Does almond flour work the same as gluten-free flour?

Not exactly. While both are gluten-free, almond flour and gluten-free all-purpose flour behave very differently. Almond flour is made from ground almonds and is rich in fat and protein, giving cookies a soft, moist texture. Gluten-free all-purpose flour blends mimic traditional flour and may require additional binding agents like xanthan gum. For cookies, almond flour adds a natural richness you won’t get from flour blends.

Are Trader Joe's Almond Windmill Cookies gluten-free?

No, Trader Joe’s Almond Windmill Cookies are not gluten-free . They contain wheat flour and are not safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. However, Trader Joe’s does carry other gluten-free cookie options—just be sure to check the ingredient label and look for a certified gluten-free symbol.

What flour is best for gluten-free cookies?

For soft, flavorful cookies, almond flour is one of the best flours for gluten-free baking . It offers a naturally rich texture and nutty flavor. If you're aiming for structure closer to traditional cookies, a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum is another good choice. Coconut flour, hazelnut flour, and oat flour also work well in combination.

Are almond cookies gluten-free?

Almond cookies can be gluten-free , but not all of them are. It depends on the ingredients. When made with almond flour, natural sweeteners, and no wheat-based additives , they are perfectly gluten-free. Always check labels or make them from scratch to ensure they meet gluten-free standards.

What is the trick to baking with almond flour?

The biggest trick? Moisture and binding . Almond flour lacks gluten, so recipes need eggs, flax eggs, or chia seeds to hold things together. Also, because almond flour is high in fat, you’ll need less oil or butter than in traditional recipes. Resting the dough and not overbaking are also key to perfect almond cookies.

What is the closest gluten-free flour to all-purpose flour?

Gluten-free all-purpose flour blends are your closest match. These are often made from a mix of rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour, and are designed to replace wheat flour 1:1 in most recipes. Look for a blend with xanthan gum for better texture and structure in baked goods like cookies, muffins, and cakes.

Gluten-Free Almond Cookies – 7 Best Tips for Perfect Bakes

Name: Gluten-Free Almond Cookies – 7 Best Tips for Perfect Bakes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups almond flour (finely ground, blanched); 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey; 1/4 cup melted coconut oil (or butter); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp sea salt; Optional: 1/3 cup dairy-free chocolate chips or chopped nuts

Description

These gluten-free almond cookies are soft, chewy, and naturally delicious. Made with simple pantry staples and almond flour, they’re perfect for gluten-free, keto, and dairy-free diets—ready in under 25 minutes!

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups almond flour (finely ground, blanched)
1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
1/4 cup melted coconut oil (or butter)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp sea salt
Optional: 1/3 cup dairy-free chocolate chips or chopped nuts

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
Add almond flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir until a soft dough forms.
Fold in chocolate chips or any additional mix-ins.
Scoop dough into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet. Gently flatten with your fingers.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack. Enjoy!

Notes

For a vegan version, use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
To enhance flavor, try adding 1 tsp lemon zest or a pinch of cinnamon.
For crispier cookies, bake 1–2 minutes longer.
Dough can be frozen and baked from frozen—add 2 extra minutes to bake time.
Store in an airtight container for 4–5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: gluten-free almond cookies, almond flour cookies, gluten-free baking, grain-free dessert