These gluten free sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and full of sweet flavor—no one will guess they’re gluten free! Perfect for holidays, gifts, or everyday treats, they’re easy to make and customizable with frosting, sprinkles, or simple dusting.
Key Takeaways
- Soft and chewy texture: Made with a blend of gluten free flours and xanthan gum for the perfect bite.
- Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples like butter, sugar, eggs, and gluten free flour—no hard-to-find items.
- Easy to customize: Roll, cut, and decorate with icing, sprinkles, or enjoy plain for a classic treat.
- Great for all occasions: Ideal for Christmas, birthdays, bake sales, or afternoon snacks.
- Naturally egg-free option: Swap in flax eggs for a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing taste.
- Freezer-friendly: Dough and baked cookies store well, so you can enjoy them anytime.
- Kid-approved: Sweet, fun, and safe for gluten-sensitive eaters—everyone loves them!
📑 Table of Contents
Why Gluten Free Sugar Cookies Are a Must-Try
Let’s be honest—finding a truly delicious gluten free cookie can feel like searching for a unicorn. Too many recipes end up dry, crumbly, or tasting like cardboard. But these gluten free sugar cookies? They’re the real deal. Soft, tender, and packed with that classic buttery sweetness, they’re so good, no one will even know they’re gluten free.
Whether you’re baking for someone with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or just trying to cut back on gluten, these cookies deliver on flavor and texture. They’re perfect for rolling out and cutting into fun shapes, which makes them a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re versatile—dress them up with colorful frosting and sprinkles for holidays, or keep them simple with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant treat.
What Makes These Cookies So Special?
Great gluten free baking starts with the right ingredients. The secret to these cookies is a balanced blend of gluten free flours that mimic the structure and tenderness of traditional wheat flour. We use a mix of rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch—this trio creates a soft, chewy texture that holds its shape when rolled and cut.
The Role of Xanthan Gum
Xanthan gum is a game-changer in gluten free baking. It acts like gluten, giving the dough elasticity and helping it hold together. Without it, gluten free cookies can fall apart or turn gritty. Just a teaspoon in this recipe keeps the cookies tender and easy to work with.
Butter and Sugar: The Flavor Foundation
We use real butter—not margarine or oil—because it adds richness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Granulated sugar gives the cookies their signature sweetness and crisp edges, while a touch of vanilla extract deepens the flavor. For an extra-special twist, try using brown sugar instead of white—it adds a subtle caramel note and makes the cookies even softer.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Gluten Free Sugar Cookies
Don’t worry—this recipe is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require any fancy equipment. Here’s how to make perfect gluten free sugar cookies every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 ½ cups gluten free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten free flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
- Divide the dough in half, shape each into a disc, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface (use gluten free flour) to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters.
- Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between each.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden. The centers should still look soft.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for Success
- Chill the dough: This prevents spreading and makes the cookies easier to roll and cut.
- Don’t overbake: Gluten free cookies can dry out quickly. Pull them out when they look slightly underdone—they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Use a silicone baking mat: It helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Flour your surface and tools: Lightly dust your rolling pin and cookie cutters with gluten free flour to avoid sticking.
Decorating Ideas That Wow
One of the best things about sugar cookies is how fun they are to decorate. Whether you’re making them for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or just because, a little creativity goes a long way.
Classic Royal Icing
Royal icing is perfect for detailed designs and holds its shape when dry. Mix 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 ½ tablespoons meringue powder, and 3–4 tablespoons water until smooth. Divide into bowls and add food coloring. Use piping bags with small tips to outline and flood your cookies. Let dry completely before stacking or storing.
Simple Glaze
For a quicker option, try a basic glaze: whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 1–2 tablespoons milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla. Drizzle over cooled cookies with a spoon or pipe from a zip-top bag. Add sprinkles while the glaze is still wet for a festive touch.
Natural Decorations
If you prefer to avoid artificial dyes, use natural food colorings made from beet juice (red/pink), turmeric (yellow), or spinach (green). You can also decorate with edible glitter, crushed nuts, or dried fruit for a rustic look.
No-Bake Toppings
Not in the mood to frost? Try a light dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, or a drizzle of melted chocolate. These simple finishes add flavor and visual appeal without extra work.
Storing and Freezing Tips
Good news: these gluten free sugar cookies store beautifully, so you can make them ahead of time.
Room Temperature Storage
Once completely cooled and decorated (if using icing), store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Layer them with parchment paper between each row to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezing the Dough
Want to bake fresh cookies on demand? Roll and cut the dough, then freeze the shapes on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen—just add 1–2 minutes to the baking time. No need to thaw!
Freezing Baked Cookies
Baked and undecorated cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Thaw at room temperature before serving. If you’ve already iced them, freeze them uncovered first, then wrap in plastic and place in a container to prevent the icing from smudging.
Allergy-Friendly Variations
These cookies are naturally gluten free, but you can easily adapt them for other dietary needs.
Vegan Option
Replace the egg with a flax egg: mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until thickened. Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of dairy butter if needed.
Dairy-Free Version
Use dairy-free butter and ensure your chocolate or icing ingredients are also dairy-free. Most gluten free flours are naturally dairy-free, but always check labels.
Nut-Free and Soy-Free
This recipe is naturally nut-free. For soy-free, choose a soy-free gluten free flour blend and check that your butter and chocolate alternatives are soy-free.
Why Everyone Will Love These Cookies
Let’s face it—gluten free desserts often get a bad rap. But these sugar cookies prove that dietary restrictions don’t mean sacrificing taste or fun. They’re soft, sweet, and satisfying, with a texture that rivals traditional cookies. Whether you’re gluten intolerant or just looking for a delicious treat everyone can enjoy, these cookies hit the spot.
They’re also incredibly versatile. Make them for holiday parties, school events, or as homemade gifts. Package them in a cute box with a ribbon, and you’ve got a thoughtful, handmade present. Kids love helping with the rolling and cutting, and adults appreciate how easy they are to make and how well they store.
Plus, they’re a great way to introduce gluten free baking to beginners. The recipe is straightforward, the ingredients are accessible, and the results are consistently delicious. Once you try these, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for store-bought gluten free cookies.
Final Thoughts
Gluten free sugar cookies don’t have to be a compromise. With the right ingredients and a little care, you can create cookies that are just as tasty—and just as fun—as the traditional kind. This recipe delivers on every front: flavor, texture, ease, and versatility.
So go ahead, preheat that oven, and get baking. Whether you’re making snowmen for Christmas, hearts for Valentine’s Day, or simple rounds for a snack, these cookies are sure to bring smiles. And the best part? Everyone—gluten free or not—will reach for seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different gluten free flour blend?
Yes, as long as it contains xanthan gum. If your blend doesn’t include it, add 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum per cup of flour. Avoid 1:1 blends made primarily with almond or coconut flour—they won’t work well for rolled cookies.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
This usually happens if the dough wasn’t chilled long enough or the oven temperature was too low. Always chill the dough for at least 1 hour, and make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking.
Can I make these cookies without an electric mixer?
Absolutely! You can cream the butter and sugar by hand with a wooden spoon or whisk. It will take a bit more effort, but the results will still be delicious.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Bake until the edges are just barely golden and the centers look soft. They will firm up as they cool. Overbaking leads to dry, crumbly cookies—especially with gluten free flour.
Can I add sprinkles to the dough?
Yes! Fold in nonpareils or jimmies before rolling. Avoid sanding sugar or large decorations, as they can melt or burn during baking.
Are these cookies safe for someone with celiac disease?
Yes, as long as all ingredients are certified gluten free and prepared in a gluten-free environment to avoid cross-contamination. Always check labels carefully.