I love making cookies for Christmas and when I don’t make my Almond Flour Thumbprint Cookies or my Easy Gingerbread Cookies, I like to bake sugar cookies. I normally bake my Almond Flour Sugar Cookies, but my kids wanted a more traditional taste, so I had to go for regular flour. These cookies have all the taste, texture, and looks of traditional sugar cookies, but they are made with all-around healthier ingredients.
Ingredients and Substitutions
You only need 4 base ingredients for this recipe:
All-Purpose Flour – Regular flour provides structure and a delicate, crumbly texture, typical of sugar cookies. You might be able to substitute it with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed, but I recommend a mix of 3/4 of gluten-free flour blend and 1/4 of almond flour for a moister cookie dough. Maple Syrup – Maple syrup naturally sweetens the cookies without refined sugar, adding a slight caramel flavor. Alternatives include agave syrup, coconut nectar, or date syrup, though each may affect the flavor slightly. Coconut Oil – Coconut oil adds richness and a subtle coconut flavor. It should be solid for the right texture. Dairy-free butter works too for a more buttery taste. If using liquid oil, reduce slightly to maintain consistency. Almond Milk – Almond milk adds moisture and helps form the dough. Substitute with other plant-based milks like oat, soy, or rice milk based on your preferences.
How to Make Healthy Sugar Cookies
This is a super simple recipe to make, here are pictures of the key steps:
Carine’s Baking Tips
I have a few more tips for you to make the best cookies:
Chill the dough thoroughly for the best texture. Cold dough holds its shape better, preventing spreading and helping achieve that perfect, clean cookie cut. Roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure an even thickness. It makes transferring easier, especially for intricate shapes. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure even browning, especially if your oven has hot spots. Use a light touch when handling the dough after chilling, as it can be slightly crumbly. Press gently to reform it as needed. For a crisper cookie, bake for an extra 1-2 minutes; for a softer, chewier texture, bake on the lower end of the time range. Use a ruler or rolling pin rings for uniform thickness. Consistency helps the cookies bake evenly. Add zest from lemon or orange to brighten the flavor. Citrus zest pairs beautifully with the vanilla and adds a subtle aromatic note. Make ahead and freeze the dough for easy baking later. Wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge before rolling and baking. Decorate with natural colored icing for a festive touch. Consider using coconut butter or powdered sugar mixed with plant milk as a simple glaze.
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