Are you tired of disappointing and unimaginative gluten-free desserts? Fear not, as gluten-free flour has come a long way in terms of texture and taste. Pastry chefs have also gone out of their way to create recipes that everyone can enjoy, regardless of intolerances. In this list of 30 gluten-free desserts, you’ll find classics, naughty treats, and even healthy sweets for when you want something light and tasty. Let’s dive in and discover the wonderful world of gluten-free desserts!
Easy Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake
If you’re looking for a delicious gluten-free chocolate cake recipe, this one is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Despite being gluten-free, this cake looks and tastes just as moist, light, and rich as any other chocolate cake.
When baking without gluten, it’s important to use a substitute to achieve a lighter texture. This recipe includes a link to some homemade gluten-free flour blends, which utilize xantham gum as a critical ingredient for achieving a light and fluffy cake.
If you don’t have the time or resources to make your own flour blend, be sure to purchase gluten-free flour that includes xantham gum for the best results.
Chocolate Cornstarch Pudding
If you’re looking for a decadent dessert that’s easy to make, look no further than chocolate cornstarch pudding. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re entertaining guests or just looking for a sweet treat after dinner.
To make this pudding, simply combine cornstarch, sugar, cocoa powder, and milk in a saucepan and cook over medium heat until thickened. Then, stir in some chocolate chips and vanilla extract until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
Once the pudding is ready, you can serve it in individual bowls or glasses. For an extra special touch, top it with whipped cream and fresh berries. Your guests will be impressed by this restaurant-style dessert that you made yourself.
Vegan Flan
If you’re looking for a vegan version of flan, it’s easy to make with a few simple substitutions. Instead of using eggs, cream, milk, and sugar, you can use a blend of coconut milk for creaminess, maple syrup for sweetness, cornstarch for thickness, and agar-agar for stability. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and perfect for those with dietary restrictions. If you don’t need it to be vegan, you can try a super easy 5-ingredient recipe instead. Don’t miss out on this delicious dessert!
No-Bake Cookies
No-bake cookies are a simple and delicious treat that can be made quickly and easily. These cookies are not meant to be light and fluffy, but rather rich and chewy. The combination of peanut butter and cocoa creates a decadent flavor that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. When shopping for oats, be sure to check that they are labeled as “gluten-free” to avoid any potential cross-contamination with flour. It is important to note that oats naturally contain a gluten protein called avenin, which may not be suitable for individuals with celiac disease. Therefore, in some countries, oats cannot legally be labeled as “gluten-free.” Overall, no-bake cookies are a tasty and convenient dessert option that is perfect for any occasion.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quick and easy to make | May not be suitable for individuals with celiac disease |
| Rich and chocolatey flavor | May not have the same texture as baked cookies |
| Can be made with simple ingredients | May require refrigeration to set properly |
| No oven required | May be too sweet for some tastes |
Enjoy these delicious treats as a snack or dessert!
Panna Cotta
If you’re a fan of creamy desserts, you’ll love panna cotta. This classic, milky-vanilla dish is the peak of perfection. The flavor is clean and just sweet enough that you hardly feel like you’re indulging. You can also experiment with different flavors to find your favorite. To make turning out your panna cotta easy, try using these amazing molds. Simply remove the small lid to let the air flow, and your desserts will pop right out. Enjoy this delicious treat anytime!
Keto Peanut Butter Cookies
If you’re following a keto diet, you’ll be pleased to know that you can still indulge in delicious treats like peanut butter cookies. These cookies are made with high-fat ingredients like peanut butter and almond flour, and are completely gluten-free. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without derailing your diet. Here are some key features of these keto peanut butter cookies:
- Made with almond flour and natural peanut butter
- Low-carb and gluten-free
- Tender and flavorful
- Satisfying treat that won’t break your diet
Enjoy these keto peanut butter cookies as a guilt-free snack or dessert option.
Lemon Almond Flour Shortbread Cookies
To make gluten-free shortbread, you can simply substitute regular flour with almond meal. Almond meal is naturally gluten-free as it is made by blending almonds until they are very fine and flour-like. This substitution will not affect the method used to make standard shortbread dough. The resulting cookies will be rich and flavorful, with a crumbly texture that is crisp on the edges and tender in the middle. Adding lemon zest to the dough will give the cookies a bright and refreshing flavor. Enjoy these delicious treats with a cup of tea or coffee.
Neapolitan Parfaits {Gluten-free}
Indulge in a gluten-free version of the classic Neapolitan ice cream with this delicious parfait. The parfait consists of diced fresh strawberries, vanilla yogurt, and ready-made gluten-free chocolate muffins. Simply layer the ingredients in a glass and enjoy a heavenly sundae that’s perfect for any occasion.
Here’s how to make the parfait:
- Dice fresh strawberries and set aside.
- Crumble the gluten-free chocolate muffins into small pieces.
- Layer the diced strawberries, vanilla yogurt, and chocolate muffin pieces in a glass.
- Repeat the layers until the glass is full.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh strawberry for garnish.
This parfait is a perfect dessert for those who are gluten-free but still want to enjoy a classic treat.
Easy Gluten-Free Fruit Cobbler Recipe
To make a delicious gluten-free fruit cobbler, start by mixing sugar, an egg, and gluten-free flour to create a crumble-style topping. You can also use almond meal or even shortbread as a topping. Then, place your choice of sweet fruits in a dish and cover with the topping. Bake until the fruit is bubbling and the topping is golden brown. Enjoy this easy and tasty gluten-free dessert!
Microwave Peanut Butter Fudge
Making gluten-free fudge couldn’t be easier with this recipe. In just 5 minutes, you can whip up a batch of delicious peanut butter fudge using only three ingredients: peanut butter, butter, and powdered sugar. Here’s how you can make it in the microwave:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup of butter and 1 cup of peanut butter on high for 1 minute.
- Stir the mixture until smooth.
- Gradually add in 3 cups of powdered sugar, stirring until the mixture becomes thick and difficult to stir.
- Press the mixture into an 8×8 inch pan lined with parchment paper.
- Chill the fudge in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting it into squares.
This fudge makes a great gift for friends, especially those who are gluten-free. Try experimenting with different nut butters or adding in mix-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts for a fun twist on this classic treat.
Vegan Almond Flour Brownies
If you’re looking for a gluten-free and vegan dessert that’s both delicious and healthy, try making these Vegan Almond Flour Brownies. To make these brownies, you’ll need some Bob’s Red Mill Egg Replacer for the best results, but you can also use flax seeds or mashed banana as an alternative. The recipe calls for “2 flax eggs,” which is two tablespoons of ground flaxseed meal mixed with six tablespoons of water. Alternatively, you can use one whole mashed banana. These brownies are a guilt-free treat that you can enjoy anytime!
Easy No-Churn Homemade Ice Cream
Making homemade ice cream is easier than you think! All you need is some whipped cream, condensed milk, and vanilla extract. From there, you can let your creativity run wild. Try adding different flavors and mix-ins like salted caramel and fudge pieces, raspberry and white chocolate, coffee and chocolate chips, or mango and passion fruit. This recipe is perfect for those who are gluten-free, and your friends will love the special touch of homemade-with-love ice cream. Double the batch and experiment with different flavors to find your favorite!
Gluten-Free Strawberry Cream Cheese Trifle
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s both gluten-free and delicious, try making a trifle. Traditionally, trifles are made with layers of cream, custard, fruit, and cake. For this recipe, you can use the provided gluten-free angel cake as the cake layer. Then, add layers of sweetened cream cheese, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of your trifle dish. Garnish with additional strawberries and whipped cream for an impressive presentation.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
Indulge in the sheer decadence of chocolate dipped strawberries. This effortless dessert is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion. The contrast of the sweet and juicy strawberries with the rich chocolate coating is a match made in heaven. Serve them at your next gathering to impress your guests with this elegant and delicious treat.
Almond Flour Blondies
If you’re looking for a gluten-free dessert that’s both chewy and fudgy, these almond flour blondies are a must-try. Loaded with creamy white chocolate and buttery pecans, these blondies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. To make these dairy-free, simply substitute coconut oil for the butter, making sure it’s solid enough to cream with the sugars until fluffy. Keep in mind that white chocolate and milk chocolate are not vegan-friendly, so you’ll need to find an alternative if you follow a vegan diet.
Tiger Butter Fudge
To make Tiger Butter Fudge, you’ll need to start with a simple white chocolate and peanut butter fudge. After melting some chocolate, pour it over the fudge and dollop it on. Use a sharp knife to create the signature swirl effect. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a delicious treat that will impress your friends and family. Enjoy the combination of chocolate and peanut butter in every bite!
Almond Flour Snickerdoodles
Looking for a new cookie recipe to try? Look no further than these Almond Flour Snickerdoodles! With just one bowl needed, these cookies are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Thanks to the cream of tartar, baking soda, and powdered sugar, these cookies have a tender texture that will melt in your mouth. Plus, the cookie dough alone is versatile enough to use for other cookies too. Try adding mini-chocolate chips, chopped pecans, orange zest, or dried cranberries for a fun twist on this classic recipe.
Nourishing Almond Flour Banana Bread
Looking for a healthy and delicious way to use up those overripe bananas? Look no further than this nourishing almond flour banana bread recipe. Although it’s not vegan, it is dairy-free and packed with nutritional benefits thanks to the addition of flax seeds. Plus, the use of almond flour adds a protein and fiber boost to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Don’t let those bananas go to waste – whip up a loaf of this delicious bread today!
3-Ingredient Chocolate Almond Clusters
Looking for a simple and satisfying dessert? Try making these 3-ingredient chocolate almond clusters. The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy almonds, and a touch of sea salt is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without leaving you feeling too full. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Dark chocolate chips
- Almonds
- Sea salt
Simply melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave, then stir in the almonds and a pinch of sea salt. Scoop the mixture onto a lined baking sheet and let it cool until hardened. Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make chocolate almond clusters!
3-Ingredient Mounds Bar Recipe
If you’re a fan of coconut, you’ll love this simple and easy-to-make Mounds Bar recipe. With only three ingredients, you can make these delicious treats in no time. However, if you find the texture of coconut unappealing, this recipe may not be for you. To make mini Mounds Bars, simply portion the coconut filling into ice cube trays, let them freeze, and insert a toothpick for easy dipping. This recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without committing to a full-sized candy bar.
Homemade Peanut Butter Cups
If you’re a fan of peanut butter cups, you know how addictive these little treats can be. Making your own peanut butter cups is a great way to enjoy them without having to run to the local store. The recipe is easy to follow, and you can even add your own extras to the filling. For example, you can drizzle a bit of salted caramel into the mix to give it a unique flavor. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 cup creamy peanut butter | Line a muffin tin with paper liners. |
| 1/4 cup unsalted butter | Melt the peanut butter and unsalted butter in a saucepan over low heat. |
| 1/4 cup brown sugar | Add the brown sugar and stir until dissolved. |
| 1/4 teaspoon salt | Remove from heat and stir in the salt. |
| 1 teaspoon vanilla extract | Spoon the mixture into the prepared paper liners, filling each about halfway. |
| 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips | Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth. |
| 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening | Add the vegetable shortening and stir until melted. |
| Salted caramel, optional | Spoon the melted chocolate over the peanut butter mixture, filling each liner to the top. |
| If desired, drizzle a bit of salted caramel over the top of each peanut butter cup. | |
| Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm. |
Making your own peanut butter cups is a fun and easy way to enjoy this classic treat. Plus, you can customize the filling to your liking by adding your own extras. Give it a try and see how delicious homemade peanut butter cups can be!
Indulge in Some Bananas Foster For One
Treat yourself to a scrumptious dessert with bananas foster for one. This heavenly dish combines warm, sweet bananas with a delectable caramel sauce made from brown sugar and butter. For an extra kick, add a splash of dark rum to the mix. Enjoy it with pancakes or a slice of pound cake, or serve it over homemade ice cream.
Make Your Own Disney-Inspired Dole Whip at Home
If you’re a fan of the famous Disney Dole Whip, you’ll be happy to know that you can easily make it at home. All you need is a blender, vanilla ice cream, pineapple juice, and frozen pineapple chunks. However, it’s important to note that using a high-quality blender is recommended to achieve the smoothest texture. Simply blend all the ingredients together until smooth, and voila! You can enjoy this refreshing treat in the comfort of your own home and save some money in the process.
Blueberry Almond Crisp
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both delicious and visually stunning, try making a blueberry almond crisp. This recipe features blueberries that range in color from bright purple to deep, dark blues, which pop even more when covered in golden oats. The natural sweetness of the blueberries means that all you need is a drizzle of honey and a splash of lemon juice to enhance the flavor. Keep in mind that this recipe calls for gluten-free oats, but if you or someone you’re serving has severe celiac, you can increase the amount of almond meal instead.
5-Ingredient Chewy Coconut Macaroons
When making coconut macaroons, it’s important to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form and then gently mix in the remaining ingredients. To ensure the coconut is evenly distributed, try breaking up any clumps with your fingers before adding it to the mixture. Since the mixture is quite sticky, consider using baking wafers to make the process easier. These wafers are edible, so simply scoop the mixture onto them and bake as usual.
Brown Sugar Grilled Peaches
Grilled peaches are a perfect summer dessert, and adding brown sugar to them makes them even more delicious. The caramelization of the sugars and juices creates a crispy edge and a sweet, juicy center. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients:
- Ripe peaches
- Brown sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Cut the peaches in half and remove the pit.
- Sprinkle brown sugar on the cut side of each peach half.
- Place the peaches cut-side down on the grill.
- Grill for 3-5 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the peaches are heated through.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
This simple dessert is a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy night in.
Microwave Baked Apples
If you’re looking for a quick and easy sweet treat, microwave baked apples are a great option. You only need two to four minutes in the microwave to get soft and warm apples that are perfect on their own or as a topping for oatmeal or ice cream. For added texture, you can broil them for a minute or two once they’re soft. It’s a simple and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for when you’re cooking for just one or two people and don’t want to heat up the whole oven.
Salted Tahini Caramel Millionaire Bars
If you’re looking for a dairy-free caramel recipe, this salted tahini caramel is a great option. It’s not as sweet as traditional caramel, but it’s very creamy and pairs well with chocolate and shortbread. The use of maple syrup in the base adds just enough sweetness to the caramel layer. If you need to make these bars nut-free, try using gluten-free flour instead of almond meal. You may need to adjust the quantities, but starting with half as much and working from there should do the trick.
Eagle Brand Fudge
If you’re looking for a nut-free fudge recipe, the Eagle Brand Fudge is the perfect choice. This recipe is so good that it’s even printed on the can of Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk. It’s easy to modify by adding your favorite toppings like chopped nuts, Reese’s Pieces, or freeze-dried raspberries. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can make delicious fudge in no time. Give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family with your fudge-making skills.
Microwave Peanut Brittle
If you’re a fan of peanut brittle but don’t want to spend hours watching a pot on the stove, you might be interested in making it in the microwave. While it may seem intimidating at first, with the right precautions, making peanut brittle in the microwave can be a simple and quick process.
To start, you’ll need to make sure that your candy reaches the “hard-crack” stage, which is around 300°F/148.89°C. If you don’t reach this temperature, your candy won’t harden and break into pieces.
When using a microwave, it’s important to use thick oven gloves to handle the bowl and be extra careful when taking it in and out. Adding baking soda to the mixture can also cause it to foam and spit, so be cautious when stirring.
Overall, making peanut brittle in the microwave can be a convenient and safe alternative to traditional stovetop methods. With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy delicious homemade peanut brittle in no time!
Summary
When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth while maintaining a gluten-free diet, there are plenty of delicious options available. From classic favorites like chocolate cake and brownies to trendy treats like macarons and chia seed pudding, there is no shortage of gluten-free desserts to choose from. With a little creativity and some simple ingredient substitutions, you can enjoy all the sweetness and indulgence of traditional desserts without compromising your dietary needs.
Hiroshi Nakamura, a Tokyo-born sushi chef turned US-based writer and critic, is the voice behind ichisushi.com, blending traditional sushi wisdom with modern insights.