Name: Gluten Free Christmas Snickerdoodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum); ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon cream of tartar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for coating); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating); ¼ cup holiday gumdrops, halved

Celebrate the season with these Gluten Free Christmas Snickerdoodles, a festive twist on a nostalgic favorite. These cookies are soft and chewy, coated in cinnamon sugar, and topped with holiday-colored gumdrops for that extra merry cheer. They’re the perfect cookie to bring to a cookie exchange or to enjoy with a warm cup of cocoa by the fireplace.

What makes these cookies shine—aside from their cozy cinnamon hug—is their gluten-free base that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or simply baking for a diverse crowd, these snickerdoodles will disappear before you know it.

What Kind of Flour Should I Use for Gluten Free Christmas Snickerdoodles?

To get that perfect soft-baked snickerdoodle texture, you’ll want to use a 1:1 gluten free baking flour that includes xanthan gum. This mimics the elasticity and structure you’d get from regular all-purpose flour. Look for blends labeled specifically for cookies or all-purpose baking for best results.

Ingredients for the Gluten Free Christmas Snickerdoodles

Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour – The foundation for these cookies. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure.
Baking Soda – Essential for that classic snickerdoodle puff and chew.
Cream of Tartar – Adds the traditional tang that sets snickerdoodles apart.
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and softness.
Granulated Sugar – For sweetness and that crisp cinnamon-sugar coating.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients and help achieve the perfect chewy texture.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the cozy flavor.
Ground Cinnamon – The star of the snickerdoodle coating.
Holiday Gumdrops – A festive addition for color and seasonal fun.

How To Make the Gluten Free Christmas Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a small bowl, mix together cinnamon and sugar for rolling the dough.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This creates a soft base that ensures a chewy cookie.

Step 3: Mix in the Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Slowly add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 5: Shape and Roll

Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Place them spaced apart on your prepared baking sheets.

Step 6: Add Gumdrops and Bake

Lightly press 2-3 red and green gumdrops onto each dough ball. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or store for later.

How to Store and Serve Gluten Free Christmas Snickerdoodles

These cookies stay soft for days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer freshness, freeze in layers with parchment paper in between for up to two months. To serve, you can rewarm them in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them as-is. Their festive look and warm flavor make them perfect for cookie trays, school parties, or as a sweet gift from your kitchen.

What to Serve With Gluten Free Christmas Snickerdoodles

Hot Cocoa with Marshmallows

The cozy cinnamon pairs perfectly with a rich mug of cocoa.

Peppermint Tea

A refreshing balance to the cookie’s sweetness.

Eggnog

Classic Christmas pairing that elevates your cookie platter.

Fruit & Cheese Platter

Serve alongside mild cheeses and fruits like apples or grapes for a sweet-savory bite.

Chocolate Fondue

Dip your cookies halfway into melted dark chocolate for extra decadence.

If these Gluten Free Christmas Snickerdoodles put you in a festive mood, try more sweet bites from Savor Queen:

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of nutmeg or a different candy topping? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Gluten Free Christmas Snickerdoodles

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 18 cookies

Print Recipe

Description

Looking for a crowd-pleasing treat that’s festive, gluten free, and absolutely irresistible? These Gluten Free Christmas Snickerdoodles are just the thing. With their soft, chewy texture, warm cinnamon sugar coating, and colorful gumdrop toppings, they’re perfect for holiday parties, cookie swaps, or cozy nights in. This easy recipe brings holiday magic to every bite while staying friendly for gluten-sensitive guests. Whether you’re after quick dessert ideas, simple gluten-free snacks, or creative Christmas cookie recipes, this one checks all the boxes.