Crispy Gluten-Free Rice Flour Cookies: The Easy & Delicious Recipe

These crispy gluten-free rice flour cookies are light, crunchy, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for those looking for a gluten-free dessert or a healthy homemade cookie, they have a delicate sweetness and a refreshing citrus aroma from fresh lemon zest. With simple pantry staples, these cookies are ideal for a quick baking session, whether you're making them for an afternoon snack or a special occasion.

What Are Rice Flour Cookies?

Rice flour cookies originate from gluten-free baking traditions and are popular in Asian and European cuisines. Unlike traditional wheat-based cookies, these gluten-free cookies have a crisp texture with a slightly chewy center. The use of rice flour ensures a light and delicate crumb, making them an excellent alternative to buttery, dense cookies.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• 100% gluten-free – Made with rice flour, perfect for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Quick & easy – Just 6 simple ingredients and ready in 20 minutes.
• Crispy & light – Perfect texture with a refreshing hint of lemon.
• No butter & dairy-free – Uses vegetable oil for a lighter bite.
• Great for meal prep – Stores well and freezes beautifully.

Pro Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies

• Use fresh lemon zest for the best citrus flavor.
• Don't overmix the dough—this keeps the cookies light and airy.
• For extra crunch, bake for 2–3 additional minutes.
• Chill the dough for 15 minutes for firmer cookies.
• Dust hands with rice flour when shaping to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Another Type of Flour?

Rice flour is key for achieving the crispy texture, but you can try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a slightly different result.

Can I Add Vanilla or Other Flavors?

Absolutely! Adding vanilla extract, almond extract, or cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile.

Are These Cookies Soft or Crispy?

These cookies have a light, crisp exterior with a tender inside. For crunchier cookies, bake them longer.

Can I Make Them Vegan?

Yes! Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) for a vegan version.

What Sweetener Can I Use Instead of Sugar?

You can substitute coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup, but the texture may change slightly.

How to Store

To keep these cookies fresh and crispy:

1. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
2. Keep them away from humidity to maintain their crunch.
3. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes if they soften.

How to Freeze

Freezing these cookies is easy:

1. Before baking: Freeze the shaped dough balls on a tray, then transfer them to a ziplock bag. Bake from frozen, adding 2 extra minutes.
2. After baking: Let the cookies cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

How To Make The Perfect Gluten Free Cookies

In a bowl, whisk together the egg, sugar, and vegetable oil until the sugar dissolves.

Stir in the lemon zest, rice flour, and baking powder, mixing until a compact dough forms.

Roll the dough into 20g-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use your thumb to slightly press down in the center of each cookie.

Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (360°F) for 10 minutes until lightly golden.

Let them cool before enjoying these light and crisp rice flour cookies.