Nothing says holiday season quite like the warm, spicy aroma of gingerbread cookies.
If you’re looking for a festive treat that everyone can enjoy, these gluten-free gingerbread cookies are the perfect choice.
Soft, flavorful, and easy to decorate, they make a delightful addition to any holiday cookie platter.
Why Choose Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies?
Gluten-free baking has become increasingly popular, and for good reason. This gingerbread cookie recipe offers:
Gluten-Free Comfort – Perfect for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Delicious Flavor – Rich molasses, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness.
Versatility – Great for decorating with icing, sprinkles, or simply enjoying plain.
Family-Friendly – Kids love rolling out the dough and cutting festive shapes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For approximately 24 cookies:
-
2 ÂĽ cups (280g) gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
-
1 teaspoon baking soda
-
2 teaspoons ground ginger
-
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
-
½ teaspoon ground cloves
-
ÂĽ teaspoon ground nutmeg
-
ÂĽ teaspoon salt
-
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
-
½ cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
-
1 large egg
-
â…“ cup (120ml) molasses
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional decorations: royal icing, powdered sugar, or gluten-free sprinkles.
Step-by-Step Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking soda, spices, and salt. Set aside. This ensures even distribution of the warm spices.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until a smooth, soft dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to make rolling easier.
Step 4: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 5: Roll Out and Cut Shapes
Lightly flour your work surface with gluten-free flour. Roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes – gingerbread men, stars, or holiday motifs.
Step 6: Bake
Place the cookies 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers remain soft. Avoid overbaking for tender cookies.
Step 7: Cool and Decorate
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once completely cool, decorate with royal icing, sprinkles, or dust with powdered sugar.
Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies
Use a good gluten-free flour blend – Look for one that includes xanthan gum or guar gum to help with structure.
Chill the dough – Helps prevent spreading and makes rolling easier.
Don’t overbake – Gluten-free cookies can become dry if baked too long.
Spice it up – Adjust ginger, cinnamon, or cloves to suit your taste preferences.
Fun Variations
-
Mini Cookies: Make small bite-sized cookies for easy snacking.
-
Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half the cookie in melted dark chocolate for an extra indulgence.
-
Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange zest for a fresh holiday flavor.
These gluten-free gingerbread cookies are soft, flavorful, and perfect for holiday baking.
With their warm spices, rich molasses, and festive shapes, they are sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
Whether decorated elaborately or left simple, they make a charming and delicious addition to your holiday celebrations.
