Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (2024)

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This list of Gluten Free Holiday Recipes is complete with appetizers, soups, main dishes, drinks, sides, and desserts for a show-stopping holiday meal! Made with simple ingredients, these recipes are nourishing, allergy-friendly, and full of festive flavors. Make them all, or pick your favorites for a perfect holiday feast!

Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (1)

Table Of Contents

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  • Gluten Free Holiday Recipes
  • How to Plan a Gluten Free Holiday Meal
    • Kitchen Staples
    • Spices, Sauces, and Condiments
  • Gluten Free Holiday Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • co*cktails/Mocktails
    • Soups
    • Main Courses
    • Vegan Mains
    • Side Dishes
    • Desserts
  • Bonus! Christmas Brunch Recipes
  • Common Questions About Gluten Free Holiday Recipes
  • More Guides for Gluten Free Holiday Recipes

Gluten Free Holiday Recipes

Are you cooking a big holiday feast? Maybe you’re bringing a side dish to a party? Or, are you just looking for gluten free holiday recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth? Whether you’re cooking big or small, preparing gluten free meals for the holidays can be hard! Gluten free holiday shopping lists can make the process easier. However, purchasing allergy-friendly ingredients won’t create a meal plan or do the cooking for your holiday menu. How nice would that be?

Don’t worry, though! You don’t have to spend hours experimenting in the kitchen or searching the internet for recipes that can be adapted to fit your needs. I’ve already done the work for you! That’s right, I’ve gathered a handful of all of my favorite dairy-free gluten free holiday recipes, and I’m giving them to you for free! Think of it as an early gift, but you can thank me later. Right now, we’ve got recipes to make.

How to Plan a Gluten Free Holiday Meal

The first steps to creating a gluten free holiday recipe meal plan are to pick out the recipes you plan to make and gather your ingredients. However, to speed up the process there are a few staples I like to keep on hand at all times. From common baking ingredients to condiments, and more, the foods below can be used to create recipes in a pinch or add flavor to any meal.

Kitchen Staples

Before you get cooking, you’ll want to make sure you have a few gluten-free cooking essentials on hand including:

Spices, Sauces, and Condiments

Who doesn’t love a little extra seasoning? By keeping store-bought options like Primal Kitchen ketchup, mayo, and more! Or, keep your own ingredients on hand such as Nomato Sauce, Dairy Free Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce, or Spicy Vegan Ranch!

Gluten Free Holiday Recipes

Below is my complete list of go-to, family-friendly recipes everyone can enjoy this holiday!

Appetizers

Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (3)
Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (4)
Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (5)

Almond Flour Pumpkin Bread with Rosemary – Give classic dinner rolls an upgrade with pumpkin puree, fresh rosemary sprigs, and almond flour!

Instant Pot Steamed Artichokes – Ready in 20 minutes, steamed artichokes are a unique appetizer full of health benefits and super tasty when paired with aioli.

Easy Cranberry Basil Shrimp co*cktail – A light and refreshing appetizer, this recipe is so much more than your average shrimp co*cktail thanks to the inclusion of homemade cranberry basil co*cktail sauce!

Snack Board Ideas – Why choose between one appetizer when you can have them all thanks to these allergy-friendly snack board ideas!

Easy Gluten-Free Rolls – Skip dense, store-bought varieties, and make these soft, fluffy homemade rolls with simple ingredients instead.

co*cktails/Mocktails

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Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (7)
Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (8)

Hot Toddy with Spiced Rum – The perfect festive fall or winter drink to soothe the body or to simply enjoy with good company, this Hot Toddy is sweet, spicy, and delicious. There’s an alcohol-free option for the kids, too!

Yuletide Moon Red co*cktails – Made with cherries, spices, and a bit of maple on the rocks, drink recipes don’t get any more festive than these Yuletide Moon Red co*cktails!

Dairy-Free Mexican Hot Chocolate – Rich and creamy without any dairy, this Mexican Hot Chocolate takes the classic cozy drink to the next level with a hint of Mexican flair! There’s even a co*cktail option, too.

Citrus Kombucha Mezcal co*cktails – A co*cktail that’s good for you? Sign me up! This zippy recipe is made with refined juices and probiotics for a tasty beverage that’s good for your gut.

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Note: Try pairing it with your favorite alcohol such as vodka or tequila for a spiked option.

Soups

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Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (11)
Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (12)

Creamy Vegan Mushroom Soup – This Creamy Vegan Mushroom Soup is a lightened-up version of classic cream of mushroom soup that is gluten free, dairy-free, and vegan!

Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup with Apple (Vegan) – This Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup is made with fresh produce and warm spices for a crowd-pleasing recipe everyone will love.

Instant Pot Vegetable Soup with Bacon – This nutritious veggie soup is loaded with veggies and given a boost of smokey flavor and extra depth thanks to the use of bacon. Cooked in the Instant Pot or crockpot, it’s comfort food at its best!

Tomato Crab Bisque – This recipe is a gluten-free, dairy-free-friendly take on a classic recipe made with a flavorful tomato broth, warm spices, and lump crab meat.

Main Courses

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Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (14)
Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (15)

Maple Bourbon Glazed Salmon – The ultimate combination of sweet and savory, this quick salmon recipe can be grilled, baked, or cooked in the air fryer. Mix and match your favorite sides to make it a meal!

– Quick to make and easy for meal prep, this is a better-for-you version of everyone’s favorite comfort food full of nutrients and protein.

Balsamic Roasted Cranberry Chicken – Sweet, savory, oh-so-tender, and juicy, this chicken is a festive, flavorful dinner perfect for the holidays.

Air Fryer Lamb Chops – Made with a mint, citrus, and herb marinade, this meat dish is refreshing, savory, and ready in only 15 minutes!

Gluten-Free Baked Gnocchi – Pillowy gnocchi combines with crisp kale, smokey bacon, and parmesan cheese in this sheet pan recipe. Comfort food at its finest, it’s ready in minutes and guaranteed to be a hit!

– Secretly full of veggies, this recipe is a nutritious take on a classic comfort food and can be customized to fit your dietary preferences and needs. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers!

Vegan Mains

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Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (17)

Vegan Mushroom Meatballs – These baked meatballs are an easy oven-baked option ready in under an hour for a high-protein vegan option!

Vegan Pasta With Walnut Sauce – This vegan pasta comes together with just 5 ingredients for a smooth, nutty sauce and tender noodles you’ll love.

Side Dishes

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Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (19)
Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (20)

Baked Cauliflower Mac and Cheese – Everyone’s favorite side dish is given an upgrade with the inclusion of baked cauliflower. Secretly nutritious, it tastes just like the classic recipe you love. Dairy-free option, too!

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole – Enjoy all the flavors of this classic side dish with gluten-free, dairy-free, AIP-friendly ingredients.

Instant Pot Rice Pilaf – Guaranteed to be your new favorite holiday recipe, this colorful pilaf features lots of veggies, sweet cranberries, and fresh herbs, encompassing all the flavors of the season in a single, easy-to-make dish!

Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes – This hands-off recipe is so rich and creamy that your guests will never believe they’re made with vegan ingredients and secretly contain beans!

Air Fryer Squash – Add some nutrients to your table with easy air fryer squash! I’ll show you how to make acorn squash, delicata squash, and butternut squash so you can pick your favorite or make them all.

Vegan Green Bean Casserole – Ditch the canned soups and mystery ingredients, and use whole food items like onions and green beans to make this creamy vegan green bean casserole instead. It has all the classic flavor with better-for-you ingredients you can feel good about.

Desserts

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Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (22)
Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (23)

Vegan Mocha Coconut Macaroons – Chocolate + Coconut = A Match Made in Heaven. These macaroons come together with simple ingredients in no time!

– These sweet, spiced cookies are made with healthy fats, natural sugars, and gluten free almond flour for simple to make paleo sugar cookies that will satisfy your sweet tooth with zero guilt!

Gluten Free Pumpkin Pie – Gluten and dairy-free, this pumpkin pie is the perfect addition to any holiday meal and is best served with a dollop of coconut whip on top!

Maple Baked Pears – A healthier option for the dessert table, these pears are made with a bourbon glaze and topped with homemade (vegan) whipped cream for an impressive dessert that’s quick to make but looks and tastes like it took all day.

Peanut Butter Blossom Cookie Recipe – Amazingly soft and made with a dark chocolate center, this cookie recipe is a gluten free take on a classic dessert that’s perfect for every occasion! Vegan and nut-free options, too.

The Best Gluten-Free Apple Crisp – With a maple syrup sweetened cinnamon spiced apple filling and a crisp crumb topping, this crisp is baked until golden on top and warm and bubbly in the center. Top it with vanilla ice cream or dairy-free whipped cream for a dessert that will have all your guests drooling!

Coffee Pecan Pie Bars – Swap out your classic pecan pie with these easy-to-make, handheld bars instead. Gluten-free, grain-free, vegan, paleo, and refined sugar-free, the crust is crisp and the filling is ooey gooey and decadent inside for a dessert that’s so good you can never just take one bite.

Bonus! Christmas Brunch Recipes

Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (24)
Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (25)

4 Healthy Charcuterie Board Ideas for Brunch – Making brunch? Take a look at these 4 charcuterie board ideas, and set your table with protein-rich eggs, delicious cheeses, sliced meats, nourishing fats, and wholesome gluten free grains. Pick your favorite, or serve them all!

Easy Spiced Hot Fruit Bake – Made with fresh fruit and warm spiced, this fruit bake is a tasty topping for pancakes and waffles or just as delicious served on its own

Common Questions About Gluten Free Holiday Recipes

Is Christmas dinner gluten-free?

Of course, everyone’s Christmas dinner looks different. However, generally speaking, most traditional dishes are not gluten-free.

What meats are not gluten-free?

Plain cuts of meat are all gluten-free. However, you’ll want to watch out for breadings, coatings, marinades, and seasonings that may not be. Always make sure to read the ingredient list to double-check!

Can celiacs eat cheese?

People who have Celiac Disease can generally tolerate cheese as long as they do not have an intolerance to dairy, and the cheese consumed does not contain wheat, barley, rye, or any other gluten-containing ingredients.

More Guides for Gluten Free Holiday Recipes

  • Gluten Free Holiday Shopping Guide
  • Gluten Free Christmas Cookies Round Up
  • How to Host an Impromptu Wine and Cheese Party
  • 9 Festive Holiday Gluten and Dairy Free Desserts
Gluten Free Holiday Recipes - Cotter Crunch (2024)

FAQs

What is the trick to baking with gluten-free flour? ›

2 teaspoons of baking powder per cup of gluten-free flour is necessary to ensure proper leavening. Baking soda and buttermilk can be used to leaven instead of baking powder, but 1-1/8 teaspoon of cream of tartar should be added for each 1/2 teaspoon baking soda used.

How do you cook with gluten-free flour? ›

Gluten-free flours often contain fine starches, so they absorb more liquid than conventional flour. To address this, gluten-free recipes usually call for more liquid and produce looser batters. They may also call for a larger quantity of leavening, like baking powder, to help add volume and lighten the texture.

How much xanthan gum per cup of flour? ›

2) When adding xanthan gum to a recipe that doesn't already call for it (and baking with a gluten-free flour that doesn't include it), use about 1/4 teaspoon per cup of flour. Blend it evenly into your dry ingredients before mixing.

Does gluten-free flour take longer to bake? ›

Gluten-free goods tend to brown faster and take longer to cook through. So they need to be baked at a slightly lower temperature, for a slightly longer time. Every recipe is different, but in general, try lowering the temperature by 25 degrees and baking the item for 15 minutes longer.

What is the closest gluten-free flour to all-purpose flour? ›

Brown rice flour is about as close to a 1:1 substitute for all-purpose flour as it gets since it provides structure and a “wheat-like” flavor.

Can I just replace flour with gluten-free flour? ›

If the original recipe calls for 260 grams of all-purpose flour, substitute with 260 grams of your blend. Beat the batter more. Because gluten-free flours provide less structure than all-purpose, the batter or dough you make with them may require more beating than that which you are accustomed.

How do I substitute gluten-free flour for all-purpose? ›

Gluten-Free Bread Flour can be swapped 1:1 for all-purpose flour and bread flour by both weight and volume.

What gluten-free flour tastes most like wheat? ›

What is it? Sorghum flour is closest in texture and taste to traditional wheat flour of any of the gluten-free flours. In a few cases, it works as a direct substitution for wheat flour, such as in pancakes.

Does gluten-free flour taste the same as regular flour? ›

All gluten-free flours have a different taste. Some gluten-free flours are naturally sweet, some are nutty, while others have a strong flavor. When you're just getting started baking gluten-free, experiment with as many different flours as you can. Be sure to keep notes about which flours you like and which you don't.

What happens if you don t add xanthan gum to gluten free flour? ›

Without gluten, many recipes (especially flour-based ones) have trouble holding their ingredients together. This results in dry, crumbly goods that don't hold their shape well. Using xanthan gum helps provide some of the stickiness that gluten free goods lack, replacing some elasticity.

What happens if you put too much xanthan gum in a recipe? ›

Xanthan gum is incredibly effective at absorbing water and forming a gel-like substance, so excess amounts can create a gummy, sticky, or rubbery feel in the cake. Using too much xanthan gum can also interfere with the cake's structure and rise.

What happens if you add too much xanthan gum to a recipe? ›

The more xanthan gum powder added, the thicker your sauce will be. Just be careful not to add too much. Xanthan gum in large amounts will negatively impact the texture of your good and may cause digestive upset.

Do I need to add baking powder to gluten-free flour? ›

By adding gluten-free baking powder, it automatically gives your bakes a little extra rise so that in some cases, you don't even need to add extra baking powder. However, it's still pretty common to add a little extra, just in case.

What does baking soda do in gluten free baking? ›

Texture and Rise: Gluten-free baking often requires a bit of finesse to achieve the desired rise and texture. Baking soda's reaction with an acid can help achieve that necessary lift, while baking powder provides an extra boost when the batter or dough is exposed to heat.

What does cream of tartar do in gluten free baking? ›

When combined with baking soda, it becomes a leavening agent (the stuff that makes baked goods puff up in the oven) by producing carbon dioxide gas. If you ever run out of baking powder, you can substitute 1/4 teaspoon baking soda plus 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar for 1 teaspoon baking powder.

How do I substitute gluten free flour for all purpose? ›

Gluten-Free Bread Flour can be swapped 1:1 for all-purpose flour and bread flour by both weight and volume.

Can I use gluten-free baking flour instead of all purpose flour? ›

For most purposes that don't rely on gluten development for structure, GF flour is just as good as plain flour (all purpose) and can be substituted one-to-one in recipes. It isn't really good for baking bread, since good bread relies on gluten for structure to support its rise and for the chewy texture of the crumb.

How do you make gluten-free baking less crumbly? ›

One of the most common gluten-free baking tips is “let your batter rest”. Letting the batter rest gives the gluten-free flours and starches more time to absorb the moisture. In theory, it will turn your dry, crumbly cakes into delicious, moist masterpieces.

Does gluten free flour bake well? ›

With its creamy, earthy flavor and delicate texture, gluten-free oat flour is a staple of my gluten-free baking recipes. It bakes up soft and smooth, adding necessary starch to many GF baked goods and keeping them moist and tender due to its high fat content and stable protein structure.

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