20 Irresistible Vegan & Gluten-Free Holiday Cookies for a Joyful Season
Discover 20 delicious vegan and gluten-free cookies perfect for your holiday celebrations. Whether for a festive cookie exchange, a thoughtful homemade gift, or a delightful treat to leave out with almond milk for Santa, these recipes promise pure joy!
The holiday season often brings with it cherished traditions, and for many, baking holds a special place in their hearts. Do you have any beloved holiday baking rituals that signal the start of the most wonderful time of the year?
For me, childhood memories are filled with the aroma of sugar cookies, meticulously cut into festive shapes like bells, snowflakes, stockings, and angels, then adorned with vibrant red and green sprinkles. As I grew older and ventured out on my own, my signature holiday treat evolved into the famous Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies, a recipe that quickly became infamous among my friends and family for its rich, peanut-buttery base and a perfectly soft chocolate center.
Last year, I was fortunate enough to join my girlfriends for a delightful Christmas cookie baking session. The simple act of shuffling around my friend’s kitchen, happily passing measuring spoons, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract, truly warmed my heart. There’s an undeniable magic in baking together, enveloped by a warm, sweet-smelling kitchen, that transforms those pre-holiday days into something truly special. It’s a time for connection, laughter, and creating delicious memories that last long after the last crumb is gone.
This shared experience, and my passion for inclusive baking, is what inspired me to curate this special collection of my favorite holiday cookies. I’m confident that both you and Santa will absolutely adore these wholesome, yet incredibly delicious, treats. This holiday season, embrace the spirit of togetherness by baking one of these 20 Vegan & Gluten-Free Holiday Cookies with your loved ones. Even if physical proximity isn’t possible, you can still share the joy by swapping recipes via text, scheduling a virtual bake-date, or personally delivering homemade goodies to doorsteps. These gestures of love and connection truly embody the essence of the holidays.
What makes this collection truly exceptional is that every single recipe is not only vegan and gluten-free, but also refined-sugar-free, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences and health-conscious eaters. You’ll also find plenty of oil-free and grain-free options, ensuring there’s a perfect cookie for everyone to enjoy without compromise. Prepare to fill your home with irresistible aromas and your cookie jars with healthy, delicious treats.
Happy Christmas and happy baking, everyone! May your kitchens be filled with warmth, your hearts with joy, and your plates with these incredible plant-based delights.
20 Vegan & Gluten-Free Holiday Cookies That Everyone Will Love
Raspberry-Beet Almond Flour Thumbprint Cookies
These vibrant Raspberry-Beet Almond Flour Thumbprint Cookies are a testament to how beautiful and delicious healthy holiday baking can be. Crafted with simple, wholesome ingredients, they are not only vegan and gluten-free but also grain-free and completely oil-free, making them a superb choice for those seeking lighter options. Each cookie features a tender, almond-flour base delicately pressed and filled with a homemade, sugar-free raspberry-beet chia jam. The subtle earthiness of the beet enhances the berry’s sweetness, creating a striking color and unique flavor profile that will surprise and delight your guests. These elegant thumbprints are perfect for adding a pop of natural color to your holiday dessert platter or gifting to health-conscious friends.
SunButter Sugar Cookies
Reinvent your classic holiday sugar cookies with these incredible 3-ingredient SunButter Sugar Cookies. They’re ingeniously made gluten-free and grain-free using SunButter, offering a delightful nutty flavor without any actual nuts, making them perfect for those with allergies. These simple yet satisfying cookies are easy to whip up, providing that beloved sugary crunch without any complicated steps. Finish them with festive red and green sprinkles, and you’ll have a beautiful, allergy-friendly treat that tastes just like childhood memories, ready to brighten any holiday gathering or cookie exchange.
Coconut Flour Chai Cookies
Infuse your holiday baking with exotic warmth using these fragrant Coconut Flour Chai Cookies. These grain-free delights are crafted with a blend of wholesome nut butter, rich coconut flour, and natural coconut sugar, offering a wonderfully balanced sweetness. What truly sets them apart is the infusion of aromatic chai spices, made incredibly convenient with a quality chai concentrate. The result is a soft, chewy cookie bursting with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves. They are the perfect companion to a cozy cup of tea or coffee on a chilly winter evening, bringing a unique twist to your traditional cookie spread.
Pomegranate Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
Give the beloved oatmeal chocolate chip cookie a delightful holiday makeover with these Pomegranate Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies. These vegan and gluten-free treats stand out with a unique pomegranate twist, adding a burst of tangy sweetness and a beautiful visual appeal. The base, made with almond flour, ensures they are not only gluten-free but also grain-free, offering a tender texture. Packed with hearty oats and rich chocolate chips, the addition of pomegranate seeds creates an irresistible contrast of flavors and textures, making them a festive and surprisingly refreshing addition to your holiday cookie repertoire.
Oatmeal Raisin Pecan Cookies
For a wholesome and satisfying treat, look no further than these Oatmeal Raisin Pecan Cookies. They are truly a healthy powerhouse, packed with protein, fiber, and beneficial healthy fats. These delectable cookies are completely vegan, gluten-free, and impressively oil-free, relying on natural ingredients for their rich texture and flavor. Naturally sweetened, they offer a guilt-free indulgence that doesn’t compromise on taste. The chewy oats, sweet raisins, and crunchy pecans create a harmonious blend that makes these cookies perfect for a nutritious snack or a wholesome dessert during the bustling holiday season.
Coconut Caramel Thumbprint Cookies
Indulge in pure bliss with these Coconut Caramel Thumbprint Cookies, a healthier take on a classic holiday favorite. These grain-free thumbprint cookies feature a delightful base made with creamy peanut butter and shredded coconut, giving them a wonderfully chewy texture and tropical hint. What truly makes them shine is their naturally sweet date caramel center, offering a rich, sticky, and utterly satisfying indulgence without any refined sugars. Perfect as a wholesome dessert or a sweet snack, these plant-based cookies are a sophisticated addition to any festive occasion, proving that healthy can be incredibly decadent.
Salted Cashew Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Craving a quick, satisfying treat? These Salted Cashew Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies are your answer. Incredibly easy and ready in just 15 minutes with only 6 ingredients, these grain-free and gluten-free cookies are a dream come true for busy bakers. The creamy cashew butter forms a tender, rich base, perfectly complemented by generous chunks of salty dark chocolate. The combination of sweet and salty creates an addictive flavor profile that’s hard to resist. They’re a fantastic last-minute addition to any holiday cookie platter or simply a perfect pick-me-up throughout the busy season.
Cinnamon SunButter Star Cookies
Embrace a traditional German Christmas cookie with a modern, allergy-friendly twist with these Vegan Cinnamon SunButter Star Cookies, inspired by the classic Zimtsterne. Made with finely ground almond flour and creamy SunButter, these festive star-shaped cookies offer a delicious alternative for those avoiding nuts. They are beautifully topped with a smooth, sweet coconut butter icing that adds a delicate finish. Bursting with warming cinnamon, these plant-based stars are not only visually appealing but also incredibly flavorful, making them absolutely perfect for a holiday cookie exchange where you want to impress with both taste and inclusivity.
Flourless Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies
Simplify your holiday baking with these effortlessly delicious Flourless Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies. Requiring just one bowl, these cookies are incredibly easy to make, bursting with the delightful tang of cranberries and rich chocolate chips. They are completely oil-free, gluten-free, and grain-free, making them a fantastic option for a lighter indulgence. Lightly sweetened with natural maple syrup, these soft and chewy treats offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The vibrant red cranberries make them particularly festive, ideal for adding a touch of holiday cheer to your dessert spread or enjoying as a wholesome snack.
Giant Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookie
Sometimes, one big cookie is all you need, and this Giant Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Grain-Free Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookie is designed for sharing (or not!). Perfect for two, this oversized cookie offers a truly indulgent experience. It’s lightly sweetened with pure maple syrup and loaded with dairy-free chocolate chunks that melt into gooey perfection. The almond flour base ensures a tender, rich texture that is both satisfying and wholesome. This giant cookie is ideal for a cozy holiday evening in, making a memorable dessert that’s easy to prepare and utterly delicious.
Tahini Chocolate Chip Macadamia Nut Cookies
Experience a sophisticated twist on a classic with these Tahini Chocolate Chip Macadamia Nut Cookies. These vegan, gluten-free, and oil-free delights combine the rich creaminess of tahini with the buttery crunch of macadamia nuts and plenty of decadent dark chocolate chips. The tahini adds a subtle savory depth that perfectly balances the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a complex and incredibly satisfying flavor profile. These cookies are a gourmet treat that’s both unique and utterly irresistible, making them a standout choice for any holiday dessert table or as a thoughtful gift for foodies.
Dark Chocolate Chunk Muesli Snack Cookies
For a snack that feels like a treat, try these Dark Chocolate Chunk Muesli Snack Cookies. These easy 1-bowl cookies are made simple with wholesome muesli, creamy almond butter, and chunks of rich dark chocolate. They are thoughtfully crafted to be oil-free, gluten-free, and lightly sweetened, making them a guilt-free indulgence. What’s more, they are packed with both protein and fiber, ensuring they’re not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for busy holiday mornings or as an afternoon pick-me-up, these cookies are a smart and tasty way to fuel your festive days.
Almond Butter Avocado Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prepare for a delightful surprise with these Almond Butter Avocado Chocolate Chip Cookies. These super easy and extra gooey cookies brilliantly incorporate avocado to create an incredibly moist and tender texture, without any added oil. They are naturally gluten-free and packed with an abundance of melty chocolate chips, making them undeniably decadent. The avocado subtly enhances the richness without imparting any distinct flavor, allowing the almond butter and chocolate to shine. Serve them warm with a tall glass of almond milk for a truly unforgettable and wholesome dessert experience this holiday season.
Almond Flour Cashew Butter Snickerdoodles
Embrace the comforting flavors of the holidays with these Almond Flour Cashew Butter Snickerdoodles. These soft, chewy cookies are entirely vegan, grain-free, and oil-free, offering a healthier spin on the beloved classic. Each cookie is generously rolled in a delightful mixture of cinnamon and unrefined coconut sugar, creating that signature snickerdoodle crust and irresistible spice. The cashew butter provides a creamy base, contributing to their wonderfully tender texture. These delightful plant-based snickerdoodles are perfect for cozy evenings by the fire, bringing warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations.
Vegan & Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies
No holiday cookie platter is complete without classic gingerbread, and these Vegan & Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies deliver all the festive spice you crave. These robust cookies are not only vegan and gluten-free but also oil-free, sweetened perfectly with a blend of coconut sugar and rich molasses. The aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves will fill your kitchen, instantly evoking the spirit of the holidays. Roll them into traditional round cookies or unleash your creativity by cutting them into adorable gingerbread men and decorating them for a fun, family-friendly baking activity.
Vegan Shortbread Cookies
Indulge in the simple elegance of these Vegan and Gluten-Free Shortbread Cookies. Made with just three essential ingredients, these dairy-free “buttery” cookies are incredibly easy to prepare yet deliver a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture that is utterly satisfying. Their delicate crispness and subtle sweetness make them a perfect accompaniment to a celebratory glass of Prosecco, adding a touch of sophisticated charm to your holiday gatherings. These shortbread cookies prove that minimal ingredients can yield maximum flavor and delight.
Orange Hazelnut Cookies
Brighten your holiday spread with the zesty and nutty flavors of these Orange Hazelnut Cookies. These flourless wonders are crafted with rich hazelnut butter, infusing them with a deep, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the refreshing burst of fresh-squeezed orange. Each cookie features a whole hazelnut center, adding a delightful crunch and visual appeal. These treats are completely oil-free, grain-free, and naturally sweetened with coconut sugar, making them a wonderfully wholesome choice. They offer a sophisticated and vibrant taste experience, perfect for adding a unique touch to your festive cookie collection.
Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
For the ultimate chocolate lover, these Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies are an absolute must-bake this holiday season. These decadent cookies are made grain-free, gluten-free, and naturally sweetened with coconut sugar, ensuring a rich flavor without any refined sugars. The tender chocolate base provides the perfect canvas for a glorious melty dark chocolate center, creating an irresistible treat that offers a double dose of chocolatey goodness. They are elegant enough for a holiday party yet simple enough for an everyday indulgence, promising pure chocolate bliss in every bite.
Vegan Peanut Butter Chocolate “Kiss” Cookies
Recreate a nostalgic classic with these incredibly simple 4-Ingredient 1-Bowl Vegan Peanut Butter Chocolate “Kiss” Cookies. Perfect for any sweet occasion, these cookies are a dream come true for their ease and speed – you can whip them up in less than 30 minutes! The rich peanut butter base is perfectly complemented by a dairy-free chocolate “kiss” pressed into the center, creating that iconic look and irresistible flavor combination. They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, delivering all the familiar comfort and joy of the original, in a wholesome, plant-based form.
4-Ingredient Maple Sesame Tahini Cookies
Discover a surprising and delightful flavor pairing with these 1-Bowl 4-Ingredient Maple Sesame Tahini Cookies. This minimalist recipe yields maximum flavor, celebrating the unique combination of nutty tahini and sweet maple syrup. These cookies are not only oil-free and gluten-free but also incredibly satisfying, offering a wholesome sweetness that feels indulgent. The sesame adds a subtle toasted depth, making these simple cookies complex and intriguing. They are perfect for those who appreciate unique flavor profiles and seek a quick, healthy, and exceptionally tasty plant-based dessert during the busy holiday period.
I Want to Hear From You
As you embark on your holiday baking adventures, I would absolutely love to hear about your experiences! If you make any of these 20 Vegan & Gluten-Free Holiday Cookie recipes, please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and creations.
Your feedback is incredibly valuable to me, helping me to continue creating even more delicious and inspiring recipes. So, be sure to leave a comment below, along with a rating and review for any recipes you try.
Don’t forget to give me a shout on Instagram! Use the hashtag #floraandvino to show off your beautiful plant-based creations – I can’t wait to see what you bake!
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