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Gluten-Free Baking

Gluten-Free Chewy Cinnamon Spice Brownies

By Freeflourish Test KitchenReviewed by Freeflourish Editorial TeamPublished Apr 25, 2026 · Updated May 11, 2026
American-inspired 40 mins glutenfreedairyfreeoptionsvegetarianbakingdessertfamilyfriendlyeasysnack

Discover chewy, warm cinnamon-infused gluten-free brownies that are dairy-free and vegetarian. These family-friendly, easy-to-make brownies are perfect for snacks, desserts, and gluten-free baking enthusiasts seeking a flavorful, comforting treat.

Gluten-Free Chewy Cinnamon Spice Brownies
Prep 15 min
Cook 25 min
Total 40 min
Servings 12
Difficulty easy
Cuisine American-inspired

Recipe Details

Prep15 min
Cook25 min
Total40 min
Servings12
Difficultyeasy
CuisineAmerican-inspired
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Ingredients

Servings 12
  • 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (make sure it contains xanthan gum)
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 3/4 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs (or vegan flax eggs: 3 tbsp ground flaxseed + 9 tbsp water, mixed and rested)
  • 1/2 cup melted coconut oil or neutral vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup dairy-free dark chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, omit for nutfree)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8x8 inch (20x20 cm) square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs (or prepared flax eggs) with the coconut sugar until the mixture is thick and slightly pale, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add the melted coconut oil and vanilla extract to the egg mixture and mix well until fully incorporated.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies chewy.
  6. Fold in the dairy-free chocolate chips and nuts if using, distributing evenly throughout the batter.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.
  9. Remove from oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into 12 squares.
  10. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate to keep fresh longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Reader questions and answers for this recipe will appear here.

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian, making it adaptable to many diets. Consider these substitutions to suit your preferences or requirements:

  • Flour: If you lack a gluten-free blend with xanthan gum, mix rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch with 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum per cup.
  • Sweeteners: Swap coconut or brown sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar; reduce liquid in the recipe slightly when using liquid sweeteners.
  • Eggs: Use the provided flax egg recipe for a vegan option, or substitute chia eggs using the same ratio.
  • Oil: Melted coconut oil adds subtle flavor; alternatively, choose avocado oil, light olive oil, or refined vegetable oil for neutrality.
  • Dairy-Free Chocolate Chips: Use any vegan or dairy-free chocolate chips, or omit entirely for nut- and dairy-free simplicity.
  • Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch, omit for nut-free, or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for texture.

These replacements maintain the chewy texture and warm spice profile, letting you customize this comforting gluten-free dessert to your needs.

Allergen Overlap Note

While this recipe and others in our Gluten-Free Baking category are carefully crafted to avoid gluten-containing ingredients, please be aware of potential cross-contamination risks during ingredient processing or kitchen preparation. Some recipes include optional nuts or dairy-free alternatives, so if you have allergies or sensitivities, always verify each ingredient's source and certifications.

To ensure safe gluten-free cooking, try these tips:

  • Use certified gluten-free flours and baking agents.
  • Clean all utensils, bowls, and surfaces thoroughly to prevent cross-contact with gluten, dairy, or nuts.
  • Store gluten-free ingredients separately from gluten-containing foods.
  • Check labels for shared equipment warnings related to allergens like nuts, dairy, or gluten.
  • For recipes tagged nutfree or dairyfree, double-check optional ingredients to suit your dietary needs.

By following these practices, you can confidently enjoy gluten-free recipes across categories such as Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Desserts, Snacks, Soups & Salads, Gluten-Free Baking, and more.

Texture Expectations

Gluten-free baked goods often differ in texture from traditional wheat-based treats. These Chewy Cinnamon Spice Brownies feature a moist, tender crumb with a notable chewiness rather than a cakey or crumbly finish, thanks to the balanced gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum and gentle mixing.

Using coconut sugar and coconut oil contributes to a rich, slightly dense texture that holds together beautifully without dryness.

Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the flavor profile, perfectly complementing the moist chewiness. Optional dairy-free chocolate chips add melty pockets of richness, while nuts provide a delightful crunch — omit nuts for a nut-free, smooth texture.

Note that gluten-free flours vary by brand, so texture may slightly differ. Avoid overbaking to retain moistness; bake until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs for best results.

Enjoy these brownies at room temperature to fully appreciate their chewy texture and warm spice notes. Refrigeration will firm them slightly but extend freshness; bring to room temperature before serving for optimal softness.

Dining With Non Gf Family Note

When serving gluten-free meals within households including non-gluten-free members, both safety and convenience matter. Here are key tips to prevent cross-contamination and ensure enjoyable family meals across categories like Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Desserts:

  • Separate Cooking Areas & Utensils: Use designated tools and cookware for gluten-free dishes to avoid gluten transfer.
  • Thorough Cleaning: Clean surfaces, hands, and equipment well before and after preparing gluten-free meals.
  • Safe Storage: Keep gluten-free ingredients sealed and separate from gluten-containing products.
  • Gluten-Free Substitutions: Use reliable gluten-free alternatives when cooking family favorites, especially in Gluten-Free Baking and Quick & Easy recipes.
  • Cook Gluten-Free Foods First: Prepare gluten-free items before others to keep utensils and areas uncontaminated.
  • Educate Household Members: Foster understanding of gluten safety to make mealtime inclusive and stress-free.
  • Clear Labeling: Label gluten-free foods during storage or meal prep to avoid mix-ups, supporting family-friendly and meal prep strategies.

Following these guidelines will help you enjoy delicious, safe gluten-free meals alongside your entire family, from comforting Soups & Salads to festive Holiday & Seasonal dishes.

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