Vegetarian Sugar Cookie Recipe for Soft, Delicious Treats

There’s something truly magical about biting into a perfectly baked sugar cookie. Soft on the inside with a slight crisp on the edges, these treats bring back warm memories of childhood, holidays, and cozy afternoons.

But what if you’re looking for a delicious sugar cookie recipe that’s completely vegetarian? Whether you follow a vegetarian lifestyle or just want to try a delightful twist on a classic, this vegetarian sugar cookie recipe is here to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on taste or texture.

This recipe uses wholesome ingredients and simple swaps to keep everything plant-based while maintaining that perfect buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. From the subtle vanilla aroma to the delicate sugar sprinkle on top, every bite promises pure comfort.

Plus, these cookies are easy enough for beginners and fun to decorate for any occasion. So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s dive into making some irresistibly delicious vegetarian sugar cookies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian sugar cookie recipe is a true crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s made without any animal-derived ingredients like eggs or dairy, making it suitable for vegetarians and even many vegans depending on your ingredient choices.

The texture is soft yet holds its shape beautifully, perfect for cutting out fun shapes or simply enjoying as round cookies.

Additionally, the recipe uses simple pantry staples that you likely already have on hand, making it convenient and budget-friendly. It’s also highly customizable — from adding colorful sprinkles to experimenting with natural flavor extracts, you can make these cookies uniquely your own.

Lastly, they bake quickly and store well, so you can enjoy fresh cookies for days or share them with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened (use plant-based butter for vegan option)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce (egg substitute)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, or your choice)
• Optional: colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Wire cooling rack
• Cookie cutters (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and powdered sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the applesauce and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and continue mixing until well combined. This substitutes for eggs and adds moisture.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in batches, mixing on low speed. Pour in the plant-based milk as needed to help bring the dough together. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
6. Divide the dough into two equal parts. If you want to chill the dough for easier rolling, wrap each half in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes. This step helps prevent spreading during baking.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut shapes or simply slice into rounds with a knife.
8. Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheet spacing them about 2 inches apart. If desired, sprinkle colored sugar or sprinkles on top.
9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.
10. Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
11. Repeat with the remaining dough. Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Tips & Variations

“For perfectly soft and chewy sugar cookies every time, don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour. Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.”

• For a vegan version, make sure your butter and milk substitutes are fully plant-based.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced twist.
• Try lemon or almond extract in place of vanilla for a different but delicious flavor profile.
• Decorate with natural food colorings or homemade icing for festive occasions.
• If you prefer crispier cookies, roll the dough thinner and bake a minute or two longer.
• Use gluten-free flour blends to adapt the recipe for gluten sensitivity.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegetarian sugar cookies are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of treats and drinks. Serve them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.

They also make a delightful dessert option after family dinners or holiday meals.

For a fun twist, sandwich two cookies together with your favorite jam or plant-based frosting. They also make great gifts—package them in decorative tins or boxes to share with friends and neighbors.

Kids will love decorating these cookies with icing and sprinkles, making them perfect for birthday parties or festive celebrations.

Looking for more delicious vegetarian recipes to complement your baking? Check out Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet treat or explore hearty options like Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

For soft, homemade breads to enjoy with your cookies, try the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Conclusion

Creating delicious vegetarian sugar cookies is easier than you might think, and with this recipe, you get all the classic flavors and textures without any animal products. These cookies offer a soft, buttery bite that’s perfect for every occasion — from casual snacking to festive celebrations.

Their simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make them accessible for bakers of all skill levels.

By incorporating plant-based substitutes like applesauce and vegan butter, this recipe proves that you can enjoy traditional treats while adhering to a vegetarian lifestyle. Plus, the customization options allow you to experiment with flavors and decorations to suit your personal taste and creativity.

So go ahead, bake a batch, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of homemade vegetarian sugar cookies!

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