Introduction
Gluten-Free Almond Cookies are one of the easiest and most satisfying treats you can bake at home. Made with only a handful of simple ingredients, these cookies deliver a perfect balance of crispy edges and a soft, chewy center. Their rich almond flavor makes them ideal for anyone who loves nut-based desserts, and because they contain no flour or dairy, they are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
These cookies come together in minutes—no mixer needed, no complicated steps, and no chilling time. Just mix, shape, coat in almonds, and bake. Whether you’re looking for a quick homemade gift, something to enjoy with a cup of coffee, or a light dessert, these almond cookies always impress.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups (300 g) almond meal or almond flour
- 1 cup (220 g) caster sugar or superfine sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large egg whites (about 105 g)
- ⅛ teaspoon almond extract or almond essence
Coating
- 1 cup flaked almonds (for rolling)
Optional
- A light dusting of icing sugar after baking
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line one or two baking trays with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Almond Coating
Spread the flaked almonds on a plate or shallow bowl. You will roll the cookie dough balls in these before baking.
3. Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine:
- almond meal
- caster sugar
- almond extract
Stir to mix evenly.
Add the egg whites lightly beaten and mix until a firm, sticky dough forms. The texture should hold together easily when rolled.
4. Shape the Cookies
Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into balls about 3 cm (1¼ inch) in diameter.
5. Coat With Flaked Almonds
Roll each ball in the flaked almonds, pressing gently so the almonds stick well to the surface.
6. Arrange on the Baking Tray
Place the coated cookie balls onto the lined tray, leaving some space between them.
Flatten each one gently with your fingers.
7. Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden on the top and around the edges.
Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Serve or Store
Once cool, optionally dust with icing sugar.
Store in an airtight container for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.
Why You Will Love These Cookies
Naturally Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free
The base of the recipe is almond meal and egg whites, making the cookies suitable for people avoiding gluten or dairy while still offering amazing texture and flavor.
Quick and Foolproof
With just 5 main ingredients and no special equipment, this recipe is perfect even for beginner bakers. You can prepare and bake them in under 30 minutes.
Perfect Use for Leftover Egg Whites
If you’ve made custards, ice creams, or pastries that use only yolks, this recipe is a great way to use up extra egg whites.
Freezer-Friendly
You can freeze the cookies either before baking or after baking, making them ideal for holiday preparation or batch baking.
Classic Mediterranean-Style Flavor
Inspired by traditional Italian and Mediterranean almond biscuits, these cookies have a delicate sweetness and a deep almond aroma that feels comforting and elegant.
Additional Notes and Tips
Almond Meal vs Almond Flour
Both work well.
- Almond meal (from whole almonds) makes a slightly rustic texture.
- Almond flour (from blanched almonds) gives a smoother finish.
Texture Tips
If the dough feels too wet, add a little more almond meal.
If it feels too dry, add 1–2 teaspoons of egg white.
Freezing Instructions
- Before baking: Roll into balls, freeze on a tray, then store in a container. Coat in flaked almonds just before baking.
- After baking: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer to preserve shape and freshness.
Flavor Variations
- Add orange zest for a citrus twist.
- Add a tiny pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
- Add chopped pistachios instead of almond flakes for a different coating.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with coffee or mint tea for a light afternoon treat.
- Pack them in a gift box for holidays or celebrations.
- Pair with fresh berries for a simple dessert.
- Enjoy after meals as a guilt-free sweet bite.