Easy and wholesome, these Cranberry Paleo Gluten-Free Almond Butter Cookies are perfect for the holidays!
The holidays are right around the corner, and you know what that means—cookie season is upon us! With so many deliciously tempting treats at our fingertips, it can be tricky for those with dietary restrictions. Enter these cranberry paleo gluten-free almond butter cookies. If you’re looking for a festive, feel-good treat that nearly everyone can enjoy, look no further. With the natural sweetness of cranberries, a nutty almond butter base, and just the right amount of chew, these cookies are the perfect balance between wholesome ingredients and holiday cheer.
But while they may be perfect for Christmas, with those bright red pops of cranberry, they’re delicious any time of year! Pair them with a cozy cup of tea or coffee on a chilly afternoon, or make a batch to share with friends or family who’ll appreciate a healthier twist on a classic cookie. Minimal ingredients and maximum flavor are a winning combo, hitting all the right notes for a healthier treat that doesn’t compromise on taste. So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s get baking!
Are These Cranberry Paleo Gluten-Free Almond Butter Cookies Healthy?
These cranberry paleo gluten-free almond butter cookies are relatively healthy when you compare them to traditional cookies, especially store-bought cookies made with tons of preservatives and artificial ingredients. Almond butter and almond flour contain protein and healthy fats that help you feel fuller longer and add a satisfying, nutty richness to the recipe. Meanwhile, coconut sugar has a slightly lower glycemic index than regular sugar. However, these cookies are still cookies, and they’re meant to be an occasional treat.
If you want to make the cookies vegan, replace the egg with one flax “egg.” In a small bowl, mix one tablespoon of flax meal with three tablespoons of water. Leave this for ten minutes until it becomes gelatinous, and use instead of the egg.
Delicious Flavors Year-Round
These cookies may perfectly capture the essence of the holidays, but they can easily be adapted and enjoyed year-round. Try experimenting with different dried fruits to replace the cranberries. Options like cherries, apples, figs, or dates can add a unique twist. Elevate the flavor profile by incorporating warm spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, or pumpkin pie spice, or try a zesty touch with orange zest or a splash of orange blossom water. For added texture and wholesomeness, consider mixing in a handful of cacao nibs, chopped dark chocolate, or a variety of nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds. Seeds such as pumpkin, flax, and chia are also great additions for a nutritious boost. These small adjustments keep the cookies irresistibly delicious and endlessly versatile!
How to Make Ahead and Store
You can store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate them to keep them fresh a bit longer. These cookies also freeze well. Just place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies would look beautiful arranged on a platter next to some Paleo Pecan Pie Cookies, Paleo Healthy Gingerbread Cookies, and Orange Cardamom Paleo Almond Butter Cookies. Your (healthier) holiday cookie season begins now!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup creamy almond butter melted
- 1 cup coconut sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups + 2 tablespoons almond flour 5 1/2 ounces
- 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons dried cranberries roughly chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, beat together the melted almond butter and coconut sugar using an electric hand mixer. Add the egg along with the vanilla and beat until combined.
- Add the almond flour, baking powder, and salt into the bowl and stir until well combined. Stir in the chopped cranberries.
- Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. Scoop out heaping tablespoons of the dough, shape into balls, and place them on the baking sheet, pressing down slightly.
- Bake the cookies until the edges are just lightly golden brown, about 14-15 minutes. Note that they firm up a lot once cooled.
- Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
You’ve listed the serving size as “1g”?! Do you mean one cookie, and if so what size of cookie?
Sorry that was a typo, it should read 1 cookie indeed.