Gluten Free Spiced Wafer Cookies (Copycat Sweetzels & Ivins Recipe)

If you grew up in Pennsylvania, chances are the smell of spiced wafer cookies means fall has arrived. These crisp, deeply flavored molasses cookies, made famous by Sweetzels and Ivins, are a regional favorite often enjoyed with a cup of coffee, apple cider, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For those of us who have Celiac Disease or need to eat gluten free, missing out on these nostalgic cookies has been tough until now!

The Story Behind Pennsylvania's Spiced Wafer Cookies

The Sweetzels and Ivins Spiced Wafers have been a fall staple in the Mid-Atlantic for generations. These cookies are more than just dessert, they're a tradition. Thin, crisp, and packed with autumn spices, they're similar to old fashioned gingersnap cookies.

Typically sold in bright orange and black boxes from late August through Thanksgiving. While they're made with wheat flour, molasses, and a secret blend of spices, this homemade gluten free version recreates the flavor and texture you remember without the gluten.

Whether you're baking them for Halloween season, Thanksgiving, or just a cozy afternoon Fall treat, these cookies will fill your kitchen with the scent of cinnamon, clove, and nostalgia.

Gluten Free Spiced Wafer Cookie Ingredients

To make your own copycat Sweetzels or Ivins spiced wafers, you'll need:

• 2 cups gluten free 1:1 flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1-½ teaspooon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon all-spice
• ½ cup salted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 3 tablespoons oil

How to Make Gluten Free Spiced Wafers

1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten free 1:1 flour, baking soda, salt, and all the spices.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl or mixer, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the molasses and egg: Mix until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a thick dough forms.
5. Roll: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough by the tablespoon and place on to the baking sheet leaving a good amount of space because the cookies will spread.
6. Bake: Bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly darker and crisp.
7. Cool completely: The cookies will firm up as they cool. That signature snap comes from letting them rest.

Tips for Perfect Gluten Free Spiced Wafers

• For a dairy-free version, substitute vegan butter.
• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to two weeks, or freeze for longer storage.
• Roll the dough in granulated sugar before baking for an extra sweet addition.

If you've tried this recipe, be sure to leave a review below and tag me on Instagram @thrivingglutenfree so I can see how it turned out!

Let's bake!