Cocoa butter is a natural fat extracted from cocoa beans. It has a rich, creamy texture and a subtle chocolate flavor, making it a popular ingredient in baking, especially for cookies. Cocoa butter is also known for its moisturizing properties, which can add a delightful richness to baked goods.

Gluten-free cookies are perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. By using gluten-free flour blends, you can create delicious cookies that everyone can enjoy without compromising on taste or texture. Cocoa butter adds a unique flavor and moisture to these cookies, enhancing their overall appeal.

1. Gluten-Free Cocoa Butter Cookies

Ingredients:

350 g gluten-free plain flour
110 g light or dark brown sugar
1 tsp gluten-free baking powder
½ tsp xanthan gum
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon powder
1 tbsp good-quality cocoa powder
220 g unsalted butter (at room temperature)
5 tbsp milk
½ tsp instant coffee (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, mix the gluten-free flour, brown sugar, baking powder, xanthan gum, salt, cinnamon, and cocoa powder. Add the softened butter and mix thoroughly.
Add Milk: Gradually add the milk and instant coffee (if using) to the mixture, stirring until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
Roll and Cut: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 4mm thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cookies for about 15 minutes. Allow them to cool on a wire rack.

These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings and can be decorated with icing or sprinkles for a festive touch.

2. Piped Chocolate Butter Cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1½ tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour
⅓ cup cocoa powder
¼ tsp salt
2 tbsp milk
Optional: chocolate for dipping, sprinkles

Instructions:

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until creamy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined.
Pipe the Cookies: Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Pipe swirls or shapes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Chill and Bake: Chill the piped cookies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes.
Decorate: Once cooled, dip the cookies in melted chocolate and sprinkle with festive decorations if desired.

These cookies are not only beautiful but also melt in your mouth, making them a holiday favorite.

3. Chewy Chocolate Sugar Cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup dark brown sugar
½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups gluten-free flour
⅓ cup cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt

Instructions:

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the dark brown sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing well.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
Shape and Bake: Roll the dough into balls and coat in granulated sugar. Place on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 minutes.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

These cookies have a rich chocolate flavor and a delightful chewy texture, making them perfect for any holiday cookie platter.

Cocoa butter cookies are a delicious and versatile treat that can easily be adapted to meet gluten-free needs. Whether you opt for classic cocoa butter cookies, piped chocolate butter cookies, or chewy chocolate sugar cookies, these recipes are sure to delight your family and friends this Christmas. Enjoy baking and sharing these festive treats during the holiday season!