12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking

Janine K. Mayer

12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking

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The holiday season is upon us, and that means it’s time to whip up some delicious treats! If you’re anything like me, the thought of warm, freshly baked cookies fills you with joy. But what if you or someone you love needs to avoid gluten? Don’t worry! I created this post to share the best Christmas cookie recipes that are not only gluten-free but also incredibly tasty.

This blog is for anyone who loves the magic of holiday baking but might feel limited by dietary restrictions. Whether you’re a dedicated baker or someone just starting out, these recipes are designed to be easy and accessible. You won’t need any special skills or hard-to-find ingredients. Just gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for some festive fun in the kitchen!

In this post, you’ll find 12 delightful cookie recipes that are perfect for your holiday celebrations. Each recipe aims to bring that warm and cozy feeling associated with Christmas. From classic flavors like gingerbread to unique creations like vegan matcha shortbread, you’ll discover treats that are sure to impress. Plus, these cookies are great for sharing with friends and family, making your holiday gatherings even sweeter.

So, let’s dive into a world of delightful flavors and textures that will make your holiday baking not just enjoyable, but also memorable! With each bite, you’ll taste the spirit of the season. Get ready to bake some gluten-free magic with me!

Key Takeaways

– Each recipe is gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy delicious cookies this holiday season.

– The collection includes classic favorites like chocolate chip and gingerbread, as well as unique options like matcha shortbread.

– Baking these cookies is straightforward, making them suitable for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.

– You’ll find a variety of flavors, from peppermint to pumpkin spice, that capture the essence of the holidays.

– Sharing these cookies with friends and family will create memorable moments and sweet traditions.

1. Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking - 1. Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

You want a festive treat that fits gluten-free needs. These Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies keep the classic vibe without wheat. You get a chewy center and a light crunch at the edges. Almond flour brings a nutty aroma that makes the chocolate shine in every bite.

Ingredients:
1 ½ cups almond flour
½ cup coconut sugar
¼ cup coconut oil, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup gluten-free chocolate chips

Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix almond flour, coconut sugar, baking soda, and salt.
Stir in melted coconut oil, egg, and vanilla until combined.
Fold in chocolate chips.
Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto a lined baking sheet.
Bake for 10-12 minutes and let cool.

FAQ:
Can I use another flour? Yes, as long as it’s gluten-free.

Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Editor’s Choice

2. Almond Flour Gingerbread Cookies

12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking - 2. Almond Flour Gingerbread Cookies

The kitchen fills with spicy warmth as these cookies bake. They celebrate gingerbread magic while staying gluten-free through almond flour. A cozy treat for decorating or a cocoa draw on a cold night. You’ll notice bold ginger, cinnamon, and a touch of molasses in every bite.

Ingredients:
2 cups almond flour
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
¼ teaspoon allspice
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ cup molasses
¼ cup maple syrup
1 large egg

Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Whisk almond flour, spices, and baking soda in a bowl.
In another bowl, mix molasses, maple syrup, and egg until smooth.
Combine wet and dry ingredients to form dough.
Roll out and cut shapes with cookie cutters.
Bake 8-10 minutes and cool.

FAQ:
How do I store these cookies? Keep in an airtight container for freshness.

Almond flour makes gingerbread cookies gluten-free without sacrificing bold flavor. These cozy bites blend ginger, cinnamon, and molasses for a warm, festive treat you’ll want to bake again and again—perfect for the best christmas cookie recipes this season.

Almond Flour Gingerbread Cookies

Editor’s Choice

Cookie Name Main Ingredients Cost Notes
Chocolate Chip Cookies Almond flour, chocolate chips $35.12 Gluten-free option
Gingerbread Cookies Almond flour, molasses $35.12 Spicy flavor
Coconut Macaroons Shredded coconut, egg whites $21.99 Tropical taste
Peppermint Thumbprint Almond flour, peppermint extract $35.12 Minty and festive
Hazelnut Snowball Hazelnut flour, powdered sugar $35.32 Rich and tender
Spiced Oatmeal Raisin Rolled oats, raisins $23.96 Cozy classic
Vegan Matcha Shortbread Gluten-free flour, matcha $49.99 Vegan-friendly

3. Coconut Macaroons

12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking - 3. Coconut Macaroons

Coconut macaroons bring bright, tropical notes to your holiday table. They stay friendly to gluten-free diets and keep a chewy, sunny bite. A simple mix of coconut and sweetness creates a crowd-pleasing treat. You can dip them in chocolate for a festive finish.

Ingredients:
2 ½ cups shredded coconut (unsweetened)
½ cup honey or maple syrup
2 large egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Stir coconut, honey, egg whites, vanilla, and salt until well combined.
Drop tablespoon mounds onto a lined sheet.
Bake 20 minutes until tops are golden.
Cool before serving.

FAQ:
Can I freeze these? Yes, they freeze well for up to a month.

Fun fact: The best christmas cookie recipes can be gluten-free and still delightfully chewy—these coconut macaroons shine with 2 1/2 cups shredded coconut and 2 egg whites. Dip in chocolate for a festive finish.

Coconut Macaroons

Editor’s Choice

4. Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies

12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking - 4. Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies

Cute and minty, these cookies bring a holiday pop to any tray. The almond flour base keeps them gluten-free while the crushed peppermint adds a crisp crunch. They’re easy to decorate or enjoy as is with a warm drink. The pink of peppermint candy peeks through like a mini festive scene.

Ingredients:
2 cups almond flour
¼ cup coconut sugar
¼ cup softened butter or coconut oil
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon peppermint extract
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ cup crushed peppermint candies

Instructions:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
Cream butter and sugar until light.
Beat in egg, vanilla, and peppermint extract.
Stir in almond flour and baking powder to form dough.
Roll into balls and press a thumbprint in each.
Fill with crushed peppermint and bake 10-12 minutes.

FAQ:
Can I substitute the peppermint? Yes, try raspberry or orange zest for variety.

Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies

Editor’s Choice

5. Hazelnut Flour Snowball Cookies

12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking - 5. Hazelnut Flour Snowball Cookies

Snowball cookies make a snowy scene on your platter. Hazelnut flour adds a rich, toasty note that pairs with a dusting of sugar. The bite stays tender, and the look stays sweetly simple. They are easy to share as gifts or plates for guests.

Ingredients:
2 cups hazelnut flour
½ cup butter, softened
½ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
Cream butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
Mix in vanilla and salt, then add hazelnut flour.
If using, fold in chopped nuts.
Roll into balls and place on a lined sheet.
Bake 12-15 minutes until set, not browned.
Dust with sugar while warm.

FAQ:
Can I substitute the butter? Yes, use coconut oil for dairy-free.

Hazelnut Flour Snowball Cookies

Editor’s Choice

6. Spiced Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking - 6. Spiced Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

A cozy classic gets a holiday twist. These oats stay soft with a warm kick from cinnamon and nutmeg. They slip right into gluten-free menus and still feel familiar. Raisins add sweet pockets that mingle with spice in every bite.

Ingredients:
2 cups gluten-free rolled oats
½ cup almond flour
½ cup coconut sugar
¼ cup coconut oil, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ cup raisins

Instructions:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
Mix oats, almond flour, coconut sugar, baking soda, and spices.
Whisk wet ingredients and combine with dry ingredients.
Stir in raisins.
Drop dough onto a lined sheet and bake 10-12 minutes.

FAQ:
Can I use other dried fruits? Try cranberries or apricots.

Spiced Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Editor’s Choice

7. Vegan Matcha Shortbread Cookies

12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking - 7. Vegan Matcha Shortbread Cookies

Bright green bites brighten any cookie tray. These vegan shortbreads lean on matcha for color and a gentle earthiness. They stay crisp and hold shapes well, perfect for winter plates. You’ll love the simple, clean sweetness that lets tea notes shine.

Ingredients:
2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
½ cup coconut oil, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons matcha powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
Cream coconut oil and powdered sugar until smooth.
Stir in matcha, vanilla, salt, and flour to form dough.
Roll and cut into shapes, place on a lined sheet.
Bake 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.

FAQ:
How do I store these cookies? Keep in an airtight container.

Vegan Matcha Shortbread Cookies

Editor’s Choice

8. Raspberry Almond Thumbprint Cookies

12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking - 8. Raspberry Almond Thumbprint Cookies

A ruby jam center makes these cookies feel extra special. Raspberry pairs with almond flour for a soft, nutty bite. They’re ideal for dunking in tea or cocoa and add a pop of color to your tray. Easy to bake and fun to decorate.

Ingredients:
2 cups almond flour
½ cup coconut sugar
¼ cup butter or coconut oil, softened
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ cup raspberry jam (gluten-free)

Instructions:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
Beat in egg and vanilla.
Mix in almond flour and baking soda to form dough.
Shape into balls and press an indentation in each.
Fill with raspberry jam and bake 10-12 minutes.

FAQ:
Can I make them vegan? Yes, swap in flaxseed meal and water for the egg.

Raspberry Almond Thumbprint Cookies

Editor’s Choice

9. Pumpkin Spice Cookies

12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking - 9. Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Fall vibes ride through these soft, airy cookies. Pumpkin flavors meet gluten-free almond flour for a light treat that still feels cozy. A warm blend of spices makes your home smell like the holidays. They pair well with coffee or cider.

Ingredients:
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 cup almond flour
½ cup coconut sugar
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon ginger
1 large egg

Instructions:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
Whisk pumpkin, coconut sugar, and egg until smooth.
Stir in almond flour, baking soda, and spices.
Drop spoonfuls onto a lined sheet and bake 10-12 minutes.
Cool before serving.

FAQ:
Can I add chocolate chips? Yes, for a chocolate-pumpkin mix.

Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Editor’s Choice

10. Chewy Brownie Cookies

12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking - 10. Chewy Brownie Cookies

If you love brownies, you will adore these cookies. They bring a fudgy bite to a hand-held treat, all in a gluten-free shell. Rich cocoa, soft centers, and a kiss of vanilla make them a holiday favorite. They sit well on a platter with other sweets.

Ingredients:
1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
1 cup chocolate chips
½ cup cocoa powder
½ cup coconut sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup butter or coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
Whisk flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
Mix melted butter, sugar, and eggs until smooth.
Combine wet and dry ingredients, fold in chips.
Drop spoonfuls on a lined sheet and bake 10-12 minutes.

FAQ:
Can I make them dairy-free? Use plant-based butter.

If you love brownies, you’ll adore these cookies—gluten-free and fudgy in every bite. Bake a batch to wow guests on the holiday platter, then stash a few for yourself. It’s a perfect example of the best christmas cookie recipes turning dessert dreams into bite-sized reality.

Chewy Brownie Cookies

Editor’s Choice

11. White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking - 11. White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

Cranberries and white chocolate light up the cookie tray. The tart berries contrast with creamy chips for a festive bite. They’re chewy, vibrant, and easy to share at gatherings. A pretty finish for any holiday plate.

Ingredients:
2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
½ cup coconut sugar
½ cup brown sugar
1 cup white chocolate chips
1 cup dried cranberries
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup melted butter or coconut oil

Instructions:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
Whisk flours, sugars, and baking soda.
Stir in melted butter, vanilla, chips, and cranberries.
Drop spoonfuls on a lined sheet and bake 10-12 minutes.

FAQ:
Can I substitute dark chocolate? Yes, for a richer bite.

White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

Editor’s Choice

12. Pecan Pie Cookies

12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking - 12. Pecan Pie Cookies

Pecan pie flavors shine in a tiny cookie form. These treats pair a sweet, gooey center with crisp edges, all in a gluten-free shell. They feel like a tiny slice you can hold in your hand. Great for sharing in tins or gifting to neighbors.

Ingredients:
1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup chopped pecans
1/3 cup maple syrup
¼ cup butter or coconut oil, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon baking soda

Instructions:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
Mix flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and pecans.
Whisk melted butter, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla.
Combine wet and dry ingredients into a dough.
Drop spoonfuls onto a lined sheet and bake 10-12 minutes.

FAQ:
How should I store them? Keep in an airtight container up to a week.

Pecan Pie Cookies

Editor’s Choice

💡

Key Takeaways

Essential tips from this article

🍪

BEGINNER

Explore Gluten-Free Options

Try gluten-free cookie recipes like Almond Flour Gingerbread or Coconut Macaroons for festive baking without gluten.

🎄

QUICK WIN

Add Festive Flavors

Incorporate seasonal ingredients like peppermint or pumpkin spice to bring holiday cheer to your cookies.

🥥

PRO TIP

Experiment with Textures

Vary the texture of your cookies by using different flours, such as hazelnut or almond flour for unique bites.

🌱

ADVANCED

Go Vegan with Cookies

Try recipes like Vegan Matcha Shortbread for a delicious, dairy-free alternative that everyone can enjoy.

🍂

ESSENTIAL

Decorate with Toppings

Enhance your cookies with toppings like white chocolate or cranberries for a beautiful and tasty finish.

🕒

WARNING

Plan Ahead for Baking

Schedule your baking sessions and prepare ingredients in advance to streamline the cookie-making process.

Conclusion

12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking - Conclusion

With these 12 best Christmas cookie recipes, you can indulge in sweet baking that caters to everyone, especially those who need gluten-free options. Each recipe brings a unique flavor and festive cheer that will surely delight your family and friends this holiday season. So roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and create delightful memories in the kitchen. Happy baking!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best gluten-free Christmas cookie recipes for festive dessert recipes and easy holiday baking ideas?

From the 12 Best Christmas Cookie Recipes for Festive Sweet Baking, these gluten-free options bring big flavor with simple steps.

Among the best christmas cookie recipes for festive dessert recipes and easy holiday baking ideas, you’ll find classics like almond-flour sugar cookies, chocolate peppermint cookies, and oats-based treats that stay tender without gluten.

For the best texture, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with a pinch of xanthan gum, chill the dough, and roll between parchment for easy cutting. Store extras in airtight containers for holiday sweets that stay fresh, making them perfect as Christmas treats or gifts in a basket.

How can I adapt traditional Christmas cookie recipes to be gluten-free without sacrificing texture?

Start by swapping wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend and add xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include it.

Use binding agents like a flax egg or chia egg for structure, and consider a touch more fat or moisture to keep cookies tender. Chill the dough before shaping, and bake a touch shorter to avoid dryness. With these tweaks, you’ll still enjoy best christmas cookie recipes that feel classic and festive.

What pantry staples help create the best textures for gluten-free holiday baking in Christmas treats?

Stock your kitchen with a few gluten-free flours (1:1 blends, almond flour, and coconut flour), xanthan gum, and dairy-free butter or coconut oil. A flax or chia egg can add binding if you’re dairy-free. Use vanilla and citrus zest for brightness, and keep sugar steady with a mix of granulated and powdered sugar for texture and shine.

How should I store gluten-free Christmas cookies to keep them fresh for holiday sweets and gifting?

Let cookies cool completely before storing in airtight containers to prevent sogginess. Separate crispy from soft cookies to keep texture intact, and refrigerate or freeze dough or baked cookies for longer shelf life. Re-crisp cookies by warming briefly in a low oven before serving, and label containers for easy gifting during the holiday season.

Can these gluten-free cookies be customized for different dietary needs or gift baskets for holiday sweets?

Absolutely! Swap dairy butter for vegan butter to make dairy-free cookies, or use coconut oil. For nut-free options, choose seeds or seed butter and a nut-free GF flour blend. These cookies are great for gift baskets—wrap with cellophane, add a festive tag, and include a note that the recipe is gluten-free and suitable for various holiday sweets preferences.

Related Topics

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