Step 1

In a small bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients and set aside.

Step 2

In a large bowl, vigorously whip the butter with the back of your fork until fluffy (2 minutes). Add the applesauce and sugar and fluff until well-combined (another minute). Add the flax "egg" and vanilla and whisk until blended in.

Step 3

Add the dry ingredients slowly into the wet ingredients as you constantly stir it in until you create a nice cookie dough.

Step 4

Divide the dough into 3 smooth balls and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.

Step 5

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 6

Between 2 more pieces of parchment paper, roll one ball of dough out to 1/4" thickness. Using mini animal cookie cutters, cut out your cookies. If you'd like to make them a little more realistic, simply use a toothpick to create an eye for each animal.

Step 7

Place on the baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, just until the edges begin to lightly brown.

Step 8

Allow to cool on a wire rack and devour.