls last week and seeing a person wrote about your Lemon-Kissed Blondie Bites, I had to try them. My husband, loves lemon. Well, they are the bestest!!
Two of our grandkids are coming this weekend and one likes chocolate (and will enjoy the Protein Power Balls) and the other will love the Lemon-Kissed Bites.
I like them both!❤️
Lucia M says
For a Christmas treat, I look forward to swapping “peppermint flavored” white chocolate chips for your wonderful chocolate chip cookies.
Lucia M says
For a Christmas treat, I look forward to swapping “peppermint flavored” white chocolate chips to make your wonderful chocolate chip cookies.
Dreena says
Love this idea, thanks Lucia!
Lisa says
Spelt is a kind of wheat. I would altogether stop saying that the cookies that use it are safe for those who need to avoid wheat.
https://www.verywellfit.com/is-spelt-really-gluten-free-562377
Dreena says
Hi Lisa, thank you for the note. Yes, spelt is a relative of wheat and not gluten-free. In my years of working with people and connecting about food sensitivities, it’s been my experience that many people can enjoy spelt products when they aren’t able to consume common wheat. Wheat is so mass-produced that it might be due to contamination, pesticides, or other complexities that affect our digestion. Perhaps that clarifies, thanks and happy 2021.
Jodi says
Canola oil??? What other neutral oil can you recommend other than Canola oil? We all know the concerns around canola oil!
Dreena says
Hi Jodi, that recipe was from one of my first books, over 10 years ago, so that reference was still in there. I always used organic canola then, however, yes there are alternatives. I don’t think I have canola in the actual recipe ingredient listing, do I? I don’t see it, just in the notes. Any organic neutral-tasting oil will be fine.
judy archer says
where is the nicer krispie recipe?
Jennifer Edmonds says
Click on PPF or original post in the last sentence about the recipe and it will take you to the recipe
Marc Rapanault says
I found a way to make the Nicer Krispie Squares even better. Add 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of chopped pecan sugar. They are amazing! Grandkid approved!
Dreena says
love that! I haven’t ever seen pecan sugar – do you have more information?
margaret says
Spelt flour is not gluten free
Dreena says
that’s right, it’s not
Julie kaufmann says
Then why use it as gf sub?
Dreena says
Hi Julie, can you identify where I have? I’ve been providing gf alternatives for many years in my books, so unless there’s a typo here it shouldn’t be listed. I have it mentioned as a wheat-free option, which it is (as it’s often easily tolerated by folks that cannot eat traditional wheat) – but I don’t offer it as a gf option.
Jed M says
For your chocolate chip cookies, it’s easy to get confused. You mention a gluten free option at the top. In a subsequent paragraph you give a link to a different cookbook with a gluten free version, then under subs you properly say “wheat free”. To avoid confusion, I suggest changing the top listing to be “wheat free” then leave the rest as is (including the link to another cookbook for the properly gluten-free option.)
jacquie says
while these all look great my favorite holiday treat by far is a fruitcake made with dried – not glaced/candied – fruit. you wouldn’t happen to have a vegan recipe for that would you? fingers crossed ….
Rita says
Even better yet is a raw nut and dried fruits with very little flour or binding agent such as arrowroot, a couple TBS of lemon juice, and a little bit of water. Chop up about two cups of raw nuts and dried fruits (include some dates or raisins) and mix in 2 TB of arrowroot and lemon juice and sprinkle with water. Use your hands to mix well and roll into a tight roll. Refrigerate for about two hours. Take out of frig and slice into two inch pieces or longer and give for gifts. It is really yummy. If you wish to add a little rum as some fruit cakes have just use the rum instead of water or in combination. After a large meal these are delightful with a good cup of vegan eggnog.
Angela says
Where can I find the ingredient list for the Crazy Brownies? I’m seeing ingredients only for the ganache.
Dreena says
Hi Angela, there are two recipe ‘boxes’ there for the crazy brownies, that’s how I needed to input the recipes. So the base is first, followed by the ganache.
Karen says
I still don’t see the ingredients for the base … just the instructions.
Dreena says
ah! Sorry about that, now edited!
Nida says
The frosted B-raw-nies are my absolute favorite! Already made the Nicer Krispie Squares and the Lemon Kissed Blondie Bites, very delicious!
Tried to make the chocolate chip cookies once, but that didn’t work out, oops 🙂 Have to try that again. And really want to try the Almond Blondies, those look yummy!
Fantastic recipes, Dreena, thanks!
Jenny says
Thank you for this blog Dreena! I made your Gingerbread People and Homestyle Chocolate Chip cookies today in preparation for the holidays this week and both were fantastic! The chocolate chip cookies remind me so much of the cookies my neighbor used to make for me while I was growing up- surely those were full of eggs and butter though! Thanks for making a great website that I visit often for inspiration!
Dreena says
So wonderful to know, Jenny! Thanks for the cheer, and enjoy the holiday season. 🙂
Tracy says
Thanks for the list, they look great. One thing, I was psyched to see a link for Gluten Free Chocolate Chip cookies, but when I went to the recipe, it is not gluten free, it has a wheat free option with spelt, but that is not gluten free, did I miss something?
Dreena says
Tracy, thanks for spotting that! I had intended to put in the link to the GF version where I wrote “I got you covered”, but forgot at the time. It’s there now! Thanks again.
The Blender Girl says
LOVE this post. YUM! I just love your recipes Dreena, and can’t wait to hop into some of these for some holiday treats. xxx
Dreena says
Thanks Tess – wishing you a lovely Christmas! xx 🙂
Nicole says
You’re amazing, Dreena! I was so impressed by reading this lovely list of cookies ideas (I still need to make some for the holidays) and then I see you mention the ebook! Wowzers. Thank you so much!
Stephanie, The Recipe Renovator says
Mmmmmm. Cookies.
Christine Magiera says
Perfect timing! I’m trying to finalize my menu and the old cookie favorites from my childhood just don’t cut it anymore. Several of them (Gingerbread Folks, Sugar Cut Outs and “Hello Vegan” Bars) have a replacement now…thanks to you. 🙂 I’m going to veganize one of my own (Mexican Wedding Cakes…ever heard of them? They are a type of shortbread cookie made into a ball rolled in powdered sugar.) I made the Mint Chocolate Melties last year and that’s now a staple for Christmas. I was looking for something fudgie (can’t wait for the vanilla fudge recipe!!) and something new! There aren’t many recipes I haven’t tried, but how could I have missed the Chai bars?! That’s going on the menu!
Thanks!! <3
Dreena says
awww, you are so kind Christine. It’s very special to know that some of my goodies are becoming holiday favorites for you. Yes, I *have* heard of Mexican Wedding Cakes – but I haven’t ever made them. (why? oh why???) I’ll have to catch up with you about those, see if you make them and how they turned out! Happy baking my dear! xo
Laurie says
Dreena, you are a cookie genius!! I just made your Coconut Pillows from your Plant Powered 15 cookbook and they are DELICIOUS!!! I love that your recipe contains no added oil. I will definitely triple the recipe next time! Thank you so much and Merry Christmas!
Dreena says
Yay! So pleased you love them Laurie! Thanks for sharing that cheer. 😀 😀
Emma says
What a great collection of recipes Dreena! Oatmeal peanut butter cookies are exactly my sort of thing 🙂
Dreena says
Thanks Emma! Those TARTS you have in your current post look amazing! Going to share those up!! xx
Johanna GGG says
these all look so delicious – I have quite a few of these recipes bookmarked and have loved the rice krispies
Dreena says
Wonderful, thanks Johanna! 🙂
Robyn B | Modern Day Missus says
Yum, those recipes look so delicious. Raw Chai Bars sound amazing!
Dreena says
Thanks Robyn, I really love those – hope you do too!
Becky S says
When I click on the snickerdoodle recipe it comes up with the chocolate chip recipe. Can you include the snickerdoodle recipe please…I would love one. Thanks so much
Dreena says
Whoops, just fixed that. Thanks for letting me know, Becky – snickerdoodle link is now there. 🙂
Alisa says
Holy scrumptiousness Dreena! I’m drooling over those br-aw-nies!! And those cream cheesy cookies. Heading to the kitchen for dessert…
Dreena says
Thanks Alisa, enjoy the goodies!
Laura Black (Plant-Based Junkies) says
You truly are my BEST FRIEND! Thank you so much for posting your top cookies for us. I cannot wait to devour these bad boys. Your recipes NEVER disappoint, and I always look forward to each new recipe of yours I try. Headed to the kitchen now, to see what I have on hand. Fingers and toes crossed I can make something SOON 🙂 May you and your family have a Merry Christmas!
Dreena says
Lol, you crack me up Laura! Happy to provide the baking inspiration. You’re very kind to say that, and I hope you find a few faves in the bunch! Merry Christmas to you too!…
Signed, your bcff 😉
Shannon @ moveeatcreate.com says
That vanilla bean almond fudge teaser is too much! Those look AMAZING. I’m looking forward to that one!
Dreena says
I know, Shannon, think I put myself on the naughty list doing that. 🙂 Thanks – you’ll be able to enjoy it very soon!
Kim @Welcoming Kitchen says
Dreena,
I love these options! We are just planning out our holiday baking, and I am definitely adding some of these to our cookie platters and gift boxes this year!. Thanks for the inspiration! xo Kim
Dreena says
Thanks Kim! I haven’t started holiday baking yet either, apart from testing out the almond fudge, and um, testing out the best chocolate to use in cookies. 😉 Thanks for the note, happy baking!
Anna {Herbivore Triathlete} says
I will take a dozen of each please!
LTEV has so many hidden gems, I love it. Just made the Sunflower BBQ Tofu again for dinner tonight (2nd time this week!) I’ve got to make those Raw Chai bars, my kids love chai!
I actually think I would personally choose the Lemon Kissed Blondie bites over chocolate. I’m weird, I know.
Dreena says
Oh thanks, Anna. I know you’ve been enjoying LTEV, I so appreciate your feedback. I’ve been eating so much dark chocolate lately, the citrus and vanilla treats are really calling my name (just the chocolate shouts so loud most days)! #shhh 😉
Hope your kiddos like the bars – that’s awesome they enjoy some spice! Enjoy!!