There’s a certain comfort in the simple act of baking, especially when it involves warm, buttery cookies. I found myself craving something sweet one chilly afternoon when the sky turned gray and the raindrops began to dance against the window. As I rummaged through my pantry, I stumbled upon an assortment of spices and gluten-free flour, bringing me to an exciting culinary discovery: gluten-free snickerdoodles.
With the aroma of cinnamon swirling around my kitchen, it felt like a cozy hug from the inside out. These cookies not only deliver that perfect chewy texture, but they also have a delightful crispiness on the outside, making them a total crowd-pleaser, regardless of dietary restrictions. Best of all, they’re easy to whip up. So whether you’re hosting friends for a gathering or just indulging in a little self-care, these gluten-free snickerdoodles are the sweet solution to elevate your day. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe!
Why love Gluten Free Snickerdoodles?
Rich, but not overpowering: These gluten free snickerdoodles are infused with just the right amount of cinnamon, balancing warmth and sweetness.
Chewy and Crispy: Experience the delightful contrast of textures with a chewy center and lightly crispy edges, making each bite utterly satisfying.
Quick and Easy: You’ll love the simplicity! In about 40 minutes, you can have these cookies freshly baked and ready to indulge.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a gathering with friends or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress and bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
Dietary Inclusive: Made gluten-free, they’re great for those with dietary restrictions but loved by all cookie enthusiasts, making them a fantastic addition to any dessert lineup!
If you’re looking for more delicious gluten-free recipes, check out my Gluten-Free Baking Essentials for tips and tricks.
Gluten Free Snickerdoodles Ingredients
• Everything you need for deliciousness!
For the Cookie Dough
- ½ cup butter – ensures a rich and creamy texture.
- ½ cup white sugar – provides sweetness and a light crisp.
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar – adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor.
- 1 egg – binds ingredients together for the perfect texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 ¾ cup gluten free all purpose baking flour – makes these cookies gluten-free while ensuring they hold their shape.
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar – helps create a soft and chewy texture.
- ¾ teaspoon cinnamon – infuses these cookies with warm, inviting spice.
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda – gives the cookies that lovely lift.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- ¼ cup sanding sugar – creates a sparkling finish and a delightful crunch.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon – adds an extra layer of cinnamon goodness to the exterior.
These gluten free snickerdoodles are a sweet treat you’ll want to make again and again!
How to Make Gluten Free Snickerdoodles
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Cream Together: Begin by adding the butter and both types of sugar to your mixing bowl. Cream them together for about 1 minute until the mixture is light and fluffy, setting the stage for deliciousness.
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Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined, infusing the dough with rich flavor.
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Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the dry ingredients. Remember to spoon and level the gluten-free flour to ensure the perfect texture—don’t scoop directly from the bag!
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Shape the Dough: Scoop about 1 ½ to 2 tablespoons of dough, rolling them into perfectly shaped balls. Then, roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet touch that makes these cookies extra special.
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Chill the Dough: Place the rolled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes—an hour is even better! This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
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Preheat the Oven: During the last 15 minutes of chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F so it’s hot and ready when your cookies are!
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Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-14 minutes, making sure to space only 6 cookies per baking sheet. Keep an eye on them—they will continue to harden as they cool, so avoid overbaking.
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Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, let the cookies cool before devouring. This ensures they won’t crumble, leaving you with deliciously perfect gluten free snickerdoodles to enjoy!
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an indulgent twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Gluten Free Snickerdoodles
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Spoon and Level: Always spoon and level your gluten-free flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents using too much flour, which can lead to dry cookies.
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Chill Time Matters: Don’t skip the chilling step! This crucial hour keeps your gluten free snickerdoodles from spreading too much while baking, ensuring perfectly shaped cookies.
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Monitor Baking Time: Every oven is different, so start checking your cookies at 10 minutes. They’re done when lightly golden but still soft in the center to avoid overbaking.
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Perfect Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to a week—if they last that long!
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Add a Twist: Consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor. Just make sure to stick with gluten-free options for inclusivity.
Make Ahead Options
These gluten free snickerdoodles are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first four steps of the recipe, then placing the rolled dough balls in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain their delightful texture, make sure the dough is well-chilled, as this helps them keep their shape during baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply take them out, preheat your oven to 350°F, and bake as directed for 10-14 minutes. With this make-ahead option, you’ll have warm, mouthwatering cookies ready for any occasion with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Gluten Free Snickerdoodles
Room Temperature: Keep your gluten free snickerdoodles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their chewy texture.
Fridge: For slightly longer storage, place them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 10 days. Let them come to room temperature before enjoying, or warm them slightly in the oven.
Freezer: To freeze, store the cookies in a zip-top bag or an airtight container, stacking them carefully, and they can last for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm directly from the freezer.
Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat chilled cookies in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. Frozen cookies can be reheated directly from the freezer for about 10-12 minutes.
What to Serve with Gluten Free Snickerdoodles?
Nothing pairs better with warm cookies than lovely companions that enhance their sweetness and texture.
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Classic Milk: The ultimate duo! A glass of cold milk cuts through the sweetness while complementing the cinnamon flavors perfectly.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: Dive into a cozy cup of hot chocolate, which adds a fun twist, enhancing those warm, sweet cookie vibes. Warm indulgence for the soul!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side creates a delightful contrast, making each bite feel like a special treat.
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Fresh Berries: A side of juicy strawberries or raspberries brings a refreshing zing, balancing the rich flavors of the cookies beautifully.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over your cookies for an extra layer of richness and a sweet, sticky delight that’ll have you coming back for seconds.
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Coffee or Tea: Sip a warm cup of coffee or fragrant tea alongside these cookies, and experience the perfect blend of sweetness and warmth.
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Cheesecake Dip: A fun dessert idea! Serve a light cheesecake dip on the side for an extra creamy twist that pairs deliciously with the snickerdoodle flavors.
These pairings will elevate your baking experience, creating an exquisite dessert table that your family and friends will adore!
Gluten Free Snickerdoodles Variations
Feel free to mix things up and create the ultimate version of these delightful cookies!
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Nutty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
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Chocolate Lovers: Stir in ½ cup of gluten-free chocolate chips for an indulgent twist that adds richness to each bite.
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Maple Flavor: Replace the vanilla extract with maple syrup for a unique flavor that brings a warm, comforting sweetness.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon sugar mixture for an unexpected spicy surprise with every delicious bite.
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Coconut Bliss: Incorporate ½ cup of shredded unsweetened coconut into the dough for a tropical touch that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
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Lemon Zest: Grate the zest of one lemon into the dough for a citrusy brightness that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
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Pumpkin Spice: Swap in 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal spin that enhances the cozy autumn vibes of the snickerdoodles.
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Almond Flour: For a nutty flavor, partially substitute ½ cup of the gluten-free flour with almond flour—delightful and unique!
Explore these variations for a delightful adventure in baking!
Gluten Free Snickerdoodles Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! When selecting a gluten-free flour, look for a blend that includes a mix of whole grains, starches, and proteins. I often recommend a brand that contains xanthan gum, as it helps mimic the elasticity of traditional wheat flour. Be sure to check the package for the right ratio, as some blends may require adjustments in your recipes.
How should I store my gluten free snickerdoodles?
To keep your gluten free snickerdoodles fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you like, you can even refrigerate them for up to 10 days for additional freshness. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying, or warm them in the oven for that fresh-baked taste again!
What is the best way to freeze gluten free snickerdoodles?
Freezing these delightful treats is simple! Gather your cooled cookies and place them in a zip-top bag or an airtight container, making sure they’re not squished together. You can stack them with parchment paper in between to maintain their shape. They’ll last for up to 3 months! Thaw them at room temperature, or for a quick indulgence, reheat straight from the freezer.
Why did my cookies spread too much during baking?
Very! If your cookies spread too much, it can often be due to a few factors. First, ensure you chilled the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading. Also, check that you spooned and leveled your flour accurately; too much flour can lead to dry, flat cookies. Lastly, monitor your oven’s temperature—if it runs hot, your cookies might bake too quickly. Try using an oven thermometer for accuracy!
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes, indeed! To make your gluten free snickerdoodles dairy-free, simply substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or a plant-based butter. The texture may vary slightly, but you’ll still achieve that delicious, soft cookie we all love!
Gluten Free Snickerdoodles That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by adding the butter and both types of sugar to your mixing bowl. Cream them together for about 1 minute until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Beat in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gently fold in the dry ingredients.
- Scoop about 1 ½ to 2 tablespoons of dough, rolling them into perfectly shaped balls. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Place the rolled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes.
- During the last 15 minutes of chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Bake the cookies for 10-14 minutes, making sure to space only 6 cookies per baking sheet.
- Once baked, let the cookies cool before devouring.