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Easy Gluten-Free Decorated Graduation Sugar Cookies

gluten-free decorated graduation sugar cookies - featured image
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These gluten-free sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and perfect for graduation parties. They are easy to make, decorate, and safe for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ¾ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (e.g., Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Baking Flour)
  • ½ teaspoon xanthan gum (if your flour blend doesn’t already include it)
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon milk (dairy or dairy-free almond/oat milk)
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted (for royal icing)
  • 3 tablespoons meringue powder (for royal icing)
  • 5 tablespoons warm water (for royal icing, adjust as needed)
  • Food coloring gels (blue, gold, black, or graduation colors)
  • Optional: Edible glitter or sprinkles

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour blend, xanthan gum (if needed), baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  2. Using an electric mixer, beat softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until fluffy and pale, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed. Pour in milk and mix until dough comes together. If too sticky, add more flour 1 tablespoon at a time.
  5. Shape dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Cut shapes with graduation-themed cookie cutters and place 1 inch apart on parchment-lined baking sheets.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes until edges begin to turn golden. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Prepare royal icing by combining powdered sugar, meringue powder, and warm water. Beat on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 5-7 minutes. Divide and tint with food coloring gels.
  9. Use piping bags with small round tips to outline and flood cookies. Let each color dry 15-20 minutes before adding details or layering colors. Add edible glitter or sprinkles while icing is wet.
  10. Allow decorated cookies to dry at room temperature for at least 2 hours before stacking or packaging.

Notes

If dough cracks while rolling, gently press it back together. Avoid overbaking to keep cookies tender. Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking. Adjust royal icing consistency by adding water or powdered sugar as needed. Store decorated cookies in a single layer with parchment between layers to avoid smudging. Dough can be refrigerated up to 3 days before baking. For vegan version, substitute butter with vegan margarine, egg with flax egg, milk with plant-based milk, and use aquafaba instead of meringue powder in icing.

Nutrition

Keywords: gluten-free, sugar cookies, decorated cookies, graduation party, easy cookie recipe, royal icing, celebration treats

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/easy-gluten-free-decorated-graduation-sugar-cookies-recipe-for-perfect-party-treats/