📖 Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). It's crucial that the oven is properly preheated to ensure the cookies bake evenly.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, parmesan cheese, black pepper, baking powder, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. I always give it a good whisk for about 30 seconds to avoid clumps.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a separate, large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer. The mixture should be pale and airy.
4. Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this can lead to tough cookies. Stop mixing as soon as the flour disappears.
6. Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking. I sometimes chill it for an hour if I have the time; the result is worth it.
7. Shape the cookies: Remove the dough from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface (using gluten-free flour, of course!), roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, or simply slice the dough into rounds.
8. Bake the cookies: Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them; gluten-free cookies can burn easily.
9. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking while they're still warm and soft.
10. Enjoy: Once cooled, these gluten-free black pepper parmesan cookies are ready to enjoy! They are fantastic on their own, or you could pair them with a light spread, or a glass of wine.
11. Store: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They may become softer over time, but they'll still taste amazing!