Christmas Vegan Sugar Cookies

The holidays are the perfect time to gather in the kitchen and bake, and these vegan sugar cookies make that experience extra special. With their soft, chewy texture and delicate sweetness, they’re sure to become a favorite on any holiday cookie tray. These cookies are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the classic flavors of Christmas without using any animal products.

One of the best things about this recipe is how approachable it is. Even if you haven’t tried vegan baking before, you’ll find these cookies easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Using simple plant-based ingredients, you can whip up a batch of festive vegan treats in no time. They’re perfect for baking with kids, sharing with friends, or gifting to neighbors during the holiday season.

I love how versatile these cookies are. You can roll them in sugar for a sparkling finish, top them with vegan icing for a playful look, or leave them plain to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa. No matter how you choose to decorate, these cookies have a melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes them irresistible. They’re a prime example of how vegan holiday recipes can be just as indulgent and festive as traditional ones.

Beyond their taste, these cookies are a wonderful way to explore vegan Christmas treats. With each batch, you’ll see how easy vegan baking recipes can be, while still creating holiday magic in your kitchen. Whether you’re planning a big holiday spread or just a small batch for yourself, these cookies capture the joy of Christmas in every bite.

Why You’ll Love It

• Deliciously Soft and Chewy – These cookies have that perfect balance of soft and chewy, so every bite feels indulgent without being overly sweet. They’re the kind of vegan desserts that make you forget they’re plant-based!
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – Made with pantry staples, these easy vegan cookies are a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly festive and flavorful.
• Perfect for Decorating – Whether you love a classic sprinkle, colorful vegan icing, or a dusting of powdered sugar, these cookies are a blank canvas for all your creative holiday decorating ideas.
• Kid-Friendly Fun – Baking these vegan Xmas cookies is a joyful activity for the whole family. Kids will love cutting out shapes, decorating, and tasting their creations.
• Ideal for Gifting – Pack them in cute tins or wrap them up with ribbons—these vegan holiday cookies make the sweetest homemade gifts for friends, family, or coworkers.

Ingredient List

For the Cookies

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup vegan butter, softened
• ¾ cup organic cane sugar
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy)

For Decorating (Optional)

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tsp plant-based milk
• Vegan sprinkles or colored sugar

Ingredient Notes

• Vegan butter – I always use Earth Balance for this—it makes the cookies super soft and buttery without any dairy.
• Applesauce – Don’t skip it! It keeps the cookies moist and helps them hold their shape.
• Plant-based milk – Almond, oat, or soy all work beautifully; I usually stick with oat for a neutral flavor.
• Vanilla extract – A good-quality vanilla makes a noticeable difference—it really elevates these vegan Xmas cookies.
• Powdered sugar – Only if you’re decorating! A little drizzle of icing can make them extra festive and fun to gift.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients separately; I love using Pyrex glass bowls.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer – Makes creaming the vegan butter and sugar effortless.
• Measuring cups & spoons – For accurate measurements; I always keep a stainless steel set handy.
• Spatula – Great for folding in ingredients and scraping the bowl clean.
• Rolling pin – Essential if you’re cutting out shapes; a silicone one works wonderfully.
• Baking sheets – I line mine with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfectly baked bottoms.
• Cooling rack – Helps cookies cool evenly without getting soggy on the bottom.
• Cookie cutters – Optional, but makes decorating fun and festive.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients and Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
• Measure out all ingredients so everything is ready to go—it makes the process smoother and stress-free.
  Pro tip: Having your plant-based milk and applesauce at room temperature helps the dough come together more easily.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups flour, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, and ½ tsp salt.
• Make sure everything is evenly combined for consistent cookies.
  Pro tip: Use a fine-mesh sieve if you want extra light and fluffy cookies.

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Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream ¾ cup vegan butter with ¾ cup cane sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
• Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to make sure it’s fully combined.
  Pro tip: Don’t rush this step—well-creamed butter and sugar give the cookies their soft, tender texture.

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Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

• Mix in ¼ cup applesauce and 2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
• Add 2 tbsp plant-based milk and mix until fully incorporated.
  Pro tip: The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour, a teaspoon at a time.

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Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or folding with a spatula.
• Mix just until everything is incorporated—overmixing can make cookies tough.
  Pro tip: Fold gently at the end to keep the dough light and airy.

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Step 6: Shape the Cookies

• Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll into balls.
• Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
• Flatten slightly with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass.
  Pro tip: If you’re cutting shapes, roll the dough between parchment paper to prevent sticking.

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Step 7: Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
• Remove from the oven and let cookies sit on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
  Pro tip: Don’t overbake—vegan cookies continue to set as they cool.

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Step 8: Decorate (Optional)

• Whisk ½ cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tsp plant-based milk for a simple glaze.
• Drizzle over cooled cookies or dip tops into the glaze.
• Add vegan sprinkles or colored sugar while glaze is wet for festive flair.
  Pro tip: Work in small batches so the glaze doesn’t harden before you decorate.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Measure Flour Correctly – Spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Too much flour can make cookies dry.
• Keep Butter Soft – Softened vegan butter blends easier and creates a tender, chewy texture.
• Chill the Dough (Optional) – For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 15–30 minutes before baking.
• Don’t Overmix – When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to keep cookies soft.
• Watch the Bake Time – Cookies may look slightly underbaked in the center; they’ll firm up as they cool.
• Use Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Experiment with Flavors – Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or almond extract for a festive twist.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Vegan Butter Alternatives – Use coconut oil or margarine if you prefer; the texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
• Sweetener Swap – Maple syrup or coconut sugar can replace cane sugar; adjust slightly for sweetness.
• Milk Alternatives – Any plant-based milk works: almond, oat, soy, or cashew.
• Flour Variations – Whole wheat pastry flour adds a nuttier flavor; gluten-free flour blends can work too (may need slightly more liquid).
• Flavor Add-Ins – Vegan chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts make these cookies extra festive.
• Decorating Options – Use vegan-friendly frosting, royal icing, or even edible glitter for holiday flair.

Serving Suggestions

• I love serving these vegan Christmas cookies alongside a warm mug of spiced almond milk—it’s the perfect cozy treat for a winter afternoon.
• They’re fantastic on a holiday dessert platter with other vegan holiday cookies, adding variety and color to your festive spread.
• Pair them with vegan hot chocolate or coffee for an indulgent breakfast or brunch treat during the holiday season.
• These cookies also make a fun addition to a gift tin, wrapped with festive ribbon for friends, family, or neighbors.
• For a sweet snack plate, serve with fresh fruit like cranberries or sliced oranges—it balances the sweetness beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keeps them soft and chewy.
• Refrigerator: Store for up to 1 week; allow cookies to come to room temperature before serving for best texture.
• Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to refresh that just-baked softness.
• Tip: If frozen, let cookies thaw at room temperature before decorating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. You may need to add a tablespoon or two of plant-based milk if the dough feels too dry.

Can I use coconut oil instead of vegan butter?

Absolutely! Coconut oil works well and gives a slightly different texture—cookies may be a bit crispier on the edges.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container and avoid overbaking. You can also add a slice of bread to the container—it helps retain moisture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. Chilling can also make shaping easier.

How should I decorate these cookies for the holidays?

You can use a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and plant-based milk, vegan sprinkles, or even vegan-friendly icing pens for fun designs.

Can I freeze the cookies after baking?

Yes! Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a tray before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out! I’d love to hear your favorite decorating ideas or any creative twists you added to make these vegan holiday cookies your own.