‘Tis The Season for Baking Cookies (and Every Season!)

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home. It instantly evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and joy. While the holiday season, with Christmas just around the corner, is undeniably the perfect time for baking cookies of all kinds, we believe every day is a good day for a delicious cookie! The simple act of creating something sweet by hand, from mixing the dough to pulling a new batch from the still-warm oven, is a tradition many of us cherish. The warmth and inviting aroma of freshly baked treats enveloping you like a huge, cozy hug is an experience like no other.

These almond chocolate chip cookies fit perfectly into any celebration, or simply as a delightful pick-me-up. They’re not just a dessert; they’re an experience, a little piece of comfort baked with love. Get ready to create lasting memories and fill your home with the sweet scent of these incredible chewy cookies.

Our Favorite Gluten-Free Holiday Cookies:

Beyond these sensational almond chocolate chip cookies, we have a collection of other beloved holiday cookie recipes that we adore baking year after year. They’re all designed to be gluten-free and dairy-free, ensuring everyone can partake in the festive fun:

• Chewy Sugar Cookies (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Crunchy Almond Biscotti (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Easy Gingerbread Cookies (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Chewy Molasses Cookies (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Easy Snickerdoodles (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)

Amazing Chewy Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies

If your heart truly yearns for a classic, deeply satisfying chocolate chip cookie, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve perfected a recipe for impossibly chewy gluten-free chocolate chip cookies that will not only satisfy your craving but might just become your new all-time favorite!

These aren’t just any cookies. They are crafted with luxurious, creamy almond butter, which imparts a wonderful nutty depth of flavor and contributes significantly to their incredible chewiness. Paired with a touch of coconut flour, these cookies achieve a perfect texture that’s soft on the inside with just the right amount of give. And, of course, they are generously laced with rich chocolate chunks that, upon baking, become gloriously melty and gooey, creating pockets of pure decadence that simply melt in your mouth.

Let’s be clear: if your preference leans towards thin and crispy cookies, these might not be the exact match for you. However, if you adore a thick, soft, and profoundly chewy cookie – one that bends rather than snaps – then prepare to be utterly smitten. These almond chocolate chip cookies deliver on every promise of a truly delightful, comforting treat that stands out from the crowd.

Why This Chewy Almond Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe Works So Well:

This recipe isn’t just another cookie recipe; it’s a carefully balanced creation designed for maximum enjoyment and ease. Here’s why these almond chocolate chip cookies will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Simple, Accessible Ingredients: You won’t need to hunt for exotic items. The ingredients required for these almond chocolate chip cookies are not only easily accessible at most local grocery stores but are likely items you already have on hand in your pantry! This means less time shopping and more time baking and enjoying.
• Incredibly Easy to Make: Forget complicated steps or fancy equipment. Preparing this delicious cookie dough is as simple as it gets. It’s primarily a matter of combining the wet ingredients, then folding in the dry ingredients until just combined. From there, you simply scoop the dough onto a cookie sheet and let your oven do the rest. This straightforward process makes it perfect for beginner bakers and a quick win for seasoned pros – it genuinely doesn’t get any simpler than this!
• An Explosion of Flavors & Amazing Chewy Texture: The star ingredient, creamy almond butter, provides a rich, distinctive nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the sugar and the luxurious bitterness of the chocolate chips. But it’s not just about flavor; the texture is a dream come true for chewy cookie lovers. These cookies are wonderfully moist, tender, and deeply satisfying, offering a delightful chewiness that makes you want to reach for another, and another!
• Totally Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free: For many, dietary restrictions can make finding delicious treats a challenge. The fantastic news is that these almond butter chocolate chip cookies are 100% gluten-free and dairy-free. This means that even those with Celiac disease, gluten sensitivities, or lactose intolerances can enjoy these delectable cookies without any worries or issues. It’s baking that’s inclusive and tastes incredible for everyone!

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need + Helpful Notes/Substitutions:

Crafting these perfect chewy almond chocolate chip cookies starts with understanding the role of each ingredient. Here’s a detailed overview of what you’ll need, along with crucial notes and excellent substitution options to ensure your baking success:

(For exact measurements and quantities, please scroll down to the comprehensive recipe card at the bottom of this post.)

• Almond Butter: The cornerstone of these cookies, choose unsalted creamy almond butter for the best results. Using unsalted ensures you control the saltiness of your final cookie, achieving that perfect balance of sweet and nutty. The creamy texture is essential for a smooth dough and contributes significantly to the cookie’s signature chewiness. Feel free to experiment with other unsalted nut butters if almond isn’t your preference or if you have allergies:
  • Cashew butter offers a milder, slightly sweeter flavor.
  • Sunflower seed butter is a fantastic nut-free alternative for those with allergies, providing a distinct, earthy taste.
  • Classic peanut butter will give you a familiar, robust flavor profile, making for a delicious twist.
• Sugar: We recommend cane sugar for its balanced sweetness and how it interacts with the other ingredients for texture. However, you have several options:
  • Standard white sugar works perfectly.
  • Light brown sugar or dark brown sugar will add a deeper, caramel-like flavor and can contribute to an even chewier texture due to their molasses content.
  • Coconut sugar offers a less refined option with a subtle caramel note.

  If you are diabetic or insulin-resistant, we highly recommend using a 1:1 sugar substitute like Lakanto monkfruit sweetener, which has a zero-glycemic index and will not raise your blood sugar levels, allowing you to enjoy these cookies guilt-free.

• Vegan Butter: To ensure these cookies remain dairy-free and suitable for all, we use vegan butter. This provides the necessary richness and fat content for a tender crumb. Alternatively, melted coconut oil is an excellent substitute:
  • For baking, we prefer using refined coconut oil because it has a neutral flavor that won’t interfere with the almond and chocolate notes.
  • In contrast, extra virgin coconut oil has a stronger coconut taste and smell, which might be desirable if you enjoy that flavor, but refined is generally recommended for a more neutral base.

  If you are not lactose-intolerant, feel free to use normal unsalted butter instead; simply melt it before combining with other wet ingredients.

• Eggs: Eggs are crucial in this recipe as they act as a binding agent, helping to hold all the ingredients together and provide structure to the cookies. We have not extensively tested this recipe without eggs, so we cannot guarantee the exact outcome. However, if you have an egg allergy, you may try replacing the eggs with an egg substitute such as acquafaba (3 tablespoons per egg) or a commercial egg-replacer powder mixed according to package directions. (If you do try this recipe with an egg substitute, please let us know how it goes in the comments below; your feedback is invaluable!)
• Coconut Flour: This is a powerful, highly-absorbent gluten-free flour, which means a little goes a very long way. It’s essential not to add more than the recipe calls for, as it can quickly dry out your cookies and make them crumbly. Coconut flour contributes to the unique texture and fiber content of these cookies.
• Baking Powder: As the sole leavening agent in this almond chocolate chip cookie recipe, baking powder is vital for achieving that perfect rise and soft texture. Do not omit it! If you are Celiac or gluten-intolerant, ensure you use certified gluten-free baking powder to avoid any cross-contamination.
• Salt: A pinch of salt is crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the flavors in the cookie. Don’t skip it!
• Chocolate Chips: We use vegan chocolate chips (or chocolate chunks) to maintain the dairy-free nature of this recipe. Vegan chocolate has come a long way and offers incredible flavor. If dairy is not a concern for you, feel free to use your favorite normal chocolate chips or chunks instead. Using a good quality chocolate will significantly impact the final taste!

How to Make Chewy Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies (Step by Step):

Making these delightful gluten-free and dairy-free almond chocolate chip cookies is a breeze. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Before you begin mixing, ensure your oven is ready. Preheat your oven to 350F (180C) and arrange the oven rack to the middle position. This ensures even baking. Next, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silpat. This crucial step prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

2. Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy almond butter, cane sugar, melted vegan butter, and eggs. Whisk them together thoroughly until all ingredients are well-combined and the mixture is smooth and uniform. This forms the flavorful base of your cookie dough.

3. Sift in Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to incorporate the dry components. Add the coconut flour, baking powder, and salt to the large bowl with the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until you achieve a homogeneous dough. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the cookie’s texture.

4. Fold in Chocolate Chips

Once your dough is formed, gently fold in your chosen dark chocolate chips (or chunks). Continue folding just until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. You want to see beautiful chocolate pockets in every bite!

5. Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a small cookie scoop (or two teaspoons), scoop rounded portions of dough and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Remember to leave about 3 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading during baking. This ensures they bake evenly and don’t stick together.

6. Bake Until Golden

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for approximately 15 minutes, or until the edges are beautifully golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. This slight underbaking helps achieve that signature chewy texture. Let the almond chocolate chip cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Then, they’re ready to be enjoyed!

Dish by Dish Tips & Tricks for Perfect Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies:

Elevate your cookie game with these expert tips and creative variations:

• Experiment with Nut Butters: While unsalted almond butter is our go-to for its rich flavor and texture, don’t hesitate to personalize your cookies. As mentioned, feel free to use another type of unsalted creamy nut butter if you prefer. Cashew butter offers a subtly sweet and mild profile, sunflower seed butter is a fantastic choice for nut allergies, providing a unique flavor, and classic peanut butter delivers a beloved, familiar taste. Ensure any nut butter you choose is natural, unsalted, and creamy for the best consistency.
• A Pinch of Sea Salt on Top: For a delightful contrast in flavor and a gourmet touch, consider sprinkling a tiny bit of flaky sea salt (like Maldon) on top of each cookie dough ball before baking. The salt crystals will enhance the sweetness and deepen the chocolate flavor beautifully.
• Customize Your Mix-Ins: Not a huge fan of chocolate, or simply want to try something different? You can easily substitute the chocolate chips with other delicious additions:
  • Chopped Nuts: Add a wonderful crunch and extra nutty flavor with almonds, pistachios, walnuts, cashews, or macadamia nuts. Toasting them lightly beforehand can intensify their flavor.
  • Dried Fruit: For a burst of fruity chewiness, incorporate raisins, dried cranberries, or dried blueberries.
• Don’t Overbake: For truly chewy cookies, it’s better to slightly underbake than overbake. The cookies may appear slightly soft in the center when you remove them from the oven, but they will continue to set as they cool on the hot baking sheet. This ensures a perfectly soft, chewy interior.
• Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended): If you have extra time, chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours) can lead to a richer flavor and a thicker, chewier cookie that spreads less. This also makes the dough easier to handle.

Recipe FAQs for Chewy Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies:

Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying these gluten-free and dairy-free almond chocolate chip cookies:

Other Almond Recipes to Love:

If you’re a fan of almond-based treats, you’ll adore these other recipes:

• Amazing Flourless Almond Cake (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Almond Butter Cookies (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Crunchy Almond Biscotti (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Low Carb Almond Flour Bread (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• 5-Minute Homemade Almond Milk (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Easy Homemade Almond Meal (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

More Gluten-Free Cookies to Bake:

Looking for more amazing gluten-free cookie ideas? Explore these other delightful options: