Vegan Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a cozy, comforting treat that feels like a warm hug in cookie form, these Vegan Oatmeal Cookies are an absolute must-try. Soft, chewy, and packed with wholesome oats and aromatic spices, they bring a delightful balance of texture and flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you want to bake a batch to share with friends or curl up with a mug of tea, these cookies embody that perfect homemade charm without any dairy or eggs. Plus, the adorable teddy bear shapes add such a playful touch that makes baking even more fun and special. Let’s dive into the magic of making these vegan delights together!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple pantry staples that come together to create those indulgently chewy, flavorful cookies. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether it’s adding sweetness, tenderness, or that iconic oatmeal texture and warmth.

• Caster sugar: Provides a fine, balanced sweetness that blends perfectly with brown sugar.
• Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel richness to the cookies.
• Dairy-free butter: Essential for that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture without any dairy.
• Dairy-free milk: Keeps the dough moist and helps bind everything together.
• Baking powder: Gives the cookies a gentle lift for a soft bite.
• Bicarbonate of soda: Works with the acids for tender crumb and lightness.
• Plain flour: Forms the structural base without overpowering the other textures.
• Ground cinnamon: Infuses the cookies with warm, spicy notes perfect for cozy vibes.
• Whole or rolled oats: The star ingredient for chewiness and hearty flavor.
• Dairy-free dark chocolate: For decorating and adding a touch of rich indulgence to the teddy bear faces.

How to Make Vegan Oatmeal Cookies

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C fan and lining two baking trays with greaseproof paper so your cookies don’t stick. Then, beat together the caster sugar, light brown sugar, dairy-free butter, and dairy-free milk until you get a creamy, fluffy mixture. This step is where the magic starts as all those sweet and rich flavors begin to marry beautifully.

Step 2: Combining Dry Ingredients

Next, sift in the baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, plain flour, and ground cinnamon right into the creamy mixture. Folding these dry ingredients carefully ensures your cookies will have a soft yet sturdy texture. Then, gently fold in the oats—they give these cookies their chewy character, making every bite satisfying.

Step 3: Forming the Cookie Shapes

Once the dough is just right — sticky enough to hold together in a ball — divide it to create your adorable bears. Roll a larger ball for the head, two smaller balls for ears, and an even smaller one for the nose. Press these pieces together with a gentle hand to keep the shapes intact while baking. This playful step brings so much joy to the process and makes the finished cookies extra special.

Step 4: Baking the Cookies

Place your teddy bears carefully on the prepared baking trays and press them down slightly so they hold their shape. Bake them in the center rack of your oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges turn a beautiful golden brown. After taking them out, let them cool fully on the tray—the cookies start soft but will firm up perfectly while cooling, delivering that classic chewy texture you crave.

Step 5: Decorating with Chocolate

While the cookies cool, melt your dairy-free dark chocolate using a bain-marie or microwave, stirring gently for a smooth finish. Transfer this melted chocolate into a piping bag and carefully add eyes and a nose to each bear cookie. You can chill them briefly to set the chocolate, turning your Vegan Oatmeal Cookies into cute, irresistible treats perfect for sharing or gifting.

How to Serve Vegan Oatmeal Cookies

Garnishes

Enhance your Vegan Oatmeal Cookies by sprinkling a little cinnamon or a tiny dusting of powdered sugar for added warmth and sweetness. A few toasted oat flakes on top before baking make them look rustic and inviting.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a creamy vegan vanilla ice cream or a warm mug of almond or oat milk chai latte. The spiced undertones in the cookies complement cozy drinks and creamy sides beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange them on a whimsical wooden platter surrounded by fresh fruit slices or edible flowers for a charming presentation. Wrapping a couple in parchment and tying with a ribbon makes for the sweetest homemade gift that anyone would adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Vegan Oatmeal Cookies in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps them fresh for up to 5 days. Before enjoying, just let them come to room temperature to bring back that perfect chewy softness.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies either before or after baking. Freeze the dough balls on a tray and then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Or freeze fully baked cookies in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge to enjoy them fresh.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-baked feel, warm your cookies in a preheated oven at 160°C for 5 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds. This softens them right up, making every bite taste like they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free oats or flour?

Absolutely! Using gluten-free oats and flour will still yield delicious Vegan Oatmeal Cookies; just make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

What can I substitute for dairy-free butter?

You can swap dairy-free butter for coconut oil or another vegan spread. Keep in mind that coconut oil might add a slight coconut flavor.

Are these cookies suitable for kids?

Definitely! These cookies are soft, mildly sweet, and made with wholesome ingredients, making them a perfect treat for kids and adults alike.

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Yes! Chopped nuts or raisins can add great texture and flavor. Just fold them in along with the oats before shaping your cookies.

How should I adjust baking time for bigger or smaller cookies?

If you make larger cookies, increase baking time by 2-3 minutes and keep an eye on them. Smaller cookies will need slightly less time, so check early to avoid over-baking.

Final Thoughts

Baking these Vegan Oatmeal Cookies feels like crafting little bites of happiness that warm both the heart and the home. The blend of chewy oats, fragrant cinnamon, and playful teddy bear shapes creates a joyful baking experience you’ll treasure. Whether it’s your first time trying vegan baking or you’re a seasoned pro, these cookies are the perfect recipe to share love and sweetness with everyone around you. I can’t wait for you to make them your own and enjoy every delightful bite!