Gluten-Free Lemon Cookies (Dairy-Free)

Update : February 28, 2026

Freshly baked gluten-free and dairy-free lemon cookies on a plate

Why Make This Recipe

Gluten-Free Lemon Cookies are a delightful treat for anyone looking to enjoy a sweet snack without gluten or dairy. These cookies are light, zesty, and bursting with lemon flavor. Perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying at home, they offer a refreshing twist to classic cookies. They are also easy to make, and their bright flavor will surely impress everyone, whether they have dietary restrictions or not.

How to Make Gluten-Free Lemon Cookies

Ingredients

2 ¼ cups gluten-free flour*
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 ¼ cup sugar
½ cup dairy-free butter, room temperature**
1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 ½ – 2 teaspoons lemon zest
½ teaspoon lemon extract
½ teaspoon vanilla
½ cup powdered sugar or granulated sugar

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°. Line a cookie pan with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
In a bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Zest and juice one lemon. Set aside.
In a stand mixer, mix the dairy-free butter and the sugar until creamy. Then add the egg, egg yolk, lemon juice, lemon zest, lemon extract, and vanilla.
Add the flour mixture and mix until everything is combined. (If the dough is very soft or too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 2 hours.)
Use a cookie scoop to make balls of dough, then roll each ball in powdered sugar. (You can also roll them in granulated sugar if you prefer.)
Place the cookie dough balls at least 2 ½ inches apart on the baking pan and bake for 11 minutes for small cookies or 13 minutes for medium cookies.
Remove the baking pan and let the cookies cool for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Gluten-Free Lemon Cookies

Gluten-Free Lemon Cookies are best served fresh from the oven, but they can be enjoyed at any time. Serve them on a pretty plate for gatherings or pack them in a container for a snack on the go. Pair them with a cup of tea or lemonade for a lovely afternoon treat.

How to Store Gluten-Free Lemon Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Tips to Make Gluten-Free Lemon Cookies

Make sure to measure your gluten-free flour correctly to avoid dry cookies. Spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
If you like a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to add more lemon zest or juice according to your taste.
Chill the dough if it becomes too sticky during mixing; this will help in shaping the cookies.

Variation

For a different take on these cookies, consider adding poppy seeds to the dough. They will add a nice texture and a delightful touch that pairs wonderfully with the lemon.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour?
No, this recipe is designed for gluten-free flour. Using regular flour will change the texture and may make it unsuitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

What can I substitute for dairy-free butter?
You can use coconut oil or another dairy-free margarine as a substitute for dairy-free butter.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges. They might look slightly underbaked in the middle, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.