Soft & Chewy Gluten Free Pumpkin Cookies (Low Carb, Keto)

Fall brings with it the rich, warm flavors of pumpkin, and what better way to enjoy this seasonal sensation than with gluten-free pumpkin cookies that are also keto-friendly? These delectable treats combine the comforting taste of pumpkin with the health-conscious qualities of gluten-free and low-carb ingredients. In this recipe, you'll discover how to bake cookies that not only satisfy your autumn cravings but also align with your dietary preferences.

Ingredients: Crafting the Perfect Cookie

Gather these essential ingredients to create your gluten-free, low-carb pumpkin cookies:

1. Almond Flour: Almond flour, a staple in many keto recipes, forms the base of these cookies. It's a gluten-free, low-carb alternative to traditional wheat flour.
2. Pumpkin Puree: Opt for unsweetened pumpkin puree. It's the star ingredient that infuses your cookies with that delightful pumpkin flavor.
3. Keto Sweetener: Choose a keto-approved sweetener such as erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener. These options provide the desired sweetness without the carbohydrates.
4. Egg: Eggs serve as the binding agent in this recipe, helping to create the cookie's structure.
5. Unsalted Butter: Butter adds moisture and richness to your cookies while keeping them gluten-free.
6. Pumpkin Spice: A blend of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves is essential for that signature pumpkin pie flavor.
7. Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
8. Baking Powder: Baking powder is used to help the cookies rise and achieve the perfect texture.

How to Make Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cookies

Here's how to whip up a batch of these scrumptious cookies:

1. **Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of almond flour, 1/2 cup of keto sweetener, 1/2 cup of unsweetened pumpkin puree, 1 egg, 1/4 cup of unsalted butter (melted and cooled), 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
3. **Mix the ingredients until a dough forms. If it's too sticky, you can refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle.
4. **Scoop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet. You can use a cookie scoop or a spoon.
5. **Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a fork or your fingers.
6. **Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
7. **Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations of Flavor

While the classic pumpkin spice flavor is always a winner, you can get creative with variations:

1. Add-Ins: Incorporate sugar-free chocolate chips, chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts), or dried cranberries (sweetened with erythritol) for extra texture and flavor.
2. Coconut: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
3. Protein-Packed: Boost the protein content by adding vanilla or unflavored protein powder to the dough.
4. Cheesecake Stuffed: Create a delightful surprise by adding a dollop of keto-friendly cheesecake filling to the center of each cookie before baking.

Carbs and Net Carbs in the Recipe

The total carb content in your gluten-free pumpkin cookies will vary depending on the specific products and sweeteners you use. On average, a standard-sized cookie contains approximately 3-4 grams of total carbs. These carbs mainly come from almond flour, pumpkin puree, and keto sweetener.

To calculate net carbs (carbs minus fiber and certain sugar alcohols), subtract dietary fiber from the total carbs. In this recipe, almond flour contributes dietary fiber, which reduces the net carb count. On average, one cookie may have around 2-3 grams of net carbs.

These numbers make gluten-free pumpkin cookies a relatively low-carb indulgence when enjoyed in moderation.

Conclusion

These gluten-free pumpkin cookies, specially crafted for keto enthusiasts, are a delightful way to embrace the flavors of autumn while staying true to your low-carb, health-conscious dietary goals. The classic blend of pumpkin and spices combines with the benefits of almond flour and keto-approved sweeteners, ensuring that every bite is a comforting, guilt-free treat. Whether you're satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing the joy of seasonal flavors, these cookies are a delicious addition to your keto journey.