Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

These soft vegan chocolate chip cookies are everything you want in a classic chocolate chip cookie—golden around the edges, soft and chewy in the center, and loaded with melty chocolate chips. They’re completely dairy-free and egg-free, making them an easy crowd-pleaser for vegans and non-vegans alike. With back to school next week, we love having the perfect chocolate chip cookie recipe on hand for a special after school treat. These chocolate chip cookies are also an easy and delightful addition to any holiday dessert table, backyard BBQ, or casual gathering.

Makes: About 18–20 cookies | Prep Time: 15 minutes + chilling |Bake Time: 10–12 minutes

Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients

• ½ cup vegan butter, softened

• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup vegan chocolate chips or chocolate chunks

Chocolate Chip Cookies Instructions

1. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened vegan butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.

2. Add the wet ingredients: Mix in the applesauce and vanilla until well combined.

3. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.

4. Make the dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix. Fold in the vegan chocolate chips.

5. Chill the dough: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much and keeps the centers soft.

6. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

7. Scoop: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough into balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.

8. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look slightly soft. Don't overbake—the cookies will continue to set as they cool.

9. Cool: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Tips for Extra-Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Slightly underbaking is the secret to a soft center.

• Don't skip the cornstarch—it helps create that tender, bakery-style texture.

• For picture-perfect cookies, press a few extra chocolate chips into the tops immediately after baking.

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.