These Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies are perfect for any occasion – from afternoon tea to holiday baking or a sweet treat after dinner. Their bright, zesty flavor is sure to put a smile on anyone’s face. Whether you have dietary restrictions or not, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s hard to resist!

Want more gluten-free recipes? Try my soft-baked Gluten-Free Red Velvet Cookies, my irresistible Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins, or my sticky and sweet Gluten Free Pecan Pie Bars.

Why You’ll Love Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies

• Bright, Citrusy Flavor: The zest of fresh lemon combined with the tang of lemon juice gives these cookies a zesty punch perfectly balanced with sugar’s sweetness.
• Perfect Texture: The crinkly exterior paired with a soft, tender inside creates the ultimate cookie experience. The cookies spread slightly while baking, giving them a lovely texture that’s both light and chewy.
• Gluten-Free Goodness: Made with gluten-free flour, this cookie recipe doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture. Everyone can enjoy these delightful cookies, whether they’re gluten-sensitive or not!

Ingredients

Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour– serves as a substitute for regular wheat flour. In this recipe, the gluten-free flour provides structure and texture to the cookies. Xanthan gum is included in some gluten-free flour blends (like Bob’s Red Mill) to help provide elasticity and structure, mimicking the effects gluten would have in a traditional recipe. It prevents the cookies from being too crumbly and helps them hold together.

Baking Powder- a leavening agent that helps the cookies rise and become fluffy. It contains both an acid (usually cream of tartar) and a base (baking soda) to create carbon dioxide gas when mixed with moisture, which causes the dough to expand and become lighter and airier.

Sea Salt– enhances the flavors of the other ingredients in the dough. Salt helps to balance sweetness, accentuate the lemon flavor, and bring out the depth of taste in the cookies.

Butter- adds richness and flavor to the cookies. It helps with the texture, making the cookies soft and chewy on the inside. The melted and cooled butter ensures the dough combines easily without becoming greasy and helps create a tender crumb.

Eggs- bind the ingredients together and provide moisture. They also help the cookies rise slightly and add richness. Using room-temperature eggs ensures that the dough combines more evenly and results in a smoother texture.

Granulated Sugar- provides sweetness and helps the cookies spread during baking. It also contributes to the formation of the signature crinkly texture by dissolving slightly during the baking process.

Lemon Juice- provides the tart, refreshing citrus flavor that makes these cookies so zesty. The acid in the juice also reacts with the baking powder, helping with the cookie’s rise and texture.

Vanilla Extract– adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the tartness of the lemon. It enhances the overall taste profile of the cookies and helps balance the sharpness of the lemon juice.

Lemon Zest- the outer, yellow peel of the lemon. It contains the oils that give a bright, intense citrus flavor. Using the zest enhances the lemony taste of the cookies without adding too much acidity. It also adds a pleasant fragrance to the dough.

Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and sea salt).
2. In a small bowl, combine wet ingredients (melted butter, eggs, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon zest). Whisk until smooth.
3. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients, and whisk together until a soft dough forms – it should look runny like cake batter (that’s normal and will firm up when chilling the dough).
4. Chill the dough for at least 2 hours or overnight. The dough will firm up more but will still be a bit sticky.
5. Preheat oven to 350 degrees, and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Prepare two shallow bowls, one with granulated sugar and the other with powdered sugar.
7. Shape the dough into balls using a 2 tbsp scoop.
8. Roll each dough in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar until fully coated.
9. Place on the baking sheet 2 inches apart, working in batches if they don’t all fit (keep any dough that’s not being baked right away in the fridge).
10. Baking for 9-10 minutes until they spread a little and get puffy with a crack on top.
11. Cool for 10 minutes, then use a spatula to carefully transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely. They’ll be soft and delicate but will set as they cool. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies:

• Lemon zest is key: The lemon zest adds an aromatic citrus flavor that’s a signature element of these cookies. Be sure to use fresh lemons for the best taste!
• Storage: These cookies will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 7 days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to three months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for an hour or so.
• Add-ins: Want to get a little creative? You can add a handful of white chocolate chips or a sprinkle of dried cranberries for an extra twist.

Storage for Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies:

1. Room Temperature Storage (Up to 5 Days)

If you plan on eating the cookies within a few days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their chewy texture while keeping them fresh. Be sure to layer parchment paper between each layer of cookies to prevent them from sticking together.

2. Freezing for Longer Storage (Up to 3 Months)

If you want to keep your cookies for longer, freezing them is a great option! Here’s how you can do it:

• Before Baking: If you have leftover dough or want to prepare ahead of time, scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze the dough balls for 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can bake them directly from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
• After Baking: Allow the cookies to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and they’ll be as good as fresh!

Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies

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5 from 1 review

• Author: Michelle Powell
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 20 cookies

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Description

If you’re a fan of sweet and tart treats with a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth texture, then these Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies are a must-try! With their soft, chewy interior, crispy exterior, and refreshing lemon zing, they’re the perfect balance of sweetness and citrusy brightness. Whether you’re gluten-intolerant or simply looking for a delicious dessert option, this gluten-free cookie recipe will become a favorite in your household!

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Ingredients

For the cookie dough

• 1 3/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum – I used Bob’s Red Mill
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 6 tbsp butter, melted and cooled
• 2 large eggs at room temperature
• 3/4 cup organic granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 2 lemons

For rolling

• 1/3 cup organic granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and sea salt).
2. In a small bowl, combine wet ingredients (melted butter, eggs, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon zest). Whisk until smooth.
3. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients, and whisk together until a soft dough forms – it should look runny like cake batter (that’s normal and will firm up when chilling the dough).
4. Chill the dough for at least 2 hours or overnight. The dough will firm up more but will still be a bit sticky.
5. Preheat oven to 350 degrees, and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Prepare two shallow bowls, one with granulated sugar and the other with powdered sugar.
7. Shape the dough into balls using a 2 tbsp scoop.
8. Roll each dough in granulated sugar, then in powdered sugar until fully coated.
9. Place on the baking sheet 2 inches apart, working in batches if they don’t all fit (keep any dough that’s not being baked right away in the fridge).
10. Baking for 9-12 minutes until they spread a little and get puffy with a crack on top.
11. Cool for 10 minutes, then use a spatula to carefully transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely. They’ll be soft and delicate but will set as they cool. Enjoy!

Notes

• Make sure to chill the dough before baking. Crinkle cookies, in general, start as a soft dough. Chilling allows the dough to firm up a bit and prevents it from spreading too thin.
• Store any leftover lemon cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze these cookies for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely, then store them in a freezer bag or container in the freezer. Thaw for a few minutes and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes

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These No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake Bars are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves a creamy, tangy, and sweet treat. It’s simple to make, light yet indulgent, and totally customizable with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, this cheesecake will be a hit. Don’t forget to share with friends and family—though we won’t judge if you decide to keep it all to yourself!

Want more no-bake dessert recipes? Try my rich No Bake Mini Chocolate Cheesecakes or my ridiculously quick and easy Copycat Heavenly Hunks.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE These No Bake Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Perfect for Hot Days: Since this cheesecake doesn’t require any baking, it’s an ideal treat for warm weather when you don’t want to turn on the oven.

Tangy and Sweet: The bright lemon flavor is balanced with the richness of the cream cheese and whipped cream, making every bite a delightful experience.

Make Ahead: This cheesecake requires a few hours to chill, making it the perfect dessert to prepare ahead of time for parties, barbecues, or gatherings.

INGREDIENTS

Graham Cracker Crumbs: Graham cracker crumbs provide a crunchy and slightly sweet base that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, creamy filling.

Sugar: Sugar sweetens the crust slightly, balancing out the savory flavor of the graham crackers.

Unsalted Butter: Butter adds richness and moisture to the crust, helping the graham cracker crumbs stick together and form a firm, stable base.

Heavy Whipping Cream: Heavy whipping cream is the base for making whipped cream and provides a rich, smooth texture.

Powdered Sugar: Powdered sugar (or confectioners’ sugar) is used in whipped cream to sweeten it while maintaining the smooth, fluffy texture.

Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract adds a subtle, aromatic flavor that enhances the sweetness of the whipped cream and complements the lemony notes of the cheesecake.

Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is the star ingredient of cheesecake. It contributes to the smooth, rich texture and provides a tangy, slightly savory flavor.

Lemon: Lemon provides a fresh, bright, and tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream cheese and whipped cream, adding a refreshing contrast.

Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.

INSTRUCTIONS

For the crust:

1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving about a 2-inch overhang on all sides so the bars can be easily removed.
2. In a medium bowl whisk together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and refrigerate until firm, about 45 minutes. Meanwhile, make the whipped cream and filling.

For the whipped cream:

1. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract on medium/high speed until medium peaks form, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside for filling.

For the cheesecake filling:

1. Add the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, lemon zest and lemon juice to a blender. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as necessary. Pour the mixture into a medium bowl and fold in ½ cup of the whipped cream. Fold in another ½ cup of whipped cream until the mixture is smooth. Save some whipped cream to serve with.
2. Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust and smooth with a spatula. Cover and freeze cheesecake for at least 4 hours.
3. When ready to serve, remove the parchment paper from the pan. Use a warm knife to cut into 9 bars (or smaller for more bars). Place in the refrigerator 30 minutes before serving. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and some berries, if desired. Enjoy!

SUBSTITUTIONS/VARIATIONS

• Crust swap. If you want a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free graham crackers or even crushed gluten-free cookies like almond flour cookies or gluten-free shortbread.
• Cheese layer alternative. For a tangier, lower-fat option, you could swap half of the cream cheese for Greek yogurt.
• Toppings:
  • Berries: For a different topping, you can add mixed berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. They add a burst of freshness and color.
  • Caramel or Chocolate Sauce: If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, drizzle some caramel sauce or melted chocolate over the top.
  • Toasted Coconut or Nuts: To add some crunch and texture, consider topping the cheesecake with toasted coconut flakes, almonds, or pistachios.

Tips for Making a Perfect No Bake Lemon Cheesecake Bars:

Chill the Crust:
After pressing the crust mixture into your pan, chill it in the fridge for at least 45 minutes before adding the filling. This helps the crust firm up and prevents it from falling apart when serving.

Room Temperature Cream Cheese:
Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother, lump-free filling.

Use Fresh Lemon:
Fresh lemon juice and zest will provide the brightest, freshest flavor. If you’re using lemon juice from a bottle, be aware that the flavor may not be as vibrant.

Don’t Overmix:
Be careful not to overmix the filling, as this can cause the cheesecake to become too runny or lose its texture. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Storage Tips for No Bake Lemon Cheesecake Bars:

1. Refrigeration:
   Store your cheesecake in the fridge, as it needs to stay cool to maintain its structure. Place it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
2. Freezing for Long-Term Storage:
   If you want to store it for a longer time, you can freeze the cheesecake. To freeze:
   • Let it chill in the fridge for a few hours first to firm up.
   • Then, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container.
   • It can be frozen for up to 1-2 months.
   • To serve, let it thaw in the fridge for a few hours or overnight before eating.
3. Slice Before Freezing:
   If you prefer to freeze individual slices, cut the cheesecake into slices before wrapping and freezing. This makes it easier to thaw only the amount you need.

No Bake Lemon Cheesecake Bars

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• Author: Michelle Powell
• Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes

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Description

If you’re craving something light, refreshing, and effortlessly delicious, these No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert to try! With a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth and tangy cheesecake filling, and a fluffy whipped cream topping, this treat will surely please everyone at your next gathering. Plus, it’s super easy to make with a handful of simple ingredients. No oven required, just chill time for the ultimate creamy texture.

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Ingredients

For The Crust:

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 stick unsalted butter, melted

For The Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

For The Cheesecake:

• 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced

Optional Toppings:

• Whipped cream, Fresh berries, and Lemon Zest

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Instructions

For the crust:

1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving about a 2-inch overhang on all sides so the bars can be easily removed.
2. In a medium bowl whisk together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and refrigerate until firm, about 45 minutes. Meanwhile, make the whipped cream and filling.

For the whipped cream:

1. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract on medium/high speed until medium peaks form, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside for filling.

For the cheesecake filling:

1. Add the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, lemon zest and lemon juice to a blender. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as necessary. Pour the mixture into a medium bowl and fold in ½ cup of the whipped cream. Fold in another ½ cup of whipped cream until the mixture is smooth. Save some whipped cream to serve with.
2. Pour the cheesecake filling over the chilled crust and smooth with a spatula. Cover and freeze cheesecake for at least 4 hours.
3. When ready to serve, remove the parchment paper from the pan. Use a warm knife to cut into 9 bars (or smaller for more bars). Place in the refrigerator 30 minutes before serving. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and some berries, if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

• After pressing the crust mixture into your pan, chill it in the fridge for at least 45 minutes before adding the filling. This helps the crust firm up and prevents it from falling apart when serving.
• It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days.

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Freeze Time: 4 hours
• Cook Time: 0 minutes

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Sometimes some of the simplest salads are so delicious. This lemon garlic kale salad is one of them. With just a few pantry staple ingredients, this salad comes together in under 15 minutes and is so good for you.

The lemon infused garlicky dressing coats every inch of the kale giving the salad a tangy taste that compliments the kale. Topped with croutons and freshly grated parmesan cheese to be a mouthwatering delight.

I enjoy this salad as a great side for Sunday dinners and sometimes during the week for lunch. It also would work wonderful for any holiday gathering since it can be made ahead just like this No Mayo Potato Salad with Bacon.

If you like salads as much as I do, I highly recommend trying my Goat Cheese Strawberry Salad. The fresh berries this time of year are amazing!

WHY I LOVE THIS LEMON GARLIC KALE SALAD

• Versatile Salad. This salad works great as a side salad for dinner, quick lunch or as a dish at a party. It also can be made into a full meal especially if you decide to add to it. See the variation section for suggestions of add-ins to the salad.
• Basic Ingredients. Most of the ingredients in this salad you probably have in your pantry or refrigerator. If not, they are very easily sourced at your local grocery store. This salad comes together using a total of 8 ingredients.
• Bold Flavor. This salad has it all! Crunchy, tangy, garlicky, and salty. The dressing melds so well throughout the kale leaving every bite bursting with these flavors. The crunch of the croutons and sharpness of the cheese bring a wonderful addition to the mix.

INGREDIENTS

Kale- Pre-washed bagged or fresh is fine to use.

Gluten Free Croutons- Adds an amazing crunch to the salad. If not worried about being gluten free, use regular croutons.

Parmesan Cheese- Freshly grated to top salad is recommended. Pre-shredded cheese can contain excess starches which can change the flavor.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil- The base of this delicious salad dressing.

Lemon Juice- The perfect touch of acidity and lemon flavoring to the dressing. Fresh over bottled is recommended for best flavors.

Garlic- Pressed cloves that will infuse into the salad dressing.

Black Pepper- Added flavor to dressing.

Sea Salt- To massage into the kale to soften.

Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Place the kale in a large salad bowl and 1 teaspoon of sea salt to the kale. Using your hands, massage the salt into the kale until it begins to soften. About 1-2 minutes. Set aside.
2. In a small bowl, mix the remaining ingredients (the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and black pepper) until they’re fully incorporated.
3. Pour the dressing on top of the salad, along with the grated parmesan cheese, and toss to fully combine.
4. Add the gluten free croutons to a bowl and crush them finely. Then toss crushed croutons in the salad.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

VARIATIONS

• Use a different green. Spinach, Swiss Chard, and Arugula can all be used instead of kale.
• Add a protein. To make this a more well-rounded salad, you can add grilled shrimp, scallops, chicken, chickpeas or quinoa to boost the protein.
• Add chopped fruit. Add a hint of sweetness with some diced apples, cherries, pomegranate, or cranberries.
• Add crunchy nuts. Sliced almonds, walnuts or even pine nuts go well with this type of salad.
• Add vegetables. Bulk up your vegetables by adding cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, avocado, bell peppers or roasted sweet potatoes to the mix.
• Change up the cheese. You can use goat or feta cheese in place of the parmesan.
• If going dairy free, you can omit the parmesan or use your favorite dairy free brand. 

TIPS

• Pre-wash salad greens. This will help get off any excess residue or dirt that maybe on it especially if you are using fresh.
• Massage salt into the kale. This helps the kale begin to soften and lessen in bitterness.
• Use homemade or store bought croutons. Gluten free croutons are available in most grocery stores. You can also make your own by using day old gluten free bread that has sat out to make them at home.
• To save time, make the dressing ahead of time and refrigerate in a mason jar with a sealed lid until ready to use.
• Use freshly grated parmesan cheese, if possible. The quality and flavor is preferred over the pre-shredded package ones.

STORAGE

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

FAQ’S

Can this salad be made ahead of time?

Yes, this is a great salad that can be made ahead. In fact, this gives the dressing more time to meld and the kale to get softer.

How long should you massage kale for the salad?

Only about 1-2 minutes. It doesn’t need to be massaged for long. Just long enough to get the salt in.

What is the best type of kale for the salad?

There are a few varieties such as curly kale, dinosaur kale and red Russian kale. Each type has its own texture and flavor but it’s totally up to your preference and what is available to you.

Can I use anything in place of the lemon juice?

Apple cider vinegar, lime juice, and even balsamic vinegar could be used in place. It will definitely change the flavor profile but still should taste amazing. Let me know if you tried this.

Simple Lemon Garlic Kale Salad

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• Author: Michelle Powell
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 6
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Fresh, easy and flavorful, this simple Lemon Garlic Kale Salad is a must to try. Packed with garlicky lemon flavor and a little bit of crunch, it’s sure to be a crowd pleaser at any gathering or a quick lunch option.

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Ingredients

• 3 cups of prewashed kale
• 1 cup gluten-free croutons
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, optional
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, pressed
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

 

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Instructions

1. Place the kale in a large salad bowl and 1 teaspoon of sea salt to the kale. Using your hands, massage the salt into the kale until it softens. About 1-2 minutes. Set it aside.
2. In a small bowl, mix the remaining ingredients (the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and black pepper) until they’re fully incorporated.
3. Pour the dressing on top of the salad, along with the grated parmesan cheese, and toss to combine fully.
4. Add the gluten-free croutons to a bowl and crush them finely. Then toss crushed croutons in the salad.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

 

Notes

• The grated parmesan cheese can be excluded for a dairy-free option. The salad will still taste delicious.
• Store salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: salads

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