Is Ginger molasses cookies Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a baked good is safe for a gluten-free diet, the flour blend is the most critical area to investigate. For these specific Ginger molasses cookies, the manufacturer has opted for a dedicated gluten-free blend rather than traditional wheat flour. This blend consists of brown rice flour, sweet rice flour, and tapioca starch. Brown rice flour provides the bulk and structure, while sweet rice flour (often known for its high starch content) adds a chewy texture that is usually missing in gluten-free baking. Tapioca starch helps bind the ingredients together, mimicking the elasticity that gluten normally provides.

Another key ingredient in this formulation is xanthan gum. In the absence of gluten, xanthan gum acts as a binder and stabilizer. It prevents the cookie from crumbling and ensures the molasses and butter stay emulsified within the batter. Without this, gluten-free cookies often turn out dry or gritty. The remaining ingredients—butter, cane sugar, unsulphured molasses, eggs, potato starch, ginger, salt, and baking soda—are naturally free of gluten. The only potential flag to note for sensitive individuals is the presence of butter and eggs, which are allergens, but they do not contain gluten.

Nutritional Value

While these cookies are safe for gluten-free eaters, it is important to view them through a nutritional lens. The primary ingredients contributing to the calorie count are cane sugar and butter. These provide the rich flavor and soft texture but also mean the cookies are high in simple carbohydrates and saturated fats. The molasses does offer a small benefit, containing trace minerals like iron and calcium, but the quantity per serving is minimal. The corn starch and potato starch are refined carbohydrates that spike the glycemic index. Therefore, while these cookies fit perfectly into a gluten-free diet, they should be consumed in moderation if you are monitoring sugar intake or managing weight.