While searching for something sweet to enjoy, I stumbled upon my childhood favorite—the Tagalong cookie. But instead of reaching for a box from the store, I decided to make a healthier version right at home. My Homemade Tagalongs are not only vegan and gluten-free, but they also bring a delightful twist to a nostalgic treat! With a crispy almond flour base, a creamy peanut butter filling, and a luscious dark chocolate coating, these cookies are incredibly easy to whip up and will satisfy your sweet cravings without any guilt. Perfect for sharing or indulging solo, this recipe makes it simple to enjoy a classic dessert while keeping your dietary needs in mind. Ready to bring a little homemade magic into your kitchen? Let’s dive into this deliciousness!
Why are Homemade Tagalongs the Best?
Nostalgic Flavor: These cookies capture the essence of childhood favorites, offering that classic Tagalong taste in a healthier format.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Made with wholesome, vegan ingredients, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without any of the guilt!
Simple to Make: The easy-to-follow steps mean you can whip these up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
Versatile Treat: Adapt the recipe to fit your preferences, whether you’re using different nut butters or experimenting with flavors. If you love homemade delights, you might also enjoy our Homemade Orange Candy or a sweet Homemade Jam Donut!
Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: Whether you’re serving these to friends or enjoying a solo treat, everyone will love these delicious cookies!
Storable Treat: Keep a batch in the fridge or freezer for a delightful snack whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up.
- Ingredients
• • ## Homemade Tagalongs Ingredients
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For the Cookie Base
- Almond Flour – Provides structure to the cookies while keeping them gluten-free. Substitution: Can use oat flour, but start with half the amount as it’s not a 1:1 swap.
- Maple Syrup – Adds sweetness and moisture to the cookie dough. Substitution: Agave syrup can work, but the flavor may vary slightly.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet aroma. Notes: Use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
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For the Peanut Butter Filling
- Natural Runny Peanut Butter – Acts as a creamy filling, providing richness and flavor. Substitution: Sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
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For the Chocolate Coating
- Vegan Dark Chocolate Chips – Used for coating the cookies, contributes a rich chocolate flavor. Notes: Melt with coconut oil for a smooth coating.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Tagalongs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make for easy cleanup later. Set aside your baking sheet to be ready for the cookie base once mixed.
Step 2: Mix the Cookie Dough
In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of almond flour, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Using a spatula or your hands, mix until a thick dough forms that holds together without crumbling. The texture should be slightly sticky and smooth, allowing you to shape it easily into cookies.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Take about 1.5 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball. Next, flatten each ball gently with your palm and use your knuckle to make a small indent in the center of each cookie. This den will hold the delicious peanut butter filling later, so ensure it’s deep enough without breaking through the bottom.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Place the shaped cookies on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Once baked, remove the sheet from the oven, and allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack for that perfect Homemade Tagalongs structure.
Step 5: Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling
Once the cookies have cooled, fill each cookie’s indent with a generous amount of runny natural peanut butter. The peanut butter should be smooth to ensure it spreads easily, imparting a rich flavor that complements the cookie base. Don’t be shy; this is the star of the show!
Step 6: Chill the Cookies
After adding peanut butter to each cookie, place them in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes. This chill time helps the filling firm up, ensuring it doesn’t seep out during the chocolate coating process. Keep an eye on them; they should be firm yet not frozen solid.
Step 7: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of vegan dark chocolate chips with a tablespoon of coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between until the chocolate is smoothly melted and glossy. This mixture will create a lovely coating for your Homemade Tagalongs.
Step 8: Dip the Cookies
Once the cookies are firm, dip each one carefully into the melted chocolate, ensuring they’re well-coated on all sides. Allow any excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl before placing them back onto the lined baking sheet. Work quickly to maintain the integrity of the peanut butter filling.
Step 9: Set the Chocolate Coating
After dipping all the cookies, place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 5-10 minutes to let the chocolate harden completely. You’ll know they are done when the chocolate feels firm to the touch and has a beautiful glossy finish, making your Homemade Tagalongs feel extra special.
Step 10: Enjoy Your Treats
Once the chocolate has set, your deliciously healthy Homemade Tagalongs are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them chilled for the best texture, or store them in the fridge for a delightful treat whenever the craving strikes. Happy indulging!
Homemade Tagalongs Variations & Substitutions
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen and discover how easy it is to customize these delightful cookies for your unique tastes!
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Oat Flour: Substitute almond flour with oat flour for a different texture, but start with half the amount as it absorbs more moisture.
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Agave Syrup: Swap out maple syrup for agave syrup to maintain sweetness; just remember, it may give a slightly different flavor profile.
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Sunflower Seed Butter: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter to make the recipe nut-free, perfect for those with nut allergies.
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Chocolate Variety: Experiment with semi-sweet or dairy-free milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a different, yet equally satisfying flavor.
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Jam Layer: Add a spoonful of your favorite jam on top of the peanut butter filling for an extra layer of deliciousness!
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Spices: For a twist, sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg into the cookie dough to infuse your Tagalongs with warm spice notes.
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Crunchy Texture: Fold in some crushed nuts or seeds into the dough to add an exciting crunch and enhance the flavor of your cookies.
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Coconut Flakes: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut to the cookie dough or as a topping for a touch of tropical sweetness.
No matter how you choose to customize them, these Homemade Tagalongs are sure to be a hit at home! If you’re in the mood for more homemade treats, you might also enjoy our sweet Homemade Jam Donut or some delightful Homemade Orange Candy. Enjoy the baking adventure!
What to Serve with Homemade Vegan Gluten-Free Tagalongs
These delightful cookies are perfect for creating a tempting and satisfying dessert platter that balances flavors and textures.
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Coconut Whipped Cream:
A light and airy topping that adds a tropical twist, enhancing the creamy filling of your Tagalongs. -
Fresh Berries:
Juicy strawberries or raspberries offer a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, creating a refreshing bite. -
Chilled Almond Milk:
A smooth and nutty beverage, ideal for washing down these treats while complementing their rich flavors. -
Dark Chocolate Fondue:
Dip fresh fruit or even more cookies into a warm chocolate fondue for an indulgent dessert experience that pairs beautifully with your Tagalongs. -
Nutty Granola:
Serve some crunchy granola on the side for a textural contrast, adding a healthy touch while enhancing the overall experience. -
Vanilla Ice Cream:
A scoop of creamy vegan vanilla ice cream is a delightful contrast to the cookies, making for a rich, satisfying dessert. -
Coffee or Espresso:
A bold cup of coffee balances the sweetness perfectly, elevating your dessert moment with a cozy, comforting accompaniment. -
Coconut Pudding:
This creamy and lightly sweet dish not only complements the flavors but also enhances the tropical feel of your dessert table. -
Homemade Chai Latte:
The warm spices in a chai latte harmonize with the rich chocolate and peanut butter, creating an inviting atmosphere for sharing these cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Tagalongs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie base and fill them with peanut butter up to 3 days in advance. Simply bake the cookies, let them cool, and fill each indent with peanut butter before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. For best quality, cover the cookies tightly to prevent any moisture loss. When you’re ready to enjoy your Homemade Tagalongs, melt the chocolate for dipping and coat them just before serving to maintain that irresistible crunch. This way, you’ll have delicious, handcrafted cookies ready to enjoy with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Homemade Tagalongs
Fridge: Store your Homemade Tagalongs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week to maintain their freshness and ideal texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before indulging in their deliciousness.
Wrap: If stacking the cookies, be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain that delectable chocolate coating.
Expert Tips for Homemade Tagalongs
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Runny Peanut Butter: Ensure you’re using runny peanut butter to create a creamy filling. Chunky or stiff peanut butter can make the centers hard to work with.
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Chill for Shape: After filling the cookies, pop them in the freezer for 10-15 minutes. This helps maintain their shape when dipping in chocolate, preventing any mess.
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Gentle Melting: Melt the dark chocolate gently in short increments. If you heat it too quickly, it can seize or burn, ruining your Homemade Tagalongs.
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Quick Dipping: Work efficiently when dipping your cookies to prevent the chocolate from firming up prematurely, ensuring a smooth coating on each one.
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Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different nut butters or chocolate types for a unique spin on your Homemade Tagalongs.
Homemade Vegan Gluten-Free Tagalongs Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best almond flour for the cookies?
When selecting almond flour, look for a finely ground product that’s free from dark spots or lumps. Fresh almond flour ensures a better texture and flavor, so check the expiration date. If the flour smells rancid or looks off, it’s time for a new bag!
What’s the best way to store my Homemade Tagalongs?
Store your Homemade Tagalongs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and delicious. If you prefer them chilled, pop them in the fridge right after making for the best texture. You can also keep them at room temperature for a few days, but they’ll last longer in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze my Homemade Tagalongs, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, first arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a zip-top bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge for a couple of hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too dry or crumbly?
If your dough turns out too dry, you can add a little more maple syrup, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture holds together nicely. Sometimes, the almond flour can absorb more moisture depending on its coarseness. Mixing in a teaspoon of plant-based milk can also help bind the dough.
Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
While the classic version uses peanut butter, you can easily make nut-free alternatives by swapping peanut butter for sunflower seed butter. Just ensure to check that the chocolate chips you’re using don’t have cross-contamination with nuts. Always read labels for any allergens!
How can I tell if my cookies are baked perfectly?
Good question! You’ll want to look for a light golden color on the edges. If the cookies are browning too quickly, consider lowering the oven temperature slightly. Once they’re out of the oven, they should feel firm but soft to the touch, as they will harden slightly while cooling. Enjoy your Homemade Tagalongs!
Homemade Tagalongs: Vegan & Guilt-Free Indulgence Awaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of almond flour, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until a thick dough forms.
- Take about 1.5 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten each ball gently and create a small indent in the center.
- Place the shaped cookies on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake for 20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Once cooled, fill each cookie's indent with a generous amount of natural peanut butter.
- Chill the cookies in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of vegan dark chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Microwave until melted.
- Dip each cookie into the melted chocolate, ensuring they're well-coated on all sides.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 5-10 minutes to let the chocolate harden completely.
- Once the chocolate has set, enjoy your delicious Homemade Tagalongs!
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