Are you tired of sacrificing flavor and fun to accommodate your child’s dietary needs? Gluten-free eating doesn’t have to mean boring or bland meals. With a little creativity, kids can enjoy delicious and healthy treats that just happen to be gluten-free. As parents, we want our kids to feel included and excited about mealtime, even if they have food allergies or intolerances.
In this article, we’ll share 20 easy and fun gluten-free recipes perfect for kids. From sweet treats like banana pancakes and chocolate chip muffins to savory favorites like pizza bites and mac and cheese, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out with gluten-free cooking, we’ve got you covered with simple instructions and ingredient lists.
Stay tuned for our collection of tasty and gluten-free recipes that your kids will love!
Gluten Free Banana Pancakes
Start your day off right with these fluffy and delicious gluten-free banana pancakes. Made with ripe bananas, almond flour, and a hint of cinnamon, these pancakes are a perfect breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine bananas, almond flour, coconut sugar, eggs, salt, and cinnamon. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Cheesy Gluten Free Pizza Bites
These bite-sized pizza treats are perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer. With a crispy gluten-free crust and gooey melted cheese, they’re sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– Pizza sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Optional toppings: pepperoni slices, chopped bell peppers, olives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, Parmesan cheese, and salt.
3. Add olive oil and beaten egg; stir until a dough forms.
4. Divide dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Place a small spoonful of pizza sauce in the center of each disk. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and optional toppings (if using).
6. Fold edges of the dough over filling to form a bite-sized pizza. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Gluten Free Chicken Tenders
Get ready to enjoy crispy and juicy chicken tenders without the gluten! This recipe uses a simple breading mixture made with almond flour, coconut flakes, and spices to create a delicious and gluten-free snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup coconut flakes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together almond flour, coconut flakes, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, then coat in the breading mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken tenders for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Gluten Free Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic gets a gluten-free twist! This recipe is perfect for those with dietary restrictions or preferences, offering a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gluten-free macaroni
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose gluten-free flour
– 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (gluten-free)
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese (gluten-free)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gluten-free macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add gluten-free flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Muffins
Moist and flavorful, these gluten-free muffins are a perfect treat for anyone looking for a delicious dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/2 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut sugar, cocoa powder, xanthan gum, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, Greek yogurt, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Rainbow Gluten Free Veggie Wraps
Add some color to your mealtime with these vibrant and delicious wraps! Made with a blend of vegetables, quinoa, and whole grain goodness, these Rainbow Gluten Free Veggie Wraps are the perfect solution for a quick and healthy lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup finely chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 gluten-free tortilla wraps
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, bell peppers, carrots, hummus, and feta cheese (if using). Mix well.
2. Lay a tortilla wrap flat on a surface.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the quinoa mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
4. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly to form a neat wrap.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients and wraps.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes ( prep time + assembly)
Gluten Free Mini Meatballs
This recipe yields a delicious batch of bite-sized meatballs that are perfect for snacking or adding to your favorite pasta dishes. With a simple blend of ground meats and gluten-free breadcrumbs, these mini meatballs are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, gluten-free breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Peanut Butter Gluten Free Energy Balls
A no-bake treat that’s perfect for a quick energy boost or as a healthy snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats (gluten-free)
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (dairy-free)
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in chopped dark chocolate chips and chia seeds.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 energy balls.
4. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are no-bake.
Gluten Free Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day with a deliciously comforting bowl of gluten-free oatmeal, infused with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy breakfast that’s also gentle on the stomach.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup gluten-free rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1/2 apple, diced (Granny Smith or Gala work well)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or non-dairy milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, honey or maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until the oats are well coated.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
4. Stir in the diced apple and cook for an additional minute.
5. Serve warm, topped with your favorite toppings such as nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gluten Free Yogurt Parfait with Granola
Start your day off right with a refreshing and nutritious parfait made with gluten-free yogurt, crunchy granola, and sweet fresh berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gluten-free plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought granola (make sure it’s gluten-free)
– 1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, layer the gluten-free yogurt, granola, and mixed berries.
2. If desired, drizzle with a little honey for extra sweetness.
3. Repeat the layers one more time to create a tall parfait.
4. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (preparation only)
Gluten Free Spaghetti with Hidden Veggie Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on a classic favorite! This recipe hides the power of veggies within a rich and tangy tomato sauce, making it perfect for sneaking in some extra nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gluten-free spaghetti
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Blend cooked vegetables into the sauce using an immersion blender or regular blender.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with the veggie-rich tomato sauce. Toss until coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten Free Blueberry Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a boost of antioxidants and natural sweetness from this gluten-free blueberry smoothie bowl. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a morning pick-me-up or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen blueberries
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Toppings: sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or granola
Instructions:
1. Combine blueberries, banana, almond milk, chia seeds, and honey in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more almond milk if needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
4. Top with your choice of sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or granola.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Gluten Free Cheese Quesadillas
Gluten-Free Cheese Quesadillas Recipe
Looking for a delicious and easy snack that’s also gluten-free? Look no further! This recipe for Gluten-Free Cheese Quesadillas is perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions, or just looking for a tasty treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 large corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken breast (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
3. Add chopped cooked chicken breast (if using), then fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the other side is also crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Gluten Free Carrot Cake Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while staying true to a gluten-free diet. Moist and flavorful, they’re packed with shredded carrots, chopped walnuts, and warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/2 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Pinch of ground cinnamon and nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine almond flour, coconut sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Add eggs, vanilla extract, grated carrots, chopped walnuts, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each bite.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gluten Free Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups
Transform turkey and cheese into a tasty, portable snack with these easy-to-make roll-ups. Perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or on-the-go meals.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup cooked turkey breast, cooled
• 8-10 gluten-free tortillas (corn or rice-based)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (make sure it’s gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread about 1-2 tablespoons of turkey down the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border at both ends.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the turkey.
4. Dollop mayonnaise and Dijon mustard on top of the cheese.
5. Roll the tortilla tightly but gently, applying even pressure to form a compact roll-up.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: None! These roll-ups are best served at room temperature or lightly toasted for 2-3 minutes. Enjoy!
Gluten Free Pumpkin Waffles
Start your day with a deliciously crispy and fluffy gluten-free pumpkin waffle, infused with the warm spices of fall.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, egg, milk, melted butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the preheated waffle iron and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as whipped cream, maple syrup, or fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: 3-5 minutes per waffle
Gluten Free Strawberry Shortcake
Enjoy a classic dessert with a twist! This gluten-free version of strawberry shortcake is perfect for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Press mixture into a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow shortcake to cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Split shortcake in half horizontally.
8. Whip heavy cream and eggs until stiff peaks form.
9. Layer strawberries, whipped cream, and shortcake halves.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten Free Corn Dog Muffins
Get ready to enjoy a tasty twist on the classic corn dog! These gluten-free muffins are perfect for a quick snack or as a fun treat for kids. With the addition of cornmeal and yellow mustard, these muffins capture the essence of a corn dog in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup yellow mustard
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Vegetable oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mustard, egg, and milk.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Gluten Free Chocolate Avocado Pudding
A decadent dessert that’s surprisingly healthy, this gluten-free pudding combines the creamy texture of avocado with the richness of dark chocolate. Perfect for a special treat or as a healthier alternative to traditional puddings.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, cocoa powder, sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small cups.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding is set and slightly puffed.
5. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Gluten Free Sweet Potato Tots
Transform sweet potatoes into crispy, flavorful tots that are perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish. This gluten-free recipe is a great alternative to traditional tater tots.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, almond flour, coconut flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small tots, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
4. Place tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious and easy-to-make gluten-free recipes that your kids will love? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering gluten-free recipes that are perfect for kids. From classic breakfast options like banana pancakes and oatmeal, to fun lunch ideas like pizza bites and veggie wraps, there’s something for every taste and dietary need. And don’t forget about sweet treats like muffins, waffles, and energy balls! These recipes are all easy to make and gluten-free, so you can feel confident serving them to your kids.