20 Best Gluten and Dairy-Free Treats As Good As Originals
Following dietary restrictions can be challenging, especially when you crave delicious treats. Whether you’re dealing with celiac disease, lactose intolerance, or simply aiming for a healthier lifestyle, having a list of tasty, gluten and dairy-free options is invaluable.
This guide will introduce you to 20 irresistible gluten and dairy-free treats that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences.
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70 Best Gluten & Dairy-free Snacks
What are Gluten and Dairy-Free Treats?
Gluten-free treats exclude gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Dairy-free treats eliminate all forms of dairy, including milk, cheese, butter, and cream. Common substitutes include almond flour, coconut milk, and plant-based butter. Consuming these treats can improve digestion and reduce inflammation for those with sensitivities.
Criteria for Selection
Selecting the best gluten and dairy-free treats involves several factors:
- Taste and Texture: The treat must be enjoyable.
- Nutritional Value: Health benefits should be a consideration.
- Availability and Ease of Preparation: Easy to find or make.
- Variety in Flavor and Type: A mix of sweet, savory, and everything in between.
Top 20 Gluten and Dairy-Free Treats
1. Simple Mills Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies offer a chewy texture with a delightful crunch from almond flour. They’re naturally sweetened and loaded with dairy-free chocolate chips, making them a hit for anyone seeking a healthier cookie option.
Key Ingredients: Almond flour, coconut oil, chocolate chips, and coconut sugar.
Where to Buy: Available at major retailers like Whole Foods, Amazon, and Target.
Why You’ll Love Them: These cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt. They’re low in sugar and packed with healthy fats from almond flour. Plus, they come pre-made, so you can enjoy them straight out of the box.
Taste Test: Reviewers rave about the rich, nutty flavor and the perfect balance of sweetness. They also appreciate the satisfying crunch that sets these cookies apart from other gluten-free options.
2. So Delicious Coconut Milk Ice Cream
So Delicious offers a range of creamy, dairy-free ice creams made from coconut milk. The texture is incredibly smooth, and the flavors are vibrant, making it hard to believe they’re dairy-free.
Flavor Options: Vanilla Bean, Chocolate, Mint Chip, and Salted Caramel.
Where to Buy: Found in the frozen section of grocery stores like Safeway, Whole Foods, and also available on Amazon.
Why You’ll Love It: This ice cream is perfect for a hot day or as a dessert. The coconut milk base provides a rich, creamy texture that rivals traditional ice cream.
Taste Test: Many users commend the Vanilla Bean flavor for its authentic vanilla taste and the Chocolate flavor for its deep, rich cocoa profile. The Salted Caramel is a fan favorite for its perfect blend of sweet and salty.
3. Chia Seed Pudding
A versatile snack or dessert that’s both healthy and easy to make. Chia seeds swell up in liquid to create a pudding-like consistency, which can be customized with various toppings.
Variations: Top with fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of granola for added crunch.
Simple Recipe: Mix chia seeds with almond milk, a touch of vanilla extract, and let it sit overnight. In the morning, you’ll have a delicious pudding ready to enjoy.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, making it a nutritious choice. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time.
Taste Test: The texture is often compared to tapioca pudding, and it can be flavored in endless ways. Many enjoy the slight crunch of the chia seeds combined with the creamy base.
4. Katz Gluten-Free Banana Bread
This banana bread is moist, sweet, and packed with banana flavor, without any gluten or dairy. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Key Ingredients: Gluten-free flour, ripe bananas, eggs, and coconut oil.
Where to Buy: Available at grocery stores like Walmart and online on Amazon.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s a comforting, homey treat that’s easy to enjoy. The texture is just like traditional banana bread, and the sweetness comes naturally from the ripe bananas.
Taste Test: Reviewers love the moist texture and the authentic banana flavor. Some recommend heating it slightly before serving for an extra bit of warmth and softness.
5. Enjoy Life Dairy-Free Dark Chocolate Bars
These dark chocolate bars are rich and satisfying, offering a perfect quick treat for chocolate lovers. They’re made without dairy, nuts, or soy, making them allergy-friendly.
Where to Buy: Available at most grocery stores, health food stores, and online on Amazon.
Why You’ll Love It: These bars are high in antioxidants and lower in sugar compared to milk chocolate. They offer a deep, rich chocolate flavor without any dairy.
Taste Test: Many users appreciate the smooth texture and the intense cocoa flavor. They also like that the bars are not overly sweet, making them a more sophisticated chocolate option.
6. Larabar Oatmeal Energy Balls
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick energy boost. They’re made with simple, wholesome ingredients and come in a variety of flavors.
Variations: Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, Apple Pie, and Coconut Cream Pie.
Where to Buy: Found in the snack aisle of grocery stores like Kroger, Whole Foods, and on Amazon.
Why You’ll Love Them: They’re great for on-the-go snacking, providing a burst of energy without any gluten or dairy. They’re also free from added sugars and artificial ingredients.
Taste Test: Users love the natural sweetness and the chewy texture. The Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip flavor is particularly popular for its rich, nutty taste combined with the sweetness of chocolate chips.
7. Treeline Cashew Cheese
A creamy alternative to dairy cheese, made from cashews. It’s perfect for spreading on crackers, adding to recipes, or enjoying on its own.
Flavors: Herb Garlic, Scallion, and Chipotle-Serrano Pepper.
Where to Buy: Available at specialty stores like Whole Foods and online.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s a versatile and delicious option for those avoiding dairy. The creamy texture and rich flavor make it a great addition to various dishes.
Taste Test: Reviewers rave about the Herb Garlic flavor, noting its fresh and savory taste. The texture is smooth and creamy, making it a hit even among those who typically consume dairy cheese.
8. Sweet Potato Brownies
Fudgy and rich, these brownies are made with sweet potatoes, which provide a natural sweetness and a moist texture.
Key Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, cocoa powder, almond flour, and maple syrup.
Recipe Tip: You can easily make these at home by blending cooked sweet potatoes with the other ingredients and baking until set.
Why You’ll Love Them: They’re a healthier alternative to traditional brownies, packed with vitamins and fiber from the sweet potatoes.
Taste Test: Users love the dense, fudgy texture and the rich chocolate flavor. The natural sweetness from the sweet potatoes adds a unique twist that’s both delicious and nutritious.
9. So Delicious Coconut Yogurt
Thick and tangy, just like traditional yogurt, but made from coconut milk. It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or adding to recipes.
Flavor Options: Plain, Vanilla, Blueberry, and Strawberry.
Where to Buy: Available at most grocery stores and online.
Why You’ll Love It: This yogurt is rich in probiotics, which are great for digestion. The coconut milk base provides a creamy texture and a slightly sweet taste.
Taste Test: Reviewers love the Vanilla flavor for its sweetness and versatility. The Blueberry flavor is also a hit for its fruity taste and smooth texture.
10. Quinoa Fruit Salad
Light and refreshing, perfect for a summer snack or side dish. The combination of quinoa and fresh fruits makes it both nutritious and delicious.
How to Make: Cook quinoa according to package instructions, let it cool, then mix with a variety of fresh fruits like berries, kiwi, and mango. Add a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s high in protein and fiber, making it a filling and healthy option. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be customized with your favorite fruits.
Taste Test: The texture of quinoa combined with the sweetness of the fruits creates a refreshing and satisfying dish. The lime juice adds a tangy kick that enhances the overall flavor.
11. KIND Gluten-Free Granola Bars
Crunchy and perfect for on-the-go snacking. These granola bars are made with wholesome ingredients and come in a variety of flavors.
Flavors: Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt, Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate, and Almond Coconut.
Where to Buy: Found in the snack aisle of grocery stores and online on Amazon.
Why You’ll Love Them: They’re convenient, nutritious, and delicious. The bars are packed with nuts, which provide healthy fats and protein.
Taste Test: The Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt flavor is a favorite for its perfect balance of sweet and salty. The Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate flavor is also popular for its rich, nutty taste.
12. Avocado Chocolate Mousse
Creamy and rich, made with avocados, which provide a smoothtexture and a boost of healthy fats. This mousse is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed guilt-free.
How to Make: Blend ripe avocados, cocoa powder, a sweetener like maple syrup or agave, and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth.
Why You’ll Love It: This mousse is not only decadent but also packed with nutrients. Avocados provide healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins, making this dessert a guilt-free pleasure.
Taste Test: Users are often surprised by how creamy and rich this mousse is. The chocolate flavor is intense, and the avocado adds a unique, smooth texture that makes it feel indulgent.
13. Almond Flour Blondies
A lighter alternative to traditional brownies, made with almond flour for a nutty flavor and a soft, chewy texture.
Key Ingredients: Almond flour, coconut oil, coconut sugar, and chocolate chips.
Where to Buy: You can find almond flour at most grocery stores or online, and the recipe can be easily made at home.
Why You’ll Love Them: These blondies are lower in carbs and packed with protein from the almond flour. They’re a perfect treat for those looking to indulge without overdoing it on sugar.
Taste Test: Reviewers love the moist, chewy texture and the nutty flavor from the almond flour. The addition of chocolate chips makes them even more irresistible.
14. Fruit and Nut Bites
Sweet and chewy, with a satisfying crunch from nuts. These bites are made with dried fruits and nuts, perfect for a quick and healthy snack.
Flavor Combinations: Dates and almonds, apricots and cashews, or figs and walnuts.
Easy Recipe: Blend dried fruits and nuts in a food processor until they form a sticky dough. Roll into bite-sized balls and refrigerate.
Why You’ll Love Them: They’re naturally sweetened by the dried fruits and packed with healthy fats and protein from the nuts. These bites are great for energy on the go.
Taste Test: The combination of sweet and crunchy is a hit. Users appreciate the natural sweetness and the variety of textures.
15. Talenti Dairy-Free Sorbet
Light and fruity, this sorbet is a refreshing treat. Made without dairy, it’s perfect for those hot summer days.
Top Flavors: Lemon, Raspberry, Mango.
Where to Buy: Found in the frozen section of grocery stores like Safeway, Whole Foods, and on Amazon.
Why You’ll Love It: Talenti sorbets are known for their intense fruit flavors and smooth texture. They’re also lower in calories than traditional ice cream, making them a lighter option.
Taste Test: The Raspberry flavor is particularly popular for its vibrant color and rich taste. The Lemon flavor is loved for its tartness and refreshing quality.
16. Enjoy Life Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Soft and full of autumnal flavors, these muffins are made with pumpkin and a blend of spices. They’re perfect for a cozy treat.
Key Ingredients: Pumpkin puree, gluten-free flour blend, coconut sugar, and a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Where to Buy: Available at grocery stores like Whole Foods and online on Amazon.
Why You’ll Love Them: These muffins are moist and flavorful, capturing the essence of fall in every bite. They’re also free from the top eight allergens, making them a safe choice for many.
Taste Test: Reviewers love the balance of spices and the moist texture. The pumpkin flavor is prominent without being overwhelming, making these muffins a perfect seasonal treat.
17. Tahini Cookies
Nutty and slightly sweet, these cookies offer a unique flavor profile. Made with tahini, almond flour, and a touch of sweetener, they’re a delightful treat.
Key Ingredients: Tahini, almond flour, maple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt.
Recipe Tip: These cookies can be easily made at home by mixing the ingredients, forming dough balls, and baking until golden brown.
Why You’ll Love Them: Tahini provides a rich, nutty flavor and a creamy texture. These cookies are also gluten-free and dairy-free, making them suitable for many dietary needs.
Taste Test: The nutty flavor of tahini is well complemented by the slight sweetness of the maple syrup. The texture is soft and slightly crumbly, making these cookies a unique and enjoyable treat.
18. Mango Coconut Balls
Tropical and refreshing, these bite-sized delights are perfect for a quick snack. Made with dried mango and coconut flakes, they’re sweet and satisfying.
How to Make: Blend dried mango and coconut flakes in a food processor until they form a sticky dough. Roll into small balls and refrigerate.
Why You’ll Love Them: These balls are naturally sweet and packed with tropical flavors. They’re easy to make and perfect for a quick, healthy snack.
Taste Test: The combination of mango and coconut is a hit, with users loving the sweet and chewy texture. The tropical flavor is refreshing and satisfying.
19. Gluten-Free Lemon Bars
Tangy and sweet, these lemon bars are perfect for a summer treat. Made with a gluten-free crust and a zesty lemon filling, they’re sure to be a hit.
Key Ingredients: Gluten-free flour blend, lemon juice, coconut sugar, and eggs.
Recipe Tip: You can easily make these at home by mixing the crust ingredients, baking until golden, then adding the lemon filling and baking again until set.
Why You’ll Love Them: The bright, tangy flavor of lemon is perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the filling. The gluten-free crust is buttery and flaky, making these bars a delicious treat.
Taste Test: Reviewers love the tangy lemon flavor and the buttery crust. The bars are a perfect balance of sweet and tart, making them a refreshing treat for any occasion.
20. Justin’s Almond Butter Cups
Rich and indulgent, these almond butter cups are a healthier version of a classic candy. Made with dark chocolate and almond butter, they’re both satisfying and nutritious.
Where to Buy: Available at most grocery stores and online on Amazon.
Why You’ll Love Them: These cups are lower in sugar and packed with healthy fats from the almond butter. They offer a perfect balance of sweet and salty.
Taste Test: Users love the rich chocolate flavor and the creamy almond butter filling. The combination of dark chocolate and almond butter is a hit, making these cups a favorite treat.
Tips for Enjoying Gluten and Dairy-Free Treats
- Storage: Keep treats in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
- Pairing Suggestions: Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea or a glass of almond milk.
- Incorporation into Diet: Use as snacks or desserts, ensuring a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Recap the benefits of gluten and dairy-free treats: Improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and overall better health. Encourage readers to try the listed treats and explore new recipes.
Gluten and dairy-free treats offer a wonderful way to indulge without compromising on health. From the rich flavors of dark chocolate and creamy coconut milk to the refreshing tastes of fresh fruits and nuts, there’s something for everyone. These treats not only cater to dietary restrictions but also provide delicious and nutritious options that can improve digestion and reduce inflammation. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a decadent dessert, or a comforting baked good, this list has you covered.