If you love a cookie that’s chewy on the inside, slightly crisp on the edges, and packed with wholesome ingredients, then you’re in the right place! These gluten free oatmeal cookies are not only delicious but also easy to make with simple pantry staples.
Perfect for a gluten free diet, these cookies make a great snack, dessert, or even a healthy breakfast option. Whether you enjoy them plain, with chocolate chips, raisins, or nuts, they’re bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why Make Gluten Free Oatmeal Cookies?
Oatmeal cookies are known for their soft texture and nutty flavor, but most recipes contain wheat flour, which isn’t suitable for those following a gluten free lifestyle. Thankfully, these cookies are made with certified gluten free oats and a blend of gluten free flours, making them completely safe and just as delicious as the original version.
Benefits of Gluten Free Oatmeal Cookies
- 100% gluten free – Suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
- Naturally high in fiber – Thanks to the oats, these cookies promote healthy digestion.
- Healthier than store-bought cookies – No artificial ingredients or preservatives.
- Customizable – Add chocolate chips, nuts, raisins, or coconut flakes for a personal touch.
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert – A versatile treat for any time of the day.
For more gluten free breakfast ideas, check out this list of quick gluten-free breakfast ideas.
Key Ingredients for Gluten Free Oatmeal Cookies
The key to making the best gluten free oatmeal cookies is using high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups certified gluten free oats – Essential for a chewy texture.
- 1 cup gluten free flour blend – A mix of rice flour, almond flour, or oat flour works well.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly.
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional but recommended for warmth and depth of flavor).
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors.
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter or coconut oil – Provides richness and moisture.
- ¾ cup brown sugar or coconut sugar – Adds sweetness and a soft texture.
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for a vegan version) – Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup chocolate chips – For a classic oatmeal chocolate chip cookie.
- ½ cup raisins or chopped nuts – Adds natural sweetness and crunch.
- ¼ cup shredded coconut – For a tropical twist.
If you enjoy gluten free baking, you might also love this gluten-free almond flour coffee cake, which pairs perfectly with these cookies.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these gluten free oatmeal cookies is quick and easy! Follow these steps for perfect results every time.
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten free flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix well.
2. Combine & Shape
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips, raisins, or nuts (if using).
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake & Cool
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn light golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.
4. Storage & Shelf Life
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days.
- Refrigerate for up to a week for extended freshness.
- Freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months and bake when needed.
Looking for another gluten free treat? Try these gluten-free pumpkin muffins for a delicious seasonal alternative.
Customizable Variations
- Chewy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies – Add dark chocolate chips for a rich flavor.
- Coconut Oatmeal Cookies – Stir in shredded coconut for a tropical touch.
- Nutty Oatmeal Cookies – Use almond flour and chopped walnuts for extra crunch.
- Vegan Oatmeal Cookies – Replace butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flax egg.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Why Are My Cookies Too Dry?
- Use room-temperature butter for better moisture distribution.
- Add a splash of milk if the dough is too crumbly.
2. Why Did My Cookies Spread Too Much?
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
- Make sure you’re using the right gluten free flour blend.
3. How Can I Make Them Extra Chewy?
- Substitute ½ of the sugar with honey or maple syrup.
- Avoid overbaking—cookies will firm up as they cool.
Health Benefits of Gluten Free Oatmeal Cookies
These homemade gluten free oatmeal cookies are not just a tasty treat—they’re also packed with nutritional benefits that make them a healthier alternative to traditional store-bought cookies. Unlike processed options that often contain refined sugar, artificial preservatives, and unhealthy fats, these cookies use natural ingredients that support overall well-being.
1. High in Fiber for Digestive Health
- Oats are rich in dietary fiber, which helps support digestion and gut health.
- Fiber promotes a healthy gut microbiome by feeding beneficial bacteria.
- Eating fiber-rich foods can help regulate blood sugar levels and keep you full longer, preventing overeating and unnecessary snacking.
- The soluble fiber (beta-glucan) in oats helps lower cholesterol levels and supports heart health.
2. Lower in Refined Sugar for Better Blood Sugar Control
- These cookies are naturally sweetened with coconut sugar or honey, which have a lower glycemic index compared to refined white sugar.
- A lower glycemic index means they cause fewer blood sugar spikes and crashes, making them a better option for those managing blood sugar levels.
- Using natural sweeteners can reduce cravings for processed sugary snacks, promoting healthier eating habits.
3. Provides Healthy Fats for Sustained Energy
- Made with coconut oil, butter, or almond butter, these cookies contain healthy fats that help keep you full and satisfied.
- Healthy fats provide a slow, steady release of energy, preventing energy crashes.
- Unlike trans fats found in many packaged cookies, natural fats from butter and coconut oil can support brain function and metabolism.
4. Naturally Gluten Free for Easy Digestion
- These cookies do not contain wheat, making them a great choice for individuals with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or wheat allergies.
- Many store-bought cookies contain hidden gluten, preservatives, and stabilizers, which may cause digestive discomfort.
- By using certified gluten free oats and flour blends, this recipe ensures a safe and easy-to-digest snack.
5. Packed with Nutrients & Antioxidants
- Oats contain important vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, which support overall health.
- If you add dark chocolate, nuts, or seeds, you boost the antioxidant content of these cookies, which helps fight oxidative stress.
- Spices like cinnamon (optional in this recipe) have anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar.
6. Supports Weight Management & Satiety
- The combination of fiber, healthy fats, and protein in these cookies helps keep you full longer, reducing the temptation to snack on unhealthy foods.
- Unlike high-sugar, refined-flour cookies that cause quick energy crashes, these oatmeal cookies provide balanced, long-lasting energy.
- Enjoying nutritious gluten free baked goods like these can help with weight maintenance while still satisfying cravings.
7. Great for Meal Prep & On-the-Go Snacking
- These cookies store well and can be frozen, making them a convenient and healthy snack option.
- Perfect for busy mornings, school lunchboxes, or post-workout snacks.
- Unlike store-bought cookies, these contain only clean, wholesome ingredients, giving you peace of mind about what you’re eating.
FAQs: Gluten Free Oatmeal Cookies
1. What Oats Are Gluten Free?
- Only certified gluten free oats are safe, as regular oats may be contaminated with wheat.
2. Can I Use Almond Flour Instead of Oat Flour?
- Yes, but almond flour creates a chewier texture and may require less butter.
3. How Do I Make These Cookies Vegan?
- Use coconut oil instead of butter.
- Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
4. Can I Freeze Cookie Dough?
- Yes! Scoop out dough balls and freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Bake straight from frozen, adding 2 extra minutes to baking time.
5. How Do I Store These Cookies?
- Room temperature: 3-4 days
- Refrigerated: 1 week
- Frozen: Up to 3 months
Final Thoughts
These gluten free oatmeal cookies are a perfect blend of chewy, sweet, and wholesome flavors. Whether you enjoy them plain, with chocolate chips, or packed with nuts, they are quick to make and incredibly satisfying.
For another delicious gluten free breakfast option, check out these gluten-free banana pancakes—perfect to pair with your cookies! 🍪✨