Delicious Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Gingerbread Men: Your Ultimate Holiday Cookie Recipe!

Step into the enchanting world of holiday baking with these irresistibly cute gluten-free gingerbread men! Perfectly crispy and generously decorated with sweet icing, these delightful cookies are an absolute must-bake for your Christmas celebrations. The best part? They’re entirely dairy-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festive cheer. Get ready to bake a batch of these festive cookies and fill your home with the warm, comforting aromas of the season!

Embrace the Holiday Spirit: It’s Cookie Season!

The most wonderful time of the year is almost upon us, and with it comes the joyous tradition of Christmas baking! This is the season to keep your oven warm, churning out batch after batch of delicious Christmas cookies. There’s truly nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home, instantly creating a cozy and festive atmosphere.

Among our absolute favorite gluten-free Christmas cookies that grace our tables year after year are the delightful oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, elegant chocolate-dipped pistachio cookies, wonderfully chewy molasses cookies, classic peanut butter blossoms, zesty snickerdoodles, and versatile sugar cookies. Each one brings its own unique flavor and charm to the holiday spread, but there’s one particular cookie that truly embodies the spirit of Christmas: the gingerbread man.

Gingerbread Men: The Quintessential Symbol of Festive Vibes

Can you truly imagine Christmas without the whimsical charm of gingerbread men? These adorable little figures, often decorated with cheerful smiles and button eyes, have a magical way of melting hearts with just a glance. Beyond their charming appearance, gingerbread cookies are infused with a symphony of warm, aromatic spices – cinnamon, nutmeg, and, of course, a generous kick of ginger – creating a flavor profile that is utterly synonymous with the holiday season. The robust, sweet, and slightly spicy notes are simply perfect for ushering in festive cheer.

Today, we’re excited to share a special version of this beloved classic: a recipe for gluten-free and dairy-free gingerbread men. This means that whether you have dietary restrictions or simply prefer a lighter option, everyone in the family can indulge in these delightful holiday treats without a worry. Get ready to create lasting memories and fill your home with the most festive aromas imaginable!

Why Our Gluten-Free Gingerbread Men Recipe is a Holiday Winner:

This recipe isn’t just about making gingerbread; it’s about making it effortlessly and deliciously accessible to everyone. Here’s why this particular gluten-free and dairy-free gingerbread men recipe stands out as a true holiday winner:

• Simple, Accessible Ingredients: You won’t need to embark on a scavenger hunt for exotic items. All the main ingredients required for these gluten-free gingerbread men are readily available at your local grocery store. We’ve focused on using common pantry staples to ensure this recipe is stress-free and enjoyable to prepare, even during the busy holiday season.
• Remarkably Easy to Make: Don’t let the thought of baking intimidate you. Preparing these charming gingerbread men cookies is a straightforward process that even novice bakers can master. It primarily involves combining the wet ingredients with the dry, chilling the dough to achieve the perfect texture for rolling, then cutting out your festive shapes before baking. Once your cookies are golden and cooled, a simple piping of icing transforms them into edible works of art. Voila! Delicious, decorated cookies are ready to delight.
• 100% Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: This is truly the best part for many! We’ve meticulously crafted this recipe to be completely gluten-free and dairy-free. This means that individuals with Celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or lactose intolerance can joyfully indulge in these festive treats without any concerns. Everyone deserves to enjoy the taste of Christmas, and this recipe ensures inclusivity without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Irresistible Flavor and Texture: These gingerbread men boast a delightful crispy edge with a tender, chewy center, perfectly spiced for that authentic holiday taste. The blend of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a fragrant and warming cookie that truly captures the essence of Christmas in every bite.

Essential Ingredients for Your Gingerbread Men:

Let’s take a quick visual tour of the key ingredients you’ll need to create these fantastic gluten-free and dairy-free gingerbread men. Gathering everything before you start will make the baking process even smoother and more enjoyable.

(For a precise list of exact measurements and quantities, please make sure to scroll down to the comprehensive printable recipe card located at the very bottom of this post.)

Recipe Notes & Expert Substitutions:

To ensure your gluten-free gingerbread men turn out perfectly every time, and to provide flexibility for various dietary needs and pantry availability, here are some important notes and substitution tips for the key ingredients:

• Butter: To keep this recipe strictly dairy-free and vegan-friendly, I’ve opted for a high-quality dairy-free butter (also known as vegan butter). This ensures the rich, buttery flavor and tender texture without any dairy. However, if lactose intolerance is not a concern for you, feel free to use regular unsalted butter in its place; the measurements remain the same.
• Sugars: The unique brown color and depth of flavor in our gingerbread dough come from a thoughtful blend of sugars. I used a combination of light brown sugar for its molasses notes and moisture, and demerara sugar for a slight crunch and caramel-like flavor. This blend also contributes to the desired crispy yet chewy texture.
• Maple Syrup: Maple syrup not only provides additional sweetness but also adds a lovely depth of flavor and helps with the chewy texture of the cookies. If maple syrup isn’t on hand, equally delicious alternatives include agave nectar or even honey, though honey will not keep the recipe strictly vegan.
• Gluten-Free Flour: The type of gluten-free flour you use can significantly impact the final result. I highly recommend using a good-quality gluten-free measure-for-measure flour blend that is specifically designed as a 1:1 substitute for regular all-purpose flour. Look for blends primarily composed of lighter flours and starches, such as rice flour, tapioca starch, corn starch, or potato starch, as these will yield a lighter, crispier cookie. I strongly advise against using gluten-free flour blends made with heavier flours like garbanzo bean flour, as they can result in a dense, gritty texture. Of course, if you are not Celiac or gluten-intolerant, regular all-purpose flour can be used.
• Xanthan Gum: This is a crucial ingredient for gluten-free baking! Xanthan gum acts as a binder and elasticity enhancer, effectively replacing the gluten that is absent in gluten-free flours. It helps to give the dough structure and prevents the cookies from crumbling. If your chosen gluten-free flour blend already lists xanthan gum as an ingredient, you can omit adding it separately. Always check your flour blend’s label!
• Spices: For that quintessential festive “gingerbread” flavor, a balanced mix of warm spices is key. Our recipe calls for ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. These create a wonderfully fragrant and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. For a convenient alternative, you may also substitute the individual spices with 2 1/4 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, which typically contains a similar blend.
• Baking Powder: Baking powder serves as the sole leavening agent in this recipe. It helps the cookie dough to rise ever so slightly, contributing to a tender crumb. It’s important not to omit it! As an alternative, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, but ensure you also have an acidic ingredient (like the lemon juice in the icing, or a touch of cream of tartar in the dough if you adjust the recipe) to activate it. If you are Celiac or gluten-intolerant, always make sure to use certified gluten-free baking powder.
• Powdered Sugar: Also known as icing sugar or confectioner’s sugar, powdered sugar is finely milled sugar that looks like a white powder. Its extra-fine texture is essential for creating a smooth, lump-free icing when dissolved in lemon juice. Granulated sugar will not work for the icing.
• Lemon Juice: For the brightest and most refreshing icing flavor, I highly recommend using freshly squeezed lemon juice. Its tartness perfectly balances the sweetness of the powdered sugar. However, if fresh lemons aren’t accessible, bottled lemon juice will also work in a pinch. If you prefer an icing with no citrus flavor, unsweetened non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) can be used as a substitute for the lemon juice.

How to Make Gluten-Free Gingerbread Men: A Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these easy instructions to create a batch of perfectly spiced, charming gingerbread men that are both gluten-free and dairy-free. Each step is designed to be straightforward, ensuring a successful and enjoyable baking experience.

1. Cream the Butter & Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk, beat together the softened dairy-free butter, light brown sugar, and demerara sugar. Continue beating until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. This creaming process incorporates air, which contributes to the cookies’ light texture.

2. Incorporate Maple Syrup

Pour in the maple syrup to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Continue to beat for approximately one minute more, ensuring the syrup is thoroughly incorporated and the mixture maintains its smooth consistency.

3. Sift and Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a separate large mixing bowl, meticulously sift together the gluten-free measure-for-measure flour, xanthan gum (if your flour blend doesn’t already contain it), all your festive spices (ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg), and baking powder. Sifting ensures there are no lumps and that the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed for consistent flavor and texture.

4. Form the Dough

Carefully add the sifted dry ingredients to the bowl containing the wet ingredients. Mix thoroughly, either with a spoon, spatula, or your hands, until all the ingredients are well combined and a soft, pliable, and non-sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, which can sometimes make gluten-free dough tough.

5. Chill the Dough

Once your dough is formed, gently shape it into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough is a crucial step as it firms up the butter, prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, and makes the dough much easier to roll and cut. This also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

6. Roll & Cut the Dough

After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Place it between two sheets of parchment paper – this prevents sticking and eliminates the need for extra flour, which can dry out gluten-free dough. Use a rolling pin to roll out the dough evenly until it is approximately ¼-inch (5 mm) thick. Then, unleash your creativity! Use your favorite gingerbread men cookie cutters to carefully cut out your festive shapes. Gather and re-roll any scraps until all the dough is used.

7. Bake Your Festive Cookies

It’s time for these little guys to get their golden glow!

(i) Oven Baking Method:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully transfer the cut-out gingerbread men onto a prepared baking sheet lined with either a silicone baking mat (Silpat) or parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are firm to the touch. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up and prevents breakage.

(ii) Air Fryer Baking Method:

If you prefer using an air fryer for a quicker bake, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Line your air fryer basket with aluminum foil or parchment paper (ensure it’s secured and doesn’t fly up). Place the gingerbread men in a single layer in the basket, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook for approximately 7-8 minutes, keeping an eye on them as air fryer temperatures can vary. Once baked to a golden crisp, gently remove the gingerbread men cookies from the air fryer and let them cool completely on a rack before decorating.

8. Craft Your Perfect Icing

While your cookies are cooling, prepare the simple yet elegant icing. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and free of lumps. The consistency is key here: if the icing appears too thick to pipe easily, add a tiny bit more lemon juice (half a teaspoon at a time). Conversely, if it’s too liquid and runny, gradually add more powdered sugar until you achieve a thick but flowing consistency that is ideal for piping intricate details.

9. Decorate Your Gingerbread Masterpieces!

Now for the fun part: decorating! Transfer your prepared icing into a piping bag fitted with a thin tip. This will give you the control needed for delicate lines and details. Carefully pipe the icing onto your completely cooled gingerbread men, drawing faces, buttons, clothes, or whatever festive designs you envision. This is a wonderful activity for all ages!

(PRO TIP: For the best results and ease of storage, ensure you allow the icing to fully set and harden before stacking or serving your beautifully decorated cookies. This can take a few hours, or you can speed it up slightly by placing them in a cool, dry place or even briefly in the refrigerator.)

Dish by Dish Pro Tips & Tricks:

Elevate your gingerbread baking experience with these helpful hints and expert recommendations:

• The Perfect Piping Bag: For precise and neat cookie decorations, I highly recommend investing in a piping bag with a fine tip. This allows for intricate details and a professional finish. If you don’t have a dedicated piping bag, a clever workaround is to use a small ziplock bag. Simply fill it with icing, snip a tiny corner off the bag, and use it as a makeshift piping bag. Practice on a plate first to get a feel for the pressure!
• Optimal Storage for Freshness: Once your beautiful icing has fully dried and hardened on the cookies (this is essential to prevent smudging!), store your gluten-free gingerbread men cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. When stored properly, they will maintain their delicious flavor and crisp-chewy texture for up to 5 days, perfect for enjoying throughout the holiday week or sharing with guests.
• Make-Ahead Dough: You can prepare the gingerbread dough up to 2-3 days in advance. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This is a fantastic time-saver during busy holiday preparations! Just let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before rolling if it’s too firm.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: For longer storage, you can freeze undecorated baked gingerbread men. Once completely cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature before decorating and serving.
• Decorating Fun for Kids: Gingerbread men are an iconic symbol of Christmas and decorating them is a fantastic family activity. Lay out various sprinkles, edible glitter, and different colored icings (if desired) to let everyone personalize their own cookies.

More Gluten-Free Cookie Recipes to Sweeten Your Season:

If you’re loving these gluten-free gingerbread men, you’ll be thrilled to discover more delightful cookie recipes designed for dietary needs without compromising on taste:

• Crunchy Almond Biscotti (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Snowball Cookies (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Chocolate Crinkle Cookies (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Chewy Gingerbread Cookies (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Classic Sugar Cookies (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Crispy Oatmeal Cookies (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)

Decadent Gluten-Free Desserts You’ll Adore:

Beyond cookies, explore a world of delicious gluten-free desserts perfect for any occasion, especially the holidays!

Print

clock icon

cutlery icon

flag icon

folder icon

instagram icon

pinterest icon

facebook icon

print icon

squares icon

heart icon

heart solid icon

Gluten-Free Gingerbread Men (Dairy-Free)

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

• Author: Felicia Lim
• 
  Total Time: 17 minutes
• 
  Yield: 10 cookies
• 
  Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Adorably cute, these gluten-free gingerbread men are the perfect Christmas cookie! Crispy cookies decorated in icing, you definitely need to bake a batch of these cookies for Christmas! Totally dairy-free too.

---

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookie Dough:

• 1/2 cup dairy-free butter, softened
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 3 tablespoons demerara sugar
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free measure-for-measure flour (ensure it’s a good blend with lighter starches)
• 3/4 teaspoons xanthan gum (omit if your gluten-free flour blend already includes it)
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (certified gluten-free if needed)

For the Icing:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (confectioner’s sugar)
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or unsweetened non-dairy milk)

Cook Mode
Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Beat Butter & Sugars: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened dairy-free butter, light brown sugar, and demerara sugar together until light and fluffy (approximately 2-3 minutes). Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
2. Add Maple Syrup: Add the maple syrup to the butter-sugar mixture and continue to beat for another minute until fully incorporated and smooth.
3. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a separate large mixing bowl, sift together the gluten-free measure-for-measure flour, xanthan gum (if using), ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and baking powder. Whisk gently to combine these dry ingredients evenly.
4. Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the bowl with the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed or by hand until a soft, uniform, and non-sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Chill Dough: Gather the gingerbread dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2-3 days). Chilling is crucial for easy rolling and to prevent spreading during baking.
6. Roll & Cut Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) or prepare your air fryer. Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and use a rolling pin to roll it out evenly to about ¼-inch (5 mm) thickness. Use gingerbread men cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Carefully transfer the cutouts to your prepared baking sheet or air fryer basket.
7. Bake Cookies:
   
   (i) Oven: Place the baking sheet with gingerbread men in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are firm. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
   
   (ii) Air Fryer: Place gingerbread men in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket (lined with foil/parchment). Cook for about 7-8 minutes, or until golden. Gently remove and let them cool completely on a rack.
8. Prepare Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until you have a smooth, thick, but pipeable icing. Adjust consistency by adding more lemon juice (for thinner) or powdered sugar (for thicker) as needed.
9. Pipe Icing to Decorate Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, transfer the icing to a piping bag with a thin tip. Decorate your gingerbread men with cheerful faces, buttons, and other festive designs. Allow the icing to fully set and harden before storing or serving for best results.

Notes

Butter: For a true dairy-free cookie, use a high-quality vegan/dairy-free butter. If dairy is not an issue, regular unsalted butter works perfectly.

Sugars: The blend of light brown sugar and demerara sugar contributes to both color and a wonderfully complex flavor profile.

Maple Syrup: Maple syrup adds moisture and a subtle sweetness. Agave nectar or honey are suitable alternatives.

Gluten-Free Flour: Choose a reliable gluten-free measure-for-measure flour blend composed of lighter starches for the best texture. Avoid blends with heavy bean flours. Regular all-purpose flour can be used if gluten is not a concern.

Xanthan Gum: Essential for structure in gluten-free baking. If your GF flour blend already contains it, omit the separate xanthan gum addition.

Spices: The trio of ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg delivers classic gingerbread flavor. You can substitute with 2 1/4 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice if preferred.

Baking Powder: Our primary leavening agent. Ensure you use certified gluten-free baking powder if required. 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda can be used as a substitute.

Powdered Sugar: The fine texture of powdered sugar is key for smooth icing.

Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is ideal for a vibrant icing. Bottled lemon juice or unsweetened non-dairy milk are also options.

Piping Bag: For neat decorating, a piping bag with a thin tip is recommended. A ziplock bag with a snipped corner also works well as a quick alternative.

Storage: Store decorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature once icing has fully hardened. They stay fresh for up to 5 days.

• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 12 mins
• Category: Cookies
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Western