How to “Halve” an Egg

Every recipe I see for a pumpkin roll recipe, it calls for a large sheet pan. However, I prefer small batch recipes. One, smaller pans fit better in my little kitchen. In addition, smaller portions fit better into my diet. 🙂 Therefore, I reduced a regular recipe to fit in my quarter sheet pan. (It works great for a gluten free pumpkin slab pie, too!)

Most regular recipes call for 3 eggs. How does one “halve” an egg? Many people say to whisk the egg, and divide it in half. However, the base for this small batch gluten free pumpkin roll is a thin sponge cake. Since sponge cakes generally have a light texture, I used one egg and one egg white. This provides the binding we need, while still being whipped to create lift.  Check out this article from The Kitchn for other ways to halve an egg.

Pan Size and Shape is Important

For this gluten free pumpkin cake roll, I use my favorite quarter sheet pans. Many utilize a jelly roll pan, which has different dimensions than a quarter sheet pan. Many bakers use a 10 x 15 jelly roll pan.

However I prefer these quarter sheet pans, which measure approx. 9 in by 13 in. (Half sheet pans are 18 in x 13 in.) A sheet pan has straight edges, which is preferable to a 9 x 13 cake pan. However, if you don’t have a quarter sheet pan, you may be able to use a cake pan.

How to Shape A Gluten Free Pumpkin Roll

The sponge cake for this cake roll bakes quickly. No more than 15 minutes. The beauty of a cake roll lies in the swirl. To achieve this, one must roll the cake in a towel while it is still warm. This allows it to cool in our preferred shape. Another important step is to generously coat the towel in powdered sugar, prior to rolling.

A few tips on choosing a towel for rolling. One, choose a towel you don’t mind getting stained. Most assuredly, there will be some orange tinting when it’s done. In addition, many suggest using a linen towel because it is absorbent. I bought flour sacks cloths from Bed Bath and Beyond for this. I advise against using cotton towels with fibers that could get stuck in the cake or leave an imprint in the cake.

What if My Pumpkin Cake Roll Cracks?

Now we wait. Some people recommend allowing the cake to cool for at least an hour. I allowed mine to cool overnight, as I was busy. If you plan to make this the same day you plan to serve it, make sure to start 4-5 hours before you plan to serve it. This allows time for baking, cooling, filling, and chilling.

Part of the goal in rolling the cake while still warm is to prevent cracks. Sometimes, cracks are inevitable. Remember I said you need to dust the towel with powdered sugar? I dusted mine a lot, which left a beautiful dusting on the outside of the gluten free pumpkin roll. Cracks? What cracks? They’re all hidden in powdered sugar! (If you really wanted to go above and beyond, you could coat the outside of the cake in more frosting.)

My Favorite Thanksgiving Recipes

I adapted the recipe for this small batch gluten free pumpkin roll from my friend Linda Fedewa, and her Bake it Best cookbook. She tints her cream cheese filling with just a touch of nutmeg.

Let me tell you, it tastes like perfection! If you don’t feel confident in making this small batch gluten free pumpkin roll for yourself, Rumi’s Passion sells them this time of year.

If this is your first gluten free Thanksgiving, you may want to consult my post on A-Z tips for a successful holiday. Missing stuffing? I can eat my favorite gluten free cornbread stuffing any time of year! And save room for leftovers! My favorite use for leftover mashed potatoes is this grain free quiche. Perfect to make ahead and have for breakfast before Black Friday Shopping!

Other Gluten Free Thanksgiving Recipes You May Find Helpful

Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner for Two from Imagelicious (Sub GF croutons)

20 Gluten Free Thanksgiving Appetizers and Side Dishes from Iowa Girl Eats

30 Recipes for a Gluten Free Thanksgiving from A Dash of Megnut

40 Vegan and Gluten Free Thanksgiving Recipes from The Pretty Bee

Print

Small Batch Gluten Free Pumpkin Roll

Equipment

• Cup4Cup Multipurpose Flour, 3 Pounds
• Nordic Ware Quarter Sheet, Natural, 2 count (Pack of 1)
• KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer with Pouring Shield KSM150PS, Matte Black

Ingredients

For the cake

• 1 egg and 1 egg white
• 1/2 c granulated sugar
• 1/2 c pumpkin puree not pie filling
• 1/2 tsp lemon juice
• 6 tbsp gluten free flour I used Cup for Cup
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ginger
• pinch of nutmeg

For the Filling

• 4 oz cream cheese room temperature
• 3 tbsp butter room temperature
• 1/2 c powdered sugar sifted
• 1/2 tsp vanilla
• pinch of nutmeg
• *additional powdered sugar for rolling

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line quarter sheet pan with parchment paper, making sure paper extends over the side. This makes it easier to lift the cake from the pan, when finished.
• In a small bowl, combine flour, salt, baking powder and spices. Set aside. 
• In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine egg, egg white, and sugar. Mix on high for 5 minutes. This may seem like a long time, but we want the eggs to be aerated to help make a lighter cake. It should be a pale yellow color. 
• Whisk in the pumpkin and lemon juice.
• After egg and pumpkin mixture is whipped, turn off mixer and fold the dry ingredients into the egg and sugar mixture. Folding in the flour prevents deflating the eggs we just whipped. This may take a few minutes to incorporate all the flour. 
• Spread batter into lined quarter sheet pan and bake for 15 minutes. 
• While cake is baking, heavily dust a tea towel with powdered sugar. Make sure the towel you choose is larger than the cake pan. 
• Once cake is done baking, remove from oven and allow to set for 2-3 minutes. No longer than that. Then, invert onto dusted tea towel. Gently pull up parchment paper from the cake, and dust bottom of cake with powdered sugar. 
• Beginning at the short end of the cake, roll the cake with the towel inside it. The towel prevents the cake from sticking to itself, and the powdered sugar prevents the cake from sticking to the towel. 
• Allow the cake to cool for one hour or longer. Meanwhile, set out cream cheese and butter, so they will be at room temperature when you are ready to fill the pumpkin roll. 
• After cake has cooled, prepare the frosting. Start by whipping the room temperature cream cheese and butter at least 2 minutes. We want it to be creamy. Then, add vanilla and nutmeg. Finally, slowly add sifted powdered sugar. (Make sure it is sifted, or you'll have clumps in your frosting.) 
• Gently unroll cooled cake and spread frosting the length of the cake. 
• Once filled, gently reroll cake. (No towel inside this time!) Roll the filled cake starting with the same side you rolled for cooling the cake. 
• Place the rolled cake in the fridge and allow to chill 2-3 hours prior to serving. 
• Dust with additional powdered sugar, if desired.

Originally Published October 25, 2019

The post Small Batch Gluten Free Pumpkin Roll appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

How To Make a Gluten Free Thanksgiving Feast

Preparing a gluten free Thanksgiving dinner is more than just about using gluten free products. Cross contact must be taken into consideration, as well. My post “Gluten Free Thanksgiving from A to Z” offers insight on menu suggestions, links to recipes, and other tips to keep your meal safe for those with Celiac Disease. Recipes links include dairy free options, as well.

Questions About Gluten Free Products and Where to Buy Them

On my website, I focus on gluten free products and ingredients. However, I know that many of you have additional dietary restrictions. Therefore, I’ve linked each product to their respective website.

That way you can look up ingredients to see if a product meets your dietary needs. In addition, each website should have a “Where to Buy” or “Store Locator” tab. Click there, input your zip code, and see where you can find these items, near you.

Be Aware of Similar Product Packaging

Some brands make a gluten free version of a product, and a non gluten free version. For example, Trader Joe’s makes a gluten free stuffing and a non gluten-free stuffing. In addition, they’re often on the same end cap, since they’re seasonal.

Make sure you’re grabbing the right product, and read labels. In addition, Fresh Thyme sells gluten free french fried onions, and non- gluten free version. They’re packaging are different colors. Read my post on other brands with similar packaging, for more examples. 

Important Note About Soy Sauce & Worcestershire Sauce

Many Green Bean Casserole recipes call for adding soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Make sure you’re using a gluten free brand. I use San J Tamari in place of soy sauce. In addition, I use Lea and Perrins Worcestershire sauce.

Please know that while Lea and Perrins Worcestershire sauce is gluten free in the United States, it is not in other countries. For those who cannot eat soy, consider using coconut aminos, instead. 

Gluten Free Turkey

• Butterball (available at Aldi) (Gravy packets are gluten free)
• Honeysuckle White
• Jennie-O Whole Turkey
• Meijer Frozen Young Turkey
• Shady Brook Farms (at Walmart)
• Honeybaked Ham Turkey Breast (and whole turkey, smoked & non- smoked)

List of gluten free Turkey brands, from 2022.

Gluten Free Cream of Mushroom Soup

• Pacific Foods 
• Progresso Soup (not condensed) 
• Campbell’s
• Full Flavor Foods (soup mix)
• Amy’s Kitchen
• Good Graces (HyVee)
• Kroger Gluten Free Cream of Mushroom Soup
• Meijer True Goodness Gluten Free Cream of Mushroom Soup
• Walmart Gluten Free Cream of Mushroom Soup

(Whole Foods 365 Cream of Mushroom soup is not marked gluten free, but its ingredients are identical to Pacific Foods Mushroom soup.)

Gluten Free French Fried Onions

• Fresh Thyme Seasonal
• Golden Farms (available at Harvest Health in MI and Thrive Market
• Whole Foods 365 Gluten Free Crispy Onion
• Sprouts Gluten Free French Fried Onions
• Trader Joe’s Fried Shallots
• Good Graces (HyVee)

Please know that Aldi Organic French Onions are no longer gluten free. Kroger Simple Truth Gluten Free French Onions have been discontinued.

Gluten Free Stuffing

• Aleia’s Gluten Free  (box)
• Aldi (seasonal) 
• Trader Joe’s (seasonal)
• Aleia’s Gluten Free Cook Top Stuffing
• Katz
• Olivia’s Gluten Free Stuffing

Gluten Free Gravy 

• McCormick Simply Better Turkey Gravy (prepared)
• Simply Organic Turkey Flavored Gravy Mix
• Le Sauce Thanksgiving Turkey Gravy (gf label online)
• Full Flavor Foods Turkey Gravy Mix
• Primal Kitchen No Dairy Classic Turkey Gravy (prepared)
• Imagine Organic Roasted Turkey Flavored Gravy (prepared)

Gluten Free Mashed Potatoes

• Bob Evans Prepared Mashed Potatoes (contains dairy)
• Idahoan Potato Flakes (flakes do not contain dairy)
• Kevin’s Homestyle Mashed Potatoes (contains dairy)
• Kevin’s Mashed Sweet Potatoes (contains dairy)
• Simply Potatoes Mashed Potatoes (contains dairy)
• Reser’s Mashed Potatoes (Costco) (contains dairy)

Gluten Free Dinner Rolls

• Against the Grain Dinner Rolls (contains dairy & eggs)
• BFree Dinner Rolls (top 8 allergen free)
• Kinnikinnick (dairy, soy & nut free) (no longer in production)
• Udi’s Classic French Dinner Rolls
• Schar Ciabatta (dairy free)
• Canyon Bakehouse Brioche Rolls (dairy, soy & nut free)

Gluten Free Pie Crust

• Maine Pie Co. (contains eggs & dairy) (2 pk)
• MI Del Graham Cracker Crust (vegan) 
• MI Del Chocolate Snap Crust (vegan)
• Wholly Gluten Free (also vegan) (2 pk) 
• Kinnikinnick (egg, dairy, nut and soy free) (2 pk)
• Gluten Free Nation (at HEB, contains egg and dairy, may contain soy)

Premade Gluten Free Pies

• Michigan Gluten Free Baker List– Order from someone local!
• Maine Pie Co. (contains egg and dairy)
• Katz Personal Size Pies (dairy, soy & nut free)
• Raised Gluten Free (Vegan)
• Ethel’s Baking Company Pecan Dandies
• Daiya Pumpkin Cheezecake (Vegan)

Take Only What You Need

Unpopular opinion. Please don’t buy more gluten free Thanksgiving products than you need. Aldi’s and Trader Joe’s gluten free stuffing are seasonal. Please remember others want to try these products, too.

Some people use food stamps and only have resources at certain times of the month. Please be mindful of those in the Celiac Disease community who may be less fortunate. For more on this, read my friend Johnna’s post about Celiac Disease and having a Food Scarcity Mindset. 

Don’t Yuck Someone Else’s Yum

You may or may not like some of the products listed here. That’s ok. We all have different taste and texture preference, and dietary restrictions.

I try to live by the general rule of “eyes on your own plate.” What someone chooses to eat on Thanksgiving is up to them. Erica Dermer’s post about Food Superiority addresses this issue very well. 

What are your favorite Thanksgiving gluten free products to use? Leave me a note in the comments, so others can learn! 

**This post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through those links, or the Amazon search bar above, help support this blog with no extra expense to you. Thank you for your continued support!**

Originally Published October 2022

The post Gluten Free Thanksgiving Products appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Kroger History & Sister Stores

Per the history section of the their website, Kroger “began in 1883 when Barney Kroger invested his life savings of $372 to open a single grocery store at 66 Pearl Street in downtown Cincinnati.” Since then Kroger has expanded across the United States.

As the nation’s largest grocer, Kroger owns “nearly 2,800 stores in 35 states operating under 28 different names.” Those names include Fred Meyer, King Soopers, QFC, Dillons, Mariano’s, Fry’s, Harris Teeter, Food4Less, Ralph’s, Smith’s, and more. They also own Vitacost.

Where are Kroger Stores Located?

Operating in 35 states, I almost feel it’s easier to ask where they’re NOT located. Ironically, there are no Kroger stores on the west side of Michigan. (I believe this is due to the presence of 80+ SpartanNash stores.) To find a Kroger store near you, use their Store Locator.

Kroger Digital Coupons & Manufacturer Coupons

Like Meijer, Kroger supports their own digital coupons. Once you create a digital account, you can clip them through the app or their website. I often get “Just for You” digital coupons for products I often buy. Kroger also accepts manufacturers coupons.

One of my favorite deal options on the Kroger website is their “Use 5 x” digital coupons. They often include deals on ground beef, chicken, cheese and many other products. I make sure to stock up on those items. Each Friday they offer a 4x Fuel Points digital coupon.

How to Search the Kroger Website for GF Items

I LOVE the Kroger app. In my opinion, it’s so much more helpful than the Meijer app. In my experience, the Kroger app senses which store I’m in, and updates the app automatically.

Kroger offers a unique search portal to help customers look for gluten free groceries. Use their portal to find gluten free essentials like bread, pasta, and more.

Does Kroger Offer a Gluten Free Section?

It depends on what store you are in. Recently, Kroger has moved away from its Nature’s Market section, which stocked gluten free and organic products. In turn, they’ve spread gluten free items out through out the store. Now, most sections have a “healthy” sub-section, which is where you’ll often find gluten free products.

Does Kroger Have Gluten Free Tags On Shelves?

Yes. Store shelves feature purple GF tags for gluten free products. However, it may not always be consistent. Certified gluten free products may have no GF tag, while store brands may have a GF tag.

Does Kroger Offer Store Brand Gluten Free Items?

Yes. Many store brand items are under the Simple Truth product line. This includes gluten free cookies, crackers, pizza, waffles, bread, pasta, baking mixes and more. HOWEVER, please know that NOT all Simple Truth products are gluten free.

Does Kroger Test for Gluten in Their Own Products?

I asked Kroger staff the following two questions, and below is their response.

• Does Kroger test for the presence of gluten in their store brand/ private label items that are labeled gluten free?
  • Kroger does have a Gluten Free Claim policy in place for products that carry this claim. This policy requires the supplier/ vendor test for the presence of gluten and the required target is less than 20 ppm in the finished product.
  • Our production facilities and suppliers are obligated to follow appropriate protocols such as Good Manufacturing Practices and manage a comprehensive allergen and segregation policy to evaluate products and maintain segregation to prevent cross contact.

• Are any Kroger/ Simple Truth gluten free products certified gluten free, and if so, what certifying organization does Kroger use?
  • Yes. Any product with a Certified Gluten Free claim is managed by the manufacture/supplier and certifying organization may vary by supplier.

Other Ways Kroger Accommodates Those Who Eat Gluten Free

Laura Brown, Kroger’s Health Director of Nutrition, also mentioned other ways that Kroger works to meet the needs of those who eat gluten free.

“I should mention that Kroger Health has a team of registered dietitians that provide virtual nutrition care across 44 states (for a fee). Our dietitians are not just nutrition professionals, but also product experts, and are well versed in the gluten-free products available in our Kroger stores.

They can assist gluten-free shoppers both online and in-store, helping them find products that meet their specific dietary and personal needs. Additionally, we provide a dedicated gluten-free shopping experience on Kroger.com: https://www.kroger.com/f/gluten-free-groceries.”

In addition, Kroger offers a large collection of gluten free recipes on their website. Click the “Diet and Health” filter section on the left, and click on gluten free. You can also filter out other allergens, such as dairy, egg, soy and nuts.

How To Locate Products on Shelves

When searching for gluten free items on the Kroger website, it lists the aisle where the product is located. Unfortunately, it does not have a section number like the Meijer app does. However, the Kroger app does include a map function. This shows where a product is located.

Does Kroger Offer Scanning While You Shop?

Previously Kroger offered “Scan, Bag and Go” at their stores. However, this service is no longer available. The “Kroger Pay” on their app simply allows you to store a credit card. It does NOT allow you to scan all your groceries in store and automatically pay for them.

My Favorite Gluten Free Products at Kroger

Like most people, I must travel to a variety of stores to buy all the groceries I need. Some of my favorite gluten free Kroger finds include Kroger natural peanut butter, Barilla gluten free pasta, Milton’s gluten free pizza, Gilbert’s Chicken Sausages, Canyon Bakehouse bread, Antonina’s Gluten Free Cupcakes and much more.

Sales run from Wednesday to Tuesday. Each week I update my Gluten Free Grocery Sales post with Kroger sales and Meijer sales. While many items I share are specifically gluten free, I also share sales on meat and produce. Shopping gluten free is expensive, and we can use every savings we can get!

Shopping Gluten Free at Other Stores

Looking for more information about shopping gluten free? You can check out my articles about shopping gluten free at Aldi, Trader Joe’s, Meijer, Horrocks and Plum Market. My friend Sandi has excellent posts about shopping gluten free at Walmart and Costco.

What other questions do you have about shopping gluten free at Kroger? Drop them in the comments section and I’ll do my best to research them for you.

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Who Owns Chunki Monki Cookie Co.? Is There a Storefront?

Tracy Kaye and Carla Jordan are the Co-Founders of Chunki Monki Cookie Co. These two women bonded over their desire to make radically inclusive cookies that everyone could enjoy. Their business specializes in 6 oz. premium artisanal gluten free cookies, that are also dairy and nut free.

This business originally started as a small wholesale business. However, when they first started they were using a shared commercial space. Now they’ve opened a storefront in Clinton Twp where everything – from ingredients to equipment – is dedicated gluten free.

A Mom and a Son Inspires Tracy’s Baking

When I (Tracy) am baking, I feel like it’s the closest I can be to my mom. Her passion for baking became my passion too, but I didn’t realize it at first. In fact, I didn’t want it to be. Now, my dream would be for all three of us sisters (I have two sisters) to be able to bake together.

My second reason for baking is because I knew the struggle of having a child living with dietary restrictions. My son lives with a dairy allergy, and he has difficulty being able to eat in a safe space. Knowing that you’re not gonna end up in the ER is priceless for people who have anaphylactic or severe health concerns.

Label Reading and Understanding Cross- Contact, 35 Years Later

At first I didn’t know much about celiac or cross-contact, but I learned in a hurry with Zack. I had no idea how that was going to shape the next 35 years of my life—learning about cross-contact, how to read an ingredient label, and how to find hidden sources of allergens. Back then, we didn’t know much about it, and we unfortunately were forced to learn by trial and error.

Then when I met Carla, I learned all about gluten intolerance, and we merged our intelligence together creating a gluten free and dairy free cookie that didn’t taste like sawdust or chewing on a mouthful of sand. Once we figured out the science behind the baking, the possibilities became endless.

The Gluten Free Home Where All the Kids Hang Out

Carla been cooking for people for as long as I can remember. Our house was the hang-out house for all the kids and their parents, too. We hosted parties and gatherings and work events. But I was always mindful of dietary needs.

Three of my children were/are intolerant of gluten so I cooked and baked with them in mind. I became a pro at substitution and how to adapt recipes for dietary needs. Over the years, I hosted 13 international students in my home and dealt with many dietary concerns as well as allergies.

I wanted everyone to be comfortable around the table and be able to eat what was served. I became so good at serving the needs of those around the table that my children started to jokingly say that I could “make food out of air”. 

A Vegetarian Diet Leads To Including Even More People

About ten years ago, we stopped eating meat and became vegetarians. It was more adaption, but I was already a pro at reading recipes and changing out ingredients. This was just a continuation of what I had been doing for decades up to that point.

When Tracy approached me with the idea of a bakery I embraced it with joy and excitement. A radically inclusive bakery fits in with my idea of food and a tremendous partnership was formed around this idea.

What Is Your Background in Gluten Free Baking?

I (Carla) have three of my four children with intolerance to gluten. My other son has a wife who has Celiac Disease. Over the course of more than two decades and two continents (we lived in Europe for a time), I have refined my ability to rewrite recipes to create gluten free food that everyone loves.

Tracy’s son lives with a severe (anaphylactic) allergy to milk and any milk byproducts. She has also learned, over the course of three plus decades to adapt for allergens. It has made her a STELLAR gluten free baker. She is also a certified holistic nutritionist and has a plant based certification from Cornell University.

Are your baked goods free from other allergens?

All of our baked goods at Chunki Monki Cookie Co. are made with certified gluten-free, dairy-free and nut-free ingredients. We are not yet soy free, as our flour contains some soy flour. We are working toward creating our own flour blend without soy (eventually).

Most of our cookies are also egg-free. Two of our cookies use Kinnikinnick vanilla wafers and graham crackers. The vanilla wafers contain egg, and the graham crackers state they may contain egg. Now that we have our own bakery space, we hope to develop our own vanilla wafer and graham cracker recipes that are egg-free/ vegan.

What Kind of Baked Goods Do You Offer?

Currently, we are only offering our 6 oz. premium artisanal gluten free cookies and sweet baked goods. However we would like to gradually increase our offerings. In the meantime, these are the gluten free cookie flavors that we will always offer at Chunki Monki Cookie Co.

• OG Chocolate Chip
  • 100% dairy-free, gluten-free, nut free, and vegan.
• Better Made
  • Chocolate chip cookie dough with fold in hand-crushed Better Made Potato Chips
• The Faygo
  • Made with Faygo red pop
• Gordie Howe
  • Red velvet cookie with dairy free white chocolate chips
• Grand Circus 
  • Birthday-cake-in-a-bite full of Funfetti and a lovely frosting center surprise.
• Palmer Park 
  • Banana Pudding flavor made with gluten free vanilla wafers
• 8 Mile
  • M & M Cookie (play on the name Eminem)
• Shed 5
  • Spiced carrot cake cookie. Finished with a dairy-free cream cheese glaze
• Belle Isle Breeze 
  • Lemon Cookes
• Woodward Swirl 
  • Cinnamon swirl
• Pink Cadillac 
  • Sugar cookie base with bright pink frosting

What Other Gluten Free Baking Precautions do you take?

Our dishes, baking ware, utensils and bakery are all brand new and are used exclusively for gluten-free baking. We do not allow any outside food into our space at Chunki Monki Cookie Co. If we have an event, we only serve gluten-free and dairy-free foods such as fresh fruits and veggies, hummus, tortilla chips, salsa and guacamole.

We constantly reexamine ingredient labels knowing how suddenly a product can change their formulation and cease to be allergen free. Tracy is our head baker, and she also takes the precaution of changing into clothes and shoes she ONLY uses inside our bakery.

What Customer Feedback Has Brought You the Most Joy?

When we are at an event or sharing our story and someone asks, “Do you have anything that is gluten-free?” When we answer that “EVERYTHING is gluten free”, the look of pure joy, amazement, and delight on their faces makes every day worth the energy.

We also had a McClaren hospital executive ask us if we had anything vegan because she was severely allergic to dairy and egg. When we shared that EVERYTHING (except our two cookies that use Kinnikinnick wafers) was also vegan (dairy and egg-free), she bought one of everything.

What would you like consumers to know about your business?

We are a women owned business run by moms who know what living life with allergies is like first hand. We live it day to day with our children. It brings us immense joy when people come into our bakery and realize they have choices instead of limitations.

This is why our tagline is “radical inclusivity”. We want everyone to be able to eat and enjoy the food on the table.

Do packaged goods have labeled ingredients and business name?

Only our baked goods sold in retail markets have full labels. The bakery items in our store only carry our logo. However, we most often have on hand ingredient labels available that a customer could request and take with them.

How should customers place a special order?

We have special order slips in our store, and customers can place orders online on the Chunki Monki Cookie Co. website. We also take orders via messages through Instagram or Facebook. Our cookies take three days to make due to letting our dough rest and waiting for proper cooling time for packaging. Therefore, a week’s notice is ideal.

Do you ship? How much advance notice do you need?

We have shipped in the past on request. We would need a minimum of one week’s notice and depending on the distance of the ship to location, it should arrive within that week.

Are your products sold at other businesses or farmers markets?

We are at the Mount Clemens McLaren Hospital one day a month. In addition we are in negotiations with Meijer Woodward Market, a local movie theatre, and possibly Target. However, we aren’t sure as of right now whether any of those three will pan out for us, so stay tuned for all our future developments.

Location and Contact Information

Chunki Monki Cookie Co.

21400 Cass Ave.

Clinton Twp MI 48306
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Email | Phone

Open Tuesday – Saturday. Open each day at 10 am.

Chunki Monki Cookie Co. is one of many gluten free bakers across the state of Michigan.  Click this link to see a comprehensive list of all the gluten-free bakeries in Michigan, complete with interactive map!

Images supplied by Chunki Monki Cookie Co.

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Halloween Should Be Fun for Everyone

Every child should be able to enjoy Halloween. Regardless of dietary or physical limitations, I want to make sure no child is left out. I also offer options, and allow kids to pick what goes in their tote bag. Children feel valued when they’re allowed to choose. 

Whether you have a child who lives with Celiac Disease, or you’re a citizen looking to offer Gluten Free Halloween candy options, I want to share some tips to help make this year a success. Click on any of the topics in the table of contents, and it will jump to that section. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please feel free to ask in the comment section, and I’ll get back to you! 

Table of Contents

• Teal Pumpkin Project
• Accommodating Additional Food Allergies
• Top 9 Allergen Free Treats
• Gluten Free & Peanut Free Treats
• Additional Gluten Free Candy
• Candies to AVOID
• Warnings about Fun Size Candies and Malt

The Teal Pumpkin Project

The Teal Pumpkin Project started in 2012. Becky Basalone, “the director of a local Tennessee food allergy support group, first had the bright idea of painting a pumpkin teal, the color of food allergy awareness, and handing out non-food items.” (From Allergic Living) Since then, it has expanded across the United States and to other countries. Want to participate? Visit the FARE Teal Pumpkin Project website to add your house to the map, and find other resources. 

The Importance of Non-Food Items

In addition to Celiac Disease and food allergies, there are other children who benefit from non-food items. Children with diabetes might prefer non-food items, that won’t impact their blood sugar. Children with Prader – Willi Syndrome (whose bodies never tell them that they are full), benefit from non-food items as well. In addition, non-food items last longer than a piece of candy, and can allow kids to be creative. 

**Note- Please know some craft items contain wheat, like PlayDoh. Read Celiac Mama’s post on Art Supplies that Contain Gluten for more information. 

Non Food Ideas Include:

• pencils
• erasers
• temporary tattoos
• bubbles
• glow bracelets
• stickers
• mini coloring books
• crayons
• books 
• more ideas from FARE

Items to Avoid

• PlayDoh (contains wheat)

Accommodating Additional Food Allergies

The Food Allergen Labeling Consumer Protection Act requires the labeling of the following 9 food allergens: Peanuts, Tree Nuts, Eggs, Dairy, Wheat, Shellfish, Fish, Soy and Sesame. (This does NOT include barley or rye, which also contain gluten.) Thankfully, there are many companies who intentionally create candy and other treats free from the top 9 food allergies. Options include:

Top 9 Allergen Free Treats

• No Whey Chocolates (order from their website)
• Amanda’s Own Chocolates (order online)
• Free 2 B Cups            (order online) 
• Surf Sweets                (order from their website)
• Yum Earth                 (available at Target)
• Made Good Foods   (available at Costco)
• The Froot Thief        (available at Costco)
• Rule Breaker Snacks (order online)
• Cybele’s Cookies      (at Walmart & Whole Foods)

Child’s Play Candy / Tootsie Roll Brand – 

The following candies are produced in a gluten free and peanut free facility. 

• Tootsie Roll
• Fruit Chews
• Pops
• Dots
• Caramel Apple Pops
• Sugar Babies
• Charms Blow Pops
• Double Bubble
• Candy Corn Pops
• Wack-O-Wax lips

Other Gluten Free Halloween Candy / Treat Options

• Applesauce Cups
• Almond Joy
• Fruit Snacks
• Butterfinger
• Heath Bars
• Hershey Gluten Free Candy List – NO seasonal shapes, NO mini Hershey bars (only 1.55 oz)
• Jelly Belly Jelly Beans
• Mounds
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
• Payday Candy Bars
• Peeps
• Rolo
• Skittles
• Snickers
• Sour Patch Kids
• Starburst
• Swedish Fish
• Three Muskateers
• Unreal Snacks Candy Bars
• York Peppermint Patties

This list is not exhaustive, and ingredients can change. Make sure to read labels on all candy. When in doubt, go without. Remember that Twizzlers are NOT gluten free. 

Candies to AVOID because of Malt 

In addition to candy like Kit Kat and Twix that contain wheat, people with Celiac Disease need to avoid malt. Malt is made from barley, and is not gluten free. In addition, an important reminder that the NIMA gluten sensor cannot test for the presence of malt. Please do not solely rely on it for gluten free food safety. ALWAYS read labels.

These candies contain malt:

• 100 Grand
• Nestle Crunch
• Hershey Krackel
• Whatchamacallit 
• Milky Way
• Mars Bar
• Whoppers
• Crispy M&M’s
• Lindt Chocolate
• Kellogg’s Rice Krispie Treats (Aldi store brand are gluten free)

Other Candies that are NOT Gluten Free Due to Wheat

• Twix
• Twizzlers

Rules on Allergens vs Gluten / Fun Size Ingredient Lists

Remember, barley and malt are not one of the top 9 food allegens. The Food Allergy Labeling Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) requires wheat to be labeled on all food items. This is not true of barley malt. In addition, fun size candy bars are not required to print the entire ingredient list on the individual candy bars. The ingredient list requirement only pertains to the larger package they come in. Therefore, if you’re unsure if a piece of candy contains gluten, look it up online before consuming. 

What other questions and concerns do you have about having a safe Gluten Free Halloween? Tell / ask me in the comments below, and I’ll do my best to answer your questions! 

Originally Published October 2016

The post Gluten Free Halloween – Tips & Treats appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

The OG Recipe is From Dessert for Two

I wish I could take total credit for this amazing gluten free cinnamon rolls for two recipe. The brilliance of this recipe solely lies with Christina Lane of Dessert For Two. She graciously is allowing me to repost her original Small Batch Cinnamon Rolls here, only in a gluten-free version.

What Gluten Free Flour Do You Use For This Recipe?

To be honest, modifying her recipe to make these Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls for Two is ridiculously easy. All I did was simply swap the flour for Cup 4 Cup flour. That’s it. I’ve found that Cup 4 Cup Multipurpose Flour truly transforms any “regular” recipe into gluten free perfection.

Can I Use a Different Gluten Free Flour for This Recipe?

I attempted to make these Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls for Two with Bob’s Red Mill and with King Arthur Measure for Measure. I DO NOT RECOMMEND USING THEM. When I used those flours, it resulted in a drier and more crumbly cinnamon roll. Edible, but not enjoyable.

Just Like Grandma Used to Make

I remember the first time I made these Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls for Two. I followed Christina’s original recipe, and baked them in muffin tins, creating four cinnamon rolls. When my husband returned home and tried one, he almost cried.

He said they reminded him of the cinnamon rolls his (now departed) grandmother used to make when he was a child. Christina’s recipe helped him relive his childhood memories, and it was priceless. That Christmas, I made them as gifts for every household in our family, and everyone raved about how delicious they were.

Why YOU will love these Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls for Two

• NO yeast. So that means no rise time, which means the faster you can eat them!
• NO egg. Missing baked goods due to an egg allergy? This solves ALL that.
• NO need to share. Seriously, this recipe makes two (or four), so you don’t have extras laying around the house, and you don’t have to share. I mean, you can, but no shame in keeping these bad boys all to yourself.

While these gluten free cinnamon rolls for two taste great any day, I find myself making them when I have milk that’s about to go bad. I hate to pitch out any food, and am always looking for ways to use up leftovers and “scraps” of things.

Can I Make These Cinnamon Rolls Without Dairy?

I have never attempted to make a dairy free version of these Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls for Two. Previously, Cup 4 Cup Multipurpose Gluten Free Flour contained dairy. They have since removed the milk powder. Because of this, I increased the amount of melted butter in the dough.

If you are looking for a gluten free and dairy free cinnamon roll recipe, you can try this Gluten Free Vegan Cinnamon Roll recipe from The Loopy Whisk. (Please note that she does not use flour blends, but instead individual flours.)

Minimalist Baker also offers a gluten free & vegan cinnamon roll recipe on her website. She uses almond flour AND a gluten free flour blend in her recipe.

More Cinnamon Roll Recipes

If you’re looking for a recipe for a larger batch of cinnamon rolls, please visit this recipe round up I created. These 10+ Gluten Free Cinnamon Roll recipes includes dairy free, vegan, and even keto cinnamon rolls. It also includes a cinnamon cake that requires no rolling! Also check out my own gluten free cinnamon roll recipe.

Print

Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls for Two – Yeast and Egg Free

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 5 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 3/4 c. "Cup4Cup" brand Multipurpose Gluten Free Flour Blend
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp melted butter

For the filling:

• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon

For the cream cheese frosting

• 2 ounces cream cheese softened
• 1/4 c powdered sugar
• splash of milk

Instructions

• Combine milk and apple cider vinegar in a small dish and set aside for at least 5 minutes. 
• Preheat oven to 375. Gently grease a small loaf pan, or four muffin tin wells. 
• In a small bowl, combine flour, 1 tbsp sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. 
• After milk has soured with vinegar, add to it 3 tbsp of melted butter. Then incorporate all wet ingredients into dry until you have a soft ball of dough. 
• Lightly flour a work surface with additional flour. I tend to use my Silpat as a small pastry mat. From there, place your ball of dough and roll into a 6" rectangle. Pour the 2 tbsp melted butter on top of the rolled dough. 
• In a small dish, combine 1 tbsp granulated sugar, the 2 tbsp brown sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon. Sprinkle that mixture over the dough and press it into the butter. 
• Roll the cinnamon roll dough from the long side, and press the seam to seal. 
• Cut the dough into 4 equal sections. I recommend using floss for this, as it won't smoosh your dough like a knife will
• Place into a 5" baking dish, or into 4 muffin tins.
• Bake for 15 -18 minutes.
• While the rolls are baking, soften the cream cheese and mix with the powdered sugar and a splash of milk. Spread over cinnamon rolls when they come out of the oven, and serve warm. (Or just use vanilla frosting from a can. I often do that.)

Originally Published June 2018

The post Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls for Two – Yeast and Egg Free appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Gluten Free Cookie Monster

I love cookies. I would eat them all day, every day if I could. While I will never turn down a chocolate chip cookie, I do have a fondness for a good sugar cookie. These gluten-free Halloween cut out cookies are so easy to make, they will fulfill any cookie craving.

I won a bag of GF Jules (a.k.a Jules Shepard) Gluten Free Cut-Out Cookie Mix years ago through a Twitter party. Jules and my other pals Cindy and Erica spent a weekend retreat and this delightful mix came in a box with other items from #GfBloggerRetreat sponsors.

Do You Know GF Jules?

You know what I love about GF Jules? (Besides her great mixes, like the graham cracker one I used to make these awesome Gluten-Free S’mores bars)  She’s so REAL. She’s down to earth and totally approachable. She answers her own e-mail and Facebook messages.

She’s been an encouragement to me and so many others. Did you know that she was involved in the mission of getting congress to improve gluten-free food labeling laws? All through persistence and the world’s tallest gluten-free cake. But I digress.

Best Cookie Cutters EVER

So back to these gluten-free Halloween cut out cookies. Even if you’re not a master cake decorator of baker like GF Jules, you can easily make these cookies. First, work with a good sugar cookie recipe. Next, work with good tools. I have quickly become a Wilton addict convert. I bought their 101 Cookie Cutter Set (affiliate link) over a decade ago.

The cookie cutters are made of durable plastic. More than fifteen years later, they still are cutting through dough, bread and any other soft items I want to get creative with. I LOVE that this particular set is color coded for holidays and themes. Orange for Halloween, green for Christmas, yellow for Easter and so forth.

Gluten Free Premade Frosting

Aren’t these ghost gluten-free Halloween cut out cookies just the cutest? Just a little bit of white frosting (I used Duncan Hines) and they pop. (I’d say “come alive,” but they are ghosts after all.) Should you want to make your own frosting, try this recipe for Gluten Free Royal Icing from Celiac Mama.

While one can use a sandwich bag in a pinch, I really prefer these Wilton Disposable Decorating Bags. They’re much thicker than a sandwich bag and withstand much more hand pressure. I usually use one of my Wilton decorating metal tips for this, but accidentally forgot to put the coupler in the bag. Know what? It was easier to handle without the tips!

My Best Decorating Tip

Now I know what you’re thinking. You’re a terrible decorator. Frosting these gluten-free Halloween cut out cookies really IS easy. If you can draw a straight line (or even if you can’t), you can do this. My biggest “tip” is to allow the point of the bag just barely touch the cookie. Pipe the frosting slowly until you get the hang of it.

For these gluten-free Halloween cut out cookies, I focused on outlining the cookies. Then I simply added frosting in the center of the cookie with a back and forth motion. Not sure how you want to decorate them? I’ll let you in on a blogger secret. Go look at Pinterest or do a Google image search of what you want to make. Look at images that seem doable for you and then HAVE FUN! Cookies should be fun!

Homemade Sugar Cookie Dough Option

So here are my gluten-free Halloween cut out cookies, all finished. Some of them were just how I envisioned, some are not. But that’s the beauty of making sugar cookies and frosting them. It’s the experience, the uniqueness. And no matter what they look like, they still taste delicious!

Want to make cookies now and don’t have time to order this mix? If you need an egg and dairy free version, try these Vegan Gluten Free Sugar Cookies from Delightful Adventures. Able to eat eggs and dairy? These Gluten Free Sugar Cookies from Flippin’ Delicious get rave reviews! Looking for more recipe ideas? Visit my Gluten Free Halloween Pinterest board.

**GF Jules provided me a free bag of cookie mix as part of a giveaway. I was not otherwise paid or compensated for my time. This post does contain affiliate links. Purchases made through those links help support this blog with no extra expense to you. Thank you for your continued support!**

Originally Published October 2017

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What is Spaghetti Squash? Is it Gluten Free?

Yes, spaghetti squash is gluten frree. It’s classified as a winter squash, because it’s harvested in the fall and stored through the winter months. It’s yellow, and shaped like an oblong watermelon. Spaghetti squash derives it’s name from the pulp that, when pulled, looks like spaghetti strands.

Does Spaghetti Squash Taste Like Pasta?

No. Too often I hear people say they don’t like it, because they think it’s going to exactly replicate their favorite spaghetti. Which is sad, because this squash is delicious and needs to be appreciated for its unique flavor. Let me show you how to cook and prepare a dish that will make you realize the worthiness of this most marvelous vegetable.

How to Cook Spaghetti Squash

There are multiple ways to cook a spaghetti squash. Any of these methods will work for making these Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Boats. I prefer to cook mine in the microwave, but that’s only because I often fail to plan ahead. Which means I rarely ever choose to cook in a crockpot. This recipe for Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Boats worked best with roasting the squash in the oven for 30 minutes.

Microwave Method

I learned to microwave spaghetti squash from the wonderful folks at The Kitchn. (No, that’s not a typo. That missing “E” is intentional on their part.) Why do I love to microwave spaghetti squash? Because you can fully cook it in less than 15 minutes. And if I’m honest, I’m usually planning dinner 30 minutes before i need to have it on the table. #RealLife Follow this link to get in-depth directions on how to cook spaghetti squash in the microwave.

Here’s the brief version. 1) Poke holes in the spaghetti squash, place on glass dish, and then microwave for five minutes. This is to soften the outside. 2) Remove from microwave and cut in half, hot dog style. (All my teacher friends know what I mean.) 3) Return spaghetti squash to microwave. Depending on the size of the spaghetti squash, cook for an additional 5- 10 minutes. 4) Remove squash, allow to cool, and pull out strands with a fork.

Slow Cooker Method

My friend Holly at My Plant Based Family will tell you that cooking this vegetable in the slow cooker is “the easiest way to cook Spaghetti Squash.” Cut the squash in half (hamburger way), scoop out the seeds, place in the slow cooker and cook it for 3 hours. Of course, having your hands free for doing other things does make life easier!

Baking / Oven Roasting Method

Roasting spaghetti squash is just as easy. Cut it, oil it, stick it in the oven and let it cook for 30-40 minutes. I chose this method for making these Gluten Free Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Boats because I would result in a darker color of squash. The things we do for better pictures! Based on advice from Chocolate Covered Katie, I baked my squash at 450 degrees.

How To Pull The Pulp From a Spaghetti Squash

Regardless which method you choose to cook the squash for these Gluten Free Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Boats, you will destrand (?) the squash with a fork. (Not sure that’s even a word. Oh well.) So here is how it should look when you have pulled the insides. Nice and fluffy.

Gluten Free Alfredo Sauce

Since spaghetti squash doesn’t truly taste like pasta, it becomes a canvas for anything. I often use Full Flavor Foods’ gluten free Alfredo Sauce Mix. Simply combine the mix with water, cook until thickened, and enjoy!

I will confess that I “tweaked” it a bit. Dinner time is when I add bits of items that I need to use up. Like the last two tablespoons of cream cheese, the final shakes of Parmesan cheese, and few glugs of milk.

The Best Gluten Free Breaded Chicken

The chicken in these Gluten Free Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Boats are pretty stellar. I coated a chicken breast with Aleia’s Extra Crispy Coat and Crunch. (It had some leftover coating from the gluten free mozzarella sticks I just made. Waste not, want not, right?) On top of the cooked chicken I added some cooked spinach and then drizzled that gorgeous Full Flavor Foods Alfredo sauce on top.

The Secret to Perfectly Golden, Melty Cheese

Of course, cheese (or in this case MORE cheese) makes everything better, right? I topped these Gluten Free Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash Boats with a mix of Mozzarella and shredded Parmesan, and placed it under the broiler for about 5 minutes. Spectacular, am I right? My husband thought so, when we had them for dinner later that night.

I Can’t Eat Dairy? What Alfredo Can I Use?

I do use a lot of dairy in this recipe, from milk to cream cheese to a WHOLE lot of cheese. If you are looking for dairy free alfredo sauce, I would recommend Primal Kitchen Alfredo Sauce. It’s available at many stores. As for dairy free cheese, Violife is great.

Other Spaghetti Squash Recipes

The great thing about spaghetti squash is that it creates its own serving vessel. Create Spaghetti Squash Boats with Meatballs, or even Chili Cheese Stuffed Spaghetti Squash. Don’t eat meat? Try these Vegetarian Italian Spaghetti Squash boats, made with lentils! Or ditch the boats and make a Spaghetti Squash Casserole!

Print

Gluten Free Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash

Equipment

• Aleia’s Coat and Crunch – GF Shake and Bake
• ZWILLING Twin Signature 3-pc German Knife Set
• Dreamfarm Brizzle-Red
• Dreamfarm 3mm Ograte

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• oil and salt for seasoning
• 1 packet Full Flavor Foods Alfredo Sauce mix
• 1/2 c water
• 2 -3 tbsp cream cheese
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
• 1/4 c. milk
• 1 chicken breast 6 oz+
• Rice flour egg and crumb coating for chicken
• 2 handfuls spinach
• 3-4 oz shredded Mozzarella and Parmesan blend

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 450 degrees
• Pierce spaghetti squash with fork and heat in microwave for 1 minute to soften squash. Cut down the middle, lengthwise, and scoop out seeds. 
• Brush spaghetti squash with oil and sprinkle with salt. Place on cookie sheet, cut side up. Bake for 30-40 minutes, depending on size of squash. 
• While squash is cooking, make Full Flavor Foods Alfredo Sauce mix according to directions. It will thicken greatly as it cools, so don’t be tempted to cook it all the way down. I added cream cheese, Parmesan and a touch of milk to stretch the sauce. I added these after the sauce had cooked, not before. 
• My chicken breast was already pre-cooked from a different day. If you have a fresh chicken breast, I would suggest placing it in the oven for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking time, with the squash. 
• To bread the chicken, dip it in beaten egg, then rice flour, then beaten egg again, and finally in the Aleia’s Coat and Crunch. You could use crushed Corn or Rice Chex instead. Or, you could simple cook a fresh chicken breast on the stove top, and not bread it at all. 
• Wilt the spinach to remove excess moisture. I microwaved mine for approximately a minute because I was in a hurry. You can do this on the stove top, in a non-stick skillet. I suggest using a bit of cooking spray to prevent sticking. 
• Once the squash is finished cooking, remove from oven and allow to cool approximately 5 minutes. This prevents you from burning your fingers! Using a fork, pull the strands from the sides of the squash. 
• Leave pulled squash in shell and top with sliced chicken and wilted spinach. Pour Alfredo sauce on top, then sprinkle shredded cheese on top of sauce. Return to oven for 10-15 minutes until cheese melts. Broil for 2-3 minutes if you would like to brown the cheese. 

What’s your favorite way to eat spaghetti squash? I’m always looking for fun new recipes to try. Share with me in the comments below.

Originally Published January 2018

The post Gluten Free Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Who Owns Matcharia Cafe?

Yazmine and Tyler Root own Matcharia Cafe. They first opened their doors in December of 2024. It was previously called Matchacita, but underwent a name change in September of 2025.

What led you to open a dedicated gluten free Matcha cafe?

Yazmine Root always wanted to open a cafe. Kind of like the “open a cafe when I retire and live in a small apartment above it” type of dream. However she never really thought to do so in Kalamazoo. This is because the cafe industry is saturated in Kalamazoo.

A couple of years ago we went down to Arizona for a couple of months to help her sister as open a cafe in Arizona. Her sister had very little restaurant experience. However, Yazmine has TONS of cafe/restaurant/food industry related experience. Therefore, her sister asked Yazmine to come down to help start it up.

The Inspiration in Opening A Gluten Free Cafe

That was when we were introduced to Matcha AND gluten free baked goods. The amount of restaurants / cafes in the South West part of the United States that adheres to different allergies and/or lifestyles was intense.

We decided that if the opportunity came up we would bring it to the midwest. Tyler did some research and realized that in the Kalamazoo area there are no dedicated gluten free bakeries or restaurants. We wanted to change that.

What kind of foods are on your menu? What’s most popular?

We offer a variety of baked goods and smaller food options such as, toasts, chia pudding, waffles, etc. I would say that the most popular is the avocado toast and the waffle.

Is your menu also free from any other allergens?

On top of being dedicated gluten free we are also dedicated dairy free. We have no dairy products in the store. This allows us to be MOSTLY vegan.

Where do you source your matcha and tea from?

We get our matcha from a couple of farms in Japan. While we really would like to source it from one location the matcha business right now is a little volatile because of the increasing popularity in Western culture.

We source our matcha directly from two farms in Shizouka, Japan and from one farm in Uji, Japan. Yazmine has done a lot of research and testing of different farms and matcha types. The farms that we get them from offer a very similar flavor profile with a nice smooth umami flavor that is not too grassy nor earthy. They are great introductory matchas.

Do you partner with any MI businesses for your ingredients?

We work with a couple local farms for some of our ingredients. A lot of produce comes from Michigan farms. Our maple syrup and honey come from Jack and Jill Maple Hill farms located in Paw Paw, Michigan.

In addition, our microgreens come from local growers -Sandy and Brett in Kalamazoo, Michigan. We also sell Kalamazoo Coffee Co. ground coffee.

What kind of oil do you use for cooking and baking

For baking, we exclusively use coconut oil for baking. We never use butter (dairy) nor plant-based butter. There are a couple things that we use olive oil in also, but that is mostly for cooking and drizzling purposes, not baking.

Do you use gluten free wheat starch in your menu items?

No, we do not use wheat starch

What menu items contain oats/ oat flour? 

The chia pudding uses Purely Elizabeth Granola which contains oats and currently our banana bread uses oat flour. The baked goods rotate every so often so if there is an oat sensitivity always feel free to ask! Yazmine updates the employees on ingredients or keeps the recipe book by them in case there is ever a questions.

Do you have gluten free vegetarian or vegan options?

Yes! Unless noted, the baked goods will always be gluten-free & vegan. The toasts can be made vegan by simply switching out the bread. It is fairly easy for us to be gluten-free & vegan because we are already dairy-free. The only exception is eggs, honey, and the option of adding a protein to your toast.

Do you have patio seating? Are dogs allowed outside?

Yes, we have patio seating directly outside of our business, on the sidewalk. Friendly dogs are allowed to join you outside.

Do you offer any weekly deals?

No weekly deals. We try to keep our prices very competitive already. Sometimes we will offer a coupon, but for very specific situations.

Any tips for customers for parking at Matcharia?

There is some street side parking, which is also free before 10 am. Otherwise, there is a parking ramp (Epic Center Parking – 136 E. South Street) just a block away from us! It is free for the first 90 minutes! See This website for more Kalamazoo Parking locations.

What add’l things would you like my followers to know about your business?

We just want to say how much we appreciate all of our customers.

Places to Visit in Kalamazoo

If you’re visiting Matcharia, plan to stop at these other locations for a full day field trip. If you’re anything like me, stopping at a local health food store to find new gluten free items is always a plus!

• Air Zoo in Portage
• Kalamazoo Valley Museum (always free to visit!)
• Kalamazoo Growlers Baseball
• Sawall Health Foods (They sell Kind Crumbs Gluten Free Baked goods)
• This is a Bookstore & Bookbug (The Bookbug is strictly children’s books)

Other Gluten Free Dining Options In and Near Kalamazoo

f you have a sweet tooth like I do, you HAVE to stop at Kalamazoo Cookie Co. All cookies are 100% gluten free. If you’re looking for a gluten free dinner in Kalamazoo, check out my list of suggestions below.

• Anna’s House (separate prep space. Closes at 3 pm)
• Condado Tacos
• One Well Brewing (dedicated fryer) (found on Find Me GF)
• Principle Food and Drink (found on Find Me GF) (Right behind Matcharia)
• LFG Gaming Bar (dedicated fryer)
• Turbo Chicken (dedicated fryer, shared kitchen)
• Jersey Mike’s
• Mitts 2 Pitts in Battle Creek (dedicated fryer)

Matcharia Address, Hours and Contact Info

120 W South St

Kalamazoo, MI 49007

(269) 251-7343

Hours: Tues – Fri 7:30 – 4 pm / Sat & Sun 8 am – 3 pm CLOSED MON

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Macharia is one of many Michigan gluten free dining options I recommend on my blog. Looking for options in bigger cities? Check out my suggestions for Detroit, Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids and Traverse City. Plus, check out my Michigan gluten free baker list!

Originally Published Sept 2026

The post Matcharia Cafe- 100% GF in Kalamazoo appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

How Were These Restaurants Selected?

I generally only recommend businesses where I have personally eaten a meal. However, there are few on this list, marked by an asterisk, that I have not personally vetted.

Some, like Cooper’s Hawk, have are widely known for their gluten free options. Others are listed on Find Me Gluten Free, and I felt were worth mentioning.

There may be restaurants you recommend that are not on this list. Please feel free to mention them in the comments, along with information on how they prevent cross contact.

What You Should Know Before You Order

I literally wrote a list of 20 questions about gluten free food prep you should consider prior to ordering a meal. This includes questions about dedicated prep space and fryers, whether staff know to change gloves, and more.

Downtown Lansing Gluten Free Options

• Envie Opens at 4 pm (dedicated fryer)
• Firehouse Subs (Offers Gluten Free Bread)
• *Veg Head (notes gluten free options on menu) [I have not eaten here]
• ***NOTE – Sweet Encounter is NO LONGER in busines

Westside Gluten Free Options

• Red Robin
• Outback Steakhouse
• Chipotle
• Qdoba
• Chick-Fil-A
• Culver’s
• Anna’s House– Saginaw Hwy / Grand Ledge

Eastside / Frandor Gluten Free Options

• G 3 Food 4 All (gluten free baker – Allen St Market; Wednesday from 3-6:30)
• Altu’s Ethiopian Cuisine (Most of the menu is gluten free)
• Middle Eats
• Hot Bar at Better Health Market (Gluten/ Allergens noted)
• Qdoba

Northside / Eastwood Towne Center Options

• PF Chang’s
• BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
• Cooper’s Hawk Winery
• *Capital Prime (gluten free options on menu) [I have not eaten here]
• 2941 Street Food

Southside Gluten Free Options

• Culver’s
• Chick Fil A

East Lansing Gluten Free Options

• *The State Room at Kellogg Center [I have not eaten here]
• Barrio
• For Crepe Sake (separate gluten free griddle)
• Five Guys
• Playa Bowls
• BiBiBop Asian Grill – 100% gluten free Coming Soon!
• Thrive Dining Hall at MSU 100% gluten free (not open on the weekend)

Okemos Gluten Free Options

• Anna’s House (separate gluten free prep space)
• Buddy’s Pizza
• Gluten Free Rox (Gluten free baker – Meridian Farmers Market)
• Noodles & Company
• Culver’s

Where Do You Like to Eat in Lansing, Michigan?

What other gluten free options in Lansing, Michigan do you recommend? Feel free to leave suggestions in the comment section. Please include notes about what steps they take to prevent cross contact. I may end up adding them to my list!

Looking for gluten free dining options in other Michigan cities? Check out my Michigan Gluten Free Dining list. Need something sweet? Check out my list of Michigan gluten free bakers, or my list of favorite Michigan ice cream parlors with gluten free options.

What Is There to Do in Lansing?

Aside from visiting the state capital, Lansing offers other fun places to visit. Regardless of my age, I love to visit Impressions 5 Science Museum. Love baseball? Get tickets for a Lansing Lugnuts game. Wharton Center in East Lansing offers musicals, plays and other shows. Visit Choose Lansing to learn more about what there is to do in Lansing, Michigan.

Originally Published April 2025

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