Why You’ll Love Almond Flour Sugar Cookies Recipe
These cookies are perfect if you’re looking for a gluten-free treat that doesn’t sacrifice texture or flavor. They’re soft in the center with delicate crisp edges, easy to roll and cut into shapes, and ideal for decorating. The dough is simple to prepare and the cookies hold their shape beautifully after baking.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
6 tablespoons room temperature butter
3/4 cup granulated cane sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups blanched almond flour
3 tablespoons coconut flour
2 tablespoons tapioca starch
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup softened butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
Directions
Add the room temperature butter to a mixing bowl. Add the sugar and cream together for about 30 seconds, until well combined.
Beat in the egg and vanilla until smooth.
Add the almond flour, coconut flour, tapioca starch, baking powder, and salt. Mix using a wooden spoon or spatula until a dough forms.
Place the dough in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours. This step is important for texture and handling.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roll the chilled dough out on parchment paper to about 1/4 inch thickness. You can make them slightly thicker if preferred.
Use cookie cutters to cut shapes from the dough. Transfer carefully to a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie.
Re-roll scraps as needed and continue cutting until all dough is used.
Bake one sheet at a time for 9 to 12 minutes. The cookies are ready when the edges turn lightly golden.
Watch closely to avoid overbaking. The cookies will be soft when removed from the oven but will firm up as they cool.
To make the icing, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar and mix until smooth. Stir in vanilla and milk until the desired consistency is reached.
Adjust the icing as needed by adding more milk to thin or more powdered sugar to thicken.
Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting. Decorate as desired and serve.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12 cookies
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
Add lemon or almond extract for a flavor twist. Mix citrus zest into the dough for a fresh taste. Use different cookie cutter shapes for holidays or special occasions. You can also skip the icing and sprinkle the cookies with sugar before baking for a simpler version.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies (unfrosted is best) for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll and preventing the cookies from spreading too much.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before rolling.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, they are naturally gluten-free due to the use of almond and coconut flours.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative.
What if I don’t have tapioca starch?
You can substitute it with arrowroot starch or cornstarch.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be lightly golden, while the centers may still look soft.
Can I skip the icing?
Yes, the cookies taste great on their own or with a light sugar topping.
Why are my cookies too soft?
They may need a bit more baking time or additional cooling to fully set.
Can I color the icing?
Yes, you can add a few drops of food coloring to customize the icing.
Conclusion
Almond flour sugar cookies are a delicious, gluten-free alternative to traditional cookies, offering a soft texture and rich buttery flavor. Whether decorated with icing or enjoyed plain, they’re a versatile treat perfect for any occasion.
