Cacao Nibs Recipes Cookies Vegan for Delicious Treats

If you’re searching for a deliciously crunchy, chocolatey treat that’s completely plant-based, look no further than these amazing vegan cacao nib cookies. Cacao nibs, the crushed bits of fermented and roasted cacao beans, add a rich, slightly bitter chocolate flavor with a satisfying crunch that elevates any cookie recipe.

Perfectly complementing the sweet and soft cookie base, cacao nibs bring a complexity that chocolate chips just can’t match.

Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or simply want to enjoy a healthier alternative to traditional chocolate chip cookies, these vegan cacao nib cookies are a fantastic choice. They’re easy to prepare, use wholesome ingredients, and can be enjoyed by everyone—kids and adults alike.

Plus, you’ll get the added benefits of antioxidants and minerals packed in cacao nibs. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make these scrumptious cookies that will soon become your go-to snack!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vegan cacao nib cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and slightly bitter with a delightful crunch. The cacao nibs provide a unique texture and rich chocolate flavor without the added sugar found in traditional chocolate chips.

Plus, the recipe is:

• 100% plant-based and free from dairy and eggs.
• Simple and quick to make with common pantry staples.
• Customizable: add nuts, dried fruits, or spices to suit your taste.
• Nutritious, featuring fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
• Perfect for all occasions, from lunchboxes to afternoon tea.

Once you bake these, you’ll find yourself reaching for them again and again!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup organic coconut oil, melted
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (as egg replacer)
• 1/2 cup cacao nibs
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk and spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cooling rack

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. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and maple syrup. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the vanilla extract and applesauce to the wet mixture and stir until fully incorporated. The applesauce acts as an egg substitute giving the cookies moisture and binding.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.
6. Fold in the cacao nibs and nuts (if using), distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
7. Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers still look slightly soft.
9. Remove from the oven and allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

“For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them and let them finish firming up on the baking sheet.”

• Swap the coconut oil for vegan butter for a richer flavor.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to the dough for a warm, spicy twist.
• Try mixing in dried cherries or cranberries for a tart contrast to the cacao nibs.
• For gluten-free cookies, use a certified gluten-free flour blend.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan cacao nib cookies are versatile and delicious on their own, but here are some ways to enjoy them even more:

• Pair with a warm cup of almond or oat milk latte for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Serve alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or banana slices for a balanced snack.
• Crush and sprinkle over vegan vanilla ice cream for a crunchy topping.
• Include them in a homemade gift basket with other delicious treats like Lemon Straws Recipe or Honey Raisin Challah Recipe.

More Vegan Cacao Nibs Cookie Recipes to Try

If you loved this recipe, why not try these other vegan cacao nib cookie variations? Each offers a unique twist on the classic cookie featuring cacao nibs:

Vegan Double Chocolate Cacao Nib Cookies

These cookies combine cacao nibs with vegan semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra chocolate punch. Use vegan butter and add a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dough.

Vegan Oatmeal Cacao Nib Cookies

Add rolled oats and a teaspoon of cinnamon to the base recipe for a hearty, chewy texture. Incorporate raisins or dried cranberries along with the cacao nibs.

Vegan Peanut Butter Cacao Nib Cookies

Substitute half the coconut oil with natural peanut butter and reduce the sugar slightly. The peanut butter adds a creamy richness that balances the cacao nib crunch perfectly.

Vegan Coconut Cacao Nib Cookies

Mix shredded unsweetened coconut into the dough and sprinkle some on top before baking. This variation brings a tropical flair to your cacao nib cookies.

Vegan Spiced Cacao Nib Cookies

Add ground ginger, cardamom, and a pinch of nutmeg along with the cacao nibs for a warm holiday-inspired cookie that pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea.

For more vegan baking inspiration, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or explore savory options like the Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes.

Conclusion

Vegan cacao nib cookies are a delightful treat that combines the deep, complex flavor of cacao nibs with a soft, chewy cookie base. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your taste and dietary preferences while keeping it wholesome and plant-based.

Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, these cookies offer a satisfying crunch, natural sweetness, and plenty of texture.

By using simple ingredients like coconut oil, maple syrup, and applesauce, you create a cookie that’s not only vegan but also refined sugar-conscious and full of flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment with add-ins and spices to make this recipe your own.

Happy baking!

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