Holidays can be hectic for anyone. Throw in a dietary restriction and that adds another layer of complexity. We want to keep ourselves safe, but we also want the freedom to enjoy the holiday as normally as possible. That’s totally possible if we prepare ourselves, and others, with a few reminders, first. 

Start First with Open Communication

Communication is key in any relationship. This goes for gatherings with friends, family, and business colleagues. Especially if gatherings involve food. Ask about the menu ahead of time – and not just the morning of the event. Talk a week or so in advance.  If the gathering will be a restaurant, call and ask questions during their least busy time – from 2 to 4 pm. 

Are you hosting, and want to keep your household gluten free? People will always ask if they can bring something. Assign people to bring items that are naturally gluten free. Ask people to bring soft drinks or wine. Ask them to bring a vegetable, fruit or relish tray, and let them know you’ll take care of the dip. Paper plates, silverware and napkins are a great thing to let others bring, as well! 

Cross Contact is a Real Concern

Not preparing the meal yourself? You’ll have to ask how the food was prepared. Did they make gluten free baked goods on a separate day, to prevent airborne flour cross contact? Was gluten free pasta cooked in a fresh, clean pot of water? Strained in a dedicated colander? Were preparation utensils kept separate from gluten filled dishes? 

A reminder during Christmas time. All gluten free cookie dough should be prepared, rolled and cut with dedicated utensils. Gluten free cookies and cakes should be frosted with separate spreaders/knives. Turkeys and game hens should only be stuffed with gluten free stuffing. Beware that most scalloped potato dishes contain flour. 

Uncomfortable Eating? Say No Thanks.

This is an important gluten free holiday tip. People mean well, especially at the holidays. Have you ever heard “But I made this just for you!” Regardless, if you’re not comfortable eating something, it’s ok to say no. This is especially true if we don’t want to ask questions about food prep. 

Sometimes if it’s something being offered to me as a gift, and it’s wrapped, I’ll simply take it home and give it to my husband. He gets something special, and I keep my health in check. Want them to know where to get safe baked goods for you? Share my Michigan Gluten Free baker list, or Baltimore Gluten Free’s list of businesses that ship. 

No Explanation Required

Holiday gatherings can include longtime family and friends, as well as new faces. People may ask about your gluten free diet out of sheer curiosity. You can choose to explain, but please know you don’t have to. You can redirect the conversation onto a different topic. 

In addition, don’t worry about what others may think. Your physical and mental health is more important than one social gathering. Do your family members turn your gluten free diet into an issue? Sometimes boundaries have to be set. If they can’t kindly join with you, you may have to avoid getting together. You deserve to be respected. 

Beware MALT!

A reminder that barley malt is not one of the top 8 allergens. Therefore companies may not bring special attention to it on their labels. Remember that Kellogg Rice Krispies contain malt. In addition, candies with “crisped rice” likely contain gluten as well. (Such as Nestle Crunch.) Kellogg Corn Flakes contain malt as well. 

At Christmas time, a reminder that Lindt truffles contain barley malt as well. (Their white chocolate ones are gluten free.) In contrast, all Andes Mints are gluten free, including their candies with cookie crunch. Cello Chocolate Covered Cherries are made in a gluten and peanut free facility. 

Bring a Dish to Pass, and a Spoon

The best way to make sure you have “safe food” is to bring a dish to share. I recommend bringing a dish that contains protein, so you can have a “main course” item. Impress your friends and family by bringing a delicious gluten free dessert, as well. My Black Forest Trifle and my Gluten and Dairy Free Mocha Cake come to mind. 

Attending a potluck type of party? Ask the host if you can go first to avoid cross contact.  I also recommend bringing your own unique serving spoon, so others won’t be tempted to swap it to a different dish. A Facebook follower recommended “labeling dishes for anyone who may be have allergies. Such as ‘gluten free, nut free, contains dairy’ for example. I find labeling helps somewhat with cross contact.”

Practice That New Recipe, First

Planning on making a brand new recipe this holiday season? I highly recommend making a test batch prior to sharing with others. Especially if you’re making ANY ingredient substituions. (That includes a different GF flour blend than what the recipe creator used.) No one wants to plan a dish to bring that turns into a disaster. 

A Facebook follower also made this great point. “Don’t wait until the last minute to buy special ingredients, like gluten free flour!” Like Santa, check that ingredient list and check it twice. Make sure you’ve bought everything you need before the grocery stores before baking. (And before they close for the holidays!) 

One last “new recipe” gluten free holiday tip from a Facebook follower. “Whatever food you’re expecting to miss for the holidays, swap it out for something even more decadent with a similar flavor profile, and you won’t feel gipped at all. Can’t have your aunt’s brownies? Try flourless chocolate torte. Lemon bars? Make the shortbread crust with almond flour. Try rice stuffing with added onion, sausage, and chopped pecans.” 

Have a Backup (and Forward) Plan

Have you seen the following meme? “Living with Celiac Disease is like a Picnic. You literally bring your own food everywhere.” Those of us with food restrictions are known for our purses and bags full with ALL the snacks. Snack bars. Pre baked muffins. Our own slices of bread or buns. Prepare yourself with your own Celiac Safe stash. 

Another good gluten free holiday tip is to eat something before hand. This way you can focus more on the people around you than a grumbling stomach. I’ve been known to eat something filling at home, and then stop for gluten free French Fries after an event from Red Robin, Five Guys or Chick Fil A. 

Relax and Focus

The holiday season has become frantic and hectic, food or no food. Try to find ways to relax, destress, and simply focus on being with those you love. (And who love you in return!) As one of my Facebook followers said, “Don’t give food the power to steal your joy.”

Maybe instead of food gatherings, meet with friends and family for an activity. Have a girls day and get a massage. Go for a hike and end the day with a hot cocoa bar, like this one from Allergylicious. Gather friends (and funds) together and buy gifts for a non-profit and meet for coffee afterwards.  Giving to others always restores my joy and faith in humanity. 

Phone a Friend

Despite all of our preparation, things may still be less than perfect. I love the “Phone a Friend” suggestion from my friend Johnna’s 10 Tips for Softer Holidays post. “Designate a friend now that will agree to listen to you on the phone for 15 minutes while you decompress about the stress of your family gathering/work party/social function.” 

My Final Gluten Free Holiday Tip

This following was a comment left on my Facebook page. It was so good, I wanted to share it here. 

“There is no rule about eating holiday food only at the holidays. Keep yourself safe at events and consider having a separate day where you make your favorite dishes in a safe version. When we have an off weekend, I’ll make a scaled down version of the holiday meal. My family never complains and I end up with leftovers I can eat (and trust).”

“Also, asking a million questions makes me uncomfortable, so I’ll busy myself and eat what I can. I usually have a snack before and bring a dish I can eat, then focus on the veggie tray, etc.  Sometimes I’ll make a dish and a dessert, so I can be social over coffee at the end of the meal.”

If you’d like to see all the comments from my followers, or to add your own gluten free holiday tips, visit my Facebook Post.

Consider getting a monogrammed cutting board or spoon. Instead of placing your name on it, have them write “gluten free,” and they’ll be great to take to gatherings! Words with Boards makes amazing boards as well.

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

Originally Published December 2021

The post 10 Tips for a Gluten Free Holiday appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

What Info You’ll Find Here

I’ve asked each Michigan Gluten Free Baker to share their pre-order menu and how to order. In addition, I asked them to shared deadlines for ordering and dates for pickup. I also try to include what additional allergens their entire product line is free from.

In addition, the business name is linked to the interview I did with the owner that answers common FAQ about food prep. At the END you will find their contact information and hours.

Do Any Of These Businesses Ship?

While some of these businesses do ship, specialty Thanksgiving items are mostly for local pick-up. Gluten Free Specialties, Bliss Bakery and Third Coast Bakery still ship their main items during this season. Kind Crumbs ships only within Michigan.

West Michigan Gluten Free Baker Thanksgiving Menus and Deadlines

• Kind Crumbs – Grand Rapids
  • Pre-orders for cakes, pies and dinner rolls are available through the Harvest Health store website. Deadline to order is November 16th. Pick up is November 24th.
    • “All Kind Crumbs products are made in a dedicated gluten free, peanut free, dairy free and kosher production facility. Coconut products are the only nut family ingredient that we use. No other nuts (other tree nuts, peanuts) are used in Kind Crumbs products. Many of our products are also egg-free/vegan.”
• Rise Authentic Baking – Grand Rapids
  • Rise Authentic pre-orders picks often fill up quickly, so order promptly through their website. Menu items include pies, breads, rolls, savory sides and mains. Order online quickly, because they tend to fill up. Pick up on November 25th only.
    • All Rise products are gluten free, dairy free, egg free, soy free, and dye free. Some products contain nuts.
• Vigilant Sweets – Grand Rapids
  • Vigilant Sweets is offering either Dutch Apple Pie or Peach Crumble pie for Thanksgiving. Deadline to order is November 16th. Click here to order.
    • Vigilant Sweets baked goods are gluten free, dairy free, nut free and oat free. Vegan options available.
• Whippin’ Good Eats – Muskegon
  • Whippin’ Good Eats just announced their gluten free Thanksgiving Menu. It includes sweet breads, dinner rolls, savory breads, pies and assorted cookies. Deadline to order is November 17th. Pickup is Nov 21st or 22nd. Click here to order.
• Bliss Bakery – Holland
  • NO WHOLE PIES FOR 2026

Lansing, Mt. Pleasant & Midland Gluten Free Baker Menus and Deadlines

• G3 Food 4 All – Lansing
  • G3 Food 4 All is offering a Thanksgiving Take and Bake Dinner, as well as baked goods. The deadline to order is November 18th, with pick up November 25th. Baked good offerings include pumpkin pie. Email them with your order.
• Props to Pat _ Maple Rapids (no info yet)
• Golly Gee Gluten Free – Lansing
  • See Golly Gee Gluten Free Thanksgiving options on their Facebook page. Options include stuffing mix, dinner rolls, various flavors pie, cinnamon rolls & more.
  • The deadline to order is Saturday, November 15th. Pickup is either at Holt farmer’s market on November 21st between 9-2 or at Williamston Senior Center at their holiday market on November 22nd from 10-2. They can schedule a different pickup through Nov 24th if those don’t work. Email Golly Gee to place an order.
• Taste Without A Trace – Okemos
  • Visit Taste Without a Trace’s Facebook page for Thanksgiving options. Visit her webpage to order. Deadline to order is November 16th, with pick up on November 21st at her new storefront in Leslie, MI.
    • Everything made by Taste Without a Trace is gluten free and dairy free.
• Dead Grain Bakery – Eaton Rapids
  • Find their Thanksgiving menu on their Facebook page. Options include 7 different flavors of pie, cookies and rolls, as well as sampler boxes. Order online via their online order form. Deadline to order is November 18th, with pick up on November 25th.
    • Holt-10 AM, Charlotte-12 PM, Eaton Rapids-3 PM
  • All items prepared in a dedicated gluten free home kitchen.
• Sister Sue’s Bakery – Laingsburg
  • See items available for order on her website. Mostly cakes and cookies, but she does make cinnamon rolls. No order deadline found.
• Meadowview Acres – St. Johns
  • Meadowview Acres has a shortened menu. She can do cinnamon rolls, muffins, and a either a pumpkin roll or a chocolate swiss cake roll. Visit her FB page to see the menu, and order via Facebook messenger.
• Off the Wheaten Path – Midland
  • Off the Wheaten Path in Midland is accepting Thanksgiving orders through November 16th. Pickup will be Tuesday November 24th. Menu items include Cutout cookies, Cinnamon roll, pumpkin roll, pumpkin pie, apple pie and rolls. See their Facebook page for more information. Send an email to order.
    • Everything is gluten free. Dairy free and vegan options available.
• Simply Gluten Free Kitchen – Bay City
  • Order your gluten free sourdough breads in time for Thanksgiving. Place pre-orders through her website. Options include pumpkin rolls, pies, dinner tolls, cinnamon rolls, and more. Deadline to order is Nov. 18th. Pickup is Nov 24th & 25th.
  • She will also be at the Merry Market at Bangor Twp Hall on Nov 21st from 9 am – 3 pm.
• Mrs. Lupo’s Bakery – Visit Facebook to see options.

Brighton/ Ann Arbor / Blissfield Gluten Free Baker Menus and Deadlines

• Mama Alana’s Pantry – Linden
  • Last day to order is November 17th for pickup and for shipping must be ordered by November 13th. All preorders will be ready for pickup on November 24th. Shipping orders will go out November 20th. Apple pie, rolls and stuffing mix is available. Place orders via their website.
    • All products are gluten-free, egg-free, dairy-free & nut-free. All products are made in a gluten-free, egg-free, dairy-free & nut-free facility.
• Everything Is Gluten Free – Brighton
  • All orders must be placed by November 18th. Pickup options include November 22nd and 26th. Pick-ups will be in Brighton (Holiday Glow) 11/21, Brighton, Ann Arbor, and Canton on 11/25.
  • Options include cakes, pumpkin rolls and pies, as well as bread and dinner rolls. Order via their online form.
    • Their products include other allergens.
• No More Belly Aching – Brighton
  • Thanksgiving items on their website include pies (apple, blueberry & cherry), dinner rolls and more. No deadlines given.
    • All No More Belly Aching baked goods are gluten free and dairy free. No More Belly Aching does not use any peanuts, tree nuts or soy, but are not certified “free” of those ingredients.
• Tasty Bakery – Ann Arbor
  • Pre-orders for pumpkin, pecan and and apple crumb pie are available now. You can also order dinner rolls. Deadline to order is Nov 20th . Visit website to order.
    • All items at Tasty Bakery are gluten, soy free and corn free. Most items are vegan.
• Nirit’s Bakery – Ann Arbor
  • They will offer Vegan pumpkin pie, Vegan Blueberry pie and Carrot cake/muffins. Deadline for ordering by Nov 20 and pickup or delivery by Nov 25. Delivery is $10 with 10 miles around around Ann Arbor.
  • Everything is gluten, dairy, nut and soy free.
• Dani Joy’s Baking – Blissfield (in former Nourish Juicery location)
  • Dani Joy’s Baking has just opened Thanksgiving orders on their website. Options include sandwich bread, dinner rolls, pies (pecan, apple and pumpkin), pie dough, and cookies. Deadline to order is November 21st. Pickup is November 25th.
    • Everything is gluten, dairy and soy free.

Oakland & Wayne County Gluten Free Baker Menus and Deadlines

• Simply Sweet Gluten Free Bakery – Oxford, MI
  • Simply Sweet’s Gluten Free Thanksgiving Menu includes dinner rolls, cinnamon rolls, mini pumpkin pies, apple crisp, donuts and cookies. Deadline is November 19th. Pick up date not given.
    • Their Facebook page states this is a 100% dedicated gluten free home bakery.
• Gluten Free Specialties – Rochester Hills
  • No pre-orders this year. First come, first serve at their bakery in Rochester. “We will be doing Pumpkin Pies, and our famous Caramel Apple Pies. We will also offer Dinner Rolls and Cornbread. (As well as all the Pumpkin inspired products that are currently out.) Due to time constraints, we will not be offering our Stuffing Mix this year. We do not take Pre Orders or Pre Pay. Everything is First Come, First Serve.”
• Bossy B’s Bakery – Royal Oak
  • Find Bossy B’s holiday menu on her website. Options include Pumpkin pie, apple pie, rolls and lemon cranberry cake.
    • Bossy B baked goods are gluten, dairy, and soy-free, with some vegan options available. (Please know that many of their baked goods contain oats.) We use no refined sugars, so you can savor the goodness without compromise.
• Rolling Scones – Plymouth
  • Rolling Scones will be offering a variety of scones, cinnamon rolls, stick buns and focaccia. Place you order via Rolling Scones’ email.
• Rumi’s Passion – Plymouth
  • Rumi’s Passion Thanksgiving menu includes bread, rolls, pies, coffee cake, cake rolls and cookie platters. Deadline to order is November 20th. (Earlier if they reach their capacity.)
    • Pick up is November 25th ONLY. When you order, you will pick a time slot. Call 734-335-7145 to place your order. Choose option 4, then option 1 to place your order. DO NOT EMAIL YOUR ORDER.
    • All Rumi’s Passion baked goods are gluten free and nut free. They offer dairy free and vegan options.
• Baked 4 U – Plymouth
  • Baked 4 U will be at the Plymouth – Canton Fall High School Arts & Craft Show on November 21st. Hours are 9 am to 3 pm. So make sure to stop in to grab some baked goods!
    • Baked 4 U products are gluten, dairy, and nut free. Egg free options available upon request 
• Love Kate’s Kitchen –
  • See Love Kate’s Kitchen Thanksgiving Menu on her Instagram page. Options include cinnamon rolls, salted caramel cheesecake, pumpkin vanilla chai cupcakes, and classic apple pie.
    • Deadline to order is November 19th. Pick up is November 25th. Must pre-pay when ordering. More info on her order form.
• Gluten Free Sassy Bee
• A Better Batch – Trenton
  • A Better Batch focuses on Keto baked goods. Their Keto Thanksgiving menu includes pumpkin and fruit pies, cheesecakes, dinner rolls and more. Deadline to order is November 21st Pick up is November 24th & 25th. Call (734) 307-3022 to order.
    • Everything they make is sugar free, gluten free and low carb

Macomb County Gluten Free Baker Menus and Deadlines

• Keto Katz Clinton Twp
  • Some Keto Katz products are available for shipping. If you need to order for shipping, the deadline is November 16th (Shipping Menu). The ordering deadline for local pickup is November 21st. (Pick up menu) Local pickup is November 25th Desserts and main dishes are available on both menus.
• Sweet Bree’s – Clinton Twp.
  • Sweet Bree’s menu offers the following items for Thanksgiving – 5 flavors of pie, filled cupcakes, macarons, dinner rolls and cinnamon rolls. Order through her website. Deadline to order is November 22nd, with pickup or delivery on November 25th.
• Chunki Monki Cookie Co. – Clinton Twp.
  • No pre-orders announced at this time. They mostly sell gluten free cookies, but also sell gluten free cinnamon rolls
    • All items gluten free, dairy free and nut free.
• Allergy Free Bakery – Shelby Twp
  • Their Thanksgiving menu includes pies, pumpkin rolls, apple crisp, tiramisu, vegan cheesecake and more. Deadline to order is November 21st. Pick up in store between November 23rd and 25th. Call 586-900-2253 to order. Croutons can be shipped.
    • All baked goods at Allergy Free Bakery are gluten free and free from the top 9 allergens.
• Missy’s Sweet Treats – Saint Clair Shores
  • Their Thanksgiving menu includes dinner rolls, focaccia, cinnamon rolls, pumpkin pie & apple pie, and cheesecake. Deadline to order is November 25th. View their full menu on Facebook, and DM them via FB to order.
• Bear Necessities – Auburn Hills – no preorders. On Nov 28th and 29th, they will be at the Henry Ford II High School ST. NICKS WAREHOUSE ART & CRAFT SHOW
• Born and Bread Bakery – Chesterfield Twp
  • Visit their website to pre-order for weekly Wednesday pickup.
• The Celiac Shack – Richmond
  • Visit their Facebook page for the menu. Apple Fritter Cake, Pumpkin Roll, and White Chocolate Cheesecake. Deadline to order is November 6th.

Northern Michigan Gluten Free Baker Menus and Deadlines

• Third Coast Bakery – Traverse City
  • You can order dinner rolls, pumpkin rolls, and stuffing mix from their website for shipping. Check Third Coast Bakery’s Facebook page for local offerings.
  • Pre-orders are due by Sun Nov 22^nd at 2 pm for pickup on either Tues 11/24 or Weds 11/25
    • All Third Coast bakes goods are gluten free and dairy free. Most are also egg free and soy free. Vegan options available.
• Honey Haven Baking Co. – Marquette
  • Honey Haven Baking Co. is taking pre-orders for Cinnamon Rolls, dinner rolls, chocolate chip cookies and stuffing croutons. Pre-orders are open now and end 11/22. Pick up is on 11/25 between 8am and 6pm. Order via this link.
    • Honey Haven baked goods are gluten, dairy, egg, and soy-free.

Which of these bakers have you ordered from before? What’s your favorite thing they make?

P.S. All images in this post are stock photos.

Originally published Nov 2024

The post Thanksgiving Menus and Deadlines from Michigan Gluten Free Bakers appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Stuffing or Dressing?

Stuffing. It’s the one thing that people miss at the holidays. Stuffing shouldn’t just be relegated just to the holidays, though.

I received a panicked email during Christmas, when someone’s stuffing mix supply ran out. I tried to encourage the writer that it’s not all that hard to make. Use the recipe for Bette Hagman’s gluten free cornbread, and you’re halfway to this delicious gluten free cornbread stuffing. Just make it ahead of time, so the cornbread has time to dry out a bit. Or toast it in the oven, after it has been cubed.

Gluten Free Bouillon

I originally posted this recipe for my gluten free cornbread stuffing in 2017. I did it in a hurry, because I wanted everyone to have it in time. However, it contained only one picture. To be honest, it wasn’t a great one.

So here I am, updating the post with images that tell more of the story. My recipe calls for using gluten free bouillon and water. (You can use chicken stock if you want.) Here are the bouillon brands I trust.

• Herb Ox
• Massel 
• Edward and Sons Bouillon Cubes

Why I Put Cranberries in My Stuffing

My recipe for gluten free cornbread stuffing contains one important ingredient. Cranberries. Some may not agree, but I feel it adds an added sweetness to the dish. When I can, I prefer to use Michigan brands, such as Graceland Fruit.

Other Uses for Stuffing, Like Waffles

Don’t wait for the holidays to make this gluten free cornbread stuffing. This dish is good anytime of the year. While it’s tasty with turkey, it’s succulent as a side to sausage as well.

You can use it to make my recipe for waffled stuffing. Use dry gluten free stuffing mix for homemade meatloaf. Try these Gluten Free Stuffing Cups from Eat At Our Table for individual servings.

More Gluten Free Stuffing Recipes

Don’t like cornbread? Want a recipe using regular gluten free bread? Or rice instead of bread? Or need it egg free or keto? Check out these recipes below.

• DIY Dry Gluten Free Stuffing Mix from Fearless Dining
• Classic Gluten Free Stuffing from One Lovely Life
• Gluten Free & Egg Free Stuffing from Heal Me Delicious
• Vegan Gluten Free Stuffing from Minimalist Baker
• Wild Rice Stuffing from Iowa Girl Eats
• Bread Free Root Veggie Gluten Free Stuffing by Wellness Mama
• Paleo Stuffing from 40 Aprons
• Low Carb Kale & Caramelized Onion Stuffing from Carbonaut
• Gluten Free Stuffing Muffins from Bread Srsly (individual servings)
• Stuffing for Two (sub gluten free bread) from Zona Cooks

Store Bought Gluten Free Stuffing Mixes

Check out my list of Gluten Free Thanksgiving Products for a list of gluten free stuffing mixes. I share direct links to each gluten free stuffing brand so you can use their search locator.

Print

Gluten Free Cornbread Stuffing

Course Recipes

Keyword cornbread dressing, gluten free dressing, gluten free stuffing

Prep Time 30 minutes minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 10 minutes minutes

Ingredients

• 1 small onion diced
• 2-3 ribs of celery chopped
• 2 sticks of butter or Earth Balance if dairy-free
• 2 tsp Gluten Free Bouillon
• 2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 2 tsp sage
• 1 tsp thyme
• 9 c cubed cornbread
• 1/2 c dried cranberries
• 2 1/2 – 3 c water

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350.
• Dice onion and chop celery. In large skillet, melt butter and saute onion and celery until onions are translucent.
• Add bouillon, salt, pepper, sage and thyme to sauteed mixture. Cook 2-3 minutes further.
• Place cornbread cubes in large baking dish, preferably one that has its own cover. Add to it the sauteed vegetable and herb mixture. Stir together along with dried cranberries.
• Moisten cornbread stuffing with water. You can adjust the level of water for your preferred level of moisture.
• Cover baking dish and cook for 25-30 minutes. Remove cornbread dressing from oven and let rest covered 5-10 minutes.

Do you enjoy cornbread stuffing anytime of the year, or just the holidays? What do you like to pair with it? Leave me a comment below!

**This page contains affiliate links. A small portion of your purchase goes to help fund this site. It does not impact the cost to you.**

Originally Published January 2017

The post Gluten Free Cornbread Stuffing appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

How to Roast a Butternut Squash

I find it hard to believe I hated butternut squash as a child. I could now eat it every day. There’s a natural sweetness that doesn’t require extra sugar. It’s like nature’s candy, but loaded with vitamin A. My husband’s grandmother cooked hers with orange juice, but I don’t think it’s necessary.

For this recipe, choose a medium to large sized butternut squash. Cut the squash down the middle, and spray with a bit of cooking oil. This prevents it from burning. Sprinkle it with a bit of salt, for flavor. Roast in a 350 degree oven for up to 45 minutes. You want to make sure it’s fairly tender so it purees easily.

Taste Republic Gluten Free Fresh Lasagna Noodles

I originally created this gluten free butternut squash lasagna in 2016. At that time, these noodles were under the brand name “RP’s Pasta.” RP’s Pasta still exists, but now their gluten free line of fresh pasta goes by”Taste Republic.” Their non-gmo product line includes fettuccine (hello, Trader Joe’s), cheese filled tortelloni & new grain free pastas.

Each package of Taste Republic gluten free fresh lasagna contains 12 sheets. The sheets measure 6 1/2 inches long and 4 inches wide. Ingredients includes “brown rice flour, water, tapioca starch, potato starch, whole egg, egg white, xanthan gum, salt, and glucone-delta-lactone.” GDL is a “natural acidifier found in wine and honey.”

Best Tip For Making Lasagna Prep Easier

I read a tip online for making lasagna that was a game changer. Not sure where, so I can’t credit the genius. Layout your NO BOIL gluten free lasagna noodles on a flat surface. Then, portion your ricotta mixture evenly between the noodles, and spread it out. It makes it so much easier to build your lasagna.

Often people ask about dairy free or egg free options. The noodles contain eggs, and the ricotta mixture contains egg & dairy. Barilla makes no boil gluten free lasagne sheets which contain no eggs or dairy. They might work in this gluten free butternut squash lasagna, but I haven’t tried it. This Healthy Vegan Lasagna from Fit Foodie Nutter could work well with the Barilla noodles.

Assembling Your Gluten Free Butternut Squash Lasagna

Before laying the first noodle in a loaf pan, coat the bottom of the pan with 1/4 cup of pureed butternut squash. The butternut squash is thinned with a chicken broth, which adds depth of flavor. I tend to keep my squash and meat mixture separate, but you could combine them after this step if you’d like.

Place on ricotta coated noodle on top of that first bit of sauce. Next I put a 1/2 cup of squash and 1/3 cup of the meat mixture. On top of that I add 1/3 cup of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layering process with the other two noodles. After baking it in the oven, it will look a bit soupy around the edges, but it will set up beautifully after 15 minutes.

Which Size Loaf Pan Should I Use?

This gluten free butternut squash lasagna evolved from a Lasagna for Two by Julie Yoon. I love watching her “how to” video on her website. I created this dish after first trying to use the Taste Republic lasagna noodles to make butternut squash ravioli. Yeah, that was an epic fail.

However, this lasagna tastes a million time better, IMO. I added finely chopped celery to the dish, as well as sage and thyme. Prepared with ground turkey, this lasagna tastes like Thanksgiving dinner, all in one pan. I first made this in a standard 9 x 5 pan. However, I found the 8 x 4 loaf pan I used for my buckwheat bread to work better.

Other Butternut Squash Recipes

Even though this gluten-free butternut squash lasagna is meant for two, we often cut it into three slices. This way my husband can have leftovers in his lunch the next day. Because it’s small, this is the perfect dish to take to a family Thanksgiving gathering. And no need to share. 😉

Looking to use up the rest of your squash? Try Eat At Our Table’s Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Macaroni and Cheese. Your kids wont’ know they’re eating vegetables! This Gluten Free Butternut Squash Banana Bread from Minimalist Baker sounds amazing too! And if you bake with coconut flour, these Butternut Squash Pecan Muffins from Gourmande in the Kitchen look delicious.

Print

Gluten Free Butternut Squash Lasagna for Two

Ingredients

For the meat mixture

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/2 onion finely chopped
• 1 rib celery finely chopped
• 1 tsp minced garlic 2 cloves
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 1/2 tsp sage
• 8 oz ground turkey
• 1/2 medium butternut squash roasted & pureed
• 3/4 c. chicken stock or broth

For the cheese filling

• 4 Taste Republic fresh gluten free lasagna noodles
• 1/2 c. ricotta cheese 4 oz
• 1/2 c. grated Parmesan
• 1 egg beaten
• 1/2 tsp dry parsley
• 1 1/3 c shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350. If you have not already, bake your butternut squash in the oven. Depending on the size of your squash, this should take 35-40 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool enough so you can handle it. 
• While the squash is cooking, prepare the ingredients for the meat mixture. In an iron skillet or dutch oven, melt 1 tbsp butter. To that, add onion and celery and saute until soft. This should take approximately 5 minutes. 
• To the pan, add the garlic, salt, sage and thyme. Cook for 30 seconds. 
• Finally, add the ground turkey and cook until the pink is almost gone. Try not to overcook it though, as turkey is very lean and we don't want it to dry out. If there's a touch of pink, it's okay, as we'll be baking this for almost an hour. When finished, turn off the skillet and remove from heat. Set aside.
• Next, mix the ingredients for the ricotta mixture. In a small bowl, combine the ricotta, grated Parmesan, egg and dry parsley. Mix with a fork or spoon until thoroughly combined. 
• Wait to move on to the final steps until your butternut squash is completely roasted and cool enough to handle. When it's cool enough to handle, scoop out the roasted squash into a food processor. Puree. When mostly smooth, add the chicken stock and puree until completely smooth. When you're finished, you should have approximately 2 1/4 cups of squash puree. 
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees, if it's not already on. 
• On a flat, clean surface, lay out 3 of the 4 lasagna noodles. Separate the filling between the 3 noodles, and spread it out over the noodles. 
• In the bottom of a 8×4 (or 9×5) loaf pan, spread out 1/4 cup of the pureed butternut squash. 
• Next, place one of the cheese lined noodles into the bottom of the pan. Top with 1/3 cup of the cooked meat, 1/2 cup of the pureed squash, and 1/3 c of mozzarella cheese. 
• Repeat twice, using the remaining cheese covered noodles. (You will have one plain noodle left.) 
• Place the remaining plain noodle on top, and gently press down to make sure the lasagna filling spreads out into the pan. 
• Top with the remaining meat, squash, and mozzarella cheese. 
• Spray a piece of aluminum foil with cooking spray. Place the sprayed side on top of the final cheese layer, and crimp the edges of the aluminum around the pain to seal. (The spray prevents the cheese from sticking to the foil.) 
• Bake in a 350 degree preheated oven, covered, for 30 minutes. 
• After 30 minutes, remove foil from the pan and continue to cook for another 15 minutes. If you'd like your cheese on top to be toasty, place under the broiler for up to 2 minutes. 
• Allow lasagna to rest for 15 minutes before serving. This allows the noodles to absorb any residual moisture. 
• **This recipe may work with Barilla gluten free lasagna noodles, but I have not tried it.

What creative ways do you use Thanksgiving leftovers? Have you created an amazing gluten-free dish after fixing a recipe mishap? Leave me a note below and we can learn from each other!

**In my first attempt in 2016, RP Pasta provided pasta for this post. 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!**

The post Gluten Free Butternut Squash Lasagna for Two appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Columbus Gluten Free Lunch/ Dinner

Choripan Argentine Grill (100% Gluten Free) (Dublin, OH)

For many years, I’ve attended the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Celiac Disease Conference. It was during one of these trips that I visited Choripan Argentine Grill. EVERYTHING is gluten free, and delicious. Well known for their empanadas, they also serve fries, pizza, wings and more. 

Bi Bi Bop Asian Gril (100% gluten free) (Polaris Shopping Center)

This national fast casual chain serves Asian inspired cuisine, and all of it is gluten free. It’s a place where you can build your own bowl, or you can choose one of their suggestions. I love the purple rice and sweet potato starch noodles. 

Bareburger (Short North Arts District)

True story. The first time I met Erica Dermer from Celiac and the Beast, we went to lunch at Bareburger. And I locked my keys in the car. Between that experience and their dedicated fryer, I will always have a soft spot in my heart for Bareburger. If it’s on the menu, get the Duck bacon. Trust me on this. 

Condado Tacos (Polaris Shopping Center, Dublin + 5 more locations)

My friend Cindy from Vegetarian Mamma introduced me to Condado Tacos, and I LOVE it. (There are 6 locations in Michigan.) Most of the menu is gluten free. Vegetarian and gluten free options are clearly marked on the menu. Get the queso. It’s so good I could drink it. There’s a Condado Tacos near the Columbus Zoo, too. 

Cap City Diner (Dublin, Gahanna & Columbus/Grandview) 

While I’ve not personally been to Cap City Diner, it’s on my bucket list of Columbus gluten free dining options to visit. They have a dedicated fryer, with fries, chicken strips, fish and more on the menu. They even have gluten free desserts! I hear rave reviews about this place all the time. 

Molly Woo’s  (Polaris Shopping Center) 

Molly Woo’s, like Cap City Diner, is part of the Cameron Mitchell restaurant chain. Each restaurant in their chain takes excellent care of gluten free diners. One of their chefs came to the Nationwide Children’s conference and explained the precautions they take for all food allergies and dietary restrictions. I was impressed. Please note that reservations are recommended for all of their restaurants, because they’re so popular. 

Preston’s Burgers (North Market)

Preston’s Burgers is the sister busines to Bake Me Happy, which is a dedicated gluten free bakery. And yes, they have dedicated fryers and gluten free fried chicken. I’ve not been here yet, but hope to go the next time I’m in town!

Columbus Gluten Free Baked Goods/ Dessert

Bake Me Happy (Columbus & Dublin)

Bake Me Happy is a 100% dedicated gluten free bakery. I love their pop tarts, and their gluten free version of Zebra cakes. Truly, there’s nothing here that I haven’t loved. The staff are great, too! 

Cherbourg Bakery (Bexley/ East Columbus)

I’ve been a loyal Cherbourg Bakery fan for YEARS. Seriously. My first visit there was in 2013, and I visit this quaint dedicated gluten free and nut free bakery every time I’m in town. Technically it’s in Bexley, just barely on the outskirts of Columbus. (They also have a location near Cincinnati.) Cherbourg is down the street from Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, which I highly recommend visiting as well. 

Gluten Free Biscuits By Daddy-O

Everything at this Gluten Free Biscuit shop is gluten free. In addition to biscuits, they’be also added pizza to their menu. In addition to selling hot biscuits, you can also buy their mixes.

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream (Downtown, Polaris, Dublin and 5 more locations)

If you’ve bought Jeni’s Ice Creams at your local grocery store, visiting them in person is even better. They have so many ice cream with gluten free inclusions, like their Gooey Butter Cake. Just let them know you have Celiac Disease, and they’ll scoop from a fresh tub. (Fun fact- Jeni’s Ice Cream Headquarters are in Columbus!)

Fully Gluten Free Bakehouse (formerly The Dipped Donut) – Delaware

Fully Gluten Free Bakehouse transitioned to a 100% gluten free bakery. My friend Cindy LOVES these donuts, and raves about them all the time. They even have dairy free options. It’s located in Delaware, which is north of Columbus. 

Places to Visit in Sylvania/ Toledo

If you’re traveling from Michigan, Sylvania will be on your way to Columbus. Don’t miss these great stops! There is also a BiBiBop Asian Grill in Toledo. 

Organic Bliss

Organic Bliss Deli and Bakery is a gluten free bakery and deli. They have great sandwiches, smoothies, and more. *Note- they do have non gluten free bread (made off premises) available for sandwiches, so be sure to clarify you want your sandwich made on gluten free bread. 

Natalie’s Cake Library

This new gluten free baker offers delicious gluten free desserts, and accommodates additional dietary restrictions. She also uses sprinkles made from natural dyes. She also has experience making dairy free, vegan, grain free and refined sugar free treats.

Erin Ann’s

As their Facebook page mentions, this business offers “consciously crafted ice cream, food, coffee & treats in the heart of Downtown Sylvania. Everything is dedicated gluten free, dye-free, soy- free & seed oil free with many other allergy accommodations.

Favorite Columbus Attractions to Visit

The Franklin Park Observatory and COSI Museum of Science and Industry top my list of favorite sights to see. The Experience Columbus website offers many more ideas, too. For more suggestions in Columbus and the rest of Ohio, check out the website, Visit Ohio Today. 

**Please note. Not all chain locations are on this map. I shared only a few to give you an idea of what’s around you. 

These are just a few of the great gluten free dining options in Columbus, and the surrounding suburbs. Do you have a different favorite place to visit? Let me know in the comments, and please share what steps they take to prevent cross contact. 

The post Columbus Gluten Free Dining Options appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Thankful, but Anxious?

It’s that time of year. Time to start planning you gluten free Thanksgiving dinner! However, it’s also a time of anxiety for those of us who have diseases where certain foods are our enemy. I’ve already seen the anxious comments on message boards, people afraid their families will not understand about cross-contact, or have friends who say that “a little wheat” won’t hurt.

My favorite part of Thanksgiving is the idea that everyone comes to the table.  “Family” includes more than just those united by blood, but also those united by love. Some people (rightly) may still not feel safe eating at another person’s house due to dietary concerns. However, I wanted to share some options that can make things easier for those who are newly diagnosed with Celiac Disease, or those who care for them.

Here’s my list of ways to let everyone come to the table, from Appetizers to deZZert. (A-Z, get it?)

Gluten Free Thanksgiving Appetizers

These appetizers are not only easy, but they’re relatively healthy as well. Here are my top 3 ideas.

1) Hummus and vegetables – I LOVE hummus. Seriously, what’s not to love?! Full of fiber and heart healthy fats, it should be at every dinner party. While I usually make my own from scratch, it is okay to buy store bought if you’re under the gun. Sabra and Tribe brands are gluten-free, and most brands of hummus are naturally gluten-free.

(Sesame allergy? – Hummus is made with tahini, which is ground up sesame seeds. If you have a sesame allergy, I suggest trying to make your own hummus with unsweetened Sunbutter.)

2) Cheese and Crackers –  BYOC.
As someone with Celiac Disease, we always know to bring our own crackers. My favorite crackers are Schar Table and Entertainment crackers. However, make sure you keep cheese and gluten free crackers on a separate platter from wheat based crackers. If wheat based crackers are on the same plate as the cheese, the cheese is no longer safe for those Celiac Disease, because of the cracker crumbs.  

3) Chex Mix – Store Bought Contains Wheat
Chex has a PLETHORA of fun gluten-free Chex mix recipes on their website! I’m super intrigued by this Cranberry Orange Chex Party Mix. If nut allergies will also be present at the dinner table, you can try subbing pumpkin seeds.

The Old Bird

1) Turkey – On message boards every year, it’s the same question. “Which turkeys are gluten-free?” You’d think the answer would be “all of the above,” but not necessarily. Because turkeys can be injected with flavorings and marinated in brines, some are these birds are on the “No-fly list.”

Luckily, Butterball brand proudly proclaims their turket and gravy packets contain no gluten! Honeysuckle White whole turkeys are also GF, as are Jennie-O.  You can find even more brands of gluten free Turkeys on my Gluten Free Thanksgiving Products post. 

2) Gravy– Truth- Homemade gravy is not that hard to make. Take the drippings from the bird, transfer them to apot, and cook it with a slurry made of cornstarch and water. (If you prefer using flour, I suggest  Bob’s Red Mill Rice Flour.)

But if the thought of making gravy from scratch leaves you feeling week in the wings, you can make Full Flavor Foods Turkey Gravy in just a few moments. This Michigan-Made product is made in a gluten-free, nut-free facility, and this particular gravy is dairy-free as well. Find more gluten free gravy options on my Gluten Free Thanksgiving Products post.

3) Cranberries – When I was a kid, I abhorred cranberry sauce. I think it’s because I’ve only had it from a can. Homemade cranberry sauce is a cinch to make and just tastes better. If you prefer dishes that are refined sugar free, you’ll love this recipe from The Pioneer Woman. Just remember it’s made with REAL maple syrup, not pancake syrup.

The (Gluten Free) Side Show

1) Stuffing – That’s right, I’m putting Stuffing as a side. The quickest way to break a gluten free eater’s heart is to put regular stuffing inside the bird when you cook it. Not only is the stuffing off limits, but now the bird is too, because of cross-contact.

If you’re nervous about making stuffing from scratch, there are many companies that are coming to your gluten free Thanksgiving Day rescue. The big excitement this year is that Aldi has their own Chicken and Turkey boxed stuffing mixes. Just melt butter, add water and bring to a boil. I also like Aleia’s GF stuffing. For more gluten free stuffing brands, visit my Gluten Free Thanksgiving Products article.

Looking for a homemade recipe? Try my gluten free Cornbread Stuffing, or this dairy free and gluten free stuffing from Meaningful Eats.

2) Green Bean Casserole – For so many years I thought I would never enjoy this dish again. But thankfully, there are stores and brands that offer gluten free french fried onions. Visit my post on Thanksgiving products to see which stores carry them. (Fresh Thyme has them.)

This dish would NOT be possible without Pacific Organic Cream of Mushroom Condensed Soup. It is the Holy Grail of cream soup. Now Campbell’s even has a gluten free version of their Cream of Mushroom soup. Just use your favorite recipe and sub the soup. Reminder- If your recipe calls for soy sauce, make sure that it is gluten-free!

3) Mashed Potatoes – Mashed potatoes were my first love after being diagnosed with Celiac Disease. I could eat them plain, drizzled with butter, and often covered in ketchup. (I know, my weirdness level is off the charts.)

The great thing is that mashed potatoes, unadulterated, are safely gluten free. I love to make mine from scratch, with bits of skin still on the potatoes, whipped with butter and plain Greek yogurt. A splash of milk for added creaminess, with dashes of salt, pepper & garlic powder. Have an Instant Pot? Use this mashed potato recipe from Wheat by the Wayside, this year.

This dish is pretty allergy friendly until you start adding dairy. For dairy free folks, I again suggest using Earth Balance buttery sticks. No one will know it’s not butter, trust me.

Our Daily Bread

Oh that awkward look when we say, “I can’t eat bread.” It’s like we’re speaking a foreign language or we must be from a different planet. And there’s the ever comforting comment, “Oh my, I’d die if I couldn’t eat bread.” Well lucky for us all, there are many delicious gluten-free bread varieties. Here are some suggestions that everyone will love.

1) Cornbread– While Jiffy mix cornbread is NOT gluten free, there are plenty of delicious and easy gluten free mixes out there on the market. I’ve long loved Bob’s Red Mill’s GF Cornbread Mix, but I’ve recently stared to enjoy Pamela’s Cornbread Mix. And cornbread muffins baked in liners are great for those with food allergies, because the liner provides another barrier of cross-contact from crumbs of muffins past.

But my favorite way to make cornbread is in my waffle maker. Seriously, folks it’s fast and easy and doesn’t take up room in your oven. The Pamela’s mix is much better for this. Remember, if you’re going to waffle your cornbread, it NEEDS to be done in a dedicated gluten free waffle maker. You have NO idea how stealthy gluten containing grains are and how much they love to hang out in your baking appliances.

Make my favorite easy gluten free cornbread, from Bette Hagman’s cookbook. Looking for a “corn free” version? Try Gluten Free Palate’s Paleo Cornbread this Thanksgiving.

2) Chebe – While this Brazilian Cheese bread is not a traditional flavor at a harvest feast, it is ridiculously easy to make and the mix is free of the most 9 common allergens. You can use this dinner roll recipe on their website, or just follow the basic recipe on the back of the box.

3) Homemade bread – My husband’s family traditionally eats homemade bread for basically every meal. A gluten-free Thanksgiving dinner should be no exception. Try My Gluten-Free Kitchen’s recipe for Pull Apart Dinner Rolls, or GF Jules Gluten Free Artisan Bread Recipe. Find brands that make gluten free rolls in my Thanksgiving Products post.

And NEVER make GF bread in a bread maker that’s been used for non-gf items. Just don’t. Ever.

Life’s Short, Eat Gluten Free Thanksgiving Dessert First

1) All Things Pie– If you are having someone over for dinner that has a food allergy, just a quick helpful note – we cannot just eat the pie filling and leave the crust. The cross-contact possibilities here are huge. Luckily, making pie with a gluten-free and allergen-free crust is really doable and, daresay, easy.

Not only does Chebe make great dinner rolls, you can use their all purpose mix to make a really easy-to-work with crust. A few years ago Chebe challenged me to make a pie with their crust. It took a few tries, but I’m proud to say that my recipe has received great reviews.

Once you have the recipe for the crust down, you can make a homemade pumpkin, pecan or apple pie in a snap. (All traditional versions of these fillings are gluten free, to the best of my knowledge. If a recipe calls for flour as a thickener, I again suggest Bob’s Red Mill Rice flour.)

And if regardless of food allergies, the idea of making a homemade pie crust terrifies you and keeps you up at night, Wholly Wholesome GLUTEN FREE pie crust is free of dairy, egg, soy and nuts. Find more premade gluten free pie crusts in my Thanksgiving Products post. 

Also, if you want to forego the crust, my family often makes the pumpkin pie filling by itself in a pie dish, and we call it pumpkin pudding. If you need a dairy free Pumpkin Pie, check out Minimalis Baker’s recipe for Vegan Gluten Free Pumpkin Pie.

More pie recipes –

30 Dairy Free & Gluten Free Pie Recipes from The Fit Cookie

40 + Gluten Free Holiday Pie Recipes from My Gluten-Free Kitchen

The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Gluten Free Pie from Fearless Dining

2) Pumpkin Roll– Years ago my friend Linda Fedewa introduced me to this marriage of pumpkin, cake and cream cheese. Pumpkin rolls are delicious and beautiful, and at first daunting. Trust me, if I can manage to pull this Small Batch Pumpkin Roll, so can you.

3) Cookies and ‘Cream– Regardless of the time of year, I’m always up for ice cream. A bowl of ice cream as part of a gluten free Thanksgiving meal is no exception. Pair with your favorite gluten free chocolate chip cookies, and the night is made. 

And if you’re dairy free, Coconut Bliss makes some of the best and most readily available dairy-free “ice cream.” If you can find it in yur area, Nada Moo is an excellent dairy free ice cream, as well.

Photo credit- foodsafetymagazine.com

Gluten Free Thanksgiving Pitfalls to Avoid!

1) Cross-contact is a VERY serious issue. It only takes a crumb of gluten to make someone with Celiac Disease sick, or a hint of an allergen to send someone to the hospital. Make sure to thoroughly clean pots and pans well. NEVER swap serving utensils during dinner, and don’t cook allergen free items in the same location as allergen containing foods. Have a separate butter dish for those with food allergies, as crumbs from non-gf breads will inevitably hitch a ride back to the dish.

2) Timing is everything. Make allergen free items before making allergen “full” items. Do your allergen free baking and food prep a full day before everything else. Gluten containing flours can remain free floating in the air for 24 hours or more.

3) Communication is key. Discuss your proposed menu with those with food allergies in advance (and not just the day before.) Fully disclose what you’re making and where allergens may be hiding. (Soy Sauce and Worcestershire Sauce are the sneakiest!)

Don’t hesitate to ask those with dietary restrictions to bring a dish to pass. We’re eager to help out and love to wow our friends and family with our allergen-free dishes! And in the end if someone chooses not to eat, don’t take it personally. We are the only ones that can truly safeguard our health.

The Reason for the Season

And on the flip side, my food allergy friends, remember that this time is about togetherness. Find ways to focus on those you’re with and not the foods you’re without. Plan ahead- eat beforehand if necessary or bring safe snacks with you. And remember to laugh and have fun. ‘Tis the Season.

And as I share in my 10 Tips for Surviving the Holidays, No is a complete answer.

Looking for more Thanksgiving ideas and recipes? Visit my friend Nicole, from Allergylicious, THE BEST Allergy-Friendly Thanksgiving Round-Up. Allergic Living wrote a post containing 50 Allergy Friendly Thanksgiving recipes free from gluten, and the top 9 allergens 

**Disclaimer- I am NOT paid in any way to mention the brands listed within this article. Chebe has sent me product to use from time to time, and many of these brands have been generous donors for our Celiac Disease camp or for the Food Allergy Bloggers Conference. I am in no way paid for any of these comments or views. **

Originally Published November 2015

The post How To Host A Gluten Free Thanksgiving Dinner appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

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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