Let’s be honest, a warm chocolate chip cookie fresh from the oven is pure happiness. But what if you’re on a gluten-free diet? Does that mean you have to miss out on this classic treat? Absolutely not!
This recipe will guide you through making the most delicious, chewy, and satisfying gluten-free chocolate chip cookies ever. They’re so good, even your gluten-loving friends will be asking for the recipe.
What Makes These Cookies So Special?
This isn’t your average gluten-free cookie recipe. We’re using a blend of almond flour and tapioca starch to create a texture that mimics the chewiness of traditional cookies. Plus, we’re not skimping on the chocolate chips – because what’s a chocolate chip cookie without plenty of chocolate?
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 1/4 cups almond flour
- 1/2 cup tapioca starch
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
A Note on Ingredients:
- Almond Flour: This is the base of our gluten-free flour blend. Look for finely ground almond flour for the best texture.
- Tapioca Starch: This ingredient helps bind the dough and adds a bit of chewiness to the cookies. You can usually find it in the baking aisle near the cornstarch.
- Chocolate Chips: Feel free to use your favorite type of chocolate chips. Semi-sweet, milk chocolate, dark chocolate – they all work beautifully in this recipe!
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Let’s Bake Some Cookies!
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, tapioca starch, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: Cream Together Butter and Sugars
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This is best done with an electric mixer, but you can also use a whisk and some elbow grease.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 5: Gradually Incorporate Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Scoop and Bake
- Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a couple of inches between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are just set.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Golden brown gluten-free chocolate chip cookies on a cooling rack.
Tips for Baking Perfect Gluten-Free Cookies
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help prevent spreading and result in chewier cookies.
- Use a Cookie Scoop: For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they bake. They’re done when the edges are golden brown and the centers are just set.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
While almond flour is recommended for this recipe, you can try substituting it with another gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the cookies may vary.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! This cookie dough freezes beautifully. Simply scoop it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookie dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve these cookies with?
These gluten-free chocolate chip cookies are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when paired with a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
A plate of gluten-free chocolate chip cookies with a glass of milk.
Time to Get Baking!
There you have it! Everything you need to know to make irresistible gluten-free chocolate chip cookies. Now, put on your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready for some serious cookie bliss!
Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us! Leave a comment below and let us know how your cookies turned out. And for more delicious gluten-free baking inspiration, check out our recipe for Gluten-Free Garam Masala Cookies, a unique twist on the classic treat. Happy baking!