Name: The BEST Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies You'll Love
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter or Dairy-Free Butter (Softened); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 3/4 cup Packed Brown Sugar (Light or dark based on preference); 2 large Eggs (At room temperature); 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract; 2 cups Gluten-Free Measure-for-Measure Flour (With xanthan gum); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1 to 2 cups Chocolate Chips or Chunks (Mix both for full experience); Flaky Sea Salt (Optional finishing touch)

The kitchen was filled with the warm, inviting scent of freshly baked cookies as I watched the golden-brown treats slowly emerge from the oven. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for the BEST Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies—a delicious indulgence that proves gluten-free can be just as satisfying as the originals. These cookies strike the perfect balance, delivering a chewy exterior and a gooey center bursting with rich chocolate goodness. What I love most is how simple ingredients can create such comfort, making them an ideal treat for anyone seeking a break from the usual fast food routine. Plus, they’re a crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing with friends or family on a cozy evening. Ready to dive into a batch of these delightful cookies? Let’s get started!

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Best: The recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros seeking a delightful gluten-free treat.

Irresistibly Chewy: Each bite delivers a satisfying chew, reminiscent of classic chocolate chip cookies, proving that gluten-free can still mean indulgent.

Versatile & Customizable: Experiment with mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits to make these cookies truly yours—maybe try Pecan Pie Cookies for a festive twist!

Time-Saving Delight: Chilling the dough is quick and ensures optimal texture, so you can enjoy fresh cookies in under an hour.

Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together, these cookies are sure to impress everyone! Pair with a warm bowl of Tomato Bisque for a cozy night in.

Memory-Making Experience: Baking these cookies not only fills your home with a delicious aroma but also creates cherished moments in the kitchen.

Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Butter or Dairy-Free Butter – Provides richness and moisture; feel free to substitute with dairy-free buttery sticks for a vegan option.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create perfect cookie spread.
Packed Brown Sugar – Deepens flavor and contributes to chewy texture; use either light or dark based on your preference.
Eggs – Bind ingredients together and enhance texture; ensure they are at room temperature for best results.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for light and airy cookies.
Baking Soda – Helps with browning and ensures cookies spread beautifully.
Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and heightens the overall flavor.
Gluten-Free Measure-for-Measure Flour – The main structural component that ensures cookies are tender; look for flour that contains xanthan gum for the best results.
Chocolate Chips or Chunks – Adds rich flavor and delightful texture; consider mixing both for a full experience.
Flaky Sea Salt – An optional finishing touch that provides a delicious flavor contrast when sprinkled on top before baking.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for The BEST Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Cream Butter & Sugars
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you gather your ingredients. In a stand mixer, cream together 1 cup of softened butter or dairy-free butter with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar and 3/4 cup of packed brown sugar. Beat this mixture for about 2 minutes until it’s light and fluffy, creating a perfect base for the BEST Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, incorporate 2 large eggs, ensuring they are at room temperature for best results. Add in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract and mix on low speed until just blended, bringing all the wet ingredients together seamlessly. This step adds moisture and enhances the flavor, making your cookie dough even more delicious.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of gluten-free measure-for-measure flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your gluten-free chocolate chip cookies.

Step 4: Mix in Chocolate
Now it’s time to fold in 1 to 2 cups of chocolate chips or chunks into your dough. Use a spatula to gently combine, ensuring that the chocolate is evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step is crucial for achieving those gooey, chocolatey centers that everyone loves in a classic cookie.

Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the cookie dough bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. Chilling the dough helps to enhance the flavors and prevent excessive spreading, resulting in a chewy cookie texture when baked.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Sheets
While the dough chills, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also allows for even baking. Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the fridge and prepare to scoop out those delightful cookie balls.

Step 7: Scoop Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, roll the chilled dough into balls, about 1.5 tablespoons each. Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving adequate space between each, as they’ll spread while baking. Aim for around 12 cookies per sheet to ensure they have room to expand.

Step 8: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the centers appear slightly underbaked. This visual cue is crucial for achieving a soft and chewy texture in your gluten-free chocolate chip cookies.

Step 9: Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 1-2 minutes. This step helps them set before transferring to a wire rack. After a brief cooldown, move the cookies to the rack to let them cool completely, ready to be enjoyed!

Make Ahead Options

These gluten-free chocolate chip cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance, just be sure to cover it tightly and refrigerate to maintain its freshness and prevent browning. If you want, you can also scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months; simply place the frozen dough balls directly onto the baking sheet to bake, adding a minute or two to the baking time. When you’re ready to enjoy these delicious treats, just bake from frozen or chilled, and you’ll have the BEST gluten-free chocolate chip cookies with minimal effort, just like fresh from the oven!

Expert Tips for The BEST Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chill Your Dough: Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This prevents excessive spreading and ensures chewy cookies.
Weigh Ingredients: For the most accurate results, weigh dry ingredients. This helps maintain the right texture for your gluten-free chocolate chip cookies.
Calibrate Your Oven: Make sure your oven temperature is accurate. An incorrect temperature can lead to cookies that are either too dry or too gooey.
Stand Mixer Advantage: If possible, use a stand mixer to manage larger batches of dough efficiently—this makes mixing a breeze!
Adjust Flour as Needed: If your cookies spread too much during baking, try adding an extra tablespoon of gluten-free flour to the dough for better structure.

Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations

Customize your baking experience with these delightful twists that will spark your creativity and awaken your taste buds!

Nutty Addition: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and richness.
Dried Fruit: Add ½ cup of dried cranberries or cherries for a sweet-tart flavor that beautifully complements the chocolate.
Cinnamon Swirl: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or espresso powder to elevate the flavor profile and add warmth to each cookie.
Extra Chocolate: Use 1 cup of chocolate chunks alongside chocolate chips for a double chocolate experience; decadent and delightful!
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap in dairy-free butter and chocolate chips for a fully dairy-free version that’s just as satisfying; no one will miss the dairy!
Gluten-Free Flour Alternatives: If you’re out of gluten-free measure-for-measure flour, almond flour or oat flour can be delightful substitutes; just keep an eye on the texture.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising and delightful heat that balances perfectly with sweet chocolate.
Sea Salt Sprinkle: Top the uncooked cookie dough balls with a little flaky sea salt for a gourmet touch before baking; it enhances the flavors beautifully!

Feel free to also pair these cookies with a warm bowl of Tomato Bisque or some homemade Chocolate Truffles Decadent for a cozy treat!

What to Serve with The Best Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Imagine a cozy gathering where the aroma of freshly baked cookies mingles with your favorite comforting side dishes, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Classic Milk: The ultimate pairing! A cold glass of milk enhances the rich chocolate flavors and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Rich Hot Cocoa: For a decadent treat, a steaming mug of hot cocoa complements the chewy texture beautifully, making every bite a chocolate lover’s dream.
Warm Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, where the warm cookie contrasts with the cold delight, creating a heavenly mouthful.
Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries like raspberries or strawberries cut through the cookie’s sweetness, adding a fresh and vibrant kick.
Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of whipped cream brings a lightness that complements the cookies while inviting everyone back for more.
Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea provides a calming counterpoint to the sweetness, making it an ideal pairing for a cozy evening.
Gooey S’mores Dip: Try a s’mores dip for a fun twist! Its gooey chocolate and marshmallow blend echo the flavors in the cookies while offering a fun dessert experience.
Chewy Granola Bars: For a snacking alternative, these bars provide a chewy texture that’s perfect for nibbling alongside your cookies during family movie nights.

Storage Tips for The BEST Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and chewy.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, reheat them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. This brings back their delightful gooeyness!

Enjoy Anytime: With these storage tips, your gluten-free chocolate chip cookies will be ready whenever you crave a sweet treat!

The BEST Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of gluten-free flour should I use?
For the BEST gluten-free chocolate chip cookies, I recommend using a gluten-free measure-for-measure flour that contains xanthan gum. This combination ensures your cookies have the right structure and texture, similar to traditional cookies.

How should I store my cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to save some for later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! To freeze the dough, scoop it into balls and place them on a baking sheet to firm up in the freezer for about 1 hour. Once solid, transfer the cookie balls to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a minute or two to the baking time if baking from frozen.

What should I do if the cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find your cookies spreading excessively, it’s usually due to warm dough or the flour ratio. Try chilling the dough longer or adding an extra tablespoon of gluten-free flour to the mix. Always make sure your ingredients, especially butter, are at the right temperature!

Can these cookies be made dairy-free?
Yes! Just substitute the regular butter with dairy-free buttery sticks and use dairy-free chocolate chips. This way, you can indulge in these delightful gluten-free chocolate chip cookies while accommodating for dietary restrictions.

What are some good mix-ins for these cookies?
You can personalize these gluten-free chocolate chip cookies with mix-ins like chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even different types of chocolate chunks. For a festive twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon or a pinch of espresso powder to deepen the flavor profile.