Gluten-Free Almond Cookies
- Mar 6
- 4 min read
Why You’ll Love Making Gluten-Free Almond Cookies
Budget-Friendly: You likely have the pantry staples—sugar, eggs, and butter—already on hand.
Small-Batch Friendly: It’s easy to bake exactly what you need.
The Shine: The secret is the egg wash; it gives them a professional, golden finish that makes you feel like a pro.
The product links are affiliate links. I only link to products I've used and believe in. If you are interested in one of the products, please consider purchasing through these links because I can earn a small commission. It does not affect the price you pay, but it does allow me to keep the website free of all those crazy ads on other sites. Thank you!
What You Need to Make These Gluten-Free Almond Cookies
Tools
Small skillet (for toasting almonds)
Pastry brush (for the egg wash)
Ingredients (Shopping List)
Butter
Sugar
Eggs
Almond Extract
Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour
Ground Almonds
Salt
Baking Soda
Whole Almonds
Here's the Recipe
When I used to make cookies, it was always in huge batches. I guess it comes from working in bakeries, but I never baked a single batch of cookies. It didn’t feel worth pulling out the mixer for a couple of trays of cookies.
As a matter of fact, a couple of years ago, when I did only bake a single batch of cookies, using only two baking sheets, I was amazed at why people don’t bake cookies more often in regular or even half-batches. There’s nothing like fresh cookies out of the oven.
These Gluten-Free Almond Cookies are perfect if you want a quick dessert for a weeknight dinner for just a couple of you. This recipe yields a modest 18–24 cookies, which is just enough to enjoy throughout the week or share with a neighbor during a walk. They are inspired by a classic King Arthur recipe and lean into the naturally gluten-free power of ground almonds.
Historically, almond-based cookies like these have roots in Chinese "Almond Cakes" and European shortbreads, often symbolizing good fortune. In our modern kitchens, they represent a smarter way to bake: using nutrient-dense nuts to add protein and healthy fats while keeping the texture light and crisp.
Honestly, if you make them per the recipe, you will not know they are gluten-free, but if you don’t have gluten-free flour in your kitchen, they work just as well with regular flour.
Try These Variations
The Traditionalist: If you aren't avoiding gluten, you can absolutely make these with regular all-purpose flour.
Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a bright, summery note.
Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle a little dark chocolate over the top for an extra indulgence.
Why These Ingredients Matter
Ground Almonds: These provide a wonderful "bite" and a hit of healthy fats. Plus, ground almonds are less expensive than almond flour. You can usually find them at Trader Joe’s in the nut aisle.
Almond Extract: This is where that nostalgic, marzipan-like aroma comes from.
Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour: This keeps things simple—no need to play chemist with five different bags of starch. I use King Arthur gluten-free Measure for Measure flour. It is perfect for this recipe. Don’t use the All-Purpose gluten-free flour because it doesn’t have xanthan gum, and that is critical for the correct dough.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How should I store my gluten-free almond cookies?
You can keep these cookies in an airtight container on the counter for up to 5 days. Because they contain ground almonds, they stay moist longer than traditional flour cookies.
Can I freeze the gluten-free almond cookie dough?
Yes! You can freeze the rolled, unbaked balls for up to 3 months. Just add the egg wash and the whole almond right before you pop them in the oven (you may need to add 1–2 minutes to the bake time).
What if I don't have almond extract?
Vanilla extract works in a pinch, but you’ll lose that signature "almond" punch.
How do I get that perfect golden shine?
Don't skip the 10-minute chill after applying the egg wash. It helps the wash set so it bakes into a beautiful, lacquered finish.
I'd love to hear from you!
I’d love to hear how these turned out in your kitchen! Did you stick to the classic recipe or try a citrus twist? Leave a comment below and let’s chat.
About Jen and her Recipes
As the creator of Appetite for Life, Jen Vondenbrink combines years of culinary passion and experience with a mission to help others find joy and confidence in the kitchen. Whether she is developing savory weeknight meals or indulgent baked treats, every recipe is meticulously crafted and kitchen-tested to ensure reliable, delicious results for her readers. Jen is dedicated to sharing these proven techniques and practical tips so that every home cook can achieve professional-quality results in both cooking and baking.
Perfect with tea!