20 Easy Gluten-Free Christmas Cookie Recipes for the Holidays

The holiday season is here, bringing joy and baking. But, finding gluten-free Christmas cookies can be hard for some.

Did you know over 3 million in the U.S. have celiac disease? They must eat only gluten-free. This makes celiac-friendly recipes very popular.

Our guide shows you 20 tasty gluten-free Christmas cookie recipes. They’re easy to make and perfect for holidays. These festive gluten-free desserts are great for all bakers.

Key Takeaways

• Discover 20 delicious gluten-free Christmas cookie recipes.
• Learn tips for successful gluten-free baking.
• Explore classic and international gluten-free cookie specialties.
• Find recipes suitable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Create memorable holiday treats for everyone to enjoy.

The Magic of Holiday Baking Without Gluten

Holiday baking is special because it brings people together. It’s a time for warmth and joy. But for those with gluten issues, it can be hard.

Old gluten-free baking was tough. It made treats that were dense and tasteless. These were far from the yummy cookies and cakes of holidays.

But now, gluten-free baking is different. New flours and ways to bake make delicious and beautiful gluten-free holiday cookies. You can use almond flour, coconut flour, and more.

This change lets everyone join in holiday baking. It’s not just about food. It’s about being part of family traditions and making new memories.

The emotional and cultural significance of holiday baking is huge. Being able to bake gluten-free makes people feel connected. It brings joy to the holiday spirit.

Gluten-free baking is also about being creative. Many gluten-free recipes are now favorites. They mix old traditions with new ideas. This makes gluten-free baking special and fun for all.

Essential Tips for Gluten-Free Cookie Success

Gluten-free cookie baking needs the right flour blend and binding agents. Gluten-free baking is tricky because gluten is missing. It’s a protein that makes traditional baked goods elastic. But, knowing how ingredients work together can help make tasty gluten-free cookies.

Choosing the right flour blend is key. Gluten-free flours do different things, like adding structure or protein. A good mix can make your cookies just right.

Best Gluten-Free Flour Blends for Cookies

Making the perfect gluten-free flour blend for cookies is about mixing different flours. A basic mix might have rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour. Rice flour gives structure, while potato starch and tapioca flour improve texture and color.

• 2 cups of rice flour
• 1/2 cup of potato starch
• 1/4 cup of tapioca flour

You can tweak this mix for your cookie recipe. Sometimes, adding almond flour can add flavor and moisture.

Binding Agents and Texture Enhancers

Binding agents are key in gluten-free baking. Xanthan gum and psyllium husk are often used. Xanthan gum improves texture, and psyllium husk adds fiber and chewiness. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum for every cup of flour.

Ingredients like flaxseed can replace eggs and help mix things together. Texture enhancers like tapioca starch and potato starch are also important. They make cookies tender and prevent them from being too dense or crumbly. Try different amounts to get the texture you want, like crisp or chewy.

20 Easy Gluten-Free Christmas Cookie Recipes for the Holidays

Get ready to indulge in the festive spirit with our curated collection of 20 easy gluten-free Christmas cookie recipes.

This diverse collection includes traditional favorites, chocolate variations, nutty options, fruit-forward cookies, and international specialties. There’s something for every taste and dietary need.

Our gluten-free Christmas cookie collection is designed to be easy to make and enjoyable for everyone.

• Traditional favorites with a gluten-free twist
• Decadent chocolate variations
• Nutty and fruit-forward options
• International cookie specialties
• Quick and simple recipes for last-minute baking

Each recipe has been carefully tested to ensure gluten-free success. We considered texture, flavor, and appearance to match or exceed gluten-containing counterparts.

Our holiday baking recipes are organized by category. This makes it easy to find the perfect easy celiac-safe cookies for your needs.

Classic Holiday Favorites

Baking holiday cookies without gluten is easy. You can still make your favorite treats. These recipes are gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy the holiday magic.

Decorated Gluten-Free Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies are a holiday must. To make them gluten-free, pick the right flour. It should have structure without gluten.

Ingredients

• 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Chill dough for 30 minutes.
6. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into shapes.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Decorating Tips

For decorating, use royal icing made with gluten-free powdered sugar. You can also use melted chocolate or colored sugar.

Chewy Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are a holiday favorite. To make them chewy without gluten, use the right mix of molasses and brown sugar.

Ingredients

• 2 cups gluten-free flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 large eggs

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients.
3. Cream butter and sugars until fluffy. Beat in molasses and eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Chill dough for 1 hour.
6. Scoop dough into balls and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Spice Variations

Try different spice blends for a unique gingerbread flavor. Nutmeg or cardamom can add a special touch.

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Shortbread Cookies

Shortbread cookies are buttery and crumbly. Use a good gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet.
2. Cream butter and sugar until light.
3. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Press dough into a pan and cut into shapes.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.

Storage Tips

Keep shortbread in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Cinnamon-Sugar Snickerdoodles

Snickerdoodles are loved for their cinnamon-sugar coating. To make them gluten-free, choose the right flour blend and texture.

Ingredients

• 2 cups gluten-free flour
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients.
3. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Mix in cinnamon.
5. Scoop dough into balls, roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture, and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Texture Tips

For the best snickerdoodle texture, don’t overbake. They should be soft in the center.

Chocolate Delights

The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in chocolatey treats. We’ve got four fantastic gluten-free cookie recipes to share. These chocolate delights are sure to become new holiday favorites, offering something for every chocolate lover.

Double Chocolate Peppermint Drops

Indulge in the refreshing taste of peppermint paired with rich double chocolate in these delightful cookies. Perfect for the holiday season, they are made with carefully selected gluten-free flours that enhance the chocolate flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Crushed peppermint candies for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Flavor Variations

Try substituting peppermint extract with orange or espresso for a different twist on these chocolate cookies.

Fudgy Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Achieve the perfect crackled appearance and a brownie-like interior with these fudgy chocolate crinkle cookies. Made with gluten-free ingredients, they’re a chocolate lover’s dream.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar for rolling

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. Mix sugar and melted butter until well combined. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll dough into balls, then roll in powdered sugar to coat. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Baking Tips

To achieve the perfect crinkle, make sure the dough is not overmixed, and the cookies are not overbaked.

No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

For those looking for a quick and easy gluten-free cookie solution, no-bake chocolate oatmeal cookies are the answer. Made with certified gluten-free oats, they’re perfect for the holiday season.

Ingredients

• 2 cups certified gluten-free oats
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, cocoa powder, and salt.
2. In a saucepan, combine butter, sugar, and milk. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Drop by spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined surface. Refrigerate until set.

Setting Tips

For the best results, ensure the cookies are set in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies with Caramel Filling

These chocolate thumbprint cookies are filled with a delicious caramel filling, making them a perfect treat for the holiday season. The gluten-free dough is structured to hold the filling perfectly.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Caramel filling (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. Cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll dough into balls and create a thumbprint in the center of each. Fill with caramel.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set.

Filling Variations

Try using different fillings such as ganache, fruit preserves, or nut butters for a unique twist.

Nutty Holiday Treats

We’re diving into gluten-free holiday baking with nuts. Nuts add flavor and texture to our Christmas cookies. They’re key in many gluten-free recipes.

Almond Flour Snowball Cookies

Almond flour snowball cookies are a classic holiday treat. They’re gluten-free and have a tender texture.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups almond flour (fine grind)
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and granulated sugar in a bowl.
3. Add softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in chopped nuts.
5. Form dough into small balls and bake for 18-20 minutes.

Coating Tips

To get the perfect powdered sugar coating, roll warm cookies in confectioners’ sugar right after baking. Let them cool on the baking sheet. Then, roll them in confectioners’ sugar again for extra snowiness.

Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Blossoms

Peanut butter blossoms are a holiday favorite that can be made gluten-free. Peanut butter’s high protein helps without gluten.

Ingredients

• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Gradually add gluten-free flour and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll dough into balls and bake for 10-12 minutes.
5. Immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.

Chocolate Selection Tips

Choose Hershey’s Kisses that are gluten-free for peanut butter blossoms. Most milk chocolate and some dark chocolate are gluten-free. Always check the label.

Light and Airy Hazelnut Meringue Cookies

Hazelnut meringue cookies are gluten-free and use egg whites for structure. They’re light and perfect for the holidays.

Ingredients

• 3 large egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted and ground
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Beat egg whites, granulated sugar, cream of tartar, and salt until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in ground hazelnuts.
4. Pipe or spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until dry and crisp.

Humidity Considerations

Humidity affects meringue cookies. On humid days, bake them a bit longer. Store them in an airtight container to keep them crisp.

Fruity and Festive Options

Fruity flavors in gluten-free cookies brighten up the holiday cookie tray. They offer a nice contrast to rich, spiced treats. Seasonal fruits add natural sweetness and improve texture and freshness. Let’s explore three fruit-forward cookie recipes for the holiday season.

Tangy Cranberry Orange Cookies

Cranberries and orange zest make these cookies taste great. The trick is to use the right amount of cranberries in your dough.

Ingredients

• 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 2 tablespoons orange juice

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix dry ingredients, including gluten-free flour and sugar.
3. Add dried cranberries, orange zest, and orange juice to the dry mix.
4. Form into balls and bake for 12-15 minutes.

Zesting Tips

To get the most orange flavor, use a microplane grater. Don’t zest too deep into the white pith.

Lemon Snowdrop Cookies

Lemon Snowdrop Cookies are light and perfect for the holidays. High-quality lemon zest and juice are key for a strong lemon flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix gluten-free flour, confectioners’ sugar, and softened butter.
3. Add lemon zest and juice to the mixture.
4. Form into balls and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Citrus Variations

Try using lime, grapefruit, or bergamot zest and juice for different tastes.

Spiced Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

Apples make these oatmeal cookies moist and flavorful. To avoid soggy cookies, prepare the apples right.

Ingredients

• 1 cup gluten-free oats
• 1/2 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup diced apple
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix gluten-free oats, flour, and spices.
3. Add diced apple to the dry mix.
4. Form into balls and bake for 12-15 minutes.

Apple Selection Tips

Use firm apples like Granny Smith for less moisture. Avoid soft apples.

Fruit in gluten-free cookie recipes brings variety and flavor to the holiday season. Cranberries, lemon, and apples add natural sweetness and moisture. Your cookies will be delicious and festive.

International Holiday Cookies

As the holiday season comes, try making cookies from around the world. Many countries have special holiday cookies that are gluten-free. Making these cookies can be fun and rewarding.

Italian Almond Amaretti Cookies

Italian Almond Amaretti Cookies are a classic treat that doesn’t have gluten. They use almond flour and egg whites for their chewy-crisp texture.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large egg whites
• 1 tsp almond extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff and glossy.
3. Fold in almond flour and almond extract.
4. Spoon mixture into a piping bag and pipe onto prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.

Texture Tips

To get the right texture, bake for 15 minutes for chewy cookies or 20 minutes for crisp cookies.

German Vanillekipferl (Vanilla Crescents)

German Vanillekipferl, or Vanilla Crescents, are a traditional German cookie. They can be made gluten-free by using a special flour blend.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free flour blend
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Cream butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add gluten-free flour blend and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Chill dough for 30 minutes.
4. Shape into crescents and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 18-20 minutes.

Shaping Techniques

To shape Vanillekipferl, roll dough into a rope, then curve into a crescent shape. Press edges gently to seal.

Swedish Pepparkakor Spice Cookies

Swedish Pepparkakor Spice Cookies are a traditional Swedish treat. They are thin, crisp, and flavored with cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.

Ingredients

• 2 cups gluten-free flour blend
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 cup molasses

Instructions

1. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add gluten-free flour blend, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out dough thinly and cut into desired shapes.
4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes or until crisp.

Spice Blend Tips

For a more authentic flavor, use a blend of spices that includes cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Adjust to taste.

French Holiday Macarons

French Holiday Macarons are a delicate and sophisticated cookie. They are naturally gluten-free, using almond flour and meringue for their texture.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 3 large egg whites
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Instructions

1. Sift almond flour and confectioners’ sugar into a bowl.
2. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar.
3. Fold egg mixture into almond flour mixture.
4. Pipe onto parchment-lined baking sheet and tap to remove air bubbles.
5. Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Troubleshooting Tips

To avoid common issues like hollow shells or cracked tops, ensure that egg whites are at room temperature. Also, don’t over-mix the batter.

Quick and Simple Options

During the holiday season, time is precious. Simple yet delicious gluten-free cookie recipes save the day. They’re great for those in a hurry or new to baking. Let’s look at two easy recipes that taste amazing without the hassle.

3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

These cookies are a breeze to make. With just three ingredients – peanut butter, sugar, and eggs – you can whip up tasty cookies that are gluten-free.

Ingredients

• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, as preferred)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 large egg

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the peanut butter, sugar, and egg in a bowl until smooth.
3. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Flatten the dough balls with a fork.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.

Texture Tips

For softer cookies, bake for 8-10 minutes. For crisper cookies, bake for 12-14 minutes. Adding a pinch of salt can also boost the flavor.

5-Minute Microwave Fudge Cookies

Need something quick? These no-bake cookies are ready in just 5 minutes in the microwave.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats

Instructions

1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and milk.
2. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until smooth.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and oats.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined surface.

Cooling Tips

Let the cookies cool completely on the parchment paper. This helps them set right. You can speed up cooling by putting them in the fridge for a few minutes.

These quick and simple gluten-free cookie recipes are perfect for the holiday season. They’re easy to make, delicious, and can be customized with your favorite mix-ins.

Storing and Gifting Your Gluten-Free Holiday Cookies

Baking gluten-free holiday cookies is fun. But knowing how to store and gift them is key. This keeps them fresh and safe for everyone.

Best Practices for Freshness

Store your cookies in airtight containers. You can keep them at room temperature or in the freezer. Cookies with lots of fat, like shortbread, need special care.

Labeling and dating your containers helps keep track of freshness. When freezing, use freezer-safe bags or containers. Separate layers with parchment paper to stop cookies from sticking.

Creative Packaging Ideas

When you gift cookies, clear labeling is important. Use eco-friendly packaging like recycled paper or biodegradable containers. Add ribbons or gift tags for a personal touch.

Make your cookies look good. Use cellophane bags or cookie tins to keep them fresh while traveling.

Sharing gluten-free cookies is special. But remember, preventing cross-contamination is crucial. Follow these tips to share your treats safely with loved ones.

Conclusion

Gluten-free holiday baking is more than just a dietary need. It’s a way to share love and tradition with others. The 20 easy gluten-free Christmas cookie recipes in this article are delicious and include everyone.

By making celiac-friendly desserts, you make sure everyone can join in the fun. Whether it’s a classic favorite or something new, gluten-free baking shows you care. It’s a way to make sure everyone feels included.

Try new things and make your favorite cookies gluten-free. With the tips here, you can start new traditions that everyone can enjoy. It’s fun and safe for all.

Sharing homemade treats is a special holiday tradition. Gluten-free baking keeps this tradition alive. It brings people together, including those with dietary needs.