These Vegan Oatmeal Cream Pies are a delightful plant-based twist on the classic treat. Soft and chewy oatmeal cookies are sandwiched together with a luscious vegan vanilla buttercream, offering a nostalgic dessert that’s both dairy-free and egg-free.
FULL RECIPE:
Ingredients
For the Oatmeal Cookies:
- 1 cup vegan butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water)
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups quick oats
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free baking flour)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Vanilla Cream Filling:
- 1/2 cup vegan butter, softened
- 2–6 tablespoons non-dairy milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2–3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
Directions
Preparing the Oatmeal Cookies:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, prepare the flax egg by combining ground flaxseed and water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 2–3 minutes.
- Add the flax egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the quick oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each dough ball slightly with your fingers.
- Bake for 13–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Vanilla Cream Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened vegan butter until creamy.
- Add the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Mix on low speed, gradually adding non-dairy milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired creamy consistency is achieved.
- Continue to beat the mixture on high speed for an additional 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Assembling the Cream Pies:
- Once the cookies have completely cooled, pair them based on similar sizes.
- Spread or pipe a generous amount of the vanilla cream filling onto the flat side of one cookie.
- Place the matching cookie on top, pressing gently to create a sandwich.
- Repeat with the remaining cookies and filling.
- Enjoy immediately, or store in an airtight container.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 495 per serving
- Total Fat: 24g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 65g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 39g
- Protein: 5g
What Makes Vegan Oatmeal Cream Pies Special?
Vegan oatmeal cream pies are a plant-based twist on the nostalgic snack cakes many people grew up loving. These soft, chewy oatmeal cookies are sandwiched together with a luscious dairy-free cream filling, creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Unlike store-bought versions loaded with preservatives and animal-based ingredients, homemade vegan oatmeal cream pies use wholesome, natural components that make them not only delicious but also a better choice for your body and the planet. One of the key features of these cookies is their soft and slightly chewy consistency, achieved through a combination of plant-based butter, dairy-free milk, and natural sweeteners.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Vegan Oatmeal Cream Pies
The success of vegan oatmeal cream pies lies in selecting the right plant-based ingredients. Some crucial components include:
- Rolled Oats – They provide the characteristic texture and chewiness while adding fiber and nutrients.
- Dairy-Free Butter – Helps achieve a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture while enhancing the overall richness.
- Flax Egg – A blend of ground flaxseeds and water that acts as a binder, replacing traditional eggs in baking.
- Coconut Sugar or Maple Syrup – Natural sweeteners that lend a deep caramel-like flavor while keeping the cookies refined sugar-free.
- Spices – Cinnamon and a touch of nutmeg add warmth and enhance the overall taste.
- Vegan Cream Filling – Typically made from a combination of dairy-free butter, coconut cream, or soaked cashews for a rich and smooth texture.
Texture and Flavor Profile
Vegan oatmeal cream pies strike a delightful balance between soft, chewy cookies and a silky, creamy filling. The cookies themselves are slightly crisp around the edges but remain tender and moist inside, making them ideal for sandwiching the luscious filling. The combination of oats, brown sugar alternatives, and warm spices gives them a comforting and nostalgic taste, reminiscent of homemade treats from childhood.
Health Benefits of Vegan Oatmeal Cream Pies
While these cookies are undoubtedly a treat, their plant-based ingredients provide several health benefits:
- High in Fiber – Thanks to oats and flaxseeds, these cookies support digestion and keep you fuller for longer.
- Dairy-Free and Egg-Free – Ideal for those with lactose intolerance, dairy allergies, or those following a vegan lifestyle.
- Less Processed Sugar – Using coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of refined white sugar makes these cookies a more natural option.
- Heart-Healthy Fats – Nuts, coconut cream, and dairy-free butter provide good fats that support overall well-being.
Storage and Shelf Life
To keep your vegan oatmeal cream pies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. The cookies can also be frozen—simply wrap each assembled cookie in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container before freezing. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
Ways to Customize Vegan Oatmeal Cream Pies
One of the best things about homemade oatmeal cream pies is their versatility. Here are some ways to personalize the recipe:
- Add Chocolate Chips – For a hint of chocolatey goodness, mix in dairy-free chocolate chips into the cookie dough.
- Nutty Crunch – Chopped walnuts or pecans can enhance the texture and add a delightful crunch.
- Spiced Version – Elevate the flavor by adding more spices such as ginger or cardamom.
- Filling Variations – Try peanut butter, almond butter, or even a fruit-flavored vegan cream filling for a unique twist.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies accessible to those with gluten sensitivities.
Pairing Suggestions
These cookies pair well with a variety of beverages and snacks:
- Almond or Oat Milk – A classic pairing that enhances the creamy and comforting elements of the cookies.
- Chai Tea or Coffee – The warm spices in the cookies complement the robust flavors of tea or coffee.
- Vegan Ice Cream – Sandwich a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon-spiced vegan ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert.
Conclusion
Vegan oatmeal cream pies are the perfect combination of nostalgic comfort and modern plant-based baking. They offer a soft, chewy texture with a rich and creamy filling, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. With wholesome ingredients, customizable variations, and plenty of health benefits, these cookies prove that indulgence and nutrition can go hand in hand.