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Easy Dairy Free Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe (vegan)

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The best Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe – Let me tell you why you’ll absolutely love vegan chocolate chip cookies. Get ready for a mouthwatering treat that ticks all the boxes! These best vegan chocolate chip cookies are a delightful fusion of gooey chocolate goodness and wholesome, plant-based ingredients. With their easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be whipping up a batch of delicious cookies in no time. They’re perfect for those with dietary restrictions, as they are dairy-free and gluten-free, making them suitable for various lifestyles. These cookies are known for their irresistible chewiness, and you won’t even miss the eggs because they’re expertly crafted to be eggless. Indulging in these treats will bring you joy without compromising on your health, as they are made with healthier ingredients. Each bite is a burst of rich chocolate chips, ensuring a heavenly experience with every mouthful. Trust me, these homemade vegan chocolate chip cookies are the epitome of deliciousness, and once you try them, you’ll agree that they are the best!

Is there anything better than deliciously soft freshly baked chocolate chip cookies? Not really in my opinion. 
This super easy vegan chocolate chip cookies recipe is my favorite for a lot of reasons; it always turns out great, it’s so easy to make and it doesn’t require a lot of strange ingredients. Not to mention that the taste is just indescribably good.


These vegan chocolate chip cookies are a cookie lovers dream. They are the perfect cookie. Soft and chewy, rich and decadent and loaded with chocolate. Yum. They’re just like classic chocolate chip cookies which is why they are everyone’s favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe for making the best dairy free chocolate chip cookies.

In this dairy free chocolate chip cookies recipe 

What’s great about this Super easy vegan chocolate cookies recipe:

  • Super easy to make and doesn’t require strange ingredients
  • A dairy free chocolate chip cookies recipe that always turns out amazing
  • Can be pre-made, frozen as cookie dough or frozen after baking
  • Vegan and dairy free chocolate chip cookie (can be gluten free if you use gluten free flour)
  • So soft, thick and chewy

I’ve had my favorite vegetarian chocolate chip cookies recipe for years. It always turns out great and I love it. Even though I am vegetarian, I like to have at least one great vegan recipe that’s just as good. But I didn’t immediately find a vegan chocolate chip recipe that is just as good…until I made these cookies. They are so incredibly chewy, tasty and packed with chocolate, just like I like them.

Non-dairy milk for dairy-free chocolate chip cookies – the only vegan dairy free cookies recipe you will ever need

You can use your favorite type of plant milk for this recipe. I just like the amazing texture and taste that using almond milk gives to the recipe. It makes the cookies extra chewy and delicious, in my opinion. But any plant milk can be used and the results will still be amazing.

This Vegan dairy-free chocolate chip cookies is incredibly easy, perfect to satisfy your sweet tooth, and doesn’t even require flax egg to get that traditional chocolate chip cookie recipe texture. 

1. Sugar (1 cup/200 grams): Adds sweetness and helps to create a desirable texture in the cookies.

2. Dark Brown Sugar (1⅔ cups/330 grams): Provides moisture, richness, and a subtle caramel flavor to the cookies. Alternatively, you can substitute with light brown sugar or coconut sugar, if you prefer. 

3. Salt (2 teaspoons): Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

4. Refined Coconut Oil, melted (1 cup/200 grams): Acts as a vegan substitute for butter, adding moisture and richness to the cookies. Alternatively, you can sub with avocado oil or melted dairy free butter. 

5. Almond Milk (½ cup/120 ml): Provides liquid and helps bind the ingredients together, contributing to the texture of the cookies. Alternatively, you can substitute almond milk with cashew milk, or your preferred plant milk. 

6. Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Adds a warm and aromatic flavor to the cookies, enhancing their overall taste.

The essential ingredients that makes a chocolate chip cookie the best

7. All-Purpose Flour (3 cups/375 grams): Forms the structure of the cookies and provides a tender crumb texture.

8. Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies to rise and spread during baking, resulting in a soft and chewy texture.

9. Chocolate Chips (1 cup/200 grams): Adds bursts of chocolatey goodness to the cookies, creating pockets of melty sweetness throughout. Use your favorite vegan chocolate chips to make the cookies as deliciously chocolatey as you want. I like to use dark chocolate, but you can use your favorite melty chocolate chips to make the best chocolate chip cookies.

These ingredients work together to create delectable vegan chocolate chip cookies with a perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and rich chocolate flavor. Enjoy the delightful experience of baking and savoring these treats!

So how are these Super easy Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies made?

It really is super easy to make the best vegan chocolate cookies recipe:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, brown sugar, salt and coconut and whisk together.
  • Stir in the almond milk and vanilla extract and whisk until everything is combined.
  • Gently fold in the flour and baking soda and mix until combined (be careful not to overmix) Fold in the chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed.
  • Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes (can be refrigerated up to 24 hours)
  • Preheat the oven to 350 F.
  • Use an ice cream scoop or cookie scoop to scoop the cookie dough onto a baking tray lined with baking paper. Make sure to leave at least 2 inches of space between the cookies so they can spread out on the cookie sheet while baking.
  • Bake the cookies in the middle of the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are just starting to turn golden brown at the edges (don’t overbake or they won’t be soft and chewy)
  • Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking tray for 5 minutes. Gently transfer the cookies onto a cooling rack and let them cool down before eating. Enjoy.

Note: If you like a super crispy dairy free chocolate chip cookie recipe, you can simply bake the cookies for 2-3 minutes longer. That will give you a delicious lactose free vegan chocolate chip cookie with crispy edges and a perfect texture crunchy centre. Yum!

Tips and tricks for making the best soft vegan chocolate chip cookies 

Here are some tips and tricks for making the best plant-based dairy-free chocolate chip cookies:

1. Choose the right plant-based butter or oil: Use vegan butter or coconut oil as a substitute for dairy butter. Make sure the butter is solid and not melted for the right cookie texture.

2. Use dairy-free milk: Opt for unsweetened almond milk, soy milk, or any other dairy-free milk of your choice to keep the cookies free from dairy products.

3. Adjust sweetness: Dairy-free chocolate chips can vary in sweetness, so adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe according to your preference.

4. Choose high-quality chocolate chips: Look for dairy-free chocolate chips made with high cocoa content for rich and delicious flavor.

5. Chill the dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Chilling the dough helps to prevent excessive spreading and results in thicker cookies.

6. Don’t overmix: Mix the dough until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

7. Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon and level method to measure flour accurately. Too much flour can make cookies dry and crumbly.

8. Add flavorings: Enhance the taste of your cookies with a pinch of sea salt, a splash of vanilla extract, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

9. Experiment with add-ins: Customize your cookies by adding chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or dried fruits.

10. Keep an eye on baking time: Since plant-based cookies may bake differently from traditional cookies, monitor them closely during baking to avoid over or under-baking.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to create delicious plant-based dairy-free chocolate chip cookies that everyone will enjoy. Happy baking!

Looking for more delicious baking recipes?

Try my amazing Blueberry cookies or my delicious Banana Cake

Soft cookies vs hard cookies

Soft cookies and hard cookies both have their own unique appeal when it comes to chocolate chip cookies. Here’s a comparison between the two:

Soft Cookies:

– Texture: Soft cookies have a tender, chewy texture that can be delightfully moist. They offer a pleasant bite and often melt in your mouth.

Taste: Soft cookies tend to be richer in flavor, as the moistness enhances the taste of the ingredients. They can have a buttery, gooey, or melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Enjoyment: Soft cookies are generally enjoyed by those who prefer a more indulgent, comforting treat. They are perfect for those who savor a chewier texture and prefer a slightly underbaked center.

Variations: Soft cookies can be made with different variations, such as adding extra brown sugar or using a higher proportion of fats like butter or oil.

Hard Cookies:

Texture: Hard cookies have a crisp and crunchy texture. They offer a satisfying crunch when bitten into and tend to hold their shape well.

Taste: Hard cookies can have a more intense flavor, as the drier texture allows the flavors to concentrate. They can have a caramelized, toasty, or slightly crunchy taste.

Enjoyment: Hard cookies are often favored by those who enjoy a bit more texture and a longer-lasting treat. They can be dunked in milk or coffee without immediately becoming too soft.

Variations: Hard cookies can be achieved by adjusting the baking time and temperature, as well as using ingredients that promote crispness, such as a higher proportion of granulated sugar or using butter that’s colder or melted and then cooled.

Ultimately, the choice between soft and hard chocolate chip cookies depends on personal preference. Some people enjoy the softness and chewiness of a freshly baked, soft cookie, while others prefer the satisfying crunch and longer shelf life of a hard cookie. Experimenting with different recipes and baking techniques can help you find the perfect balance of texture and taste for your own chocolate chip cookie preference.

Butter substitute for cookies

There are several excellent substitutes for butter when making cookies. Here are some popular options:

1. Coconut Oil: Refined coconut oil works well as a substitute for butter in cookies. It adds moisture and richness to the dough. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, measuring the same amount of coconut oil as the butter called for in the recipe.

2. Vegan Margarine: Look for a non-dairy margarine made from plant-based oils. It provides a similar texture and flavor to butter in cookies. Again, use it in a 1:1 ratio.

3. Applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce can be used as a fat replacement in cookies. It adds moisture and can help keep the cookies soft. Substitute half the amount of butter with applesauce. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 cup of butter, use 1/2 cup of applesauce.

4. Nut Butters: Almond butter, cashew butter, or peanut butter can be used as a substitute for butter in cookies, adding a rich and nutty flavor. Use a 1:1 ratio, measuring the same amount of nut butter as the butter called for in the recipe.

Remember that each substitute may slightly alter the texture and taste of the cookies, so it’s a good idea to experiment and find the substitute that best suits your preferences.

Vegan chocolate cookies recipe troubleshooting

Can you use salted butter for cookies

Yes, you can use salted butter for cookies. Salted butter adds a subtle salty flavor to the cookies, which can enhance the overall taste and balance the sweetness. However, it’s important to note that using salted butter may alter the overall saltiness of the cookie dough, so you may need to adjust the amount of additional salt called for in the recipe. If the recipe specifies unsalted butter, you can still use salted butter, but you may want to reduce or omit any additional salt in the recipe to avoid making the cookies too salty. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the desired flavor profile of your cookies.

How to fix cookies

How to fix cookies that spread too much

If your vegan chocolate chip cookies are spreading too much while baking, there are a few things you can try to fix the issue:

1. Chill the dough: Place the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours before baking. Chilled dough tends to spread less during baking.

2. Adjust the fat content: If your cookies are spreading too much, it could be due to a higher fat content. You can try reducing the amount of melted coconut oil or using a different fat substitute with a lower melting point, such as solid coconut oil or vegan butter.

3. Increase the flour: Adding a bit more flour to the dough can help absorb excess moisture and prevent spreading. Start by adding a tablespoon or two of flour at a time until the dough becomes slightly stiffer.

4. Use a baking mat or parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper. These liners can help insulate the cookies and prevent excessive spreading.

5. Bake at a lower temperature: Lowering the oven temperature by about 25 degrees Fahrenheit (around 15 degrees Celsius) can help the cookies retain their shape and spread less.

6. Smaller cookie dough portions: Try reducing the size of each cookie dough portion before baking. Smaller portions will have less mass and are less likely to spread excessively.

Remember to test these adjustments with a small batch of cookies first to see if they yield the desired results. Baking can involve some trial and error, but with a few tweaks, you can achieve delicious vegan chocolate chip cookies with the desired texture and appearance.

How to store cookies

How long can you freeze cookies

When properly stored, chocolate chip cookies can be frozen for up to 2 to 3 months. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to freeze them:


1. Allow the cookies to cool completely: Let the freshly baked cookies cool on a wire rack until they reach room temperature.

2. Prepare the cookies for freezing: Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet or plate, making sure they are not touching each other. This prevents them from sticking together during freezing.

3. Freeze the cookies: Transfer the baking sheet or plate with the cookies to the freezer and let them freeze for about 1 to 2 hours, or until they become firm.

4. Package the frozen cookies: Once the cookies are frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. If using a bag, remove excess air and seal tightly. For added protection, you can wrap the cookies individually in plastic wrap or place parchment paper between layers.

5. Label and date the container: Write the date of freezing on the container or bag so that you can keep track of how long the cookies have been frozen.

6. Store in the freezer: Place the container or bag of cookies in the freezer, ensuring it is stored away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor transfer.

When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen chocolate chip cookies, simply take out the desired amount and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. The cookies should remain tasty and retain their texture after thawing.

Note: It’s always a good idea to check the specific storage recommendations for the recipe you used, as different cookie recipes may have slight variations in freezing and thawing times.

Storing soft cookies tips

How to store cookies to keep them soft

To store cookies and keep them soft, follow these tips:

1. Allow the cookies to cool completely: After baking, let the cookies cool on a wire rack until they reach room temperature. This helps them set and prevents moisture buildup.

2. Store in an airtight container: Transfer the cooled cookies to an airtight container, such as a cookie tin or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure the container is clean and dry before placing the cookies inside.

3. Add a slice of bread or a piece of apple: To help maintain moisture, place a slice of fresh bread or a piece of apple in the container with the cookies. The bread or apple will absorb excess moisture, keeping the cookies soft.

4. Separate layers with parchment paper: If storing multiple layers of cookies, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer. This prevents them from sticking together and helps maintain their texture.

5. Store at room temperature: Keep the container of cookies at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as the moisture can cause them to become stale faster.

6. Check and refresh periodically: Check the cookies after a day or two to ensure they are still soft. If they have become slightly dry, you can add another slice of bread or a piece of apple to restore moisture.

By following these storage tips, you can help keep your cookies soft and delicious for a longer period of time. Enjoy!

Gluten-free dairy free chocolate chip cookies

How to make chocolate chip cookies without flour

To make these chocolate chip cookies without flour, you can use one of the following gluten-free flour options as a substitute:

1. Almond Flour: Replace the 3 cups of all-purpose flour with 3 cups of almond flour. Almond flour adds a slightly nutty flavor and helps create a moist and tender texture in the cookies.

2. Oat Flour: Substitute the all-purpose flour with 3 cups of oat flour. To make oat flour, simply blend rolled oats in a food processor until they reach a fine, flour-like consistency. Oat flour adds a subtle oat flavor and results in soft and chewy cookies.

3. Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Blend: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a direct substitute for the regular all-purpose flour. Be sure to choose a reliable gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking cookies. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for measurement conversions.

When using gluten-free flour options, it’s important to note that the texture and taste of the cookies may vary slightly from the original recipe. Gluten-free flours can be less binding and may result in cookies that are slightly more delicate or crumbly. It’s also essential to check the labels of other ingredients, such as the chocolate chips, to ensure they are gluten-free if needed. Enjoy your gluten-free chocolate chip cookies!

Gifting cookies

How to ship cookies without breaking

Shipping cookies can be tricky, but with proper packaging, you can increase the chances of them arriving intact. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to ship cookies without breaking:


1. Choose sturdy cookies: Opt for cookies that are less delicate and prone to breaking, such as drop cookies, bar cookies, or sturdy cookie varieties.

2. Allow cookies to cool completely: Ensure the cookies are completely cooled before packaging them. This will help them retain their shape and reduce the risk of crumbling.

3. Select airtight packaging: Place the cookies in an airtight container or resealable plastic bags to maintain their freshness and protect them during shipping. Consider using individual plastic wrap or parchment paper to separate each cookie and prevent them from sticking together.

4. Use cushioning material: Line the shipping box with cushioning material like bubble wrap, crumpled newspaper, or packing peanuts to provide a protective layer for the cookies.

5. Layer and stack cookies carefully: Arrange the cookies in the container or box in a single layer, leaving enough space between them to prevent breakage. If you need to stack cookies, place a sheet of parchment paper or cardboard between each layer to provide support.

6. Fill empty spaces: Fill any empty spaces in the container or box with additional cushioning material to prevent the cookies from moving around during transit. This will help absorb any impact and keep the cookies secure.

Sealing and shipping cookies

Tips to ship cookies

7. Seal and secure the package: Close the container or seal the bags tightly to ensure they are airtight. Use tape or adhesive to secure the container lid or seal the bags. For added protection, you can wrap the container or bags with bubble wrap or place them in a padded shipping envelope.

8. Choose a reliable shipping method: Select a reliable shipping service that offers tracking and expedited options for faster delivery. Consider using expedited shipping during warmer months to minimize the time the cookies spend in transit.

9. Mark the package as fragile: Clearly label the package as “fragile” to alert handlers to exercise caution while handling.

10. Ship promptly: Ship the cookies as soon as possible to reduce the chances of them being exposed to extreme temperatures or excessive handling.

Remember, despite taking precautions, there is always a slight risk of cookies breaking during shipping. However, by following these steps, you can minimize the chances and increase the likelihood of your cookies arriving in good condition to their destination.

FAQs- vegan dairy free cookies

Substitute for baking soda in cookies

Baking soda is commonly used in cookies as a leavening agent to help them rise and achieve a light texture. If you don’t have baking soda on hand, there are a few alternatives you can try:

1. Baking Powder: Baking powder is a combination of baking soda and an acidic ingredient. If a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of baking soda, you can substitute it with 3 teaspoons of baking powder. Keep in mind that baking powder contains additional ingredients, so it may affect the taste and texture of the cookies slightly.

2. Club Soda or Carbonated Water: Club soda or carbonated water can be used as a substitute for baking soda in some cookie recipes. Use an equal amount of club soda as the amount of baking soda called for in the recipe.

3. Vinegar or Lemon Juice: In some cases, you can use vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute for baking soda. When combined with an acidic ingredient like buttermilk, yogurt, or sour cream in the recipe, vinegar or lemon juice can act as a leavening agent. Use 1 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice for every 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda called for in the recipe.

Keep in mind that substituting baking soda may affect the texture and taste of the cookies. It’s best to use the original ingredient if possible, but these alternatives can work in a pinch.

Chocolate chip cookie gift tips

How to pack cookies for gift

When packing cookies for a gift, it’s important to ensure they stay fresh, presentable, and well-protected. Here are some steps to pack cookies for a gift:

1. Let the cookies cool: Allow the cookies to cool completely before packaging them. This will prevent condensation and maintain their texture.

2. Select a suitable container: Choose a container that is sturdy, airtight, and appropriate for the quantity and size of the cookies. Options include cookie tins, gift boxes, or clear plastic containers.

3. Layering and separating: Place a sheet of parchment paper, wax paper, or food-safe tissue paper at the bottom of the container to create a protective layer. Then, arrange the cookies in a single layer, leaving space between them to prevent sticking or breaking. If you have different types of cookies, consider layering them with additional sheets of parchment paper or using dividers.

4. Fill empty spaces: To prevent the cookies from shifting during transportation, fill any empty spaces in the container with crumpled parchment paper, tissue paper, or even bubble wrap. This will help keep the cookies in place and maintain their shape.

5. Seal and decorate: Once the container is filled with cookies, securely seal it to maintain freshness. You can use tape, ribbons, or decorative labels to add a personal touch and make it visually appealing.

Personalizing and shipping Chocolate chip cookies as gifts

Giving chocolate chip cookies as a personal gift

6. Keep them cool: If the weather is warm or if you’re shipping the cookies, consider including a cold pack or placing the container in a larger box with insulation to keep them cool and prevent melting or spoilage.

7. Add a personal touch: Consider including a handwritten note, recipe card, or a small gift tag to personalize the gift and express your sentiments.

8. Deliver or ship promptly: If you’re hand-delivering the cookies, be cautious during transportation to prevent any damage. If you’re shipping them, use a reliable shipping service and choose expedited options to ensure the cookies arrive fresh and intact.

By following these steps, you can pack your cookies for a gift in a way that maintains their freshness, showcases their presentation, and makes them a delightful treat for the recipient.

Are you looking for more delicious vegan cakes and desserts?

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?

Please leave us a review in the comments below and let us know how it turned out 🙂

Easy Dairy Free Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe (vegan)

These vegan chocolate chip cookies are a cookie lovers dream. They are soft and chewy, rich and decadent and loaded with chocolate. Yum.
Simone – Munchyesta.com
Prep Time 10 minutes
Serving Size 20 cookies

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (200g) Sugar
  • 1⅔ cup (330g) Dark Brown Sugar
  • 2 tsp Salt
  • 1 cup (200g) Refined Coconut Oil Melted
  • ½ cup (120 ml) Almond Milk (120 ml)
  • 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 3 cups (375g) All Purpose Flour
  • 1 tsp Baking Soda
  • 1 cup (200g) Chocolate Chips

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, brown sugar, salt, and melted coconut oil.
  • Stir in the almond milk and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • Gently fold in the flour and baking soda, being careful not to overmix.
  • Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  • Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Use an ice cream scoop to portion the cookie dough onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
  • Bake the cookies in the middle of the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
  • Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking tray for 5 minutes.
  • Carefully transfer the cookies onto a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely before enjoying them.
    By following these instructions, you’ll be able to make delicious vegan chocolate chip cookies that are soft, chewy, and irresistible. Enjoy the baking process and savor the delightful results!
    Enjoy.

General cookie FAQ

Can you take cookies on a plane

Yes, you can typically take cookies on a plane as part of your carry-on or checked luggage. Cookies are generally considered non-liquid, non-gel food items, so they do not fall under the restrictions for liquids or gels in carry-on bags.


However, it’s always a good idea to check with the specific airline or transportation authority for any updated regulations or restrictions on food items. Additionally, if you’re traveling internationally, there may be restrictions on bringing certain food items into the destination country, so it’s important to be aware of those regulations as well.


When packing cookies for travel, it’s best to keep them in a sturdy, airtight container to prevent them from breaking or getting stale during the journey. Enjoy your cookies on the plane or at your destination!

Recipe originally posted October 25, 2019

Recipe updated July 30, 2023

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