Just a decade ago, baking gluten-free treats was a daunting task. The options were limited to either relying heavily on nuts or tolerating an unpleasant grainy texture in the mouth. Thankfully, advances in gluten-free flours have revolutionized the way we bake, and it’s now possible to create delicious cookies that rival their traditional counterparts.
Of course, ground almonds are still a popular choice for those adhering to low-carb diets, but with the vast array of gluten-free flour options available, individuals with allergies or intolerances can now enjoy an impressive selection of treats. Each of these 23 mouthwatering recipes has been carefully crafted to cater to diverse dietary needs and preferences, offering something for everyone.
The Best Gluten Free Cookie Recipes You’ll Ever Taste
The Best Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
Validating the classic gluten-free chocolate chip cookie recipe, one must start with a fundamental truth: if you can’t make a decent version of this staple, what’s the purpose of even attempting? As I mentioned before, gluten-free baked goods have traditionally presented a challenge, often resulting in an unappealing gritty and dry texture.
This is largely due to the inherent characteristics of gluten-free flours, which frequently include rice flour as a primary ingredient – the very same ingredient responsible for that unwanted grittiness. To combat this issue, it’s essential to incorporate additional moisture and starch, such as cornflour, to maintain a tender cookie. Alternatively, selecting a gluten-free flour blend that eschews rice flour altogether can be a viable solution.
Returning to our recipe, these cookies have achieved the perfect balance of moisture to flour through a simple adjustment: adding an extra splash of milk to the dough. But what truly sets them apart is the use of brown butter for an added depth of flavor.
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Join the ranks of bakers who swear that adding pumpkin to their cookie dough yields an unbeatable level of moisture. After all, ’tis the season for pumpkin-themed treats! Pumpkin cookies have a well-deserved reputation for being irresistibly soft and tender, and these recipes are no exception – plus they’re egg-free for those with dietary restrictions. Just combine gluten-free flour, packed brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large mixing bowl until everything is evenly blended.
Next, stir in coconut oil, pumpkin purée, and vanilla extract to give the cookies their signature flavor. Finally, add dark chocolate chips to balance out the spices and portion out the dough before baking to perfection.
Gluten Free Brown Sugar Cookies
Cookies are renowned for their chewy texture, and it’s all thanks to the use of brown sugar in the recipe. Unlike white sugar, which is extremely dry, brown sugar contains more moisture due to its molasses content, making the dough slightly stickier as a result. This recipe is actually a straightforward adaptation of a boxed mix from King Arthur Gluten Free Cookie Mix, so you’ll need to start by acquiring this particular product.
When preparing the mix, be sure to gently incorporate the butter, eggs, and water into the mixture, taking care not to overmix. Feel free to keep things simple or add your own creative twists with chopped nuts or chocolate chips for an added layer of complexity.
Easy Gluten-Free Drop Sugar Cookie Recipe
Everyone’s love for sugar cookies is undeniable, but the time-consuming process of rolling and cutting each batch can be a major deterrent. Fortunately, this simple drop recipe provides an excellent alternative. The key difference in this recipe is that it uses slightly less flour than traditional sugar cookie recipes, resulting in a dough that’s wetter and more prone to spreading in the oven, much like chocolate chip cookies do when they’re baked.
Unlike traditional sugar cookies, which have a firm dough that requires rolling out and cutting into shapes, these drop cookies don’t spread as much during baking. This is intentional, allowing for a slightly thicker consistency that makes them perfect for decorating. While it’s still possible to decorate these cookies, the lack of a perfectly flat surface means you’ll need to get creative with your designs.
The Best Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies
Personally, I believe that peanut butter cookies should possess a delicate balance of textures – a firm yet slightly crisp exterior giving way to a wonderfully chewy interior. These exceptional treats certainly live up to expectations. Notably, the recipe and method employed for these cookies are identical to those used for traditional peanut butter cookies. Additionally, if desired, you can still use the classic criss-cross pattern on top with a fork.
That being said, it’s also worth noting that these cookies could be made using almond butter as an alternative, provided you’re dealing with an allergy. Just remember to thoroughly mix any excess oil before substituting it into the recipe.
Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Essentially, the idea that gluten-free recipes are inherently healthy is a misconception. Most gluten-free baked goods rely on sugar, chocolate, or other sweeteners for flavor, making them just as calorie-dense as traditional treats. In fact, substituting healthier ingredients like eggs with bananas or sugar with sweeteners won’t necessarily make them any better for you.
If I’m being honest, if I wanted a healthy snack, I’d likely reach for fresh fruit rather than indulging in a cookie – no matter how it’s made. However, that’s not what I’m after here; I want something rich and decadent, minus the gluten. These indulgent chocolate and peanut butter cookies fit the bill perfectly, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal time to prepare.
Thick and Chewy Classic Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies
When following a gluten-free diet, it’s essential to be aware of certain nuances, especially when it comes to oats. While oats themselves don’t contain gluten, they are often processed in large factories alongside flour and other grains that do contain gluten. This can lead to cross-contamination and make the oats unsuitable for individuals with severe gluten allergies.
To avoid this issue, look for gluten-free oats that have been processed in dedicated facilities and are free from any potential allergens. However, it’s worth noting that even if you find gluten-free oats, they may not be suitable for those with Celiac disease. This is because oats contain a protein called avenin, which is similar to gluten and can cause issues for people with this condition. Once you’ve sourced the right type of oats, the recipe itself is straightforward.
You’ll need white sugar for sweetness and brown sugar for its rich flavor and chewy texture. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding chocolate chips, raisins, or a combination of both – the possibilities are endless!
The Best Gluten-Free Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
When working with recipes that call for gluten-free flours, making substitutions is often necessary to achieve the desired outcome. In this case, almond flour takes center stage instead of traditional gluten-free flour, offering a delightful twist on flavor and texture. Not only does almond flour lend a subtle sweetness to the dough, but it also contributes significantly to retaining moisture within the baked goods.
For those new to baking with coconut oil, don’t be alarmed – it can be used just like butter in most recipes. Simply combine the coconut oil with sugars in a mixing bowl and beat with a paddle until light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency.
Gluten-Free Snickerdoodles
Historically, Snickerdoodles are often misunderstood as being just sugar cookies coated with cinnamon, but they have a unique flavor profile that sets them apart from other sweet treats. This tangy taste comes from the presence of cream of tartar, an acidic ingredient that also contributes to their chewiness.
To achieve the perfect Snickerdoodle with a crispy spiced coating and incredibly fluffy middle, one must first prepare the dough, then portion it out before tossing the unbaked cookies in cinnamon sugar. Next, chill the cookies again to allow some of the coating to seep into the dough, followed by another toss in cinnamon sugar and finally baking them to perfection.
Easy Gluten-Free Lemon Cookies
Yesterday, bakers often encountered difficulties when attempting to create gluten-free cookies that melt in your mouth. However, by incorporating sufficient starch into the recipe, you can achieve a cookie that’s not only gluten-free but also incredibly tender. One key component of this process is ensuring that the dough has enough starch to support its texture. This particular recipe leverages powdered sugar, which provides a smooth consistency on its own due to its fine grain.
Furthermore, confectioner’s sugar commonly contains cornstarch as an anti-clumping agent. Building upon this foundation, the additional cornstarch in the dough takes these cookies to a whole new level of tenderness.
Bakery-Style Flourless Fudge Cookies
Generally speaking, these fudge cookies are incredibly decadent due to their rich texture. It’s not uncommon for those familiar with brownie-making to notice that they don’t rely heavily on flour, which contributes significantly to their chewy consistency. Given this understanding, it’s no surprise that these gluten-free fudge cookies have omitted flour altogether, achieving an even more indulgent and fudgy experience.
Furthermore, the combination of cocoa powder and foamy egg whites ensures a delightful crinkled top with a subtle crispiness.
Gluten-Free Chocolate Chunk Toffee Cookies
Essentially, making brown butter at home requires minimal effort and can be achieved with just a few simple steps. Don’t let unfamiliarity with this ingredient discourage you – it’s surprisingly easy to create in your own kitchen. Simply heat butter in a pan over low heat, being mindful of the time it takes for the process to unfold.
As the butter reaches its optimal temperature, you’ll notice it transform into a foamy consistency and witness the milk solids begin to separate and develop a rich, golden-brown hue. After allowing the brown butter to cool slightly, take note of the distinct nutty and caramel flavors that emerge as a result of this transformation.
Once cooled completely, you can utilize this homemade brown butter just like regular butter in your favorite recipes – perfect for crafting an array of deliciously flavored cookies.
Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies
Delighting in the joy of children’s imagination, making a big batch of dough and letting them cut out shapes with freedom is one of my favorite activities to share with kids. It’s not just about the creative process, but also the opportunity for kids to get messy and have fun with colorful icing. If you’re hosting a holiday party, setting up a gingerbread decorating station can be a fantastic way to keep kids entertained and engaged.
Moreover, it’s a thoughtful gesture that shows you’ve made an effort to include all your guests, including those who require gluten-free options.
Gluten-Free White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies Recipe
Sweet treats often rely on classic combinations of flavors to elevate their taste and texture. The pairing of white chocolate and macadamia nuts is a prime example of this. While both ingredients share some similarities – they’re both creamy, after all – they also have distinct characteristics that make them perfect for each other. White chocolate is sweet and indulgent, while the macadamia nuts bring a rich, buttery flavor to the table.
When it comes to baking cookies with this combination, using melted butter is key to achieving a chewy texture with a crisp edge. However, if you want an even richer flavor, consider using only egg yolks instead of whole eggs. The extra fat and moisture from the egg yolks will take your cookies to the next level. In terms of texture, it’s crucial to measure ingredients accurately to avoid any mistakes that could ruin the entire batch.
When measuring flour, use a spoon to scoop it into the measuring cups in a gentle, layered motion. This will prevent packing down the flour and ensuring you get the right amount. Finish off by leveling the flour with a flat knife or spatula for perfect consistency.
Gluten-Free Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cookies
Differentiating between various brands of gluten-free flour is crucial when attempting to replicate a recipe. It’s worth noting that many recipes suggest using a specific brand due to the unique characteristics it provides. However, this doesn’t mean that other brands can’t be used as substitutes, provided they have the same ingredients.
For instance, if a recipe specifies Cup4Cup gluten-free flour, you should be aware that it already contains cornstarch, which may alter the final product if added again. This means you’ll need to use Pillsbury’s alternative and include xanthan gum for optimal results. Conversely, if your existing gluten-free flour blend includes xanthan gum, you can safely omit any additional amounts to avoid overpowering the recipe.
Gluten-Free Carrot Cake Cookies
Sometimes, when baking gluten-free treats, it’s understandable to worry about their texture turning out dry. One potential solution is to disguise any imperfections with a generous helping of frosting, similar to how we often compensate for dry cakes or cupcakes by topping them with a rich layer of creamy frosting.
Gluten-free Double Chocolate Chip Cookies
Zestfully combining traditional fudge cookies with modern gluten-free flour, these treats strike a perfect balance between cakiness and chewiness. Unlike their flourless counterparts, which boast an intensely dense texture, these use gluten-free flour to provide stability without sacrificing flavor. Still, they retain that signature tenderness and chewiness. To achieve this delightful texture, it’s essential to mix the melted butter with cocoa powder, just as you would when making brownies.
This crucial step activates the cocoa and amplifies the chocolatey flavor. Additionally, an extra egg yolk is incorporated into the mixture, further enriching the cookies’ moisture content.
Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Blossoms
Pleasingly sweet and tender, peanut butter blossoms are bite-sized cookies that feature a Hershey’s Kiss nestled comfortably in their center. These delightful treats offer a perfect balance of flavors, with a subtle peanut butter taste giving way to a rich and satisfying chocolate note from the Kiss. A favorite among cookie enthusiasts for their ease of customization, peanut butter blossoms can be easily modified to suit various tastes by using different flavored Kisses.
For instance, caramel Kisses add a deep and velvety texture, while white chocolate provides a creamy contrast. To ensure that these cookies retain their shape and don’t spread too much during baking, it’s essential to chill the dough beforehand. Once baked, allow them to cool for just a moment before placing a Hershey’s Kiss on top of each cookie – this will cause the chocolate to melt slightly, creating a lovely bond between the two ingredients.
Gluten-Free Pizzelle Recipe: Thin and Crisp Pizzelles
For those who want to create beautifully decorated holiday treats, there’s a special kitchen tool that makes the process much easier: a pizzelle maker. This device may seem like a luxury item, but it’s absolutely worth the investment, especially during the holiday season when baking and decorating is at its peak. Fortunately, you can find high-quality pizzelle makers on Amazon, which ensures that your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
This recipe incorporates traditional flavors, including star anise, to give your baked goods a distinctive festive taste.
Gluten Free “Nilla Wafers”
Beyond the realm of sweet treats, Magnolia Bakery’s Banana Pudding is a culinary masterpiece that has captured the hearts of many. Its rich and velvety texture, combined with its luscious sweetness, makes it nearly impossible to resist. The key to recreating this delightful dessert at home lies in its simplicity, relying on just two essential ingredients: Nilla Wafers and box vanilla instant pudding mix.
What’s more, for those who follow a gluten-free diet, the availability of gluten-free Nilla Wafers ensures that everyone can indulge in this creamy banana pudding delight without any dietary restrictions.
Gluten-Free Samoas Cookie
Understanding the components of Samoas cookies is key to recreating this classic treat at home. A buttery shortbread base, a chewy caramel and coconut topping, and a rich dark chocolate coating are the essential elements that come together to create these beloved cookies. Fortunately, the caramel and chocolate toppings are naturally gluten-free, which means we can focus on adapting the cookie base to suit dietary needs.
Utilizing almond flour and arrowroot powder makes it easy to produce a light and tender base that complements the other ingredients perfectly. While traditional Samoas donuts are shaped as rings, I often prefer to make them as flat discs. This method yields more treats and reduces fussiness in the baking process.
Gluten-Free Snowball Cookies
Generally speaking, these cookies are known for their simplicity and rich flavor profile. Mexican wedding cookies, or Russian tea cakes, are typically made with a shortbread-like dough that’s loaded with chopped nuts, so adding more is unlikely to alter the overall taste. The recipe uses gluten-free flour, specifically a combination of rice flour and xanthan gum, which helps maintain texture without introducing a grainy mouthfeel.
This makes it easier for individuals with dietary restrictions to enjoy. Moreover, the absence of eggs in the dough means that vegan alternatives can be seamlessly incorporated using dairy-free butter.
Gluten-Free Triple Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Generally, when it comes to indulgent treats like these thick chocolate cookies, the combination of dark chocolate chunks and peppermint extract is already quite decadent. But what really sets them apart is the creamy white chocolate coating that not only adds texture but also balances out the bold flavors. This sweet and refreshing contrast allows me to indulge in more than one (or two!) without feeling overwhelmed.
For a variation, consider using vanilla almond bark as an alternative, but for a truly nut-free option, make sure to use high-quality white chocolate.
23 Best Gluten-Free Cookies
You’ll be amazed by how delicious these gluten-free cookies can be. Made with a variety of flavors such as chocolate chip, sugar, and oatmeal, you can indulge in your favorite treats without worrying about the gluten content.
Instructions
Very often, people underestimate the simplicity of baking gluten-free treats. When you’re short on time, it’s easy to get caught up in complicated recipes and elaborate ingredient lists. However, with a little planning and preparation, you can whip up a delicious gluten-free cookie in under 30 minutes.
