Easy Gluten-Free Applesauce Cookies
Looking for a healthier treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor? These Gluten-Free Applesauce Cookies are a game-changer! Not only are they ridiculously easy to whip up, but they’re also soft, chewy, and packed with wholesome ingredients.
Whether you’re a seasoned gluten-free baker or just someone exploring healthier alternatives, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. With their perfect balance of sweetness and nutty flavors, they’re a delightful snack for any time of day.
If you’ve loved this applesauce recipe, why not explore more ways to incorporate this versatile ingredient into your baking? Try our Applesauce Brownie Bars for a rich, fudgy treat with less guilt—perfect for health-conscious bakers who still crave something sweet.

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Or whip up our Sugar Cookie Recipe with Applesauce, a delightfully simple twist on a classic that’s ideal for family baking sessions. Not only do these recipes cut back on unnecessary fats and sugars, but they’re also incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Plus, with applesauce keeping everything moist and fresh, your baked goods are guaranteed to be as delicious on day three as they were when they came out of the oven.
Ingredients Needed For Applesauce Cookies:
This simple recipe comes together in no time and requires just a handful of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ½ cup peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 Tbsp coconut flour
- 2 Tbsp ground flax (grind flax seeds if needed)
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips, chopped

How To Make Gluten Free Applesauce Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix applesauce, peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
- Add coconut flour, ground flax, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to the wet mixture. Combine until the dough forms.
- Fold in the chopped dark chocolate chips.
- Scoop cookie dough onto the baking sheet (about one tablespoon per cookie). Flatten the dough slightly.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.



Storage Tips
One of the best things about these cookies is that they’re sturdy and store well. To keep them fresh at room temperature, store the cookies in an airtight container. They’ll last for about 4-5 days if kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Be sure not to leave them uncovered, as they could lose their soft, chewy texture.
Freezing for Future Treats
Planning to make a larger batch or just can’t finish them all in one go? Good news—these cookies freeze wonderfully! Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll keep fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy a warm, gooey texture.
Desserts with Applesauce:
Creative Variations You’ll Love
Feel like experimenting? Here are some delightful tweaks you can make to these Gluten-Free Applesauce Cookies to keep things exciting:
- Nut Butter Swap: Replace peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.
- Add Some Crunch: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture and protein.
- Fruity Twist: Swap dark chocolate chips for dried cranberries or raisins for a naturally sweet option.
- Sweet Boost: Mix in 2-3 tablespoons of maple syrup or honey for a sweeter cookie.
- Seasonal Spice: Sprinkle in pumpkin pie spice or nutmeg to bring a festive vibe to your cookies.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cookies
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies are meant to be tender and chewy, so remove them from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden. They’ll continue to cook slightly as they cool.
- Shape Matters: The dough won’t spread much, so be sure to flatten it slightly before baking for even cooking.
- Choose Your Nut Butter Wisely: Natural nut butters (the kind with just nuts and salt) work best for this recipe. Stir well before using to ensure there’s no oil separation.
- Cooking with Coconut Flour: Coconut flour absorbs more liquid than regular flour, so stick to the measurements listed in the recipe! Adding extra could dry out your cookies.
Want Them Non-Gluten-Free?
If you aren’t following a gluten-free diet, you can easily adapt the recipe! Swap coconut flour with all-purpose flour, using about 6 tablespoons (since regular flour doesn’t absorb as much liquid). The rest of the recipe will work just as beautifully.
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Final Thoughts
These Gluten-Free Applesauce Cookies are not just a healthier choice; they’re a versatile and delicious addition to your baking repertoire. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven with a cup of tea or pulling a batch from your freezer to satisfy a mid-week craving, these cookies always hit the spot.
Have fun customizing them with your favorite add-ins and enjoy the process of creating a snack that’s perfect for you. Now it’s time to grab your ingredients and get baking! You won’t regret it.

Easy Gluten-Free Applesauce Cookies
Indulge in a guilt-free snack with these irresistibly soft and chewy Gluten-Free Applesauce Cookies. Made with wholesome ingredients, they're perfect for anyone looking for an easy and delicious gluten-free option. Try them today!
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ½ cup peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 Tbsp coconut flour
- 2 Tbsp ground flax* Grind flax seed, if needed
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix applesauce, peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
- Add coconut flour, ground flax, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to the wet mixture. Combine until the dough forms.
- Fold in the chopped dark chocolate chips.
- Scoop cookie dough onto the baking sheet (about one tablespoon per cookie). Flatten the dough slightly.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Nutrition Information
Yield 12 Serving Size 1Amount Per Serving Calories 111Total Fat 8gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 16mgSodium 163mgCarbohydrates 8gFiber 2gSugar 4gProtein 4g
I am not a nutritionist. All nutrition values have been automatically generated. If you have questions, please have a professional look at the ingredients and help you with new values.