Crunchy Goodness Awaits!
Ever bitten into a cookie that instantly brings back childhood memories? If you’re longing for that nostalgia but need to keep it gluten-free, you’re in for a treat! These Gluten Free Animal Crackers | Like Nabisco are not just cute and crunchy; they’re super simple to whip up, turning snack time into an adventure.
Why Make This Recipe
You’ll love these animal crackers for a few fab reasons:
- Easy Cleanup: No one wants to spend hours scrubbing pots and pans. With this recipe, you’ll be in and out of the kitchen in no time!
- Family-Friendly Fun: Making these crackers can be a family affair — trust me, kids love getting hands-on! Plus, who wouldn’t want to munch on their own creations?
- And let’s be honest — you can munch on them while pretending to be a kid again. Adulting is overrated, right?
Ingredients:
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose gluten-free flour blend
- ½ teaspoon xanthan gum (omit if your blend already contains it)
- ¼ cup cornstarch (See Recipe Notes)
- ½ cup confectioners’ sugar (See Recipe Notes)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon baking soda
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- 1 egg (at room temperature, beaten)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (See Recipe Notes)
- ½ teaspoon light corn syrup (See Recipe Notes)
- 1 tablespoon lukewarm water (plus more as needed)
- Gel food coloring (I love AmeriColor brand)
- Or Royal icing
- Rainbow nonpareils (optional)
Directions:
Making these sweet little critters is a breeze! Here’s how to do it:
- Make the cookies: Combine all your dry ingredients, mix in the wet ones, and shape your cute animals.
- Frost the cookies: Once they’ve cooled, pipe on some icing and jazz them up with sprinkles if you wish!
- For storage: Keep them in an airtight container to maintain that perfect crunch.
How to Make Gluten Free Animal Crackers | Like Nabisco (Overview)
Making these animal crackers is as easy as counting to three! Start by mixing together the dry ingredients to create a lovely flour blend. Then, mix in the butter and other wet ingredients until it all comes together in a fun, malleable dough. Roll out, cut into animal shapes, and bake until golden.
Pro tip: Don’t skip chilling the dough if you want those perfect shapes to hold!
How to Serve Gluten Free Animal Crackers | Like Nabisco
These adorable animal crackers make the perfect snack! Serve them alongside a colorful fruit platter for a vibrant kids’ party or enjoy them on a rainy afternoon with your favorite tea. The crunch paired with a hint of sweetness and rich vanilla aroma will have everyone coming back for seconds.
How to Store Gluten Free Animal Crackers | Like Nabisco
These crackers stay fresh for about a week in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, toss them in the freezer for up to three months — just make sure to label that container so your surprise cookie stash doesn’t go unnoticed! 😊
Pro tip: You can pop them in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them slightly warm and melty.
Tips to Make Gluten Free Animal Crackers | Like Nabisco
- Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend: This will make or break your cracker’s texture.
- Chill the dough before rolling: It helps keep those cute shapes in place.
- Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon for a subtle twist.
- Make some gluten-free vegan: Swap the egg with a flaxseed egg, and you’re golden!
- Get creative with toppings: Try using colored icing to match holidays or themed parties!
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Try adding cocoa powder for chocolatey animal crackers or a splash of almond extract for a nutty flavor. You can even make them vegan or dairy-free with a few simple swaps!
FAQs
1. Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free?
Nope! This recipe is specifically designed for gluten-free flours to maintain the right consistency.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge for about 3 days. Just roll and bake when you’re ready.
3. What’s the best way to freeze these crackers?
Let them cool completely, then layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container. This prevents them from sticking together!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Gluten Free Animal Crackers
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose gluten-free flour blend Use a high-quality blend for the best texture.
- ½ teaspoon xanthan gum Omit if your blend already contains it.
- ¼ cup cornstarch See Recipe Notes.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon baking soda
Wet Ingredients
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter At room temperature.
- 1 large egg At room temperature, beaten.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Icing and Decoration
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar See Recipe Notes.
- ½ teaspoon light corn syrup See Recipe Notes.
- 1 tablespoon lukewarm water Plus more as needed.
- Gel food coloring (I love AmeriColor brand) Optional.
- Rainbow nonpareils Optional.
Instructions
Making the Cookies
- Combine all your dry ingredients in a mixing bowl.
- Mix in the wet ingredients until everything comes together in a malleable dough.
- Roll out the dough and cut it into animal shapes.
- Bake until golden brown.
Frosting and Decorating
- Once the cookies have cooled, pipe on some icing.
- Sprinkle with nonpareils or other toppings if desired.
Storage
- Store in an airtight container to maintain crunch.
- For longer storage, freeze for up to three months.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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