With the holiday season around the corner, Christmas baking is a delightful way to spread joy and create delicious treats for your loved ones. For those following a gluten-free diet, it can sometimes be challenging to find recipes that cater to their dietary needs without compromising on taste. Fear not, as we bring you a scrumptious Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies recipe that will fill your home with the warm and cozy aroma of festive spices, perfect for the season.
**Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups gluten-free flour blend
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined. Set aside.
2. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until smooth and well incorporated.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough seems too sticky, add a little more gluten-free flour.
5. Divide the dough into two equal parts, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll out one portion of the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use gingerbread cookie cutters to cut out shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set. Be careful not to overbake to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
9. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once the cookies are completely cooled, you can decorate them with icing, sprinkles, or enjoy them as they are.
These Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa by the fire. They have all the classic flavors of traditional gingerbread cookies but are entirely gluten-free, so everyone can indulge in the festive spirit. Get creative with decorating and have fun making these delicious treats that are sure to become a holiday favorite in your home. Happy baking!
