21 Irresistible Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Cookie Recipes for Every Occasion

Cookies hold a special place in our hearts – those delightful, individual handheld treats that bring comfort and joy with every bite. They truly are one of life’s simplest pleasures. But what if you’re navigating dietary restrictions like gluten and dairy sensitivities? Fear not! The joy of baking and indulging in delicious cookies doesn’t have to be a thing of the past.

I’ve curated a collection of 21 absolutely scrumptious gluten-free and dairy-free cookie recipes that prove dietary restrictions don’t mean compromising on flavor or texture. Whether you’re planning a festive holiday cookie exchange, a cozy weekend baking project, or simply craving a sweet treat, you’ll find something wonderful here. This extensive list covers everything from timeless favorites like classic chocolate chip and perfect sugar cookies to more unique and delightful creations such as chocolate orange and cherry chocolate cookies. I’ve gathered all my tried-and-true, most popular recipes in one convenient place, ready to satisfy your inner Cookie Monster!

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Essential Tips for Successful Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Baking

As the creator of all these delightful dairy-free and gluten-free cookie recipes, I can personally guarantee their deliciousness. To ensure your baking experience is as smooth and successful as possible, I’ve compiled a list of important details and answers to frequently asked questions. These tips are based on years of developing allergy-friendly recipes, designed to help you achieve perfect results every time.

Gluten-Free Flour Blend Guidance:

For optimal results across all these recipes, I highly recommend using my homemade gluten-free flour recipe. This blend is meticulously balanced to mimic the texture and structure of traditional wheat flour, providing excellent consistency.
If you prefer a store-bought, pre-made gluten-free flour blend, choose one that contains a combination of brown rice flour or white rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca starch (or tapioca flour). This specific combination is crucial as the different components work together: rice flours provide structure, while starches add lightness and tenderness. Avoid blends that are primarily bean flours, which can result in a gritty texture or distinct aftertaste.
Given our experience with nut allergies, you won’t find almond flour recommended in any of my recipes. It’s important to me that these recipes are accessible to as many people as possible. Similarly, I steer clear of more exotic or expensive flours like cassava, teff, or coconut flour. Managing a gluten-free diet can already be costly, so I aim to keep ingredients practical and widely available. I do, however, frequently incorporate oat flour in several cookie recipes, which adds a wonderful texture and often a slightly chewy quality.
Quick Tip for Dairy-Free Only Bakers: If gluten isn’t an issue for you, but dairy is, you can easily substitute regular all-purpose wheat flour for the gluten-free flour in any of these recipes at a 1:1 ratio. If the original gluten-free recipe calls for xanthan gum, remember to omit it when using regular flour, as wheat flour already contains the necessary gluten for structure. This simple swap allows you to enjoy these delicious cookies with just a dairy-free modification!

Recommended Baking Pans for Perfect Cookies:

Achieving beautifully baked cookies starts with the right equipment. I consistently rely on these specific baking sheets. Their quality ensures even heat distribution, which is key to preventing burnt edges and undercooked centers.
To prevent sticking and promote even baking, I highly recommend lining your baking sheets. You can use either parchment paper or these fantastic reusable silicone baking mats. Not only do they make cleanup a breeze, but they also give the cookie dough something to “grip” onto, which significantly helps in preventing excessive spreading, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.

Essential Baking Tools You’ll Need:

A cookie scoop is an absolute game-changer in my kitchen; I honestly wouldn’t want to bake without it! (An ice cream scoop could also work in a pinch.) It ensures that all your cookies are uniformly sized, which is critical for consistent baking times and even doneness across the entire batch.
You’ll also need a large mixing bowl and either a reliable hand mixer or, even better, a powerful stand mixer. If you find yourself baking cookies regularly, investing in a stand mixer is well worth it. It allows for hands-free mixing, freeing you up to measure and prep your next ingredients, making the baking process much more efficient and enjoyable.
Finally, a cooling rack is a must-have! Transferring cookies to a cooling rack immediately after baking prevents them from continuing to cook on the hot baking sheet, allowing for proper air circulation to ensure crispy edges and soft centers.

Exploring Sugar Alternatives:

It’s important to note that these cookie recipes are developed with traditional sugars and are not intended to be sugar-free. While you can successfully substitute coconut sugar for brown sugar at a 1:1 ratio, I advise caution when replacing white granulated sugar.
I do not recommend using liquid sweeteners like maple syrup or honey in place of white sugar, as their higher water content can significantly alter the moisture balance and delicate texture of the cookies, leading to unpredictable results. Stick to granulated sugar forms for best results unless a recipe specifically states otherwise.

Navigating Egg Replacer Options:

A fantastic feature of all the cookie recipes below is that they can also be made completely egg-free, making them suitable for a vegan diet as well! My son has severe egg allergies, so I always include specific recommendations for the best egg replacer for each particular cookie recipe.
While there are various types of egg replacers available, such as chia eggs, flax eggs, or commercial egg replacer powders, I always guide you to the one that yields the optimal texture and flavor for that specific cookie. Of course, if you can consume eggs, feel free to substitute regular eggs back into the recipe. An added bonus of baking without eggs? You can safely enjoy the raw cookie dough before it hits the oven – a true joy for many!

Choosing the Right Butter Replacements:

For most of my vegan butter needs, I typically use Earth Balance buttery sticks. This brand offers a consistent texture and flavor that works beautifully in many baked goods.
However, in certain recipes, I’ve found that Crisco butter-flavored shortening performs exceptionally well, especially when a more neutral flavor and specific texture are desired. In one particular recipe, coconut oil is the preferred fat, offering a unique richness. Always check each individual recipe for the specific oil or fat recommendation to ensure the best outcome.

Sourcing Dairy-Free Chocolate Chips:

For chocolate lovers, finding reliable dairy-free chocolate chips is key! My two go-to brands are Costco’s Kirkland Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips. While they don’t explicitly state “dairy-free” on the label, I haven’t found any dairy ingredients listed, and they’ve been safe for our family. However, always use what you personally feel comfortable and safe with for your own specific dietary needs.
For those seeking other certified dairy-free options, I also recommend: Enjoy Life, Nestle Toll House Allergen Free, and Great Value Free From chocolate chips. These brands are widely available and clearly labeled.
(If you’re on the hunt for a dairy-free equivalent to M&M’s style chocolate candies, the only reliable option I’ve discovered is No Whey Foods Choco No Nos – perfect for adding a pop of color and crunch to your cookies!)

To dive into each individual recipe card and get all the detailed instructions, simply click on the name of the cookie or its corresponding photo. Happy baking!

Our Delectable Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Cookie Collection

Gluten Free Dairy Free S’mores Cookies
Experience the campfire classic in cookie form! These S’mores cookies feature a chewy graham cracker-flavored base, melty dairy-free chocolate chips, and fluffy toasted dairy-free marshmallows. They’re an absolute hit, perfect for summer nights or a cozy indoor treat.

Gluten Free Dairy-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
The ultimate classic reinvented! These chocolate chip cookies boast perfectly crisp edges and a soft, chewy center, loaded with rich dairy-free chocolate chips. They’re everything you love about a traditional chocolate chip cookie, without the gluten or dairy. A must-try for any cookie enthusiast.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Sugar Cookie Bars
Easy, delightful, and perfect for a crowd! These soft sugar cookie bars are topped with a luscious dairy-free buttercream frosting, making them an ideal dessert for parties, potlucks, or just a simple family treat. No rolling required, just spread and bake!

Gluten Free Dairy Free Brookies (Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies)
Can’t decide between a cookie and a brownie? Have both! These incredible Brookies combine the best of both worlds – a rich, fudgy brownie base layered with a chewy chocolate chip cookie topping. They’re a decadent, gluten-free, and dairy-free indulgence.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Skillet Cookie (Pazookie)
Warm, gooey, and utterly irresistible – this skillet cookie, often called a “pazookie,” is meant to be shared (or not!). Baked in a cast-iron skillet, it’s perfect served warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream. A truly comforting dessert for any time of year.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Sugar Cookie Fruit Pizza
A vibrant and refreshing dessert! This “pizza” features a large, soft gluten-free and dairy-free sugar cookie crust topped with a creamy dairy-free frosting and an array of fresh, colorful fruits. It’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat, perfect for spring and summer gatherings.

Gluten Free Dairy-Free Sugar Cookies (Roll out and shape!)
The perfect canvas for creativity! These roll-out sugar cookies are firm enough to hold their shape when cut, yet soft and tender when baked. Ideal for decorating with royal icing or sprinkles, they’re a festive choice for any holiday or celebration.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
A delightful twist on a classic! These oatmeal chocolate chip cookies are wonderfully chewy, thanks to the oats, and packed with irresistible dairy-free chocolate chips. They offer a comforting, hearty texture and a satisfying sweetness that’s perfect for a wholesome snack.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Maple Cookies
Embrace the cozy flavors of autumn with these delightful maple cookies. Infused with real maple goodness, these soft and sweet cookies are like a warm hug. They’re perfect for a fall treat or whenever you crave that distinctive maple flavor.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Pumpkin Cookies
Celebrate fall with these wonderfully spiced pumpkin cookies! Soft, cake-like, and bursting with warm autumn spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, these cookies are a seasonal favorite. The optional dairy-free chocolate chips add another layer of indulgence to this comforting treat.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Black and White Cookies
A New York deli classic, reimagined! These iconic black and white cookies feature a soft, cakey cookie base half-dipped in rich dairy-free chocolate ganache and half in sweet vanilla frosting. They offer a perfect balance of flavors and a beautiful presentation.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Crinkle Cookies
These festive crinkle cookies are a holiday delight! Deeply chocolatey with a refreshing hint of peppermint, they’re coated in powdered sugar that “crinkles” as they bake, creating a beautiful contrast. They’re a showstopper for any holiday dessert table.

Gluten Free Dairy Free White Chocolate Craisin Oatmeal Cookies
A gourmet oatmeal cookie experience! These cookies combine the wholesome chewiness of oats with sweet, tart craisins and rich dairy-free white chocolate chips. They offer a sophisticated flavor profile and a delightful texture, perfect for a special treat.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Iced Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
These cookies combine the best of pumpkin, oats, and a sweet glaze! Soft and spiced with a delightful chewy texture from the oats, they’re crowned with a simple yet irresistible icing. A perfect cozy treat for autumn afternoons.

Gluten Free Dairy Free DoubleTree Chocolate Chip Cookies (*a family favorite*)
Recreate the magic of those famous hotel cookies right in your kitchen! These DoubleTree-inspired chocolate chip cookies are large, chewy, and packed with an abundance of melty dairy-free chocolate. They are a true family favorite for a reason!

Gluten Free Dairy Free White Chocolate Dipped Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
A festive and elegant cookie! These rich chocolate peppermint cookies are dipped in a smooth dairy-free white chocolate coating, creating a beautiful contrast in flavor and appearance. They’re a wonderful addition to any holiday cookie platter.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Chocolate Orange Cookies
A sophisticated flavor pairing! These cookies combine deep, rich chocolate with the bright, zesty notes of fresh orange, creating a truly memorable taste experience. They’re a delightful treat for those who appreciate gourmet flavor combinations.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Cherry Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
These adorable thumbprint cookies feature a soft chocolate cookie base with a sweet cherry filling nestled in the center. The combination of rich chocolate and fruity cherry is simply irresistible, making them a delightful and pretty treat.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Chocolate Covered Cookie Dough (No-Bake)
Who needs to bake when you can have raw cookie dough? These no-bake delights feature safe-to-eat gluten-free and dairy-free cookie dough, shaped and coated in luscious dairy-free chocolate. A dream come true for cookie dough lovers!

Melted Snowman Cookies (with Egg-Free Royal Icing)
Bring a touch of whimsical fun to your holiday baking! These adorable “melted snowman” cookies are made with a delicious sugar cookie base and decorated with smooth, pipeable egg-free royal icing. They’re a festive and charming treat that kids and adults alike will love.

Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bats (*great for Halloween*)
Get ready for some spooky fun with these chocolate sugar cookie bats! These rich, dark chocolate sugar cookies are perfect for cutting into fun shapes, especially for Halloween. Decorate them with dairy-free frosting and sprinkles for a ghoulishly good treat.

This extensive list of dairy-free and gluten-free cookie recipes is designed to bring joy and deliciousness back into your kitchen. No matter your dietary needs, you can enjoy a perfect cookie – whether it’s an after-school snack, a late-night indulgence, or even a cheeky breakfast treat. It’s time to get your delicious cookie on and savor every bite!

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