Soft and Chewy Gluten Free Sugar Cookies (Cut Out and Drop Options)

 Here's a recipe for soft and chewy gluten-free sugar cookies, adaptable for both cut-out and drop cookie styles:

Yields: About 24 cookies

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 8-10 minutes

Ingredients:

 * 1 3/4 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour blend (such as Bob's Red Mill 1-to-1 Baking Flour)

 * 1 teaspoon baking powder

 * 1/4 teaspoon salt

 * 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

 * 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar

 * 2 large eggs

 * 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

 * Preheat oven: To 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

 * Whisk dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt.

 * Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).

 * Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

 * Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

 * Chill dough (optional): For easier handling, cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

 * For Cut-Out Cookies:

   * On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.

   * Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.

   * Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them.

 * For Drop Cookies:

   * Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

 * Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.

 * Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations:

 * Softened Butter: Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for best results.

 * Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum as a binder.

 * Flavor Variations: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for spiced cookies.

 * Decorate: Frost cooled cookies with royal icing and decorate with sprinkles, candies, or other toppings.

Enjoy! These soft and chewy gluten-free sugar cookies are perfect for any occasion.

Note: This recipe provides a general guide. You may need to adjust baking times based on your oven and cookie thickness.

Let me know if you have any other questions or need further assistant