We’ve officially reached the month of December and I have one thing on the brain: Cookies.
OK, cookies and somehow convincing John to get a real Christmas tree this year. The old fake one is looking real sad.
Send good vibes and tree care tips, please.
You may remember I made vegan gluten free cookies last year. However, with yet another year of recipe development under my belt, I’ve learned a lot since then and have tried new techniques and gluten free flour blends. The result? I’ve cracked the code on perhaps the most fluffy, perfect gluten free vegan sugar cookies on the planet.
Big claims, I know. But kinda true.
Plus, this recipe is simple requiring just 1 bowl and less than 45 minutes start to finish. Ready to see this wizardly? Onward.
The base of these cookies is vegan butter, organic cane sugar and vanilla extract. For the egg, I went with aquafaba – the liquid left behind in a can of cooked chickpeas, which makes a lovely egg substitute in most vegan baking and whips up like egg whites! Magic, I know.
I hope to do a post on aquafaba soon as I get a lot of questions about it and recipe requests, so stay tuned! But if you follow my instructions below you’ll be fine.
Next comes my special blend of GF flours:
Almond flour (which creates a perfect crumbly texture)
Cornstarch (which puffs them up and provides shape + structure)
And my DIY Gluten Free Flour Blend (for extra binding)
The batter only chills for 15 minutes while the oven preheats, during which time you can make your frosting. These little dudes are also quite delicious plain if you’d rather keep things simple.
And may I add that these cookies are undetectably vegan and gluten free and are eerily reminiscent of Lofthouse sugar cookies!? Yeah, I know. Exciting stuff. Give them a try for yourself and let me know how it goes.
If you try this recipe, let us know by leaving a comment, rating it, and (forever and always) tagging a photo #minimalistbaker on Instagram so we can see. Cheers and happy baking, friends!
Fluffy 1-Bowl Sugar Cookies (Vegan + GF)
Ingredients
COOKIES
- 1/2 cup softened vegan butter* (1/2 cup = 1 stick // or dairy butter if not vegan)
- 2/3 cup organic cane sugar*
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 3 Tbsp aquafaba (chickpea brine - the liquid left behind in a can of cooked chickpeas // or sub 1/4 cup (50 g) pumpkin purée* // amount as original recipe is written)
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1 2/3 cups gluten-free flour blend*
- 2/3 cup almond flour (not almond meal - the texture and flavor is different)
- 1/3 cup cornstarch or arrowroot
- 1 Tbsp unsweetened almond milk
FROSTING optional
- 1/2 cup vegan butter (softened // 1/2 cup = 1 stick)
- 1 1/2 - 2 cups sifted organic powdered sugar (to ensure vegan friendly)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 Tbsp unsweetened almond milk
- Natural food dyes (like Watkins or Color Kitchen or my DIY version // optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (176 C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.
- Add softened vegan butter (make sure it's softened - not melted or cold) to a large mixing bowl and beat or whisk until creamy and smooth - about 1 minute.
- Add sugar and mix on medium speed until fluffy and light - about 1 minute. Then add chickpea brine (or other egg substitute*) and vanilla and mix again, scraping down sides as needed.
- Add baking powder and sea salt and blend or whisk to combine. Then add gluten-free flour blend, almond flour, and cornstarch and mix on low until the ingredients are combined. I had to switch to a wooden spoon toward the end. Add almond milk and stir once more.
- The dough should be thick, moldable and a little difficult to mix at this point (see photo). If too soft, continue adding a mixture of gluten-free flour blend, almond flour, and cornstarch until a thick, moldable dough is formed. If too thick, thin with a bit more almond milk.
- Transfer dough to the refrigerator and chill for 15 minutes*. Once chilled, use a cookie scooper (I like this one) or a Tablespoon to measure out 1 1/2 Tbsp amounts of dough and gently roll into balls - the dough will still be soft so be gentle. Arrange on the parchment-lined baking sheets with 1 inch room between each and press down gently with the palm of your hand to smash slightly.
- Alternatively, roll out the dough on a well-floured surface until about 1/4-inch thick and dip cookie cutters in gluten-free flour before pressing into the dough. Use a floured spatula to gently scoop onto baking sheets. This recipe works well with both cut outs and traditional circles!
- Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies appear fluffy and the edges are slightly beginning to dry out. Let cool on baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate to cool completely.
- To make frosting (optional), add softened vegan butter to a mixing bowl and whisk or beat until soft and fluffy - about 1 minute. Then sift in powdered sugar in small amounts and mix. Around the 1-cup mark, add the vanilla extract and whisk. Continue adding powdered sugar until you have spreadable frosting (I used about 2 cups powdered sugar // amount as original recipe is written // adjust if altering batch size). If you prefer a thinner frosting, add a little almond milk to thin. If it becomes too thin, add more powdered sugar. If it becomes too thick, add more almond milk. Add natural food coloring at this time (optional).
- Frost cookies or leave plain! I decorated with some naturally-dyed sugar sprinkles like these. Organic cane sugar as a base should ensure vegan friendliness.
- Storage: Once cooled, store leftover cookies covered at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the freezer up to 1 month.
Notes
*I tested Miyokos vegan butter and Earth Balance soy-free buttery sticks. Both work, but I found Earth Balance gives them a slightly better texture.
*If you’d like to cut back on sugar, sub 1/3 cup of the sugar with 1 packet (~1/4 tsp) stevia extract- I like Trader Joe’s brand (amount as original recipe is written // adjust if altering batch size). This will make the cookies softer, so you may need to add more gluten-free flour, almond flour, and/or cornstarch to help thicken the dough.
*The chickpea brine substitutes an egg in this recipe. In its place, you can also try subbing 1/4 cup pumpkin puree, 1 egg replacer, or 1 small chicken egg if not vegan (amounts as original recipe is written // adjust if altering batch size). I haven’t tested it with a flax egg or any of the other substitutes and can’t guarantee the results.
*If not gluten-free, sub the almond flour and gluten-free flour blend with unbleached all-purpose flour, but keep the cornstarch - it helps them puff up.
*You can make the cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate up to 2-3 days in advance. Simply let the dough rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before scooping and baking. It should be soft and moldable.
*Nutrition information is a rough estimate calculated without frosting.
Laura says
I made these cookies for my son’s graduation party, and they were the HIT of the party! I had so many incredible compliments, even from my mother-in-law, and she is a tough critic. No one could believe they were gluten and mostly dairy free. Proof that vegan (or almost vegan) and gluten free is yummy! I will definitely make these again for the next special occasion… so delish! I did use a real fresh egg from one of my friend’s chickens, and the Miyokos vegan butter.
We’re so glad everyone enjoyed them, Laura! Thanks so much for sharing! xo
Gina says
These cookies are amazing and so so easy! I usually bake vegan, and originally made these for a cookie swap with some GF family members. I have now made the recipe a 2nd time and they are just as good. Fluffy, soft like a lightly sugary pillow in your mouth. The recipe calls for frosting, but I haven’t made any either time I baked. The perfect soft puffy cookie! ❤️
So wonderful! Thanks for sharing, Gina!
Jacqueline Sarkisian says
Quick question! I want to insure that I account for all possible allergens, would oat flour be an appropriate substitute for almond flour?
Hi Jacqueline, oat flour is more dry, while almond flour adds moisture. If using oat flour, we’d suggest starting with less. Hope that helps!
Olivia Camargo says
I am looking forward to making this recipe but I am wondering, would I be able to use bob’s red mill egg replacer instead of the aquafaba?
We haven’t tried it, but we think it would work! Let us know how it goes!
Aileen says
You made my daughters holiday complete. These cookies are absolutely perfect, no substitutions or additions. I’ve already promised to make them for Valentines, and for easter I will make them a little more ball shaped and make them look like eggs, tooooo cute and delicious!!
Aw, we’re so glad to hear that, Aileen! Thanks so much for sharing! xo
Pam says
This is a FANTASTIC recipe. I followed all the directions exactly except I followed another reader’s comments of using Bob’s 1:1 flour to replace the DIY flour mixture, and Tigernut flour to replace the almond flour and it turned out exactly as described. Thank you so much for this recipe; it allowed my daughter to have some holiday desserts!!
Aw, yay! We’re so glad to hear it, Pam. Thanks so much for the lovely review! xo
Malena says
Love how the cookies came out! I made a matcha buttercream to add on top- such a great combo. Thanks for this recipe!!
Yay! Thanks for sharing, Malena!
Meg Roberts says
So, so good!!! I made these with King Arthur GF flour, an egg, and cow butter. I was SO impressed. Thank you for taking the time to make this recipe and add all the substitutions that were possible. It made it so easy.
We’re so glad you enjoyed them and found the suggestions helpful! Thanks so much for the lovely review, Meg! xo
Taylor says
Loved these!! I used an egg instead of aquafaba due to chickpea allergy, Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 as others mentioned and used oat flour instead of almond due to nut allergies, and they still turned out to be so delicious. They taste like the store sugar cookies except healthier, so I don’t feel so bad eating lots. I read a comment where someone said the icing recipe made far too much, so I cut the amount in half and it was perfect! Will be making again!
We’re so glad they turned out well. Thanks so much for sharing, Taylor! xo
Pam C says
Just made these little gems and they are delicious! They came out soft and fluffy. I live at 6000 feet and had no issues. I baked them at 350 for 14 minutes. Changes made were I used all purpose flour, added a little nutmeg and used Ener-G egg replacer (worked well!). Had some arrowroot powder so used that. Followed measurements exactly and because of A P flour batter was crumbly so added small increments of almond milk until it was soft and pliable. This is my first attempt at a vegan dessert and it was a big success! Thank you for a wonderful recipe!
We’re so glad they turned out well! Thanks so much for the lovely review, Pam! xo
Kelsey says
I love this recipe! I have made it several times already, and will be making them again this Christmas! I use Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 GF Flour and they come out beautifully every time. Fair warning though: when I made the frosting, I ended up with *a lot* leftover which is honestly a great excuse to make another batch of cookies for family & friends! Thanks for a hit!
We’re so glad you enjoy it, Kelsey! Thanks so much for sharing! xo
Kerri says
Hi! I’ve made this and struggled a bit because they don’t sell a dairy free soy free butter STICK in my area and my son cannot have either. We have found and used the Earth Balance Soy free dairy free butter spread. Do you know the the equivalent of using a butter spread in this recipe? I fumbled through it last year but thought maybe you’d have advice on how to measure this out for a butter spread.
Thank you!
Hi Kerri, We’d suggest the same amount. The tubs sometimes have added water for spreadability, which can throw off recipes. But in this recipe we think it should work!
Jade says
These look so great! I don’t need gluten free, do you think they would work with all purpose flour?
Hi Jade, we think it would work! Perhaps slightly less all purpose than GF as it tends to be more absorbent. Let us know how it goes!
Cassidy says
I’m excited to try this recipe! Do you think it would work with regular white sugar, or does it need to be cane sugar?
That should work!
Margarita Gibson says
Can you substitute GF 1/1 flour?
Hi Margarita, are you referring to a store-bought GF 1:1 blend? That should work, but we’d suggest one that resembles the ingredients in our DIY blend for best results. Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 GF Baking Flour is similar.
Liv says
Hi can I use maple syrup as the sweetener without messing it up? If so, how much do you recommend?
Hmm, we’re not sure it would work in this recipe because the sugar adds a textural element. You may need to add more dry ingredients to compensate for the added moisture. If you try it, let us know!
M says
Why butter in frosting? Powder sugar and milk is enough imo…
That would be more of a glaze. The butter makes it a bit more substantial.
Natalie says
I accidentally bought the earth balance original spread . Is that the same as the sticks?
Hi Natalie, it’s not the same. Should still work, but the buttery sticks are best.
Leslie says
I made these with Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 GF blend instead of the custom blend of gluten free flour. Also I used the brine of chickpeas I cooked in the crock pot. I think maybe I needed to add more milk because my dough was not delicate and the cookies didn’t fluff up. I cooked 10 minutes but the bottoms were a little brown already. So maybe these are a little drier than recommended. I’m still overjoyed because they’re delicious!
Thanks for sharing, Leslie. For the fluffiness, it sounds like maybe the chickpea brine wasn’t quite as thick as canned. Hope that helps!
Alex H. says
I may going to be making one or two batches of cookies for my friends and their families, but they are going to be these two color twisted rope candy cane cookies. Would that possible to do with this recipe?
Hmm, I’m not sure. This dough is a little delicate. Let us know if you try!
LEANNE says
I made these cookies and they were amazing! Did not taste “gluten free” at all. For anyone with nut allergies, we can’t have nuts so I used tigernut flour instead of almond flour 1:1 and it worked out great.
Prachi thekdi says
HI, chickepea brine – do i put liquid or make adquafuba then add? thank you
Hi Prachi, for this recipe, there’s no need to whip it separately. Hope that helps!
Olivia says
I made these for my boyfriend’s birthday and liked them so much, I had to make more the next weekend for myself. Love how fluffy and soft they are. I used 1 2/3 cup all-purpose flour and 2/3 cup almond flour, and they turned out beautifully.
The second time I made it I forgot to add the cornstarch until I had already mixed everything, so added it in last. I also left the cookies in the oven too long, about 18 minutes, so I just transferred them to a plate right away instead of cooling on the hot tray. No problem, came out great. These are foolproof!
Yay! Thanks for sharing, Olivia! xo
Ann Wolfe says
These look delicious and I am excited to try for my little one with lots of allergies. She is also allergic to tree nuts, what would you suggest using in place of the almond flour? Thanks so much!
Hi Ann, I would either try a 1/2 and 1/2 mixture of more cornstarch and some potato starch, OR coconut flour but use half the amount as it’s much more absorbent than almond flour.
Leanne says
We have nut allergies too. I substituted tigernut flour (tuber not a nut) for almond flour and they turned out so great! New favorite cookie recipe.
We’re so glad it worked well. Thanks for sharing, Leanne!
Felisa says
I have had a more limited diet for about 3 years. I have not had good luck with cookies of almost any kind. These cookies were absolutely fantastic when I made them today! The only tweak I made was that I substituted 1/4 cup of tapioca flour for 1/4 of a cup of sifted homemade oat flour (because I can’t do tapioca) in the Minimalist Baker gluten-free flour blend that I used in this recipe. I can’t wait to make them again! Thank you for the wonderful recipes!
We’re so glad you enjoyed them, Felisa! Thank you so much for the lovely review! xo
keekrock says
We live in the House of Many Allergies and these are hands-down the best holiday cookies we’ve ever made. We followed the recipe exactly except that we substituted Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-free 1 to 1 Baking Flour (in the blue bag) for the DIY GF flour blend. We encountered no problems. It almost seemed too easy! Thanks for a great and delicious recipe!
Aw, yay! We’re so glad you and your family enjoyed them. Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Judi Lockemer says
Hi Dana, I was so excited to find this recipe, except that it has corn starch in it and anything with corn is not on my very restricted diet. Can I make them without the corn starch? Thanks, Judi
Hi Judi! I believe you can sub potato starch or arrowroot starch in place!
Ashley L says
Hi these look amazing! Is there any other sugar replacement that would work? I do not bake with refined sugars so would maple sugar or coconut sugar work at all? What would you recommend to be best in this scenario? :-)
Hi Ashley, Coconut sugar should be okay, but we do find it can impact the texture and make them darker in color. Let us know if you give it a try!
Ariyal says
Oh, just saw this! Thank you!
Ariyal
eliana says
loved these! i subbed regular sugar with coconut sugar in the cookies. I had to add just a little more milk because the coconut sugar made it a bit more crumbly in the first batch, but other that it was great. even non-gluten free & vegan friends loved them :)
Whoop! So glad you and your friends enjoyed them, Eliana! Thanks so much for the lovely review.
Ariyal says
How much extra milk did you use? :)
Jen Lumish says
Could you please tell me what I can sub for the almond flour in the snickerdoodle cookie recipe? We have nut allergies in the family.
Thanks so much
Hi Jen, we haven’t tried it this way, but perhaps more GF flour blend or a lesser amount of oat flour. Let us know if you do some experimenting!
Eliana K says
Can I sub cane sugar with coconut sugar? Thank you!
Hi Eliana, Coconut sugar should be okay, but we do find it can impact the texture and make them darker in color. Let us know if you give it a try!
Maia says
We are allergic to almonds. Can I use just GF flour instead of almond flour? Coconut milk instead of almond milk? Thank you!
Coconut milk instead of almond should be fine! If you use all GF flour they will have a stronger flavor and denser texture. But not sure! If you try it let us know!
Olivia says
Hello! These cookies have been on my mind pretty much since you released the recipe! What a surprise when they poped up in my search for slice and bake cookies. With Halloween and the holidays approaching, I would want to make some of those pumpkins or Christmas tree slice and bake cookies. Do you think this recipe would work?
I think so though they may be a bit more fragile! Let us know how it goes!
Melissa says
Hi! This look lovely. I have followed your blog for 7 years due to my son’s special diet. Now I need to get on a GF DF EF almond and cashew free. I am thinking on making my own pecan butter to use instead of almond butter on your most of your recipes but I am a bit at a loss with almond flour or meal. What do you recommend? Would pecan flour do the trick? What about oat flour?
Hi Melissa, we’re so glad our recipes have helped so far! In this one, we’d say maybe try a mix or pecan flour and a little more GF blend? Pecans have more fat in them than almonds so may make it more oily. Let us know how it goes!
Britney says
Hi,
When you say 1 2/3 cup of gluten free flour blend does that mean 1 cup PlUS another 2/3 cup of gluten free flour? Or does it just mean 2/3 cup of gluten free flour?
Hi Britney, it means 1 cup plus 2/3 cup.
Sapna says
It was very delicious and yummy.
Thanks, Sapna! Next time would you mind adding a rating to your review? It’s super helpful to us and other readers! xo
Kailyn Willows says
Hi, what brand of vegan butter do you use?
We find Earth Balance buttery sticks tend to work best for baking.
Elana says
Hi there. I’m not gluten-free but I do have almond flour I would like to use. Do you think I could do the almond flour with regular flour instead of gluten-free flour? And if so, how much regular flour do you think I would need? Thanks!
Hi Elana, we haven’t tried that, but we think it would work! Perhaps slightly less all purpose than GF as it tends to be more absorbent. Let us know how it goes!
lily winegardner says
I want to make this amazing recipe, but I do not have gluten free flour. what measurements of regular flour would you suggest?
Hi Lily, we would suggest this recipe instead: https://minimalistbaker.com/1-bowl-vegan-sugar-cookies/
Karen C says
Great Cookies! First, I am NOT a baker but with this COVID 19 I am in and looking for things to do!
My husband is vegan and these were perfect. The only change I made was I used 3 T of applesauce for the aquafab because I didn’t want to open a can of chickpeas….(Lazy)…but they were fine. Half of them I rolled in cinnamon sugar like snickerdoodles. Enjoyed! I may even bake some more.
Kaitlin says
Can you use maple syrup instead of cane sugar because I can’t have very much refined sugar?
Hmm, we’re not sure it would work in this recipe because the sugar adds a textural element. You may need to add more dry ingredients to compensate for the added moisture. If you try it, let us know!
Meghan Bogart says
Instead of your gluten free flour, can I use a store’s?
Yes! We’d suggest Bob’s Red Mill 1-1 Baking Flour as it is the closest to our DIY blend.
Christina says
I have made this recipe for the past 4 years and have this page bookmarked. However, this Christmas when I went to make these cookies, the recipe seemed different. It was crumbly and WAY too dry. It has been absolutely perfect in the past. I thought I must have missed something, but then I went to make them again today and the same thing happened. I had to add 3-4 Tablespoons more almond milk to make it work. You may want to double check your recipe posted here. Otherwise, this cookie is awesome!
Hi Christina, we aren’t sure what could be causing that as we haven’t changed the recipe! Is it possible that you used a different gluten-free flour blend or that the formula changed?
Madi says
The same thing happened to me. I used tapioca starch instead of corn and oat flour instead of almond. I ended up adding 4 tbsp milk and about 2 Tbsp extra butter.
Hi Madi, it’s likely due to the oat flour swap. It’s more dense and absorbent than almond flour.
Erinn says
I actually had the same exact issue. Why does it require so much arrowroot/cornstarch?
Hi Erinn, so sorry to hear that! What GF blend did you use? The arrowroot/cornstarch helps keep it light and fluffy.
Hi Christina, we retested recently and weren’t able to replicate these issues. If you try it again and still have issues, we’d love to see if we can help troubleshoot!
Miriam-Rachel Newman says
Thank you so much! I’ll try it.
Miriam-Rachel Newman says
I’ve made this recipe five times and the cookies are always delicious. I’d never know they were gluten-free or vegan. I’ve just had one problem with them—they come out rough-looking and cracked after they’re baked, even when I use the scoop. Any thoughts? Thanks for this recipe. Love the cookies, even if they don’t look as perfect as yours!
It sounds like they may need just a touch more liquid. We would say try adding a little more almond milk. Let us know how it goes!
Bryn says
This was a great, easy recipe. The dough was surprisingly easy to roll out and do Valentine’s sugar cookies. We have printed out the recipe and tucked it into our Minimalist Baker cookbook because this is going to be our go-to now! They are tender, not too sweet and perfect! We made the frosting too! I made them with my little neighbor friend and her mom told me they were so good! Our neighbors aren’t gf or vegan so that’s pretty good feedback!
What would you suggest to sub out almond flour if someone was nut free?
Thanks so much for the lovely review, Bryn. We are so glad you enjoy this recipe! We would say maybe try more gluten-free blend? Let us know how it goes!
Henri Mar says
Hi Dana! I love your website, but I notice that you often use almond flour in your recipes. I’m trying to bake some cookies for someone with a nut allergy. I usually use King Arthur’s GF flour when making cookies, but I’m not sure what ratio I might be able to use if I tried to use that flour. Would it be possible to use ground sunflower seeds or ground oats instead? Thank you so much for your wonderful recipes!
Hi Henri, that might work! Or maybe just use all King Arthur’s GF Flour? Let us know how it goes!
Taylor says
It was definitely fluffy, the taste however, wasn’t what i expected, not necessarily in a good way. I made sure to read all the comments, and decided to make it. i am a little disappointed in the way it turned out. The taste of the flour really stands out. It didn’t taste like the sugar cookies from the store, like the comments said.. they are very pretty, instagram worthy
Hi Taylor, sorry to hear that was your experience! Maybe you were looking for a sweeter version? You could play around with increasing the sugar, if desired.
Mary Michell says
My gluten and egg allergy friend said that these were the best cookies she has ever had! Thanks for making her day and mine. I love baking yummy food! :)
So great! Thanks for sharing, Mary!
Melissa says
I made the dough for these cookies nine days ago, and just baked them this morning. I used egg replacer and added almond extract. They are soft, have a wonderful texture, and are delicious!
Great! Thanks, Melissa!
Asha says
I’ve been making this recipe for over a year! Hands down my fav sugar cookie recipe. Thank you!!!
Whoop! Thanks so much for the lovely review, Asha. We are so glad you enjoyed them! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
Becki says
These cookies were so good! I made three cookie recipes from your site for Christmas: these, the 1 bowl snickerdoodle cookies, and the no-bake peanut butter thumbprint cookies. All of them came out well and were easy to make. For the sugar cookies I just used store-bought frosting. These were simple to make, rolled out really easily and baked up nicely. They were easy to decorate and traveled to all of our Christmas festivities well. I received many compliments on them. Thanks for a great recipe!
Wonderful! Thanks, Becki!
Joanna says
Wow! Thank you so much for this. I had to give up dairy and eggs right before Christmas, in honor of my nursling’s digestive system, and I was feeling a little sorry for myself. The only thing I changed was using orange juice as the liquid (instead of the almond milk) so they would taste like the sugar cookie recipe I grew up with. And they totally do!!! They’re amazing!!
We’re so glad you enjoyed them, Joanna! Thanks so much for sharing!
Brandi Wilson says
I am wondering if I can substitute coconut flour va almond (making them for someone with an allergy to nuts)
Hi Brandi, we haven’t tried it, but that might work. You may need to would reduce the amount by half because coconut flour is quite absorbent. Let us know how it goes!
Jillian says
Hi!! Made these for the second year in a row. This time I rolled them out and cut into Christmas trees. But coming out of the oven they look speckled, like grey dots on them. Maybe i overolled them? I did everything the same in your recipe except that i used larger grain sugar (raw cane) and all purpose flour. Maybe its the sugar im seeing. Any ideas?
P. S. Im sure theyre still yummy and will be icing them anyway ?
I’m guessing it was the larger grain sugar!
Davina says
Do you store at room temp even with the icing? I wasn’t sure because of the butter. Thanks!
Yes, the icing can be stored at room temp. As long as it isn’t too warm, it should be fine for a few days!
Mel says
Made them! So easy and the kids love them!!
Followed the recipe to a T and used Melt for the butter.
Thanks!
Thanks so much for the lovely review, Mel. We are so glad your kids enjoy them! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
Vicki says
Have you tried all almond flour? I am staying away from all starches when possible.
I haven’t! I think they would work. Let us know if you do!
Mel says
I’ve made these many times.
They are always delicious!
I started making them with coconut oil and and coconut sugar and I use the aquafaba.
They are brown but the flavour is delicious and I love how healthy they are.
If you don’t mind a brown sugar cookie these are to die for.
Thanks!
Yay! We’re so glad you enjoy them, Mel! Thanks so much for sharing!
Deanne says
What is the best way to store these cookies. I’m making them now for a cookie party at my daughters school tomorrow. Thank you
Hi Deanne, we recommend storing leftover cookies covered at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the freezer up to 1 month.
Lise says
These look like a wonderful GF/Vegan alternative to one of our family holiday favourites, thank you! Would love to try the recipe. What could we use instead of almond flour (allergic to almonds)?
Hi Lise, maybe a blend of GF flour and arrowroot or cornstarch? We haven’t tried it though. Let us know if you give it a try!
Sarah says
Could I sub shortening for vegan butter since coconut oil won’t work?
Hi Sarah, we haven’t tried that and aren’t sure whether it would work. Let us know if you give it a try!
Michelle says
Hi! Do you have to use an electric mixer for these or can you use a whisk or by hand? Also do you think coconut sugar would work ok instead of the cane sugar? Thanks!
Hi Michelle, a whisk by hand should work. Coconut sugar should be okay, but we do find it can impact the texture and make them darker in color. Let us know if you give it a try!
Zoe says
Made these today with my mum and they were delicious! I can’t find the super fine almond flour you use up here in Canada but i used ground almonds and they turned out perfectly. Thanks!
We’re so glad you enjoyed them, Zoe! Thanks so much for sharing! xo
Amanda says
When adding the chickpea brine, should it already be whipped and fluffy or is it supposed to be directly from the can in liquid form?
Directly from the can.
Kary says
We cannot use almond anything in our home due to having a tree nut allergic grandchild in our family. Hence I would love to know if I can use regular flour and make this recipe? I’d rather use the recipe as is but we cannot since we are hosting all 9 grandchildren in our home for this event. Thx so much!!
Regular flour should work! Let us know if you give it a try.
Laurence says
I tried those with regular flour and the result was really not as expected. :( Maybe reduce the quantity of flour if you think of replacing it, because it was way too doughy. I might have done something wrong, but anyway, I love your blog and your recipes!
Bummer! Thanks for sharing, Laurence!
Brenna says
Hi Dana! LOVE this recipe! But I also really loved your recipe for crispy gluten-free/vegan sugar cookies. I used to make them every year but now I can’t find my hard copy and I can’t seem to find that recipe on your site anywhere now. Could you help? Thanks!
Is it this one?
Jackie says
I think you’ve posted a link to the fluffy recipe accidentally. I’d also like to try the crispy recipe!
Megan says
Is it this one? https://minimalistbaker.com/1-bowl-vegan-sugar-cookies/
susan murphy says
I also need the other recipe-PLEASE!!!! The one with thhe pumpkin puree and bobs gluten free flour 1:1. IT isnt on your site or anywhere. I saved the link and it now takes me to this recipe. I really would like to have the orginal one:-)
I think we had users who had issues with that recipe, so we rerouted to this one. Sorry, Susan!
Jessica says
Could I substitute coconut flour for the almond flour? Or what other types of gluten free flour?
Hi Jessica, we haven’t tried it, but that might work. You may need to would reduce the amount by half because coconut flour is quite absorbent. Let us know how it goes!
Rachel says
Hi! I am not gluten free and want to use regular all-purpose flour. I see your note to sub just all-purpose flour for the almond flour and gluten-free flour blend. This would then be 2 and 1/3 cup flour, which just seems like too much to me. What do you think?
I’d say start with 1 1/2 cups and work up from there!
Mindy says
I made these cookies today with an equal amount of whole wheat pastry flour (2-1/3 cups). I subbed 1 Tblsp ground flaxseed plus 3 Tblsp water for the aquafaba. I used Miyoko’s cashew-based vegan butter. I made mini sandwich cookies, 1/2 Tblsp each, and put 2 together with Dana’s vegan nutella in between. Baked in a toaster oven at 350 degrees for 10 min. They turned out great! Thank you, Dana!
We’re so glad you enjoyed them, Mindy! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Jessica says
Made these for the first time this weekend. Used coconut sugar, which tinted the cookies a bit brownish but they turned out lovely! Delicious!
Wonderful! Thanks for sharing!
Jane Eden Hartle says
Can the dough be frozen?
Yes!
Anna Soman says
These are fantastic! I needed to make sugar cookies for my 1st grader’s school party this Friday, and I try to do vegan and gluten free most of the time, so I thought I’d try some recipes. I’m so glad this is the first recipe I tried!! Skipping to the end, the cookies turned out DIVINE. My roommate swears they taste like the most delicious regular sugar cookies, and I agree. Slightly soft inside, slightly crisp on the edges, just like the perfect cookie should be. My changes: I substituted organic virgin coconut oil instead of vegan butter (I can’t eat canola oil, and I haven’t found a vegan butter that doesn’t use it), I used almost a tablespoon of organic alcohol-free vanilla extract instead of the vanilla and almond extract, and I used a tablespoon of bobs red mill egg replacer instead of the arrowroot powder (I was out of arrowroot). I ended up using three tablespoons of almond milk. I rolled them out slightly thick before using the cookie cutter (they almost taste like short bead and a sugar cookie had a baby). I put a sprinkle of the organic cane sugar on top before baking, and voila! By the way, I feel like they still got a nice hint of buttery almond flavor from the almond flour. Thank you for this fantastic recipe!!
We’re so glad everyone enjoyed them, Anna! Thanks so much for sharing!
Sarah Brasher says
These are crazy good! I swapped and just used an egg and the trader joes gluten free flour and they were a hit! I only cooked 10 min and next time I will prbly do 9 min. I like mine a little undercooked :)
Anne says
Hello! I was wondering if I could substitute the almond flour for tigernut flour? I don’t have almond flour on hand…. Also, the gluten free flour blend I have is without xanthum gum (I don’t tolerate it well), so would I need to adjust the recipe at all to compensate?
By the way: I love your website! It’s always the first place I look for recipes for baked goods. I’m vegan and I have IBS, so if I ever want something sweet, i have to figure out how to make it myself…thank you so much for including so many gluten free and vegan recipes!
So kind! Hi Anne. So I’ve never used tiger nut flour, but let us know if it works out! I’m not sure how it behaves or I’d give more instruction. As for the xanthum gum, it’s not really needed here!
Melody Datz Hansen says
I realized I only comment on recipes if something doesn’t turn out, and that’s super lame, so here I go. These cookies are easy and amazing–they remind me of The Joy of Cooking’s “rich roll cookies” my mother made when I was a kid: fluffy, rich flavor, and easy to roll out and decorate. We’ve made them twice and they turn out much better with the MB gluten free flour blend than the store-bought blend, which made the cookies mealy and too dense.
Michelle says
These were delicious. I made them as recipe states and just formed them into little balls with my hands. Everyone loved them. I made the icing as directed ( 1/2 recipe) and I added about 1 t of lemon extract and decorated them with a little yellow sugar. They were the perfect summer time cookie. YUM!
julie says
Hi.
Do you have to pisk the agfaba or can you just use mix in the liquid?
Jennifer says
So your saying to add the brine unwhipped into the bowl and whip? Or whip the brine and add to bowl and whip? Also, to what level should the brine be whipped, soft peaks or stiff?
Sorry for the confusion, Jennifer! Add the brine unwhipped and then blend/whisk. I will correct that comment!
Julie says
My son has a tree nut allergy. Can I use all gluten free flour blend? Any other suggestions?
Thanks!
Hi Julie, we haven’t tried that, but it should work! If you give it a try, we would love to hear how it goes!
Julie says
We made them and they are GREAT! All Bobs Redmill gluten free flour worked great! Thank you so much! I love having new recipes my son can eat! Tomorrow we are having 13 kids over to decorate cookies for Easter and I’m so happy to have delicious cookies that everyone can enjoy! You have no idea what that means to an allergy mom?
So glad to hear it, Julie!! xo
Megan says
Thank you for sharing this! We cannot do nuts either, but I’ll try this with Bob’s or King Arthur flour this weekend and see how it goes.
Megan says
We can’t eat tree nuts either, and I tried this today with oat flour and oat milk instead of the almond. They turned out great! I love baking but have not had much success since we had to edit out wheat, dairy, egg and nuts from our diets. It’s a real treat to find a recipe that works so well. Thank you!!
We’re so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for sharing!
Olivia says
If I wanted to use an egg (since I’m just vegetarian), what would be the proper amount to substitute ?
Hi Olivia, Generally 3 tbsp of aquafaba to one egg, but this really depends on whether your aquafaba is close to the right consistency. It should be a bit slimy, but not too thick, and not too runny. Ideally it should be the same consistency as egg whites. Hope this helps!
Nicki says
I’ve been wanting to make these for a while, and boy, am I glad I finally did! Five stars! My 4 year old and I made them for Valentine’s Day. We made some as balls and some rolled out and cut, just to try them each way. After trying a couple of other vegan roll outs I was pleasantly surprised at how well these kept their shape! Not sickening sweet, these are so perfect. These will be in our holiday rotation from now on! Thank you!!
Nicki says
P.s. I used all purpose flour in place of gluten-free, but did use the almond flour as written in the recipe.
Edith-Nicole Cameron says
Turned out great. I used all-purpose flour in place of GF and almond flours; had to add about 2 tablespoons more soy milk (instead of almond) to get a malleable dough. Worked great, thanks! I’m loving all these aquafaba recipes.
Lara says
Dana! These cookies are amazing – your recipes make me feel like a super-baker. Seriously! This was a very easy recipe to get together and it came out beautifully. We used cookies cutters and they were just perfect. My son has a gluten allergy and it’s such a gift to have a good go-to recipe, with ingredients that are safe for him, without compromising taste and texture. You’ve given us that with so many of your recipes. Thank you!
Shana C says
I doubled the recipe for the cookies, but not the frosting. I colored the frosting pink with pomegranate juice which made it less thick and allowed me to cover more cookies. Yum!!
Yum indeed!
maria says
Great recipe for my vegan family! We made them multiple times already this season. We substituted the gluten free blend with pastry flour but kept the almond flour. We also used cultured vegan butter made with cashews, yummy! Thank you! Happy Holidays!
Rebecca says
I made these cookies exactly as laid out. I have made tons of your recipes with great success. My cookies didn’t really puff up or become fluffy at all… the taste great but hard and crisp. Any suggestions for what might have caused this?
Hi Rebecca! Sorry to hear that happened.. There are several reasons that your cookies came out flat, but here are a couple possible culprits!
Christina Olson says
These were delicious!!!!! I used sunflower flour instead of almond flour because of a nut allergy. Used pumpkin purée because I didn’t have canned chickpeas. Used coconut milk instead of almond milk. These were soft the next day and that’s what I was looking for. I’m going to make another batch but going to try palm shortening instead of soy-free Earth Balance tub butter. Just to try to make it more “clean”. I’ll report back!
Chris says
I just finished making this. Turned out fabulous. These are the following minor tweaks/subs I used. I used earth balance soy free butter in the tub (instead of stick), one egg (instead of aquafaba), and 1/4 cup cornstarch (instead of 1/3 cup). All other ingredients as listed in the recipe. I followed recipe process as written, used same oven temp and baking time. I can’t wait to decorate but have to until tomorrow. This recipe made 33 cut out cookies for me. I really am pleased with the results. Thank you for the research and recipe.
Joanne says
I’m very happy with these cookies! The recipe was easy to follow and the cookies are delicious. I used my husband’s aerolatte milk frother to make the aquafaba and it worked perfectly. I also pushed one vegan chocolate chip into the top of half the batch. It made a nice subtle chocolate flavoring.
Brandy Thompson says
These are awesome! So easy to make. They have a wonderful texture and the dough is really easy to handle(always a plus with gf). I used pillsbury gf mix for the flour blend and these turned out perfectly. I loved how many small cookies I got out if a single batch! Thank you!
Meme says
THANK YOU, THANK YOU for this recipe! We make my grandmother’s sugar cookies every Christmas and I can never enjoy eating them, so this year I decided to make my own that I can actually eat! These are SO delicious, don’t taste GF/Vegan, and the icing is tasty as well! You’ve definitely perfected this recipe my dear- they don’t crumble or fall apart when cutting out shapes. And I sure do love a thick sugar cookie. You NEED to publish a cookbook! Thanks again!
Jackie says
Hi there. I like given cookies as xmas gifts, does it actually only keep for max 4 days??
Hi! They’re best during the 4 days but will keep longer. I’d recommend freezing for longer storage!
Sam says
I am so excited to make this recipe! Do you have any suggestions on how to make this taste lemon flavored? Or even just the icing lemony?
Deb says
For non vegan, what do I use instead of a 3tbsp of aquafaba? Thanks
Meme says
She says in the recipe “notes” area that you can substitute for one egg. I did that and they turned out great.
M-M says
How do they turn out if I substitute Neat Egg for the aquafaba?
We haven’t tried and can’t say for sure, but if you experiment with the recipe, report back on how it goes! Good luck :D
Hebba says
Made these today with a few changes and they turned out great! I subbed self-rising GF flour mix for the 1 2/3 cup and then reg. Gf flour where it calls for 2/3 cup almond flour because I have a nut allergy and soy milk in place of the almond milk. And the chick pea brine fluffed like a dream. I have to play a bit with the flour and the soy milk adding to get the right consistency but I was even able to cut out stars and they didnt fall to pieces like a lot of gf vegan things. So thankful for people like you who paved the way for us newbies and allow us to share in the sweet treats and traditions like Christmas cookies ?
Jessica says
I made a double recipie of this for Thanksgiving. I had four kids ages 7 (x2), 5, and 3 help make them. They had so much fun. More importantly, these stood up really well to cutting with cookie cutters, and were stable enough for small children to frost them. Not a single one broke or cracked, which is my experience with every other recipie like this. Also, I took them to Thanksgiving, and everyone loved them, and said they were better than most wheat and milk cookies! I used two eggs (because doubled), but otherwise followed the recipie exactly (at least as exactly as small kids measure things). I’m so grateful that my son who is gluten and dairy free could have fun with his friends and impress his family members while enjoying baked goods himself. Thank you, although this is my first comment, I’ve made several things from this site and I’m so grateful for you and your recipie.
Right? I love this recipe too! Glad you tweaked it for your needs. xo!
Kay says
I only want to know how to make cookies with the aquafaba in a regular sugar cookie recipe with regular flour and regular butter.
Sandra G says
I’ve made these twice now and they are delicious. Easy to make and fun to decorate.
I love that they are crunchy too.
Cait says
These cookies are DYNAMITE, and so so easy to make!! Definitely a crowd pleaser. I subbed an egg for the aquafaba and it worked perfectly.
Question — could I add some vegan chocolate chips to this dough? Would it affect the texture or bake time at all?
That should work, Cait! We are glad you enjoy this recipe!
Amy says
I made these for a Halloween tea party i put on for my boys, mom, sister, and nieces. Everyone loved them! They remind me of my grandmother’s spritzer cookies she would make every Christmas and I have missed so much since going gluten, egg, and dairy free 5+ year ago. These will definitely be happening for Christmas and other special occasions from now on! I colored the frosting with activated charcoal for a black Halloween look and it worked perfectly. I will probably be halving the frosting next time as I like things a little less sweet/less frosting (personal preference) and this recipe makes a lot, guess i need to make more cookies:). This recipe is so good and easy (even the free range eaters loved them) thanks you for sharing!
We are glad to hear that everyone loved them, Amy! Activated charcoal is a brilliant idea for a Halloween themed cookie :)
Cat says
Amazing!!! I have a corn allergy so I used tapioca starch instead of corn starch. Also used coconut sugar instead of cane sugar, pumpkin puree instead of aquafaba, and coconut oil instead of vegan butter. I did have to add a bit more almond milk. These taste EXACTLY like those lofthouse sugar cookies that I used to LOVE! Thank you!
Heidi Horchler says
Thanks for the tapioca tip! We are ok with gluten, but no corn, so this helps!
Holly says
For your DIY flour blend…my daughter cannot have white rice. Can I just use more brown rice flour? Or can you recommend another substitute?
Hi Holly! Another reader mentioned in the comments of this recipe that they successfully substituted with quinoa flour! I haven’t tested it myself, but if you do try, let me know how it turns out.
Katy says
These sound divine, being from the UK, we don’t really do sugar cookies, but I’m really interested in making these! I’m wondering about adding some lemon zest/extract/juice in to the mix though? Any thoughts on which might be best to add? Thanks, Katy :)
Yes, some lemon zest or extract would be delicious! Let us know how it goes, Katy!
Hannah Meisenheimer says
Hello! I REALLY want to make your sugar cookies – unfortunately, I’m on the Keto-Diet, so I can’t have any of the components (rice -white or brown, potato, &/or tapioca) listed in your homemade g/f flour mix. Do you by chance know of another brand or mix of g/f flours that would still work well for the recipe, but also fit into the Keto-Diet parameters?! Thanks so much in advance!
Sally fitzgibbons says
I have be been gluten free since 1970 and this is the best cut out cookie recipe that I have come across.
like you, I was a christmas cookie addict and have tried all these years to find a good recipe.
I have made them several times and plan of making them a million more. You have made my day and days to come lol
I would serve these at the north pole they are so authentic tasting, just like I remember them tasting as a little girl.
We’re so glad to hear that you are a fan of this recipe, Sally!
Soo Min Ahn says
I’ve been looking for soft vegan sugar cookies that don’t contain weird ingredients that I can’t find around me – like vegan ricotta, cottage cheese… nope.
And then – BAM!
I made this cookie recipe, halving it, with buckwheat flour (to sub for the gluten-free flour and cornstarch, as I didn’t have any at home, and an extra 1/3 cup of almond flour, because of the moisture content without the cornstarch), and a chia egg (I’m allergic to flax haha and always forget to ask my mom to save the aquafaba!), and it worked fantastically well! It seemed to be not done enough in the oven after 10 minutes, but your recipes always work out wonderfully (I once cut your cinnamon bun recipe in 24th as a snack, and it still worked amazingly – you have my trust haha), so I stuck to the recipe and brought them out. Once they cooled, they’d finished cooking with the residual heat, and stayed beautifully soft, with a nice, thin but slightly crisp crunch. I didn’t cool it, because it was getting late and the dough got me pretty impatient for the results, but they were awesome!
Yay! Thanks for sharing you recipe changes!
niki says
is this cake before baking is hard that I can cutt the shape in it?
Yes, you can cut shapes out of the dough! (Step 7)
Emilia says
I love these! They turned out perfectly & as I hoped… replaced aquafaba with egg replacer. Toddler & family loved them. Not just for Christmas but any time of the year. Good for beginner bakers
Sabina says
Hi I’m a home baker and I’m looking at things to lengthen the shelf life of the cookies I give to people and I’ve stumbled onto Aquafaba which has made my cookies more open to people allergic to egg(like my mother) so I loved this recipe. I wanted to know how you found out the nutrients/nutritional composition of your cookies?! I saw the nutrition facts/panel at the bottom of your page and I was wondering how you found these details out? Is there a calculator online?
Hi Sabina! We use caloriecount.com
J.C. Bokow says
Please change your Print Version parameters so the text is BLACK and not GRAY; it’s too hard to read! Thanks.
Hi! I will pass along your request – thanks for reaching out!
April says
Can I use rice milk instead of almond milk?
Yes that will work, April!
Holly says
Hi…if I can’t use almond/rice/coconut milk, do you think soy would work?
Yes!
Anjelica says
Dana you are a vegan wizard! I’ve probably made 90% of your recipes and these are the best sugar cookies I’ve ever had! I was completely blown away! Thank you for all your amazing recipes!!
Lizzette says
Hello Dana,
Just realized the almond I have is meal and not flour :( what can I use instead? Today is my Xmas cookies making day. Please advise.
Thanks,
Lizzette
BMatt says
I highly advise against subbing the suggested flours for all purpose. My cookies came out incredibly crumbly and tasting like playdoh.
Sadie Morrison says
I’ve tried twice to make these and failed both times. First time I used becel to the same amount as the recipe, but they came out too flat and under cooked. The second time a cut the butter in half and the dough seemed promising, but that one didn’t work either same problem, I tired putting them at a slightly higher temp but they just browned. Not sure if it had to do with the vegan butter.
Naomi says
I used Bob’s Red Mill, 1 to 1Gluten free Baking Flour instead of the blend suggested here. This recipe was great! My husband likes soft cookies so he really liked this one. I rolled out the dough and made shapes, and I also rolled little balls by hand. I made this for a holiday treat party at work to satisfy the gf folks. I think they all loved it!
Megan says
These are amazing!! We have a lot of food intolerances in my house, leaving my toddler gluten free and vegan. I so badly want to have traditions (like baking Christmas sugar cookies) with her that she can partake in. These are it!!! So thank you from my 3 yr old (who gets to eat cookies like everyone else) and her mama.
Clara says
Hi! Do you think coconut oil would work instead of vegan butter? I’ve been looking for a palm oil free vegan butter and still haven’t found one so I am hoping I can use coconut oil. Thanks!
Hi Clara! That should work!
Christina says
How long do you whip the chick pea brine to make Aquafaba? I wonder if that if why my first batch was a bit dry? Thanks!
KATIE says
A vegan friend of mine is hosting a cookie exchange, and while she didn’t request anyone make vegan cookies, I wanted to at least bring a batch since she’s the host. After searching and searching, I came across these and the reviews led me to believe I found a winner. I’m so very disappointed… I spent so much time, colored half the dough red to make candy canes… They’re just awful (I’m so sorry to say)! My husband, a human garbage disposal, told me “Vegan or not, there’s no way you can give those to people.” My 4 year old who will eat anything if you call it a cookie also won’t eat them. I’m so bummed… I followed the recipe exactly and I’m a good baker in general… they were so bland and not at all sweet like a sugar cookie. The texture was more like a butter cookie, but no flavor. Any suggestions for, at the very least, sweetening these up?
Gouri says
I made these and stuck to the recipe but used dairy butter and subbed AP flour for the GF-flour mix. They came out really well! The cookies were fluffy and had a wonderful taste. I halved the frosting recipe and used it for all of my cookies since I didn’t want as much frosting. Overall, it’s a great recipe and one I’ll make again.
Jackie says
I just made this recipe and the cookies turned out terribly :( I followed the directions to a t, but I subbed in all purpose flour for the flour blend and almond flour since that is what I had on hand (as the recipe said I could). The “dough” was just crumbles that could not be molded, so I did nearly 4x the amount of almond milk to get it to a dough like consistency. I rolled out balls and flattened them and put them in the oven for the recommended time. These cookies were both dense and try. They felt like homemade play dough that had been left out to harden. I’m not sure how everyone else is having such success since I followed the recipe exactly and they turned out awful :(
Megan says
Can you pipe with this frosting? I’m looking for another vegan dessert option to make for a wedding…but the cookies need to be decorated! Thanks.
Hi Megan! You could probably pipe this icing if you made it a little thicker using more powdered sugar, but this particular recipe is more of a royal icing than it is a piping icing so I would recommend spreading it rather than piping. Hope this helps!
Beth Godbee says
Thanks for this simple and delicious recipe — and other of your cookie recipes too. I love eating cookie dough and appreciate you sharing these! Thanks for your work with developing and publishing vegan + gluten-free recipes.
Anika Faye says
These were amazing! Best sugar cookies I’ve made in my life regardless of it being GF, or vegan. The cookie itself was soft on the inside and had a nice crust on the outside. I made them exactly as the recipe says, using aquafaba as the “egg”. The only downside is when I made the frosting, it melted really quickly and didn’t stay as fluffy but otherwise delicious! I brought these to Easter and they were a hit, even more so than the other non-vegan deserts there! Love MB, this was just one of the many, many successful recipes I’ve tried of hers:)
Shelbi post says
Question: is it 3 Tbsp of the chickpea brine before you whip it or is it 3 Tbsp of the whippe Aquafaba? Mine didn’t cook correctly but the taste was delicious and the frosting was perfect.
Good question, Shelbi! You’ll want 3 Tbsp of aquafaba!
Kaitlyn says
Hi, if you’re not gluten free and can’t really track down all these different flour types, is there a way to substitute regular wheat flour that would make the recipe work?
Yeah, that should work! Let me know how it goes!
Cedar says
The recipe says to put the chickpea brine in with the butter and sugar mixture. Does this mean the aquafaba or the brine straight – unbeaten?
Aquafaba!
Cate says
Made it. My non-vegan family enjoyed as well.
Cate says
Should have added that I loved them. I craved them over regular cookies.
Johanna says
Terrific recipe! It was an easy and fun cookie to make for my husband and I. We felt giddy eating these, they felt like a childhood treat. I subbed all purpose flour for the gluten free blend and they worked out perfectly. Thank you!
Regina Almeida says
Hello, this is my first time commenting but I love your blog. You are my go-to source for vegetarian/vegan recipes. I tried this recipe but substituted sprouted wheat flour for the gf flours and it didn’t really work out. The cookies didn’t spread out or puff at all. They tasted ok but they definitely weren’t the texture I was hoping for considering how beautifully fluffy yours looked. Do you have any experience with sprouted wheat and is there anything i could change to make this work out better next time? Thank you so much!
Lara says
My question is about the frosting. Before adding food coloring, the mixture was very light yellow… adding my natural red food coloring gave me a light brown color result – I was hoping for pink! Then I added blue… aiming for a purple-ish color and I ended up with a blue-ish, gun-metal grey color… which is cool, but not for preschool Valentine’s day cookies! Any tips or advice you could offer? I love the light pinks & blues you were able to achieve!
Hi Lara! Hmm I am stuck on this one. Could it possibly have been the brand of vegan butter used? It may have had a more yellow tint to it than most butters? Hope this helps!
Caitlyn says
I made them for a work breakfast lunch, everyone loved them! Especially my boss ??
Taste like the frosted Italian cookies my grandma always had during Christmas.
Shelby says
Could I just use gluten free flour instead of the blend?
Christina says
We made these cookies for Christmas for my son who is allergic to wheat, dairy, and eggs. We also made our “original” sugar cookies for everyone else. No one could tell the difference. They were SO amazing I won’t ever make my “original” cookies ever again. We’re making these today for my son to take to school for Valentine’s Day. Thank you for this recipe! (now I save all my chickpea brine and freeze it for later use)
Rebecca says
I just made these replacing the almond flour with bob’s red mill 1:1 GF flour. The cookies cracked quite badly on the top – thinking maybe my dough was too dry? I wasn’t sure what you meant by fluffy as mine didn’t puff up or rise. Otherwise they are pretty good.
Hi! They may have turned out dry because of the substitution for almond flour for the gluten free flour? They should come out fluffy and risen when using almond flour as it gives these a lightness. Better luck next time!
Casey says
I made these (and a few other cookies) for Christmas and they were my absolute favorite. I have never tasted a gluten free sugar cookie this delicious (I could hardly tell it apart from regular ones). BUT I did use a flour mix with xanthan gum in it, which made the cookies spread perfectly and not too cakey. I recommend adding it if you’re not averse to it.
Dana says
I made these with 1 2/3 cups of unbleached all purpose flour and 2/3 cups almond flour and they were just GREAT! My non-vegan and vegan family members all loved them!
Hanusia says
I didn’t have Earth Balance on hand, so I did use coconut oil instead, thinking it wouldn’t be too bad with AP flour (I’m not gluten free). The cookies turned out a little bit denser than I would’ve liked, but still-not too shabby, and they definitely filled a craving for me! I also swapped almond extract for vanilla extract, which worked nicely.
kristin says
i’m not adding what hasn’t already been said- they. are. amazing.
i made one batch of these and two batches of regular sugar cookies. the regular sugar cookies tasted overwhelmingly buttery and sugary. these are such an beautiful blend of flour, salt and sugar to give it an all around goodness. only problem is that it is damn near impossible to eat just one, or two, or three… i am making them yet again for a birthday party this evening and can’t wait to eat more!!!
healthy added bonus is that it forces you to make hummus with the leftover chic peas. love. it.
thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Kelly says
This might be old news by now, but I have to say that these cookies are BADASS GOOD!!!!!!!!
Alli says
THANK YOU!!! Since I was made aware that I am gluten intolerant, one of the hardest things to go without is sugar cookies at Christmas. I have tried several other recipes and this is by far the best. I knew it the minute I tasted the dough before putting it in the oven. These are SO good!!! Thank you for this recipe! If I see you around PDX I will probably give you a hug! :)
Leah says
Made these yesterday with my daughter. SUPER YUMMY!
Thank you so much for this beautiful recipe.
Kathi says
How much chickpea brine comes in a can of chickpeas? Will 1 can give 3 tbsp of the brine?
Yes! I find that 1 can usually yields at least 1/3 cup.
Ashley says
Made these as Christmas cookies for my colleagues. While I struggle with making them look as pretty as yours, these received lots of praise at work! I snuck a few at the house before I left as well. Thank you for making such lovely and delicious food. Merry Christmas (:
Hunter says
Hi!
I’m baking for the holidays and really excited about these! I’m currently nursing a little one with dairy soy and gluten intolerance, eggs are fine. If I were to use actual eggs in this recipe would it be the same, and how many would I use? We generally do have them, but we’re out of chickpeas, and the current is temp is -1 so I’d rather not run out :) Any thoughts!?
Hunter says
Just kidding… you would like I could read notes as some one who is an instructor;)
Hi there! I’d suggest 1 egg. Good luck!
Alyssa says
I just made these as cutout cookies and they turned out amazing. I’ve missed being able to join in the holiday cookie baking but not anymore! Thanks so much!
Dara says
Just made these Christmas beauties with my 3 year old baker. Super yummy and seriously fun to make! Thanks for this vegan holiday recipe!
Rose says
Do you think the dough can make it through a cookie dough gun?
Hmm, I think so!
Jenny says
I made these! I substituted almond flour with coconut flour and a real egg…they turned out as perfect as shortbread cookies (no puff)…perfect flat cookie for frosting.
Rachel Brauer says
Hi Dana!
I really want to make this cookies, but I was wondering if there is a substitute for the Almond flour? I know it is a little bit tougher to come by and is a bit more expensive! Any advise will help :)
p.s. I love your blog and cookbook!! I use it all the time! :)
Hi Rachel! I order mine from Amazon and it’s way cheaper! Otherwise, just try subbing more GF flour!
kristin says
i got mine from costco! blue diamond? who knew!! not organic… but i can’d do it 24/7
Leah says
I made these last night! Followed your subs for a with gluten version. So delicious. My only note is that I had to turn the oven down to 350. Another fantastic recipe!
Mariel says
Hi, can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?
Hmm, I think so, but I would reduce the amount by half because coconut flour is quite absorbent. Let me know how it goes!
Carly says
I made these with Miyokos cultured vegan butter (made from coconut oil, no palm oil) and they were fabulous!
Johanna says
Thanks for sharing! I was thinking I would use Myoko’s butter. Glad to know it works well!
Maggie says
I’m hosting a holiday party tomorrow and wanted to make a Christmas themed cookie. I used dairy butter , but followed everything else exactly. I used cookie cutters shaped like snowflakes, ornaments and gingerbread men. The men lost limbs because the cookies were larger and therefore, fragile. As far as taste goes, they are delicious and not too sweet. The texture is soft and melts in your mouth. I decorated them with Colored frosting and sprinkles. I’m sure they’ll be a hit. Thank you.
Scarlett says
Hi – Question about the cookie dough, which I made last night. Per your suggestion, since I’m not GF, I used all-purpose flour + cornstarch. Then I added the almond milk, though even after 4 tablespoons of the dough was still pretty “crumbly.” I was able to knead it and then roll it out later but it still felt slightly dry and the cookies didn’t puff up like those in your picture. Should I have just kept adding almond milk until the desired consistency?
Thanks in advance,
– Scarlett
Erin says
I had the same problem using regular flour! Dana, do you have a suggestion if we’ve already put in all the four to make the dough sticky again?
Hi Erin! Too much flour and not enough water can cause crumbly dough – people often do this if the dough is too sticky and they add more flour.. try adding a small amount of water and that should help!
Alfio says
Hi, I have a gluten free flour blend on hand (Namaste foods perfect flour blend). And it already has Arrow root. These are the ingredients Sweet brown rice flour, tapioca starch, arrowroot powder, sorghum flour, xanthan gum.
Would you recommend me just subbing the GF blend i already have for the arrowroot/cornstarch, almond flour?
Thank you so much! I love all your recipes, you make it easy and inspiring to cook.
Yeah! That should work! Though, a little cornstarch (even 1 Tbsp) would help them remain fluffy!
Deanne says
I made these with dairy free eggnog, nutmeg & cinnamon, then frosted w/dairy free eggnog frosting. They were a HUGE hit at a family get-together! Thanks!
Whoop! Thanks for sharing, Deanne! xoxo
Michelle says
These are so good!!
Kit says
What could replace the almond flour to make these nut free?
I’m thinking either oat flour or just more GF blend!
Kelly says
Hi!
I just tried this recipe tonight and it worked beautifully! I didn’t have any gluten free flour blend so I used all purpose flour instead! I did add the almond flour to the mix as well. I was able to find the earth balance sticks at Ralph’s :)
I didn’t use the frosting recipe because honestly they taste amazing on their own!
Thanks for sharing this recipe! This will definitely be my go to sugar cookie recipe :)
Theresa says
I Just made this recipe and did cut outs. I thought the cookies tasted yummy. I found the more thicker the cookie the softer it will be. The thinner the cookie the more crunch to it. I used dairy butter and thought the icing was a little buttery which I probably could of added more powdered sugar. I am bringing the cookies to my daughter’s Christmas program. We had the option of baking or buying we chose to bake. I look forward to seeing the reviews of what others have to say about them. Oh and I was excited to use the fabanase. Really like watching the transformation of the cookie dough. ?
Brittani says
These turned out so good! Were on our second batch now. :)
Diane says
Delicious! Thank you for another great recipe.
plasterer in bristol says
These look great, think ill make these with the kids this weekend. thank you
Heidi says
These cookies are delicious! I used an egg since I’m not vegan. I do have gluten and dairy allergies and these cookies taste like the real deal- flaky, light, small-bit-of-chewy-firmness in the center, not clawingly sweet- YUM. I will try using almond extract in place of vanilla for variety.:) These cookies will be a staple during the holidays from now on. An Excellent and Easy recipe– thank you, Dana!
Heidi says
**i didn’t have almond flour or arrowroot so I used almond meal and organic corn starch instead and the Cookies came out fantastic. I also added a pinch of salt to the frosting to enhance the flavor. xx
Lisa says
Dana, these cookies are scrumptious! We are ok with eggs so we subbed one egg for the chick pea brine. They turned out just as described, fluffy on the inside. We gobbled them up quickly. My ten year old made these all by herself and she had a lot of fun. Thank you. We’ll be making these again soon. Happy Holidays!
Hazel Newhouse says
Oh my!! These looks so pretty. I’m going to have a go at some festive shapes and decorations later I think. Aquafaba really is magic stuff. The water of Gods! haha.
Caro says
Lovely cookies. I had the kids decorate them :)
We have a real tree, but its still in its pot, roots and soil and all. We keep it in the garden all year, where it grows and grows and take it in just for X-mas. Its nice not to have something that you don’t have to discard after the holidays, but can see thrive… they keep in the pot (if its big enough) for years – we had ours for five now. After this X-mas we’ll take it to the woods and plant it there and then start again next year. Its a real family member…
Emily Honeycutt @ emilyhoneycutt.com says
Hi Dana, Which brand of food coloring did you use for these photos, Watkins or Color Kitchen? I have used Color Kitchen sprinkles, which I have found to be the best and most vibrant, but of course, they are also the most expensive. I would love to find a less expensive option, but don’t want to waste my money on another muted brand. Thanks!
Hi there! I used India Tree but didn’t much care for them. I linked to others with higher reviews…
Grace says
These look awesome! I don’t have a handheld mixer, so I was wondering if using a food processor would give the same results?
That should work!
Jo says
I used 1/4 banana purée and did 1 tablespoon balls- amazing!! And I used a spoon to mix it -no mixer.
Tammy Root says
Hi! Are these cookies soft or crunchy?
They are a little of both! A little bit of a bite on the outside and tender on the inside.
Tammy Root says
Sounds perfect!! Thanks for the reply. :)
Ardis says
Hi Dana,
Is it possible to make aquafaba from the brine of other types of beans? I’m allergic to chick peas, but was hoping maybe the brine from cannellini beans might work…?
Thanks!
I’ve heard cannellini can actually work! I haven’t tried it myself but let me know if you do!
Laura G says
Made the cookies today and used just unbleached AP flour. The cookies are good but I didn’t care too much for the icing so I think the next time I’ll just go with the powdered sugar, almond milk & extract method.
Thank you for a simple and easy recipe!
Emily Honeycutt @ emilyhoneycutt.com says
Those cookies look beautiful, Dana! I just started using aquafaba recently and it works like dream. Your site is a great inspiration. Happy holidays!!
Jennifer says
Hi Dana,
I was just wondering if you could write about the use of honey or agave in recipes. I know it is not vegan, but I cannot tolerate sugar and adding honey to recipes can complicate things with the ratio of dry and wet. So, I wonder if I could sub. honey for the dry can sugar in this and many recipes. I was really hoping you could solve this issue (!) as I head into the holiday season and my busy family is ready to eat cookies!! Thank you for any advice, I greatly appreciate it as I usually wing it in terms of substitutions with usually good results but wishing someone would create a rule on this issue.
: )
Also, I note you do not use xanthan gum in anything. Is the cornstarch or arrowroot enough? What is your opinion of xanthan? I do not like the flavour but sometimes wonder if it is necessary.
Thank you so much,
Hi Jennifer! I don’t find xanthan gum necessary. The cornstarch helps bind and add form to the baked goods! As for sugar, I’d actually recommend subbing stevia if I were you. Otherwise, add the honey or agave when creaming the butter. And if the dough looks too wet, compensate by adding more dry ingredients (GF blend, almond flour, cornstarch). Hope that helps!
Cori says
These look yummy! Looking forward to trying them. As for your real tree…Be sure to make a fresh cut off the end of the trunk just before placing in the tree stand. I always put an old towel down in the water well and wrap it around the trunk so that when you forget to add water for a few days it’s still wet. Seems to keep the needles on the tree a bit longer. Before you bring it indoors you might want to give it a good shake to get any loose needles out.
Bethany says
These are delicious! Thank you ❤
Lauren says
Pretty sure I have been waiting for this recipe my entire life!!! FINALLY!
Maggie says
So much yum! I used AP flour, dairy butter, and FLAX EGG because this is all I have at my house on this cold, rainy afternoon! I had to bake the cookies a few extra minutes, and they seem to be more dense than what you’ve described. They are incredible, even with modifying the recipe! Thanks for the substitutions at the bottom – it helped me a ton!
Take away: it seems like flax egg works fine!
Bethany says
I cannot wait to make these with the kids later ♥
Georgie @ Healthy Pears says
these look incredible! Can you taste the aquafaba in the cookies? I tried making an aquafaba mousse and it was a complete disaster, all i could taste was the chickpeas!! Would love you to give it a go!
No you can’t!
Courtney says
Awesome again! You’re quickly becoming my go to gluten free recipe source. The recipes are always fool proof. I was feeling really left out this Christmas but these cookies cut beautifully! Thank you!
Chia says
Yum!
Subbing almond flour for AP flour worked so well and i’m really glad with how the cookies turned out. Not too sweet but just adds the right punch for a nice sugary treat.
Charmaine Ng says
I could not resist the pictures in the feed. I love, love, love the pastel colours so much. Reminds me of Little Twin Stars, one of my favourite cartoons.
– Charmaine
Lauren Renlund RD says
It’s so fluffy!!!!!!!
haha anyone else love despicable me? :P
The cookies look amazing :)
Autumn Beryl Hempstock says
My boyfriend is allergic to almonds – any recommendations for replacing the flour?
Judy says
Love the beautiful colors you used frosting these cookies. Tis the season for Cookie Baking! We put up a small “artificial” tree early in December so we can enjoy it during the entire holiday season, but there is no substitute for a “real” tree. We decorate the tree with a “tree decorating party” with family about 1 week prior to Christmas and it’s magic. Even picking out the perfect tree from a tree farm or a local merchant is part of the fun. Don’t miss this tradition, give it a try! ?
Sarah says
Hi! If using the pumpkin purée, does that make the cookies have a pumpkin taste at all? I haven’t experimented with Aquafaba yet and that seems easier. Thanks!
Not really, no! I never notice a pumpkin flavor.
GiGi says
Chickpea BRINE?!?! Whaaa? Interesting!! I really need to use chickpea flour for some baking and see how that works and if it likes my stomach! These cookies look insanely delicious! I just made some vegan cookies for the blog Tuesday and they are NOTHING like these! haha!
Carrie says
Can’t wait to try these during our Christmas cookie bake with the nieces! I took your pumpkin bars and chocolate pie to thanksgiving dinner. They were wonderful! I used almond flour for the first time and loved baking with it. Can’t wait to try the aquafaba.
Dee says
These look AMAZING! I can’t believe how fluffy they are… mmm.
Tree tip – put some sugar in the water to keep it vibrant longer :) Also, let it warm up for 24 hours after bringing it home, it will fluff up just like these cookies (or close at least :P)
Olivia S. says
I cannot wait to try these! As for real Christmas trees, they are definitely a greener choice! Nothing has to be shipped from miles and miles away, as there are probably a few tree “farms” around you. Hope that helps. Love your recipes and candor!
J says
That’s so cool! Never knew you could use chickpea water that way. You teach me so much! :)
I wish it was my original concept! I learn new things from the vegan/dairy-free/egg-free community all the time!
Erin says
If i wanted to use all purpose flour in place of the almond flour and gluten free blend, would i use the same weight of all purpose for the other flours? Thanks!
So the almond flour gives these a lightness, so I’m wondering if you couldn’t sub coconut flour, but because coconut flour can be so absorbent add maybe half the amount? Alternatively, a blend of GF flour and arrowroot or cornstarch. Good luck!
Yeah, that should work! Let me know how it goes!
Luci {Luci's Morsels} says
Your photos are so inviting Dana! These are beautifully decorated cookies! Thanks for sharing the recipe! Have a wonderful weekend! xo
Nixa says
Hi Dana!
I usually cook my dry chickpeas in the slow cooker. I wonder if the remaining water works for the Aquafaba, it doesnt look as thick as the liquid that comes with the can.
btw, I always get a real tree but this year was considering a fake one due to several horror stories heard about spider eggs in the trees. Lol
Hi Nixa! If using homemade aquafaba, try and cook it down until thickened. Good luck!
Sara @ Last Night's Feast says
These look absolutely delightful. Thanks for sharing!
Pat Bugyi says
I can’t find the Earth Balance baking sticks. Can I use the Earth Balance that comes in a tub instead?
Hi! That should work. The tubs sometimes have added water for spreadability, which can throw off recipes. But in this recipe I think it should work!
Deanna says
If you do use the Earth Balance in the tub, and it is salted, should you skip out on additional salt in the recipe?
No, just slightly reduce!
Erika says
I used the soy free Earth Balance in a tub and the cookies came out great!
Marie says
I have for many cookie and cake recipes when I’m out of the sticks, and it works just fine for me.
Heather says
Hi,
I have a Bob’s Red Mill GF -1 for 1 baking flour. I don’t think it has nuts for those above commenting, but I’d have to check. Can I use this in the recipe, in the same amounts as you listed?
Thank-you!!
Yes, I think so! Let us know how it goes!
Julie says
I was wondering if i could use oil instead of the butter? Would that work?
Hi Julie! I tested this recipe with coconut oil and it didn’t work out quite as well. The texture was more dense and they didn’t bake through for some reason. But, they weren’t terrible either. Sorry I can’t be of more help!
Laura says
Wondering what your favorite vegan butter substitute is. The taste of vegan Earth Balance makes me gag! What butter sub do you use here, plz? Thanks!!
Jillian says
If you don’t like the taste of Earth Balance, try Miyoko’s brand. It’s delicious; worth the extra $
Julie says
I agree, I can NOT use Earth balance vegan butter! I have been using miyokos, it’s more expensive but it’s first ingredient is coconut oil not vegetable oil. It also comes in a block not sticks so it’s a little tricky to measure but I’ve had success with it!
Nikita says
Does this recipe allow for storing in the freezer before or after baking?
You should be able to freeze the dough or the unfrosted cookies. Hope that helps!
Melissa says
Can you sub sweet potatoes for the pumpkin?
Hmm, I think? It’s worth a try! Let me know if you do.
Jenna says
Hi Dana! These look amazing and I’m excited for this to be the first recipe in which I use aquafaba! I wanted to ask though if you think the almond flour can be substituted for a different kind due to a nut allergy in the family. Was thinking of oat but that would totally change the flavor. Thanks!!
So the almond flour gives these a lightness, so I’m wondering if you couldn’t sub coconut flour, but because coconut flour can be so absorbent add maybe half the amount? Alternatively, a blend of GF flour and arrowroot or cornstarch. Good luck!
Nancylynn says
What is your fav brand of gf flour? Thank you!!
If I don’t make my own (recipe linked above), I like Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 GF blend
Neda Hillyer says
Hi Dana! I am planning to make these delicious looking cooking this week. Are you saying that you could use Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 GF flour blend in place of the DIY GF flour blend and the cookies will come out comparable? Thanks!
Yes, that will work!
McKel Hill says
These are so beautiful and joyful, Dana! I’m feeling so cheery from this post! :)
Masha | Cardio with Carrots says
Looks phenomenal! Sugar cookies remind me of childhood so much. Can’t wait to try these out.
Tracy says
I am also curious about a GF flour alternative to almond flour. I am allergic to almonds, and also GF. So many of your baked look amazing (as is every single recipe of yours I have made), but I haven’t tried them because of the almond flour. Almonds are the only issue for me, so could walnuts/meal be used as a substitute in some cases? I know this wouldn’t help those who have an allergy to all nuts, but just a thought.
Stephanie says
I’ve been told sunflower seeds work. Pulse into a meal.
Hi Tracy! So the almond flour gives these a lightness, so I’m wondering if you couldn’t sub coconut flour, but because coconut flour can be so absorbent add maybe half the amount? Alternatively, a blend of GF flour and arrowroot or cornstarch. Good luck!
Laura says
I just came on to get the OLD sugar cookie recipe so gonna give these bad boys a whirl instead! Wooo!
lizzie says
This look delicious and perfect for everyone!
Mellonee says
So excited to try this, thank you, thank you. I know gf flours have different characteristics, with a nut allergy, in your experience what would be the best gluten free flour to sub for almond flour? TIA for any advice.
Sarah says
I second this! I usually use the oats but you said the almonds help with texture. We’re (for the first time) taking our son with severe allergies to Christmas with relatives and I think having a cookie available to serve would be fun.
I’ve become a little obsessed with your blog! Thank you Dana!
Hi ladies! So the almond flour gives these a lightness, so I’m wondering if you couldn’t sub coconut flour, but because coconut flour can be so absorbent add maybe half the amount? Alternatively, a blend of GF flour and arrowroot or cornstarch. Good luck!
Kym says
Where’s the ginger?
Kristyna says
Can I use ghee instead of vegan butter?
Lizl says
I made these and substituted amaranth flour for the almond flour, since I had a nut-allergy issue to deal with, too. I just weighed out 75g of the amaranth flour so the proportions would be right. Cookies came out great. Rolled my and then used cookie cutters. I noticed the dough seemed to be drying out, so I wrapped what I wasn’t using in plastic wrap to keep it moist.
Staci says
THANK YOU for listing your sub of the almond flour. Going to give this a try.
Laura @ Raise Your Garden says
Beautiful cookies! Stunning visual appeal. It’s funny you mentioned the live Christmas tree tip thing…my post this week is all about how-to buy the perfect live Christmas tree, I’m all about real. Just can’t do the fake tree thing. And the smell of the tree (not to mention these cookies baking……wiff…sniff….snack….) Can’t wait to try the frosting, my recipes have all flopped recently! Oh, and cats just LOVE real trees. They need it!!!!
Melanie says
I promised my husband that we could try a real tree for the first time this year. Thanks for mentioning your article on picking one out. It’s going to help me feel more confident about it!
Aleksandra says
I have a perfect tip for getting a live tree – GET YOURSELF A CAT. When my parents first got a cat… 10 years ago?, the artificial tree survived a total of half an afternoon with him. Long story short, he took a really long run-up and jumped on top of it, knocking it down and breaking all the decor… Since then, they always have a real tree instead and everyone is happy :)
(although, admittedly, the cat still likes to sit on top)