As more people adopt gluten-free and vegan diets, traditional holiday recipes can pose a challenge. But that doesn't mean you have to miss out on indulging in delicious treats this Thanksgiving. With this gluten-free and vegan sugar cookie recipe, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your dietary preferences. These cookies are not only a healthy option, but they are also easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holiday season. Here's how you can make them.
Main Ingredients: Powdered Sugar, Vanilla Extract, Water
Looking for the perfect sugar cookie icing recipe to take your cut out cookies to the next level? Look no further! This easy and delicious icing is the perfect finishing touch for your holiday treats.
The best part? You probably already have all the ingredients in your pantry. Simply mix together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to create a smooth and creamy icing that hardens when it dries. Pro tip: add a few drops of food coloring to create a festive look.
2of 40
Sugar Cookie Shot
Main Ingredients: Vodka, Cream Soda, Sugar
Want to take your sugar cookies to the next level? Try turning them into a delicious and festive shot! This fun and unique recipe is perfect for holiday parties or just a fun night in with friends.
To make this sweet and boozy treat, start by mixing together vanilla vodka, amaretto, and Irish cream in a shaker with ice. Pro tip: rim your shot glasses with sprinkles for an extra festive touch. Then, pour the mixture into the glasses and top with a mini sugar cookie for the perfect finish.
3of 40
Pomegranate & Black Pepper Sugar Cookie Icing
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Pomegranate, Black Pepper
Looking for a more unique sugar cookie icing recipe? Try this delicious combination of pomegranate and black pepper! This unexpected flavor pairing adds a sweet and spicy kick to your traditional sugar cookies.
To make the icing, simply mix together powdered sugar, pomegranate juice, and freshly ground black pepper. Drizzle it over your sugar cookies for a unique and flavorful twist on a classic treat.
4of 40
Sugar Cookie Bars
Main Ingredients: Cornstarch, Water, Vegan Butter, Agave Nectar, Organic
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy the deliciousness of sugar cookies, try making these easy sugar cookie bars. This recipe cuts out the rolling and cutting process, making it a quick and simple way to enjoy your favorite treat.
Simply mix together butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and flour, and press the dough into a baking pan. Bake until golden brown, then top with your favorite icing and festive sprinkles. Pro tip: add a layer of frosting in between two bars for an extra decadent treat.
5of 40
Sugar Cookie Syrup
Main Ingredients: Water, Granulated Sugar, Vanilla Extract, Butter
Sugar cookies aren't just for eating - you can also turn them into a delicious syrup to top your pancakes or waffles! This simple and versatile recipe is a great way to use up any leftover sugar cookies.
To make the syrup, simply blend together crushed sugar cookies, milk, and sugar in a blender until smooth. Heat it up on the stove and drizzle it over your favorite breakfast foods for a sweet and indulgent twist.
6of 40
Vanilla Sugar Cookie Dough Fudge {Paleo & Vegan}
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, Cashew Butter, Pure Maple
If you're following a paleo or vegan diet, you don't have to miss out on the deliciousness of sugar cookies. This recipe turns sugar cookie dough into a rich and creamy fudge that is both dairy-free and gluten-free.
Mix together almond flour, coconut flour, maple syrup, almond butter, and vanilla extract, then press the dough into a pan and refrigerate until firm. Top with a layer of melted dairy-free chocolate for the ultimate sugar cookie fudge experience.
Main Ingredients: Ice, Syrup, Espresso Coffee, Almond Milk, Espresso
Looking for a festive drink to warm you up on a cold winter day? Try this delicious iced sugar cookie almond milk latte, inspired by a popular Starbucks drink.
Brew your favorite espresso, then mix it together with almond milk, vanilla syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon. Top it off with a sprinkle of colored sugar and enjoy your homemade version of a holiday favorite.
8of 40
Sugar & Spice Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Main Ingredients: Pumpkin Seeds, Sugar, Salt, Ground Cumin, Ground
Don't throw away those pumpkin seeds after carving your jack-o-lantern - turn them into a delicious and healthy snack! This recipe combines the sweetness of sugar with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg for a flavorful twist on roasted pumpkin seeds.
Toss the pumpkin seeds with melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt, then bake in the oven until crispy. Pro tip: add a touch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
9of 40
Frosted Sugar Cookie Popcorn
Main Ingredients: Candy, Sprinkles
Popcorn is a classic movie night snack, but have you ever tried adding the flavors of a sugar cookie? This recipe takes plain popcorn and transforms it into a sweet and crunchy treat.
Melt together butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt, then drizzle it over freshly popped popcorn. Top with festive sprinkles and let the mixture cool before enjoying your new favorite snack.
10of 40
Easy Vegan Sugar Cookie Stars
Main Ingredients: Oat Flour, Maple Syrup, Coconut Butter, Baking Powder
If you're looking for a vegan-friendly sugar cookie recipe, these adorable star-shaped cookies are the perfect option. They are made with simple ingredients and are free of any animal products.
Mix together flour, sugar, vegan butter, almond milk, and vanilla extract, then cut them into star shapes using cookie cutters. Bake until golden brown and top with a simple powdered sugar glaze for a classic and delicious treat.
11of 40
Horchata
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Warm Water, Cinnamon Stick, Sugar, Rice
Horchata is a traditional Mexican drink made from rice, sugar, and cinnamon. This refreshing and sweet beverage is perfect for cooling down on a hot day or enjoying with your favorite Mexican dishes.
To make horchata, blend together cooked rice, water, sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve, chill, and serve over ice for a delicious and unique drink experience.
12of 40
Cowboy Caviar
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Wine Vinegar, Chili Powder, Cumin
Cowboy caviar, also known as Texas caviar, is a flavorful and colorful dip perfect for parties or snacking. This recipe combines beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado with a tangy and spicy dressing for a delicious and healthy dip.
Mix together black beans, black-eyed peas, corn, tomatoes, and avocado, then drizzle with a dressing made from olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeno. Serve with tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
13of 40
Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Water, Pecans, Cinnamon Sugar
Cinnamon sugar pecans are a classic holiday treat, and this recipe makes it easy to whip up a batch at home. These sweet and crunchy nuts are perfect for snacking on or giving as a homemade gift.
Toss pecans with melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon, then bake in the oven until toasted and fragrant. Let them cool before breaking them apart and enjoying their addictive flavor.
14of 40
Garlic & Ginger Bok Choy
Main Ingredients: Bok Choy, Garlic, Fresh Ginger, Sugar, Salt, Water
Bok choy is a nutritious and versatile vegetable that can be prepared in a variety of ways. This recipe gives it a delicious Asian-inspired twist with the addition of garlic and ginger.
Sauté bok choy in a pan with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of brown sugar until tender. Serve as a side dish or add it to stir-fries for a flavorful and healthy meal.
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to traditional sugar cookies, try these no-bake sugar cookie bites. They are made with wholesome ingredients and are free of any added sugar, making them the perfect guilt-free snack.
Mix together almonds, dates, oats, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a food processor until a dough forms. Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls and enjoy as a tasty and nutritious treat.
16of 40
Ratatouille
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Salt, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Medium
Ratatouille is a traditional French dish made with a variety of vegetables, making it a healthy and flavorful option for vegetarians or anyone looking to add more veggies to their diet.
Sauté eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes with garlic, herbs, and olive oil until tender. Serve as a side dish or add it to pasta for a hearty and delicious meal.
17of 40
Restaurant Style Salsa
Main Ingredients: Roma Tomatoes, White Onion, Chopped Cilantro, Lime
Forget store-bought salsa - this homemade version is so much better! This recipe recreates the flavors of a restaurant-style salsa with fresh ingredients and just the right amount of heat.
Blend together tomatoes, onions, garlic, cilantro, jalapeno, and lime juice until chunky. Add a pinch of salt and cumin for extra flavor, then serve with tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing snack.
18of 40
Pickled Beets
Main Ingredients: Beets, Cider Vinegar, Sugar, Olive Oil, Dry Mustard
Not a fan of beets? This pickled beet recipe might just change your mind. Pickling adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the beets, making them a delicious and unique addition to any meal.
Boil beets until tender, then slice and add them to a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and spices. Let them marinate in the fridge for a few hours before enjoying them as a side dish or on top of salads.
19of 40
World's Best Cranberry Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Orange Juice, Sugar, Nutmeg, Vanilla
No holiday dinner is complete without cranberry sauce, and this recipe claims to be the world's best - and for good reason. The addition of orange juice and spices takes this classic sauce to the next level.
Mix together fresh cranberries, orange juice, sugar, and cinnamon and simmer until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. Let it cool before serving as a festive and flavorful accompaniment to your holiday meal.
20of 40
Gingerbread Cookie Sugar Scrub
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Coconut Oil, Ground Ginger, Ground Cinnamon
This gingerbread cookie sugar scrub is the perfect DIY gift for the holiday season. Made with simple ingredients and scented with warm and comforting spices, it will leave your skin feeling soft and smelling delicious.
Mix together brown sugar, coconut oil, and ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg for a simple and natural scrub. Package it in a jar and add a festive ribbon for an easy and thoughtful homemade present.
21of 40
Sugar Cookie Icing for Cut Out Cookies
Main Ingredients: Powdered Sugar, Vanilla Extract, Water
If you're a fan of cut out cookies, then this sugar cookie icing recipe is a must-try! This simple and versatile icing is perfect for adding a pop of color and sweetness to your favorite cookie shapes. Plus, it's easy to make and only requires a few ingredients. You can even add food coloring to create a rainbow of hues for your cookies.
22of 40
Sugar Cookie Shot
Main Ingredients: Vodka, Cream Soda, Sugar
For all the adults out there, why not try a sugar cookie shot? This festive drink is perfect for holiday parties or just a fun night in with friends. Made with vanilla vodka, coffee liqueur, and Irish cream, this sweet treat is like a liquid version of a sugar cookie. Serve it up in a sugar-rimmed shot glass for an extra touch of sweetness.
23of 40
Pomegranate & Black Pepper Sugar Cookie Icing
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Pomegranate, Black Pepper
For a unique twist on traditional sugar cookie icing, try this pomegranate and black pepper version. The tartness of the pomegranate pairs perfectly with the heat of the black pepper, creating a sweet and spicy icing that will add a burst of flavor to your cookies. You can even add a sprinkle of edible gold dust for a touch of glamour.
24of 40
Sugar Cookie Bars
Main Ingredients: Cornstarch, Water, Vegan Butter, Agave Nectar, Organic
If you love sugar cookies but don't want to spend time rolling out dough and cutting out shapes, then try making sugar cookie bars instead. These chewy and delicious bars are made with all the classic sugar cookie ingredients, but are baked in a pan for an easy and mess-free treat. You can even add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or sprinkles.
25of 40
Sugar Cookie Syrup
Main Ingredients: Water, Granulated Sugar, Vanilla Extract, Butter
Forget maple syrup, this sugar cookie syrup is the perfect topping for your pancakes or waffles. Made with brown sugar, butter, and vanilla extract, this syrup is rich and sweet, just like a sugar cookie. Drizzle it over your breakfast or use it as a glaze for your baked goods.
26of 40
Vanilla Sugar Cookie Dough Fudge {Paleo & Vegan}
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, Cashew Butter, Pure Maple
Fudge lovers, rejoice! This vanilla sugar cookie dough fudge recipe is both Paleo and vegan, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Made with coconut oil, almond butter, and coconut sugar, this fudge has all the flavors of a classic sugar cookie in a rich and creamy form.
Main Ingredients: Ice, Syrup, Espresso Coffee, Almond Milk, Espresso
For all the Starbucks fans, this sugar cookie latte is a must-try! This copycat version is made with almond milk, vanilla syrup, and espresso, and topped with sugar cookie crumbles. It's like a sugar cookie in a cup and perfect for a cozy night in.
28of 40
Sugar & Spice Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Main Ingredients: Pumpkin Seeds, Sugar, Salt, Ground Cumin, Ground
Don't throw away those pumpkin seeds after carving your jack-o'-lantern! Instead, try making these sugar and spice roasted pumpkin seeds. They're coated in a blend of sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, creating a delicious and festive snack. You can even add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.
29of 40
Frosted Sugar Cookie Popcorn
Main Ingredients: Candy, Sprinkles
If you're a fan of sweet and salty snacks, then you'll love this frosted sugar cookie popcorn. This addictive treat is made with white chocolate, sugar cookie mix, and sprinkles, and is perfect for movie nights or just a midday pick-me-up. It's also a great homemade gift idea for the holidays.
30of 40
Easy Vegan Sugar Cookie Stars
Main Ingredients: Oat Flour, Maple Syrup, Coconut Butter, Baking Powder
For a fun and kid-friendly activity, try making these easy vegan sugar cookie stars. They're made with coconut oil, almond flour, and maple syrup, and are topped with a delicious coconut milk icing. Let the little ones help with the decorating and create a batch of festive and delightful cookies.
31of 40
Horchata
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Warm Water, Cinnamon Stick, Sugar, Rice
Horchata is a traditional Mexican drink made with rice, cinnamon, and vanilla. It's a refreshing and creamy beverage that pairs perfectly with spicy foods. For a twist on the classic recipe, try using sugar cookies instead of rice for a sweet and festive version of horchata.
32of 40
Cowboy Caviar
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Wine Vinegar, Chili Powder, Cumin
If you're looking for a healthy and flavorful snack, then try making this cowboy caviar recipe. Made with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado, this dip is packed with protein and fresh ingredients. Serve it with sugar cookie chips for a unique and delicious twist.
33of 40
Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Water, Pecans, Cinnamon Sugar
These cinnamon sugar pecans are the perfect sweet and crunchy snack. They're coated in a blend of cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla, and baked until they're crisp and irresistible. They're great for snacking on the go or for adding a festive touch to your holiday party spread.
34of 40
Garlic & Ginger Bok Choy
Main Ingredients: Bok Choy, Garlic, Fresh Ginger, Sugar, Salt, Water
For a healthy and flavorful side dish, try making this garlic and ginger bok choy. The combination of savory garlic and spicy ginger pairs perfectly with the sweetness of bok choy. This dish is also quick and easy to make, making it a great addition to any weeknight meal.
If you're craving something sweet but don't want to turn on the oven, try making these no-bake sugar cookie bites. Made with almond flour, dates, and coconut oil, these bites are a healthier version of traditional sugar cookies. They're also perfect for snacking on the go.
36of 40
Ratatouille
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Salt, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Medium
This colorful and flavorful dish is a must-try for all the veggie lovers out there. Ratatouille is a traditional French dish made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes. For a sweet and festive twist, try adding sugar cookie crumbles to the top before baking.
37of 40
Restaurant Style Salsa
Main Ingredients: Roma Tomatoes, White Onion, Chopped Cilantro, Lime
Why buy salsa when you can easily make it at home? This restaurant-style salsa recipe is simple and delicious, and pairs perfectly with sugar cookie chips. Made with fresh tomatoes, jalapeños, and cilantro, this salsa is spicy and flavorful. You can also add some sugar to balance out the heat.
38of 40
Pickled Beets
Main Ingredients: Beets, Cider Vinegar, Sugar, Olive Oil, Dry Mustard
For a unique and tangy side dish, try making these pickled beets. Beets are pickled in a mixture of sugar, vinegar, and spices, creating a sweet and tart flavor. These pickled beets are perfect for adding a pop of color and flavor to salads or as a side dish for any meal.
39of 40
World's Best Cranberry Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Orange Juice, Sugar, Nutmeg, Vanilla
No holiday meal is complete without cranberry sauce, and this world's best cranberry sauce recipe is sure to impress. Made with fresh cranberries, orange juice, and a touch of sugar, this sauce is simple yet flavorful. You can even add some chopped nuts for a crunchy element.
40of 40
Gingerbread Cookie Sugar Scrub
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Coconut Oil, Ground Ginger, Ground Cinnamon
After indulging in all these sweet treats, your skin will thank you for this gingerbread cookie sugar scrub. Made with brown sugar, ginger, and cinnamon, this scrub will exfoliate and moisturize your skin, leaving it soft and glowing. You can even add some coconut oil for extra hydration.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups gluten-free flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
1/2 cup vegan butter, softened
1/2 cup organic cane sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients (gluten-free flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg).
In a separate large bowl, cream together the vegan butter and organic cane sugar until light and fluffy.
Add in the unsweetened applesauce, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the wet mixture and mix until well combined.
Slowly incorporate the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
Form the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least an hour.
Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Using your favorite cookie cutter, cut out desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Additional Tips
To make these cookies extra festive, you can decorate them with a vegan royal icing made with aquafaba (liquid from canned chickpeas), organic powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. You can also add in some dried cranberries and chopped pecans to the dough for a Thanksgiving twist. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for up to a month.
With this gluten-free and vegan sugar cookie recipe, you can enjoy all the flavors of Thanksgiving without any dietary restrictions. These cookies are not only delicious, but they are also a great way to show your loved ones that you care about their health and well-being. Give them a try this holiday season and watch them become a family favorite. Happy Thanksgiving!