Almond Flour Lemon Cookies

Almond Flour Lemon Cookies are one of those treats that always sound just a bit fancier than they are. You ever get a craving for something cozy and bright but gluten messes you up? Or maybe you’re just cruising for a lighter little cookie to share at work (and totally brag about)? That’s where these zippy, gluten free cookies shine.

By the way, if you’re already living that almond flour life, I’ve got an unmissable link for chocolate lovers: these almond flour chocolate brownies are basically magic. Anyway, on to lemony goodness!

Almond Flour Lemon Cookies

Why We Love This Recipe

Lemon desserts just make my heart happy, honestly. These Almond Flour Lemon Cookies manage to somehow balance soft, chewy insides and a sunny zing on top. Not to mention, you don’t need any weird, expensive ingredients you have to hunt down at some specialty market—just a handful of pantry basics with a couple lemons tossed in.

I especially like how almond flour keeps things a touch nutty (not too almond-y though, don’t worry) while making the cookies gluten free. No gritty textures here.

And they mix up in, I swear, ten minutes. If you’re someone who regularly gets distracted by your four-year-old/phone/life, these don’t punish you for pauses. They’re sort of snack and fancy at the same time, which—let’s be real—is the best kind of treat.

I remember the first time I made these for a friend who was celiac—she blinked and grabbed another and declared, “Wait, I can actually eat these?” That’s a win in my book. So, yes, I love this recipe because it takes less brainpower and impresses both the allergy crowd and anyone with taste buds.

Almond Flour Lemon Cookies

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Let’s break it down. Almond flour is the base—keep it simple, use finely ground stuff for an even texture. You need fresh lemon juice and zest (don’t skip the zest, the flavor is next-level), plus eggs, some sort of sugar (I use regular, but coconut or maple sugar work if you’re adventuring). Butter or coconut oil both play nice, too. Baking powder is the puffer. Pinch of salt because, always.

If you’re dairy free, swap in coconut oil or even a plant butter, nobody will know. Vegan folks, a flax egg actually works if you’re careful about your ratios. I tested that once when there were zero eggs left in the fridge and wow, happy accident. Sweetener—swap what you love, just keep in mind liquid sweeteners might make the dough a little softer.

I’ve tried swapping in orange for lemon. You know, for science. It works but, confession, I still think lemon wins hands down. Oh, and if you’re watching sugar? Cut the amount. They won’t be as chewy, but the zing is still real.

“These cookies are a true lifesaver during holiday season when I need something gluten free and delicious—everyone always asks for the recipe, and my gluten-loving kids have zero clue they’re any different!” — Annie S.

Almond Flour Lemon Cookies

Recipe Variations

Like a little kitchen chaos? Good—because these Almond Flour Lemon Cookies are made for it. Sometimes I toss in a handful of poppy seeds for that old-school lemon loaf vibe. They look pretty snazzy, too. I’ve also added white chocolate chips once and, oh wow, it changed the cookie attitude completely. It was almost a five-star dessert you’d get at a real-deal bakery.

There’s times where I just add a pinch of cardamom (okay, other times I go a little wild and double it). Gives the cookies this warm, complex smile underneath the lemon tang. Plus, if someone hands me a cookie, I want to be surprised now and then. You could even dip half in a simple dark chocolate glaze if you want drama on your cookie plate.

Not kidding, these also bake up just fine if you roll out the dough and use a fun cookie cutter. If you’ve got kids, this is pure entertainment. My niece decided star shapes tasted better—kids know things, right?

If you’re still curious about almond flour wizardry in your baking, these almond flour scones are killer for breakfast.

Almond Flour Lemon Cookies

Steps to Make Gluten Free Lemon Cookies

I’m skipping chef talk here. Preheat your oven (let’s never forget this again, yeah?). Mix almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Stir well, take a second to get your zen on while mixing. Crack in the eggs, add melted butter (or oil), lemon zest and juice. Mix it until just combined—overmixing equals tough cookies.

Scoop out balls with a spoon or tiny scoop. I use parchment, but honestly I’ve skipped it once or twice and survived. Flatten them just a tad with your fingers. Pop those babies in the oven and hang close—they bake fast. Wait for the edges to become the faintest golden and the tops set.

When they’re out, let ‘em cool before glazing (if you’re glazing, trust me, it’s worth it). I usually stand guard to stop cookie thieves… which is mostly me. Sometimes I fail at this.

Almond Flour Lemon Cookies

Lemon Glaze for Cookies

This glaze is optional but, for me, non-negotiable. It’s what makes them feel like something you’d find in a cute bakery window. Super easy—mix powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice. No measurements hardcore, just keep adding juice until it’s pourable but not watery. I like it tangy, but go with your nonna’s taste if you want sweeter.

Once cookies are cooled, drizzle or dunk. Kids love helping with this part but it does get a little, uh, creative. Leave ‘em out for the glaze to set (if you can wait that long). Pro tip: dip just a side for a good Instagram cookie tilt moment, if you care about that stuff.

Almond Flour Lemon Cookies

Serving Suggestions

1. Dunk ‘em in your afternoon tea or coffee. So classic, so cozy.
2. Stack a few, wrap in wax paper and twine for a cute homemade gift.
3. Serve with fresh berries for a low-key dessert at a BBQ.
4. Pop a scoop of lemon or vanilla ice cream between two for a convincing cookie sandwich.

Almond Flour Lemon Cookies

 

So, do you need these Almond Flour Lemon Cookies in your life? I think yes—like, yesterday. They’re a sanity-saver when you want “just one more” cookie but not a sugar crash.

You can play with flavors, swap things, and feel good eating them. And if you’re on a gluten free kick, you have to try the Almond Flour Lemon Cookies from The Honour System, they absolutely inspired me to jazz up my own cookie game.

For more ideas that balance easy and decadent, check out these blueberry scones with lemon glaze for your next baking fix. Cookies honestly don’t need to be complicated—sometimes you just need a bright little reminder that baking is supposed to be fun.

Almond Flour Lemon Cookies

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