Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sweet scent of cinnamon filled my kitchen as I embarked on a baking adventure that would lift my spirits and satisfy my cravings. Today, I’m excited to share my easy recipe for gluten-free snickerdoodle cookies—these little gems are not only deliciously chewy and subtly sweet but also free from gluten, making them a delightful treat for everyone. Perfect for those cozy evenings or when you’re looking to impress friends without the fuss, this recipe is straightforward and yields an impressive batch to share (or not!). The warm, inviting fragrance while they bake is enough to have anyone sneaking a taste. Are you ready to discover how to create these irresistible cookies that will have everyone asking for your secret? Let’s dive in! Why Are These Snickerdoodle Cookies So Special? Simple and quick to prepare, this gluten-free snickerdoodle cookie recipe takes just a few ingredients to create a delightful treat. Chewy texture with a crispy cinnamon-sugar coating makes them incredibly satisfying! Versatile too—swap almond flour for a gluten-free blend or add chocolate chips for a fun twist. Perfect for sharing, these cookies are sure to impress your friends and loved ones, especially when paired with a warm drink. Try them alongside some Peanut Butter Cookies or indulge in the rich taste of Browned Butter Cookies for a cookie platter everyone will love! Snickerdoodle Cookies Ingredients For the Cookie Dough • Almond Flour – This gluten-free flour provides a light texture and structure; use blanched for best results to avoid grittiness. • Coconut Oil – Ensures moisture and chewiness; remember to soften it, not melt it, for the perfect dough consistency. • Coconut Sugar – Offers a caramel-like sweetness; this can easily be swapped for granulated or brown sugar if desired. • Egg – Acts as a binder, contributing to the cookie’s texture; make sure it’s at room temperature for optimal mixing. • Lemon Juice – This ingredient activates the baking powder for a better rise; freshly squeezed is always a good choice! • Vanilla Extract – Imparts rich flavor; opt for pure extract for the best outcome. • Baking Powder – A vital leavening agent to help these cookies rise beautifully. • Salt – Enhances the sweetness and overall flavor profile of the cookies. For the Coating • Granulated Sugar – To roll the cookies, adding sweetness and a delightful crunch; can be substituted with brown sugar if you prefer. • Ground Cinnamon – The quintessential spice for giving your snickerdoodle cookies that signature flavor; essential for that delightful coating. These gluten-free snickerdoodle cookies are not only easy to make but also promise to deliver a comforting, chewy delight that everyone will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gluten-Free Snickerdoodle Cookies Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when your gluten-free snickerdoodle cookies are ready to go in, the oven will provide the perfect environment for them to rise and bake evenly. While the oven warms up, gather your mixing bowls and ingredients for a smooth baking experience. Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together the room temperature egg, softened coconut oil, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy and well-blended. This process should take about 2–3 minutes. The goal is to create a smooth base that integrates all the rich flavors, setting the foundation for your snickerdoodle cookies. Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients Next, gently fold in the almond flour, baking powder, lemon juice, and salt into the wet mixture. Stir until a soft, cohesive dough forms, taking care not to overmix. This step is crucial, as the combination of dry and wet ingredients will help bind your gluten-free snickerdoodle cookies, creating that perfect chewy texture. Step 4: Chill the Dough If the dough feels sticky to the touch, refrigerate it for about 10–15 minutes. Chilling the dough will make it easier to handle when you form the cookies. This brief rest allows the flavors to meld and prevents excessive spreading during baking, ensuring that your snickerdoodle cookies maintain their lovely shape. Step 5: Prepare the Baking Tray While the dough chills, line a baking tray with parchment paper. This not only helps prevent sticking but also ensures an even bake. Prepping your tray in advance streamlines the cookie-forming process, allowing you to move efficiently from dough to baked treats. Step 6: Make Cinnamon Sugar In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This delightful mixture will coat your cookies, providing that signature cinnamon-sugar crunch. Ensure the ingredients are well combined, so each gluten-free snickerdoodle cookie is evenly coated in this aromatic blend. Step 7: Form Cookies Now it’s time to shape the cookies! Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough for each cookie, rolling it into a ball. Once formed, generously coat each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture, giving your cookies a delightful sparkle. This step adds not only flavor but also visual appeal, making your snickerdoodle cookies irresistible. Step 8: Arrange on Tray Place the coated cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. This spacing allows room for the cookies to spread as they bake. Keep your arrangement neat, as these visual cues will help ensure even baking and a beautiful presentation for your gluten-free snickerdoodle cookies. Step 9: Bake Slide the tray into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. If you want a classic cookie shape, feel free to gently press down the center of each cookie with the back of a spoon before they finish baking. The cookies should appear slightly underdone—this is key for that chewy texture everyone loves! Step 10: Cool Once baked, allow your gluten-free snickerdoodle cookies to cool on the tray for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps them set and makes transferring to a wire rack easier. After this time, move the cookies to a wire rack for complete cooling, letting their sweet aroma fill your kitchen. Snickerdoodle Cookies Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this gluten-free snickerdoodle cookie recipe; the possibilities are endless! Gluten-Free Blend: Swap almond flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend to vary the texture while keeping it gluten-free. Substitute Oils: Use softened butter instead of coconut oil for a richer flavor; just remember that it may change the cookie’s texture slightly. Brown Sugar: Opt for brown sugar in place of coconut sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness that perfectly complements the cinnamon. Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Flavorful Extracts: Explore different extracts like maple or almond to add a unique twist to the flavor profile of your snickerdoodles. Spicy Cinnamon: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar coating for a subtle heat that enhances the cookies’ warmth. Chocolate Chip Addition: Fold in some chocolate chips for a sweet surprise that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon flavor. Dairy-Free Option: If you need a dairy-free version, ensure the alternative options like coconut oil are used and avoid chocolate chips with dairy. You can enjoy these variations on their own, or combine them with a delightful spread of treats, like Homemade Samoas Cookies or even replicate the rich flavor of Browned Butter Cookies. Happy baking! Make Ahead Options These gluten-free snickerdoodle cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just scoop your 2-tablespoon dough balls, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture, and place them in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper to maintain their shape. When ready to bake, simply take them out, arrange them on your baking tray, and follow the baking instructions as outlined. For the best results, chill the dough for an hour if it has softened too much while stored; this will ensure they bake up just as delicious as when freshly made! Expert Tips for Snickerdoodle Cookies Soft Coconut Oil: Ensure your coconut oil is soft but not melted; this maintains the dough’s consistency and prevents crumbliness. Room Temperature Eggs: Using room temperature eggs is crucial; cold eggs can make the dough seize and affect the cookie’s texture. Chill Dough: If the dough is sticky, chill it for at least 10-15 minutes. This helps prevent excessive spreading for perfect snickerdoodle cookies. Don’t Overbake: Remember, the cookies should look slightly underdone when you take them out. This is essential for achieving that chewy texture we all love! Adjust Flour Types: Swap almond flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend if desired, but check for proper measurements to maintain texture. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh lemon juice and pure vanilla extract, as they significantly enhance the flavor of these delicious cookies. Storage Tips for Snickerdoodle Cookies Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. To keep them soft, consider placing a slice of bread inside the container. Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies for a firmer texture; however, this may dry them out a bit. They’ll stay fresh for about 5 days. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies or the shaped dough balls for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking or enjoy cookies at room temperature. Reheating: When ready to indulge, reheat the cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back their chewy goodness, perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. What to Serve with Gluten-Free Snickerdoodle Cookies Imagine the joy of indulging in warm, chewy cookies while enjoying a comforting beverage or delightful side dish that complements their sweetness. Cold Glass of Milk: The classic pairing! A glass of cold milk perfectly balances the warm cinnamon flavors and enhances the cookie’s soft texture. Rich Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee elevates the cookie experience, with its bold flavors enhancing the sweetness of the snickerdoodle for a delightful contrast. Vanilla Ice Cream: Melt-in-your-mouth ice cream adds a creamy, cool complement to the warm cookies—perfect for a cozy dessert treat or an extravagant sundae. Spiced Chai Latte: This fragrant blend of spices and creamy milk creates a lovely pairing, adding warmth and additional cinnamon notes that work beautifully with the cookies. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, fruity salad with berries and citrus brightens the palate, balancing the sweetness of the cookies with refreshing flavors and textures. Peanut Butter Cookies: For the ultimate cookie platter, serve your snickerdoodle cookies with some peanut butter cookies. The nutty taste and chewy texture will create a delightful mix! Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge your sweet tooth with a thick and creamy chocolate milkshake that pairs wonderfully with the spiced cinnamon of the snickerdoodles, creating a dessert dream! Warm Apple Crisp: A warm serving of apple crisp alongside your cookies will create a delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures, making for a heartwarming dessert presentation. Herbal Tea: A calming cup of herbal tea can help balance the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing the overall experience while a light texture soothes the palate. Gluten-Free Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe FAQs What type of almond flour should I use for snickerdoodle cookies? It’s best to use blanched almond flour, as it provides a light texture and structure that complements the cookies beautifully. Avoid almond meal, as it can result in a grittier cookie. When made with blanched almond flour, your snickerdoodle cookies will turn out delightfully soft and chewy! How should I store my gluten-free snickerdoodle cookies? Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. To keep them soft, add a slice of bread to the container—this little trick helps retain moisture! If you want to prolong their life, refrigerate them for about 5 days, but keep in mind that this could slightly alter the texture. Can I freeze gluten-free snickerdoodle cookies? Absolutely! You can freeze the baked cookies or the shaped dough balls. For baked cookies, place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag for up to 3 months. If freezing dough balls, lay them out on a baking tray until firm, then transfer to a container. Thaw in the fridge overnight and enjoy these treats anytime you crave a sweet bite! What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky? If your dough feels sticky, I recommend refrigerating it for about 10-15 minutes before forming the cookies. This cooling period is crucial as it helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and preventing excessive spreading during baking. You want those cookies to maintain their lovely shape! Are there any dietary considerations when making these cookies? These gluten-free snickerdoodle cookies are already a great option for those avoiding gluten! However, be mindful of any nut allergies since almond flour is made from almonds. If someone is allergic, you could use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as an alternative. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they are allergy-friendly! How long do these cookies stay fresh? Your snickerdoodle cookies will stay soft and delicious for about a week when stored properly. For the best texture, make sure to keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you decide to refrigerate them, keep an eye on them, as they may lose some of their fun chewiness after a few days. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family! Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies That Everyone Will Love Deliciously chewy gluten-free snickerdoodle cookies coated in cinnamon sugar. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsChill Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 120 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Dough2 cups Almond Flour Use blanched for best results1/2 cup Coconut Oil Softened, not melted1 cup Coconut Sugar Can substitute with granulated or brown sugar1 large Egg Room temperature1 tbsp Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed1 tsp Vanilla Extract Opt for pure extract1 tsp Baking Powder Vital leavening agent1/4 tsp Salt Enhances sweetness and flavorFor the Coating1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Can substitute with brown sugar1 tbsp Ground Cinnamon Essential for flavor Equipment Mixing bowlsWhiskBaking trayParchment paperrefrigerator Method Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gluten-Free Snickerdoodle CookiesPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, softened coconut oil, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy.Fold in the almond flour, baking powder, lemon juice, and salt until a cohesive dough forms.Refrigerate the dough for about 10-15 minutes if it's sticky.Line a baking tray with parchment paper.Mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough, roll into a ball, and coat in cinnamon sugar.Place cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, 1 inch apart.Bake for approximately 10 minutes, until edges are golden.Allow cookies to cool on the tray for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 40mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 5mg NotesEnsure coconut oil is soft but not melted. Use room temperature eggs for best texture. Chill the dough if sticky. Cookies should appear slightly underdone when removed from the oven to maintain chewiness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!