If you’re looking for the best gluten-free sugar cookie recipe, you’ve come to the right place! These cookies are soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet, all while being completely gluten-free and plant-based. Whether you need a delicious treat for the holidays, birthdays, or just because, this recipe is sure to become your go-to.
Unlike many gluten-free cookie recipes that turn out dry or crumbly, these gluten-free sugar cookies have the perfect texture—crispy on the edges and soft in the center. Plus, they’re made with simple, wholesome ingredients like gluten-free flour, plant-based butter, and a natural egg replacer, making them 100% dairy-free, egg-free, and vegan.
In this post, I’ll guide you through how to make the perfect gluten-free sugar cookie dough, baking tips for the best results, and even some fun decorating ideas. Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to gluten-free baking, this easy recipe will help you create irresistible, bakery-style sugar cookies that everyone will love. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Sugar Cookie Recipe
Finding the perfect gluten-free sugar cookie recipe can be challenging, but this one checks all the boxes! These cookies are soft, chewy, easy to make, and completely plant-based, making them a great choice for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just craving a sweet treat, these cookies will not disappoint. Here’s why you’ll love them:
Soft and Chewy Texture – No Dry or Crumbly Cookies!
One of the biggest struggles with gluten-free baking is achieving the perfect texture—many cookies turn out too dry, crumbly, or dense. This gluten-free sugar cookie recipe is different! The secret? A carefully balanced combination of gluten-free flour, plant-based butter, and the right egg replacer to keep the cookies soft in the center with just the right amount of chewiness. Plus, they hold their shape beautifully, so they’re perfect for cutting into fun designs and decorating!
Easy to Make – Simple Ingredients, No Chilling Required
Unlike many sugar cookie recipes that require long chilling times, this gluten-free sugar cookie recipe is designed to be quick and easy. With just a handful of plant-based, gluten-free ingredients, you can have these cookies ready in no time. There’s no need to wait for the dough to firm up—simply mix, roll, cut, and bake. That means less time waiting and more time enjoying delicious cookies!
Plant-Based & Allergen-Friendly – Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, and No Refined Sugar Options
This gluten-free sugar cookie recipe is completely dairy-free and egg-free, making it a great option for those with allergies or dietary restrictions. Instead of traditional butter, we use plant-based butter or coconut oil, and instead of eggs, we use flax eggs or applesauce to keep the cookies perfectly moist. Plus, if you prefer a refined sugar-free option, you can swap out regular sugar for coconut sugar or maple syrup for a naturally sweet alternative!
Perfect for Any Occasion – Holidays, Birthdays, or Everyday Treats
Whether you’re making Christmas cookies, Valentine’s treats, or a simple afternoon snack, this gluten-free sugar cookie recipe is perfect for any event. These cookies are sturdy enough for decorating, making them a fantastic choice for festive occasions. Add some vegan icing, sprinkles, or a dusting of coconut sugar, and you’ll have picture-perfect cookies that taste as good as they look.
No matter when or why you bake them, these gluten-free sugar cookies will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions!
If you’re looking for another easy and fluffy homemade treat, try this hotcake mix recipe for a delicious breakfast option.
Key Ingredients for the Best Gluten-Free Sugar Cookies
The secret to a perfect gluten-free sugar cookie recipe lies in choosing the right ingredients. Since traditional sugar cookies rely on wheat flour, butter, and eggs for structure and texture, we’ll be using plant-based, gluten-free alternatives that deliver the same delicious taste and soft, chewy texture—without the allergens. Below are the key ingredients that make these cookies absolutely irresistible:
Gluten-Free Flour Blend – The Best Options for Perfect Cookies
A high-quality gluten-free flour blend is essential for getting the right cookie texture. Not all gluten-free flours work the same way, so using a well-balanced mix ensures the dough holds together without being too dry or crumbly. Here are some of the best options:
- Almond Flour – Adds a slightly nutty flavor and richness, making the cookies soft and chewy.
- Oat Flour – Naturally sweet and light, oat flour helps create a tender texture. Be sure to use certified gluten-free oats if you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
- Rice Flour – A popular gluten-free staple that provides structure and a neutral taste. Combining it with other flours prevents grittiness.
- All-Purpose Gluten-Free Flour Blend – For convenience, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that already contains a mix of starches and gums to mimic traditional flour.
For the best results, use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend to ensure a soft and chewy texture.
Plant-Based Butter or Coconut Oil – Keeps Cookies Rich and Soft
Since we’re making a dairy-free and vegan gluten-free sugar cookie recipe, regular butter is replaced with plant-based alternatives that provide richness and moisture. Here are the best options:
- Vegan Butter – The closest substitute for traditional butter, providing the same creamy texture and mild flavor.
- Coconut Oil – Works well for a naturally dairy-free option, adding a subtle sweetness. Be sure to use refined coconut oil if you want a neutral flavor.
These fat sources help create a smooth dough, prevent dryness, and keep the cookies soft even after baking.
Natural Sweeteners – Healthier Alternatives to Refined Sugar
While traditional sugar cookies use white sugar, this gluten-free sugar cookie recipe can easily be made with natural sweeteners for a healthier twist. Here are some great options:
- Coconut Sugar – A low-glycemic alternative with a caramel-like flavor that pairs well with vanilla.
- Maple Syrup – Adds natural sweetness and a hint of warm, rich flavor.
- Monk Fruit Sweetener – A zero-calorie option that keeps the cookies sweet without spiking blood sugar.
If you prefer the classic sugar cookie texture, you can still use organic cane sugar while keeping the recipe gluten-free and plant-based.
Egg Replacer – Binding Without Eggs
Eggs are traditionally used in sugar cookie dough for structure and moisture, but since this is an egg-free gluten-free sugar cookie recipe, we’ll use plant-based egg replacers instead:
- Flax Egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) – Creates a slightly chewy texture while binding the dough.
- Chia Egg (1 tbsp chia seeds + 3 tbsp water) – Works similarly to flax eggs, adding moisture and stability.
- Unsweetened Applesauce (¼ cup per egg) – A great option for extra softness and a hint of natural sweetness.
Each of these substitutes helps hold the dough together without eggs, ensuring your cookies bake up beautifully.
Dairy-Free Milk – Adds Moisture and Softness
A small amount of dairy-free milk helps bring the cookie dough together and keeps the cookies from becoming too dry. The best choices include:
- Almond Milk – A neutral-flavored, light option that blends well.
- Oat Milk – Slightly thicker with a natural sweetness, perfect for enhancing cookie flavor.
- Soy Milk – A protein-rich option that helps with structure.
Adding just a little bit of dairy-free milk ensures the dough is pliable, easy to roll, and bakes into soft, chewy sugar cookies every time.
By carefully selecting these gluten-free, plant-based ingredients, you’ll create a delicious, foolproof gluten-free sugar cookie recipe that’s just as good—if not better—than the classic version. Now that you know the key ingredients, let’s move on to the step-by-step process to bring these cookies to life!
For a richer flavor, you can use almond flour as a gluten-free alternative, which also works well in other baked goods like this Quaker oatmeal cookie recipe—another great plant-based option for cookie lovers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Gluten-Free Sugar Cookies
Making the perfect gluten-free sugar cookie recipe is easier than you think! By following these simple steps, you’ll have soft, chewy, and delicious cookies that are completely gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special occasion, or just because, this step-by-step guide will ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time.
1. Mix Dry Ingredients – Creating the Perfect Base
To start, you’ll need to mix the dry ingredients. This step is crucial because it ensures that the gluten-free flour and leavening agents are evenly distributed, which helps create light and tender cookies.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Gluten-free flour blend – A mix of almond, oat, or rice flour works best.
- Baking powder – Helps the cookies rise slightly for a soft texture.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
By pre-mixing the dry ingredients, you eliminate the risk of uneven baking, which can sometimes happen with gluten-free sugar cookie recipes.
2. Prepare Wet Ingredients – Creaming for a Smooth Texture
Next, it’s time to cream the plant-based butter and sugar, which creates a smooth, airy base for the cookie dough. This step helps incorporate air into the mixture, making the cookies lighter and softer.
- In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat together:
- Plant-based butter or coconut oil – Keeps cookies rich and moist.
- Organic cane sugar or coconut sugar – Adds sweetness and structure.
Once the mixture is light and fluffy, add the egg replacer, which binds the dough without the need for eggs. Popular options include:
- Flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, left to thicken for 5 minutes)
- Chia egg (1 tbsp chia seeds + 3 tbsp water, left to gel)
- Unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup per egg replacement)
Mix until everything is well combined and smooth, ensuring the wet ingredients blend seamlessly with the dry ones.
3. Combine and Form Dough – Rolling for Perfect Cookies
Now, it’s time to bring everything together!
- Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
- If the dough feels too dry, add a splash of dairy-free milk (almond, oat, or soy) to help bind everything together.
- If the dough is too sticky, let it rest in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to firm up.
Once the dough is ready, roll it out on a lightly floured surface (using gluten-free flour) to about ¼ inch thick. This thickness ensures the cookies bake evenly while staying soft in the center.
A set of cookie cutters makes it easy to create fun shapes for any occasion.
4. Cut and Bake – Achieving the Perfect Golden Cookies
This is the fun part!
- Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Classic circles, stars, or festive holiday designs all work beautifully.
- Carefully transfer the cookies onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie to allow for slight spreading.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooling is essential for gluten-free sugar cookies, as it helps them firm up while keeping the inside soft and chewy.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have a perfectly baked gluten-free sugar cookie recipe that’s soft, chewy, and delicious every time. Now that your cookies are ready, it’s time to decorate them with vegan icing, sprinkles, or a dusting of coconut sugar!
If you love baking but want to try something unique, check out this easy brookie recipe, which combines brownies and cookies into one irresistible dessert!
Tips for the Perfect Gluten-Free Sugar Cookies
Making the perfect gluten-free sugar cookie recipe is all about using the right techniques and ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to gluten-free baking, these expert tips will help you achieve soft, chewy, and beautifully shaped sugar cookies every time. Follow these simple tricks to ensure your cookies turn out just right!
1. Best Flour Blends – Achieve the Perfect Texture
The type of gluten-free flour you use can make or break your gluten-free sugar cookie recipe. Since gluten-free flours don’t contain the elasticity of wheat flour, using the right blend ensures the cookies hold their shape while staying soft and tender.
For the best results, try using:
- A mix of almond flour and oat flour – Almond flour adds richness and a slightly nutty flavor, while oat flour keeps the cookies light and chewy.
- A high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend – These blends often contain xanthan gum or guar gum, which helps mimic the structure of traditional flour.
- Avoid single flours like coconut flour or just rice flour – Coconut flour absorbs too much moisture, making cookies dry, while rice flour alone can result in a gritty texture.
2. Chill the Dough (Optional) – Prevent Sticky Dough
One of the most common challenges with gluten-free sugar cookie dough is that it can sometimes be stickier than traditional dough due to the absence of gluten.
- If your dough feels too soft or sticky to roll out easily, chill it in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before rolling.
- Chilling helps the butter or coconut oil firm up, making the dough easier to handle and preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- If you’re short on time, you can also lightly dust your rolling surface with gluten-free flour instead of chilling.
While chilling isn’t always necessary, it can make rolling and cutting out shapes much easier—especially in warm or humid environments.
3. Rolling Tips – Keep Dough from Sticking
Rolling out gluten-free cookie dough can sometimes be tricky since it lacks the natural elasticity of wheat-based dough. To ensure smooth rolling and easy cutting:
- Use parchment paper – Roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking, instead of using extra flour, which can dry out the dough.
- Roll the dough to about ¼ inch thick – This keeps the cookies from being too thin and brittle while ensuring they bake evenly.
- Use a lightly floured rolling pin – If the dough is still sticky, dust your rolling pin with a small amount of gluten-free flour to prevent sticking.
By following these tips, you’ll get perfectly shaped, smooth cookies without any frustration.
4. Decorating Ideas – Make Them Beautiful & Delicious
Once your gluten-free sugar cookies are baked and cooled, it’s time to decorate! Whether you like classic frosting, festive sprinkles, or a simple dusting of sugar, there are plenty of plant-based decorating options:
- Vegan Icing – Mix powdered sugar, almond milk, and vanilla extract for an easy homemade glaze. You can also add natural food coloring for a fun touch!
- Sprinkles & Toppings – Use dairy-free, gluten-free sprinkles, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts for extra texture.
- Coconut Sugar Dusting – If you prefer a simple, refined sugar-free option, lightly dust the cookies with coconut sugar or cinnamon for a warm, sweet flavor.
- Melted Dairy-Free Chocolate – Dip half of each cookie into melted vegan chocolate for a decadent finish.
No matter how you decorate them, these cookies will be as beautiful as they are delicious!
By following these tips, your gluten-free sugar cookie recipe will turn out perfectly every time—soft, chewy, and ready for decorating. Now, grab your favorite cookie cutters and let’s start baking!
Once your cookies are baked, decorating them is the fun part! Pair them with a creamy and indulgent treat like this classic crème brûlée recipe for a show-stopping dessert table.
Storing and Freezing Your Gluten-Free Cookies
Once you’ve baked a delicious batch of your gluten-free sugar cookie recipe, you’ll want to store them properly to maintain their soft texture and fresh flavor. Whether you’re making them ahead of time for a special occasion or saving extras for later, here’s how to store and freeze your gluten-free cookies to keep them at their best.
1. Storage – Keep Cookies Fresh for Days
To enjoy your gluten-free sugar cookies at their freshest, proper storage is key. Since gluten-free baked goods can dry out faster than traditional cookies, keeping them in an airtight container helps maintain their soft, chewy texture.
- Room Temperature Storage: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Adding a small piece of bread to the container can help keep the cookies moist.
- Refrigeration (Optional): If your kitchen is warm, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week, but be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving to restore their soft texture.
- Keep Away from Air & Moisture: Avoid leaving cookies out uncovered, as they can become stale or crumbly much faster than traditional cookies.
2. Freezing Dough – Prep Ahead for Fresh Cookies Anytime
If you want fresh gluten-free sugar cookies without the hassle of making the dough from scratch every time, freezing the dough is a great option! Here’s how to do it:
- Shape the dough into a log – This makes it easy to slice and bake whenever you want a fresh batch.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap – Make sure there are no air pockets to prevent freezer burn.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container – Label with the date so you know how long it’s been stored.
- Freeze for up to 3 months – When ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before rolling and cutting.
This method is perfect for quick and easy cookie baking, especially during the holidays or busy weeks when you need a last-minute treat!
3. Freezing Baked Cookies – Save Extras for Later
If you have leftover gluten-free sugar cookies, don’t let them go to waste! Freezing baked cookies allows you to enjoy them later without sacrificing texture or flavor.
- Let the cookies cool completely before freezing—this prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
- Place in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour (this prevents them from sticking together).
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and label with the date.
- Freeze for up to 3 months – When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes or warm them in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes.
Freezing your cookies is a great way to always have a sweet treat on hand, whether for guests, celebrations, or a quick snack!
With these storage and freezing tips, your gluten-free sugar cookie recipe will stay fresh, soft, and delicious for days or even months! Now, you can enjoy these plant-based, gluten-free cookies anytime without worrying about them drying out or going stale.
If you love meal prepping and making snacks ahead of time, you might also enjoy this chex mix recipe, a crunchy and savory snack that stores well for quick, on-the-go treats.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for the best gluten-free sugar cookie recipe, this one checks all the boxes! These cookies are soft, chewy, easy to make, and completely plant-based, making them a perfect treat for anyone following a gluten-free, dairy-free, or egg-free diet. With a simple ingredient list and no complicated steps, you can whip up a batch in no time—no chilling required!
What makes these cookies truly special?
- Perfect Texture – No dry or crumbly cookies here! They’re soft in the center with lightly crisp edges, just like a classic sugar cookie.
- Allergy-Friendly & Plant-Based – Completely dairy-free, egg-free, and gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
- Customizable for Any Occasion – Whether you’re baking for the holidays, birthdays, or just a sweet treat, these cookies are great for decorating or enjoying plain.
- Healthier Ingredients – With natural sweeteners, dairy-free alternatives, and a wholesome gluten-free flour blend, this recipe is a better-for-you twist on a classic favorite.
Now that you have everything you need to bake the perfect gluten-free sugar cookie recipe, it’s time to get in the kitchen! Whether you enjoy them plain, frosted, or topped with festive decorations, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
I’d love to hear how your gluten-free sugar cookies turn out! If you try this recipe, be sure to leave a comment below and let me know:
- How did they taste?
- Did you add any special toppings or flavors?
- Do you have any favorite gluten-free baking tips to share?
And don’t forget to share a picture on Pinterest or Instagram—tag me so I can see your delicious creations! Happy baking!
If you enjoyed this gluten free sugar cookie recipe, you’ll love exploring other delicious plant-based desserts like this easy hamantaschen recipe, which is a traditional filled cookie perfect for celebrations!