Gluten-Free Rainbow Cookies

These gluten-free rainbow cookies are a delightful twist on a classic Italian-American dessert. Known for their vibrant, colorful layers and rich almond flavor, these cookies are actually dense sponge cakes layered with jam and finished with a chocolate topping. Despite the name “cookies,” they are more like mini cake squares, cut into bite-sized pieces perfect for sharing.

Rainbow cookies were first created by Italian immigrants in New York and have since become a holiday favorite, especially during Christmas. With this recipe, you can make them at home without gluten while still keeping all the flavor and texture of the traditional treat.

If you enjoyed these gluten-free rainbow cookies, you’ll love trying more delicious gluten-free treats at home. From sweet baked goods to festive desserts, these recipes are easy to make and packed with flavor: Gluten-Free Garlic Bread and Gluten-Free Monkey Bread recipes

Ingredients for Gluten-Free Rainbow Cookies 

For the Cookie Layers:

• 6 ounces almond paste
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups gluten-free flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Green and red food coloring
• ¼ cup seedless raspberry or strawberry jam

For the Chocolate Topping:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Equipment:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• 13×9-inch baking pans (three)
• Spatula & sharp knife
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Wire cooling rack

How to Make Gluten-Free Rainbow Cookies

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line three 13×9-inch pans with parchment paper and lightly grease them. If you have only one pan, you can bake each layer one at a time.

Step 2: Crush the almond paste in a large mixing bowl using a fork. Add the softened butter, sugar, and eggs, and beat on medium speed until light and fluffy. 

Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the almond batter and mix until smooth. 

Step 4: Divide the batter evenly into three portions. Add red food coloring to one portion, green to another, and leave the third white. Spread each portion evenly into its prepared pan and allow the batter to rest for 10 minutes before baking.

Step 5: Bake each layer for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the layers to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack and carefully remove the parchment paper. Let the layers cool completely to room temperature before assembling.

Step 6: Place a sheet of parchment paper on a large baking sheet. Start with the green layer, spreading it evenly with raspberry or strawberry jam. Place the white layer on top and spread another thin layer of jam. Finally, place the red layer on top. Chill the assembled layers in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to help them set.

Step 7: Melt the chocolate chips and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 8: Pour the chocolate over the chilled cookie layers and spread evenly with a spatula. Chill for 20–25 minutes until the chocolate is firm. Trim the edges with a sharp knife, then cut into 10–15 bite-sized squares.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Pro Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Rainbow Cookies

1. Use room-temperature eggs to ensure your almond batter is smooth and airy.
2. Chill the layers before adding chocolate to prevent the chocolate from melting too much.
3. Trim the edges neatly for clean, professional-looking squares.
4. Experiment with jams like apricot or cherry for a unique flavor twist.

Nutrition (Per Cookie)

• Calories: 305 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 15g 
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 1g
• Calcium: 30mg
• Iron: 1mg
• Potassium: 10mg

More  Italian Recipes You’ll Love

• Italian Christmas Cookies
• Italian Cannoli Cookies Recipe
• Italian Ricotta Cheesecake
• Italian Hangover Cake

FAQs

Q: Why are rainbow cookies called that?

A: They’re named for their colorful layers, usually red, white, and green, which originally represented the Italian flag.

Q: Are rainbow cookies really cookies?

A: Not exactly! Rainbow cookies are actually almond sponge cake layers filled with jam and topped with chocolate, then cut into small squares.

Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

A: Yes! They store well in an airtight container, and the flavor often improves after a day as the layers meld together.

Conclusion

These gluten-free rainbow cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just a sweet treat at home, they offer all the charm of the traditional version without gluten. With their soft almond layers, fruity jam filling, and smooth chocolate topping, these cookie bars are sure to impress family and friends. Bake them, share them, and enjoy this colorful, allergy-friendly treat any time of the year!