What to Do with 8.5 lbs. of Blueberries

The first time I made this gluten free blueberry zucchini bread was in in 2013. I was recovering from an injury that August, which seems to be right on schedule for me. I had fallen down the stairs at my church and severely sprained my ankle.

As I hate crutches, I convinced my husband to bring up my rolling desk chair, which was in the basement. It became my personal scooter/wheelchair. It’s handy for when you want to do the dishes and make lunch.

Or make gluten-free blueberry zucchini bread because you recently picked 8.5 lbs of blueberries and you’re bored out of your mind.

What’s that you say? Your zucchini crop is starting to come in gangbusters? Yep, this gluten-free blueberry zucchini bread is definitely a necessity. (P.S. – The rolling chair also makes your dog look at you funny as he’s wondering WHAT on earth you’re doing.)

Inspiration for this Blueberry Zucchini Bread

I found this blueberry zucchini bread recipe on AllRecipes.com. For my loaf, I made many substitutions, including cutting the recipe in half. I used one of my new go-to gluten-free flours, King Arthur Baking Measure for Measure Flour.

I also substituted the oil with a 1/2 applesauce, 1/2 oil combo, just like in my applesauce bundt cake. The recipe appeared overly sweet, therefore I used half white sugar and half brown sugar, but less than the total amount listed in the original recipe.

Because I subbed some of the oil for applesauce, I also used fewer eggs than called for in the recipe. In many vegan recipes, applesauce is substituted for eggs.

Shredding & Squeezing Your Zucchini

I recently purchased a Hamilton Beach food processor, and it made mixing this recipe a breeze. I’ve never seen zucchini shred so easily!

However, if you don’t have one, you can shred your zucchini by hand with a box grater. (Just watch your knuckles and your finger tips!) I used almost a pound of fresh zucchini (one large), to equal the one cup, squeezed, needed for this recipe.

To make this gluten-free blueberry zucchini bread turn our perfectly, you want to squeeze the excess water out of it. (Just like in my cauliflower pizza.)

I shredded the zucchini first, then placed it in a clean kitchen towel, and squeezed out the excess water. I also rolled my blueberries in a little bit of cornstarch. This prevents your blueberries from sinking to the bottom of the loaf.

Streusel or Glaze- Yay or Nay?

Quite a few people suggested coating the top with a streusel mixture of flour, sugar and cinnamon. However, I think this gluten free blueberry zucchini bread is absolutely perfect on its own.

If you’d like to make these more portable, you could easily bake these as muffins. Just follow the guidelines I shared from King Arthur Flour in my Gluten-Free Banana Cinnamon Chip Muffins

If you’d like, you can make a quick glaze for this bread using 1/2 c. powdered sugar and 1 tbsp of milk. Did you know you can make your own powdered sugar? Simply put granulated sugar in a spice blender, and grind until powdered! I like it so much better than store bought, which can sometimes have a funny after taste.

Can I Make This Recipe Dairy Free? Egg Free?

As written, this recipe contains no dairy. It does contain one egg. While I have not tried it, a flax egg (1 tbsp + 3 tbsp water) should work. You could also use an egg replacer such as Bob’s Red Mill. Or try this vegan zucchini bread from Rhian’s Recipes. Looking for a grain free recipe? Try this Paleo Zucchini Bread recipe from Downshiftology.

Other Gluten Free Blueberry Recipes

Picking blueberries has become quite the tradition for us. Therefore I have lots of blueberry themed recipes on my site. From Grain Free Blueberry Pie, to Blueberry Pancake Casserole, and Blueberry Hand Pies, there’s bound to be something you like! My gluten free cream cheese stuffed, Blueberry French Toast Casserole is a favorite even among gluten eaters!

More Gluten Free Quick Bread Recipes

Looking for other quick bread recipes? My gluten free Peanut Butter Bread is quick and easy. What the Fork is the queen of quick bread, and she has a great gluten free zucchini bread recipe. Her Gluten Free Double Chocolate Zucchini Bread sounds fantastic, too!  Needing an egg free recipe? Try this Gluten Free Vegan Zucchini Bread recipe from Sarah Bakes Gluten Free.

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Gluten Free Blueberry Zucchini Bread

Equipment

• King Arthur, Measure for Measure Flour 3 Pounds
• Wilton Medium Loaf Baking Pan – 8 1/2″ x 4 1/2″
• Hamilton Beach Food Processor

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cup gluten-free flour I used King Arthur Measure for Measure
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp Chinese 5 Spice or cinnamon
• 1 cup shredded and squeezed zucchini
• 1 cup blueberries tossed in 1 tbsp corn starch

Wet Ingredients

• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp. lemon extract or vanilla
• 1/3 c brown sugar
• 1/2 c white sugar
• 1/4 c oil
• 1/4 c applesauce
• 1 tbsp lemon zest optional

Instructions

• Shred zucchini in a food processor or with a box grater. Transfer zucchini to a bowl lined with cheesecloth or a towel. Gather fabric around zucchini and squeeze out excess water. Return to bowl and allow to dry further.
• In a large bowl, mix together flour, salt, baking soda and powder, and spices. Add shredded zucchini and toss to coat. Then set aside. 
• In a small bowl combine egg, lemon (or vanilla) extract, sugars, oil and applesauce. If using dried lemon zest, add to wet ingredients and allow to rehydrate for 10-15 minutes. 
• Next, coat blueberries in one tablespoon of cornstarch to prevent them from sinking as they bake. The cornstarch also acts as a drying and binding agent to counteract some of the moisture released by the blueberries as it bakes. 
• Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, and stir to combine. 
• Gently fold blueberries into the batter.
• Allow batter to rest for 30 minutes. This helps the flour to fully absorb the moisture and fat. Don't skip this step. It will allow for a better and more uniform rise to your bread. While the batter is resting, preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
• Grease a 9×5 pan and gently transfer the batter to the loaf pan.
• Bake at 350 for 50-60 minutes. (I usually check it 30 minutes and rotate the pan 180 degrees.) Remove from the oven to cool, in pan, for 15 minutes, on its side. Then, remove loaf from pan to cool completely for 2-3 hours. (Or overnight.)

What’s your favorite type of quick bread? And what are your favorite ways to use zucchini? My friends keep dropping them off!

**This post contains 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 August 2013

The post Gluten Free Blueberry Zucchini Bread appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

What Is Monkey Bread?

Monkey Bread is a sweet layered bread, made by rolling balls of dough and cinnamon and sugar. It is traditionally baked in a round bundt pan. But where did this breakfast sweet treat originate from?

While doing some internet research, I landed on this article about Monkey Bread’s Journey to the US. According to this article from the Smithsonian, it is similar to a Hungarian dish called “aranygaluska.” Dating back to the 1880’s. this brunch staple was introduced to the US by Hungarian Jewish bakers.

What Ingredients Do You Use to Make Monkey Bread?

To create the fluffy bite-sized balls of dough, we need a dough that uses yeast. I use Bob’s Red Mill’s Gluten Free Pizza Crust Mix. All the flour, salt and other ingredients are mixed together. You just add the yeast (which comes with the mix), water, eggs and oil.

As for the topping, you’ll need butter, sugar, brown sugar and cinnamon. I like to use Relative Foods sugars and spices when I can. They’re a small family-owned Michigan business. And they’re produced in a dedicated gluten free facility. You can read more about them in my Gluten Free Cinnamon Roll post.

How Much Dough Does This Mix Make?

Once the dough is prepared, it creates approximately 32 ounces of dough. This is equivalent to two packages of Pillsbury refrigerated biscuit dough. While Pillsbury biscuit dough doesn’t contain yeast, we need it to make this dough rise.

This recipe for Gluten Free Monkey Bread is easy, although not quick. As it contains yeast, you do need to allow the dough time to proof in a warm place. Also, the dough takes time to roll into little balls. I highly recommend doing this with children and loved ones. As my husband’s Grandma Peg would say, “many hands make light labor.”

Can I Just Use A Biscuit Recipe?

I tried this with my homemade gluten free biscuit recipe, and it did not turn out well. The dough balls were dense and unsatisfying.

Can I Make This Without Eggs? Dairy? Yeast?

The mix for this recipe requires eggs. If you need an egg free recipe, I would try this Vegan Monkey Bread from Allergylicious. Her recipe is also yeast free. If you only need to avoid dairy, you can follow my recipe, and sub a dairy free butter, such as Earth Balance, for the coating.

What Kind / Size Pan Do You Use? I Don’t Have a Bundt Pan

Traditionally, Monkey Bread is baked in a 12 cup bundt pan. I recommend Nordicware bundt pans, because they’re made in the United States. If you don’t have a bundt pan, you can use TWO large 9×5 loaf pans.

Important Tips for Removing Monkey Bread from Pan

One important word about plating your Gluten Free Monkey Bread. Most recipes I researched stated to NOT leave it in the pan more than 5 minutes. Why? Because the caramel glaze will cause it to stick to the bottom of the pan.  The fun of monkey bread is pulling off a piece at a time. Can’t do that if it’s stuck in the pan.

Can I Make the Dough A Day In Advance & Bake The Next Morning?

I have never tried doing this. In An Oregon Kitchen’s homemade (non-gluten free) Overnight Make Ahead Monkey Bread recipe, she allows the dough to rise in the fridge overnight. (Instead of rising before rolling the dough.) So in theory, yes. However, I haven’t tried it. If I do sometime, I’ll come back and update you!

Can I Make This The Night Before and Reheat it in the Morning?

Again, I have not tried this. On the Pillsbury website, they recommend reheating monkey bread at 200 degrees. Leave it in the oven for 10-15 minutes, checking on it after 10 minutes.

Other Recipes Made with Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free Pizza Crust Mix

There are many things that you can make with Bob’s Pizza Crust Mix. For example, I use it for my Gluten Free Soft Pretzels. It can also be used to make gluten free cinnamon rolls. Or try this Apple Dessert Pizza. Want something savory? Use the dough from this mix to make Gluten Free Pizza Pull Apart Bread.

Presentation Doesn’t Have to be Perfect

When I took these photos, I didn’t own a cake stand. So, I improvised. I used a platter from our china set, and placed it on top of a candle holder. Recognize the pattern? I used the same china in the pictures for my Gluten Free Almond Butter Chai Cookies. The set previously belonged to my husband’s grandmother, Merle. She baked extensively, and was widely known for her cake filled with homemade lemon curd.

Recipe

Print

Gluten Free Monkey Bread

Prep Time 1 hour hour

Cook Time 35 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 35 minutes minutes

Equipment

• Roasted Ground Cinnamon Powder bulk (16oz)
• Organic Brown Sugar Bulk Resealable bag (3lb)
• Organic Cane Sugar Crystals (5lb) –
• Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free Pizza Crust Mix – 16 oz – 2 Pack
• Nordic Ware Pro Cast Original Bundt Pan, 12 Cup, Grey
• Pyrex 2 Piece Glass Measuring Cup Set, Includes 1-Cup, and 2-Cup

Ingredients

For the dough

• 1 pkg Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free Pizza Crust Mix
• 1 1/2 c warm water 105-110 degrees + pinch sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 2 large eggs room temperature
• 2 tbsp oil

For the coating

• 1/2 c – 3/4 c white sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

For the sauce

• 1/2 c butter 1 stick
• 3/4 c brown sugar
• pinch cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice

Instructions

• Turn oven to 200 degrees. When it is finished preheating, turn the oven OFF and leave the door closed. Spray a bundt pan with oil cooking spray.
• First, measure water in a glass measuring cup or place in glass bowl. Add a pinch of sugar to help the yeast have something to "grow" on. Add yeast and allow to proof 5- 10 minutes.
• In a large bowl (or stand mixer bowl), add room temperature eggs and oil. Using the paddle attachment (if you don't have a stand mixer, just use a hand mixer), stir eggs and oil. Then add proofed yeast water.
• Finally, add the Bob's Red Mill Pizza Crust mix. Combine thoroughly.
• Transfer dough to an large (preferably glass) bowl. Cover dough with plastic wrap, and place in warmed oven to proof dough for 45 minutes. After dough has proofed, remove from oven, uncover, and allow to come to room temperature. (I stuck mine in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.)
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a small bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice. (If you don't have pumpkin pie spice, simply use more cinnamon instead.)
• Retrieve cooled dough. Using the tip of a spoon, drop bits of dough in sugar mixture and loosely roll into balls. Place rolled dough balls in bundt pan, and fill bundt pan.
• After all dough has been rolled, melt butter in a small sauce pan. Add brown sugar, and a pinch of pumpkin pie spice if desired. Pour melted butter mixture over top of dough balls.
• Place bundt pan on top of cookie sheet (just in case it cooks over!) and bake in preheated oven fr 30-35 minutes.
• Once finished baking, remove from oven and allow to cool in pan for 5 minutes. (Not a moment longer, or the cooled sauce may cause it to stick in the pan!) Invert monkey bread onto serving dish. Serve warm.

Can’t find the Bob’s Red Mill pizza crust mix? Try one of the yeasted pizza dough recipes in my pizza blog post.

**This post is not sponsored, however it does include Amazon affiliate links.**

Originally Published December 2018

The post Gluten Free Monkey Bread Made From Pizza Dough appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

One of My Most Popular Recipes

Years ago I made Gluten Free Resurrection Rolls and EVERYONE loved them. The recipe went viral on Facebook. I think it reached something like 20,000 people. Well, almost everyone loved them. One person made them without the marshmallows, and said they were dry and awful. Therefore, I’ve been meaning to make straight up gluten free crescent rolls.

So, I made them again. And again. And again, until I felt I got them right. Now of course, I have a freezer full of rolls and a waistline that doesn’t need them. Yeah, don’t need to grow there, lol. *It’s 2020, and I’ve made them again, with a time saving change. I completely cut our the 90 minute rise time. Read below to learn more.

Can I Make These Dairy Free? Egg Free?

Extra butter. That’s what my recipe was missing last year. Not in the recipe, but ON the rolls itself. The picture above probably looks like shaggy flour, but it’s not. It’s dough covered with a thin layer of butter. Think of your circle of rolled dough as a pizza crust, and butter as the sauce. Make sense? Don’t skip this step, or your rolls will be dry.

Speaking of butter, I have not yet tried these gluten free crescent rolls sans dairy. Cup 4 Cup Multipurpose Flour recently removed milk powder from their Multipurpose blend. (The ingredients changed in fall of 2024.) I used shortening in my second attempt in these rolls, and was not excited about it. For those who need a dairy AND egg free recipe, please try these Gluten Free Vegan Garlic Crescent Rolls from Petite Allergy Treats.

Also, using less flour than before improved this recipe. Note, GF flours absorb moisture differently.

How To Roll Crescent Roll Dough

I conquered the dough for these gluten free crescent rolls. Next, to master the actual rolling. I based my recipe on the one from Betty Crocker. That cookbook recommends making 16 crescents. (Smaller rolls pictured above.) Can I be honest? Too small. If I’m gonna go to the trouble of making rolls from scratch, I want more than just two bites.

Therefore, in my next attempt I cut my circle to make 8 gluten free crescent rolls. Go big or go home, right? Next time, I may make 12 though. No need for carb overload, right? A tip on how to form your gluten free crescent rolls. First, roll the wedge of dough forward from the outside edge, in toward the center. This helps you form those perfect spirals.

**Time Saving Update – Roll, Rise and Bake (Fall 2020)

This recipe for gluten free crecent dough has been my “go to” for so many things. However, after talking with Jules Shepard, I’ve made some tweaks. In the past, I’ve allowed the dough to rise, then rolled them, then allowed them to rise again. She said the second rise was unnecessary. You can hear more of her baking tips in my May 2020 interview with her.

So, I took her at her word, and made them again, with her advice. I eliminated the 90 minute dough rise all together. Once the crescent dough was formed, I rolled it, brushed it with butter, and then cut and rolled the dough into crescents rolls. Then I allowed them to rise in a warm spot for 30 minutes. Once risen, I preheated the oven to 350 degrees and baked them for 12 minutes. I took pictures of the rolls made with the shorter process, and I must say that they taste amazing!

What to Serve with Gluten Free Crescent Rolls

My husband and I ate these rolls with a dinner of roasted chicken, green beans, gluten free au gratin potatoes and my mother-in-law’s famous lemon cake. We don’t eat pork, but these would pair great with your Gluten Free Easter ham.  Or make this Roast Beef from Allergy Free Alaska, and have delicious leftovers!

Other Uses For This Dough

I use this crescent dough to recreate all the “Pillsbury” based recipes you miss. Use this dough to make Pigs in a Blanket, Mountain Dew Apple Dumplings, and Cheeseburger Crescent Rings. (Do not baste the inside of the roll with butter, tho.) I also use this dough to make Gluten Free Resurrection Rolls, which are perfect for Easter.

***Important Note – This recipe was made with Cup 4 Cup flour. I’ve tried it with other flours, and have not had good results. For successfull crescent rolls, please make these with the flour I recommend. If you use a different flour blend, I can not guarantee that you’ll have good results.

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Homemade Gluten Free Crescent Rolls

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword rolls

Servings 12

Equipment

• Pyrex Smart Essentials 3-Piece Prepware Mixing Bowl Set, 1-Qt, 1.5-Qt ,and 2.5-Qt Glass Mixing Bowls,
• Pyrex 2 Piece Glass Measuring Cup Set, Includes 1-Cup, and 2-Cup
• Cup4Cup Multipurpose Flour, 3 Pounds
• Fleischmann’s Yeast, Active, Dry, 0.75-Ounce Packet (Pack of 9)

Ingredients

• 1 pkg active yeast or fast rise yeast
• 6 tbsp warm water 105-110 degrees
• 4 tbsp sugar divided
• 1 3/4 cup "Cup4Cup" flour 210 grams
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 c. butter COLD, cut into small pieces
• 1 egg room temperature
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Additional 2 tbsp softened butter for spreading and basting

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 200 degrees. (We are warming the oven to create an environment for proofing the dough. You will turn it off prior to putting the dough ball in the oven. Turn it off once it reaches 200 degrees) 
• To begin, proof your yeast. I use a glass 2 cup measuring cup to do this. Mix the yeast and 1 tbsp sugar together. To that, add your warm water and allow to proof for 5-10 minutes. It should easily double in size, if not more. 
• **Update – You can also use instant rise yeast, which requires no proofing. Simply add the dry yeast to the blend of flour and sugar. Add warm water to the dough as the recipe calls for. 
• Meanwhile cut your cold butter into the flour+ cornstarch. I use a food processor to do this. However, you can use a pastry cutter, or simply use your hands to mix it in. Transfer flour mixture to a large bowl.
• To that add the egg, salt, 3 tbsp sugar and proofed yeast. (Or just warm water, if you used rapid rise yeast.) Mix until all of the water is absorbed, and a dough ball forms.
• TURN OVEN OFF. (If you haven't already.) 
• Place dough on a lightly floured surface. (I like to use parchment paper.) Using a rolling pin, roll into a 12 inch circle. Gently spread approximately 2 tbsp softened butter on top of dough. 
• Cut dough into 12 (or 8) sections. Working from the outside, roll each individual triangle towards the center to create your crescent. Place your rolls on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet.
• Place rolls in the warmed (but turned off) oven. Allow to rise for 30 minutes.
• After rolls have risen to almost double their size, remove rolls from oven, and preheat oven to 350 degrees. While oven is heating, brush each roll with a thin coat of butter to prevent over browning while baking. Oil can also be used.
• Once oven comes to temperature, bake rolls in oven for 12-15 minutes. I always rotate my pans halfway through the baking cycle. 
• After rolls are done, remove from oven, and serve warm. If desired, brush with any remaining melted butter. 
• Freeze any remaining rolls for later. 

This post is not sponsored by Cup 4 Cup. However, Plan It Products did give me a the Cooking Liner free of charge while I was at the International Housewares Show. It works like thin parchment paper, but is reusable. I have to admit, I LOVE it! Next I need to see how it compares to using a silpat versus parchment paper. Who wants cookies?

This post does contain Amazon 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 April 2019

The post Homemade Gluten Free Crescent Rolls appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

St. Patrick Facts

Here’s a bit of St. Patrick’s Day trivia. He did not drive the snakes out of Ireland. As a matter of fact, when Patrick arrived in Ireland in the 6th century, there were no snakes there anyway. So we’ll have to create our own dough “snakes” as we make these Garlic and Onion Grain Free Shamrock Rolls.

Break out your inner childhood and preschool PlayDough days. We’re on a (dough) roll now. Just make sure to flour your surface so the dough doesn’t stick. To keep this grain free, use tapioca starch / flour. If you’re not a completely grain-free eater, rice flour will work well too.

What is Chebe? 

I chose Chebe Bread Garlic and Onion Breadstick mix for this recipe. It contains no grains, gluten, gmo’s, or any gross words you can’t pronounce. It holds together beautifully, rolls well, and tastes just as amazing as it smells.

Chebe Bread is based on Brazilian cheese bread. While other similar brands may come in frozen, preshaped balls, Chebe Bread comes in a versatile mix that can be adjusted for a plethora of food allergies. In fact, there are over 200 recipes on their website.

How Easy is it to Make Shamrock Rolls?

While the dough recipe for these Grain Free Shamrock Rolls is mine, the shape originated with Sue from “Creative Try-Als.” She gives a step by step tutorial of how to shape her St. Patrick’s Day Shamrock Buns. Luckily, this Chebe Bread dough is very forgiving if you don’t get the shape right the first time. Simply ball it up and roll again.

Speaking of forgiveness, did you know that St. Patrick wasn’t born in Ireland? He was kidnapped from Britain, forced to work as a slave in Ireland, escaped, AND THEN CAME BACK! Why? To share the Gospel with those that wronged him. Now THAT’S an amazing level of forgiveness there!

How to Form Grain Free Shamrock Rolls

So back to these Garlic and Onion Grain Free Shamrock Rolls. Hopefully you can see from this close-up how to shape these rolls. The first two holes form by looping the dough over each other. The last hole forms by tucking the remainder of the dough under the top loop.

That was the trickiest bit for me to figure out. Simply tuck it under. No need for pinching the dough together. This dough gets brushed with an egg wash made from one egg and one tablespoon of milk. I sprinkled the Garlic and Onion Grain Free Shamrock Rolls with a touch of salt, too. It makes all the difference.

What do Shamrocks Have to Do with St. Patrick’s Day?

Ever wonder what shamrocks have to do with St. Patrick’s Day? Legend has it that St. Patrick used the shamrock to explain the Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Ghost) to people in Ireland. However, that really may be more legend than fact. Regardless, it stands as a symbol of Irish heritage and pride for many

Do These Grain Free Shamrock Rolls Contain Yeast? 

Did I mention that not only are these Shamrock Rolls grain-free, but they’re also yeast-free? Look at how well they rise and bake. They bake nice and crusty on the outside and soft and doughy on the inside. Want to know my magic trick?

I made a small change from the box mix directions. Butter. I used cold butter instead of oil, and I used three tablespoons of butter instead of two. I made the dough in my food processor and blended the butter and mix first, then added the other ingredients.  The ball of dough that comes out is so unbelievably soft.

What Should You Serve with Shamrock Rolls?

The smell of these Garlic and Onion Grain Free Shamrock Rolls when they come out of the oven is nothing short of heavenly. Just sitting here thinking of the smell makes my mouth water. Serve them hot with your favorite meal.

They pair perfectly with a traditional St. Patrick’s dinner of corned beef, cabbage and roasted potatoes and carrots. It’s like the Irish flag itself, with the green from the cabbage, the white of the roll and the orange of the carrots. So like in Ireland I’ll say “Sláinte” (to your good health) and wish you a fabulous St. Patrick’s Day!

Where Can I Buy Chebe Mix?

Want to learn more about Chebe recipes? Check out the Blueberry Pie, Thanksgiving Pasties, and the Cinnamon Rolls I’ve made using their mixes! To say I’m a major fan of their products would be an understatement. Use the Chebe store locator to find them in a store near you.

Print

Grain Free Shamrock Rolls

Ingredients

• 1 box Chebe Garlic- Onion Breadstick Mix
• 3 tbsp butter cold and cut into cubes
• 2 eggs room temperature
• 4 tbsp milk preferably soured

For the Egg Wash

• 1 egg beaten
• 1 tbsp milk

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
• In a food processor, combine the chebe mix and butter. Pulse until butter is completely incorporated into the dry mix. 
• Remove top to food processor and crack in two eggs. Replace lid and pulse until eggs are completely blended into the batter. This may take several pulses. If needed, remove lid and use rubber scrapper to clean down sides. 
• Finally, slowly add milk to the food processor through the hole in the top. Do so while the mixer is on, until a soft dough is formed. 
• Remove dough ball from food processor and transfer to a flat surface. Make sure to get any remaining bits of dry mix from the processor and add to dough ball. Knead 5 or 6 times until a small, round dough ball forms. 
• Divide the ball of dough into four sections, and lightly flour your work surface. Roll one section into a long "snake" (approx. 18 inches) with your hands, using equal pressure rolling from the center out to the ends. 
• Now to form the shamrock rolls. Start by leaving enough dough for the stem, about an inch and a half. Then create a loop to the left and then another at the top. (See image above) Finally, create your third loop by tucking the remaining dough underneath the top loop. Place shamrock rolls on a cookie sheet, line with parchment paper. 
• Brush dough with a mixture of egg and milk. Sprinkle with salt. Chill for 10 minutes in the freezer or fridge prior to baking. 
• Bake in a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes, until tops are golden brown. Serve hot. 

I was compensated for this post by Chebe. However all thoughts and opinions are my own, and I have been a giant fan of these products long before working with them. This page also contains Amazon affiliate links.**

Originally Published March 2018

The post Garlic and Onion Grain Free Shamrock Rolls appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Gluten Free Kefir Biscuits

So often in Facebook groups, I see people asking for brands that make premade, “whack and unwrap” gluten free biscuits. The reality is that there is not a brand that makes those. Which means we’ll have to make them ourselves. Luckily, gluten free biscuits aren’t that hard to make. The dough freezes exceptionally well, too!

What is Kefir?

So glad you asked. Kefir is like a drinkable yogurt. It’s a fermented milk beverage, created by adding bacteria and yeast cultures. (Because of its fermentation, it’s often called the “Champagne of Dairy.”) The probiotics found in kefir help create good bacteria for the gut. This keeps us healthy, and may even help us sleep better!

Why I Choose Lifeway Plain Whole Milk Kefir Over Buttermilk

Simply put, I don’t keep buttermilk in my house. It seems to be primarily used in baking, and I just don’t bake with buttermilk often. Kefir, however, I can use in lots of ways.

Especially as the base of a smoothie with lots of fruit! (Or this Sweet Potato Pie Smoothie!) Plus it works great as a Turkey Brine, or as a buttermilk substitute in this Oven Fried Chicken recipe. (Check out the chicken in a biscuit photo, below. Crazy good!)

In addition, Lifeway’s Organic Whole Milk Plain Kefir has less sodium, cholesterol and carbohydrates than buttermilk. While my local store’s house brand of buttermilk has 340 mg of sodium, Lifeway Kefir only has 125 mg. That’s a 200+ mg difference! (They both contain the same milkfat.) Please note that Lifeway also makes a 1% fat plain kefir. That is not what I’ve used in this recipe.

Can These Biscuits Be Frozen?

First, one batch of dough for my Gluten Free Biscuits weighs between 15-16 ounces. A can of Pillsbury biscuits weighs 16 oz. Also, the beauty of this biscuit dough is that it freezes well ! Prep a batch of these over the weekend, stick the uncooked biscuits in the freezer, and then pull out how many you need and bake them from frozen!

Also, these don’t take a long time to make. This recipe only uses 6 ingredents- flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, butter and Lifeway’s 3.25% Plain Kefir. One batch of my Gluten Free Biscuit dough should take you less than 20 minutes to pull together.

Can I Use This Gluten Free Biscuit Recipe to Make Gluten Free Monkey Bread?

No. I tried it, and it doesn’t really rise well enough. I recommend the Gluten Free Monkey Bread recipe I have on my site. Another person mentioned they previously used Pillsbury biscuits to make Gluten Free Pigs in a Blanket. I would recommend using my recipe for that, which uses yeasted cresent dough. (And also Cup 4 Cup flour.)

Can I Use This Recipe to Make Gluten Free Chicken Pot Pie/ Bubble Up?

Yes! I made the above dish based on the recipe on the Pillsbury website. To substiute the Campbell’s soup, I used Flippin’ Delicious’ recipe for homemade Gluten Free Cream of Chicken Soup. Of course this recipe for Gluten Free Biscuits would work well for Biscuits and Gravy. I like using Full Flavor Foods Cream Sauce Mix for this.

Can I Make This Dairy Free? Grain Free?

This recipe contains butter and Kefir. I would not recommend making dairy substitutions. If you need gluten and dairy free biscuits, try Allergy Free Alaska’s Gluten Free Biscuits. My recipe is already egg free, so no worries there.  If you’re looking for a grain free option, try these Herby Paleo Biscuits from A Saucy Kitchen.

Can I Use a Different Gluten Free Flour Blend?

I created this recipe using Cup 4 Cup Multipurpose Flour. I have tried this recipe with other flour blends, and DO NOT recommend using a different flour. Using a different flour blend will result in a denser biscuit. If you prefer to use Bob’s Red Mill, try these Gluten Free Southern Biscuits from Gluten Free Palate. If you use King Arthur’s Measure for Measure, try these Gluten Free Buttermilk Biscuits from Bakes & Blunders.

Jump to Recipe

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Gluten Free Biscuits

Keyword biscuit, gluten free biscuit

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 35 minutes minutes

Equipment

• Cup4Cup Multipurpose Flour, 3 Pounds
• Dreamfarm 3mm Ograte – Medium
• Pyrex 3-Piece Prepware Mixing Bowl Set, 1-Qt, 1.5-Qt ,and 2.5-Qt

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 c. "Cup 4 Cup" Multipurpose Flour Blend 182 grams
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 6 tbsp butter frozen and grated
• 3/4 c Lifeway Organic Plain Whole Milk Kefir + 1 tsbp 3.25%

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Give it a quick stir so that all the dry ingredients are equally distributed. 
• Over the bowl, grate 6 tbsp frozen butter. (If you're going to freeze the biscuits before baking, you can use refrigerated butter.) The reason we use frozen butter is to keep the dough as cold as possible before baking. As the butter melts, it will add lift. 
• Gently fold the butter into the flour mixture until all the grated butter is coated in flour. 
• Next, add in the (cold) Whole Milk Kefir and stir with a rubber spatula, until a ball of dough starts to form. You may want to let the dough rest a few minutes to allow the flour to absorb the moisture from the Kefir. 
• When you're ready to cut out your biscuits, place the dough on parchment paper that's been lightly coated in flour. Gently pat it into a rectangle. (Don't roll it!) Pat it into a rectangular shape. 
• Next, fold the dough over itself, and then pat into a rectangle again. Repeat this 5-6 times. This is to help "laminate" the butter in the dough, to create layers when the biscuits bake. (Which helps to create a fluffier biscuit.) 
• (Add more flour to keep the dough from sticking as you fold, if needed.) 
• Cut the dough into 8 equal portions. I prefer to keep them in squares. They can also be cut into round circles. Whether you cut them into squares or circles, cut with a straight edge or round circle, from above.
• Bake biscuits in a 450 degree oven. Bake 13-15 minutes if fresh, 15-19 minutes if frozen.

Notes

Recipe inspired by The Kitchn

**Lifeway Kefir financially sponsored this post. 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 November 2021

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Bagels are Like Donuts, But Bread

Believe it or not, I don’t think I “enjoyed” my first bagel until I was in college. I put enjoyed in parentheses, because I don’t really remember eating a bagel prior to college. I remember that it was a Big Apple Bagel, and I’m pretty sure at that time I disliked cream cheese.

Oh how times have changed.

I LOVE bagels, and I definitely enjoy a good helping of cream cheese. I also know my weakness for them.  Thus, I don’t buy them often because I know I’ll eat the whole bag in a week.

My husband will tell you that I don’t so much like bagels, but bread in the shape of the circle. I want my bagels soft and tender, not hard and chewy. His statement gave me a brilliant idea. Bagels are round with a hole in a center. Doughnuts are round with a hole in the center. Bread dough can be piped. Are you following my logic?

How to Make Gluten Free Bagels With A Gluten Free Bread Mix

Lucky for me, I recently received a Pamela’s Gluten-Free Bread Mix in my American Gluten-Free box. (This company no longer exists.) So, on an inspired weekday, I broke our my bread machine and my donut pan, and got to work on a batch of easy gluten-free bagels.

Making anything with yeast is my absolute nemesis. Therefore, I use my bread machine to prepare and proof the dough. It creates the optimal environment.

Once the dough for these easy gluten-free bagels has fully proofed, I dump the dough into a gallon Ziploc bag. From there it’s a simple snip of a corner and it becomes a make shift pastry bag!

Finally, pipe the dough into lightly oiled Wilton donut pans, lightly brush with egg whites, and sprinkle with a bit of salt. You could season it with anything you like, I suppose. If you’re lucky enough to live near a Trader Joe’s, you could use their Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend.

How Many Gluten Free Bagels Will This Make?

From there it’s a simple bake in the oven. These easy gluten-free bagels bake much faster than a loaf of bread. I baked mine approximately 15 minutes, similar to a muffin. Because ovens are different, I suggest checking it after 10 minutes. Once they come out of the oven, you can enjoy them immediately!

This mix made twelve of these easy gluten-free bagels. After I enjoyed one (or two), I sliced the bagels and placed them in a new, clean Ziploc bag and stuck them in a freezer. Now I have bagels for my husband and I anytime we want!

Can I Use A Different Gluten Free Bread Mix?

This can be done with any bread mix, as far as I can tell. I also made them with Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free Homemade Wonderful Bread Mix. However, I preferred the texture of the Pamela’s Bread mix for this purpose.

Other Uses for Your Donut Pans

These easy gluten-free bagels are a great alternative use for a donut pan. Want some other creative ideas for a donut pan? Stop over at Tiffanie Turner’s site, Corner Blog, for 60 Donut Pan Ideas! For example, make bird feeders, ice rings for punch and even giant candy necklaces!

Of course, you can use my favorite Wilton donut pans to make donuts in them as well. Check out my recipes for Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts, or visit In Johnna’s Kitchen for 52 Gluten Free Donut Recipes. 

What’s your favorite thing to make in a donut pan? Donuts? Bagels? Something else entirely? Leave me a note below, because I may just want to try it!

**This page contains affiliate links. Buy purchasing through those links, a small portion of your purchase comes back to help support this website. No additional costs are passed on to you. Just added support to keep this page running!**

Originally Published January 2018

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Is Buckwheat Gluten Free?

Despite its name, buckwheat doesn’t contain wheat. It’s actually a seed and a member of the rhubarb family. It is an excellent source of heart-healthy nutrients. A 1955 study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, showed that consumption of buckwheat lowered total cholesterol while improving HDL cholesterol levels.

Buckwheat contains a very high level of a flavonoid called rutin. This prevents blood clots by hindering the production of blood clots. According to the website World’s Healthiest Foods, buckwheat is also very high in magnesium, which relaxes blood vessels and improves blood flow.

Choose Your Buckwheat Flour Wisely

While buckwheat is a naturally gluten-free grain, please remember that cross-contact with gluten containing grains can occur in processing. This issue was highlighted in a study done by Tricia Thompson of Gluten Free Watchdog and dietitian Anne Lee. Please make sure that the buckwheat you are purchasing is certified gluten-free.

Although Papa Earle originally used Bob’s Red Mill Buckwheat Flour for this recipe, it is not made on their dedicated gluten-free line. For this refresh, I used Arrowhead Mills organic gluten free buckwheat flour. It is certified through the Gluten Intolerance Group.

What Size Loaf Pan Should I Use?

The shape and size of your loaf pan determines the height of your dough. Choosing the right pan makes the difference between a flat loaf, and one that bakes up high an beautiful. For years I have owned only the standard loaf pan, which is 9 x 5. Some may call it a large loaf pan.

However, I stopped at JoAnn Fabric, looking for a narrower pan. I found this Wilton Medium Loaf pan. Ironically, when I returned home, I noticed the recipe called for a medium loaf pan. *facepalm* Visit this King Arthur post on Choosing the Right Bread Pan for more info. I also recommend Simply Recipes’ Guide to Loaf Pans for more info on pan sizes and how different pan materials affect baking rate.

I always recommend using parchment paper to line pans. Baked goods come out so easily! 

Dairy Free Options for this Gluten Free Buckwheat Bread

A reader asked if I had suggestions for a dairy free replacement for the buttermilk in this recipe. I contacted Alisa of Go Dairy Free. She wrote The Ultimate Guide and Cookbook for Milk Allergies, Lactose Intolerance and Casein- Free Living. She’s the one I always chat with when it comes to dairy free substitutions.

I asked if she found a specific dairy free milk that works best in her Baseline Buttermilk Alternative Recipe. She stated that all of them work about the same, and it depends what flavor profile works best for the recipe. I think almond milk would best compliment the nuttiness of buckwheat.

If you visit the comments section of my blog post, there are more suggestions for dairy free buttermilk options. Others have used cashew milk (plus vinegar) or half coconut yogurt and half oat milk.

As written, this recipe contains no eggs, soy or nuts. 

“Love, G & G”

My homemade recipe for buckwheat bread was truly a gift. My husband’s grandfather gave it to me, whom we affectionately called Papa Earle. When my husband Brad and I were first married, Papa Earle attempted to accommodate my Celiac Disease needs as much as possible.

One day he surprised me with a loaf of homemade buckwheat bread. He had researched recipes, played around in the kitchen, and delivered to me what I remembered the best tasting loaf of bread I’ve ever eaten. I think it was because it was made with his love and concern.

Years later, I make it myself. I still have his hand-written note with the recipe, along with his kind words and sense of humor. His beautiful penmanship always amazed me. On the back it says if I have “any questions” I can “call the Expert.” He ended the note –  “Love G & G Clegg.” It paper may have  a few oil spots on it, but I cherish it dearly.

More of My Family Recipes

When my husband and I married, we received a small box which contained recipes from family and friends. Inside that box is grandpa’s written note, my mother -in- law’s recipe for Wacky Cake, her recipe for lemon curd, and my dad’s recipe for homemade meatballs. What recipes have you remade gluten free?

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Gluten Free Buckwheat Bread

Keyword Buckwhweat Bread, Gluten Free Bread

Author Margaret Clegg

Ingredients

• 1/2 c raisins soaked
• 1/2 c brown sugar packed
• 1 3/4 c buttermilk
• 2 1/2 c buckwheat flour 300 g (I used Arrowhead Mills)
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon optional

Instructions

• 1. Loosely chop and soak raisins in warm water, at least 10 to 15 minutes. (Use enough water to cover the raisins.) They can be soaked overnight. Drain off excess water prior to using.

  2. In a food processor, puree raisins and brown sugar together. Add up to 1/4 c of buttermilk to help the mixture blend evenly.

  3. In a large bowl, measure flour, salt, baking powder and cinnamon if using.

  4. To that, add the pureed raisin mixture, and the remaining buttermilk. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Batter will be wet, like muffin batter. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

  5. While oven is preheating, line a medium loaf pan with a parchment paper. (See photo.) Pour batter into parchment-lined medium loaf pan. Smooth the top with the back of a damp spatula.

  6. Allow batter to rest in pan, before baking, at least 10 minutes. This allows the grains to better absorb the liquid in the batter.

  7. Bake in a 325 degree oven for 45 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 200 degrees.

  8. Remove loaf pan from oven. Allow loaf to remain in pan for 10 minutes. Then lift up on parchment paper to remove loaf from pan, and cool on a baking rack for one hour.

Notes

Note** I’ve also made these in mini spring form bans, to make buns / english muffins. If you choose smaller pans such as this, bake for 25-30 minutes.

Note 2** I have successfully replaced the raisins with dates in this recipe. I’ve also used Plain Lifeway Kefir instead of buttermilk, and the recipe has turned out well.

**This post  contains 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 Buckwheat Bread – Gluten-Free & Heart Friendly appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Polenta, Corn Meal and Corn Flour

To make this gluten free cornbread, I use Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free Corn Grits, aka Polenta. We eat polenta porridge for breakfast, so I simply use this instead of buying additional cornmeal. Please be aware that Bob’s Red Mills sells two difference bags of “polenta / corn grits,” and one is gluten free and one is not.

So how are these three “types” of corn meal different. As Epicurious explains their post about the difference between polenta and cornmeal, polenta is more coursely ground than cornmeal. In addition, true cornmeal for polenta is made from flint corn instead of dent corn. It is traditionally milled differently as well.

Technically, this recipe calls for corn flour. However, I use corn masa flour. The difference? Corn masa flour, per Brass Brasserie, is cooked in a lime solution, and then ground. I use Maseca corn masa flour for making tortillas. Corn flour is not cooked, but simply ground.  (Also, Corn Flour in the UK is what we would call “corn starch” here in the United States.) For more on the differences between corn meal, flour and grits, see this post from Epicurious.

Bette Hagman – My First Gluten Free Cookbook

I’ve been making this easy gluten-free cornbread recipe by Bette Hagman for over a decade. Her cookbooks are an amazing gluten-free resource for those who are newly diagnosed. Through her I learned to make banana bread and spice cake. Her cookbook, pictured above, still has Post It tabs from all my favorite recipes.

This gluten free cornbread uses no special “gluten-free flour.” Just cornmeal & corn flour, some fat, moisture and a bit of leavening. And just a touch of sugar. My husband loves its deep, rich corn flavor. Bette’s original recipe calls for buttermilk. However, I never have that on hand, and simply use milk mixed with vinegar.

Cook Your Gluten Free Cornbread in the Waffle Maker!

You can make this easy gluten-free cornbread in any vessel you choose. I’ve made it in regular muffin tins, mini muffin tins, and a cast iron skillet. If you choose to use a skillet, make sure to oil and preheat the skillet in the oven. Doing so not only prevents it from sticking, but gives the most beautiful golden brown color on the bottom.

However, my favorite way to prepare cornbread is in my waffle maker. It sections the cornbread into individual servings. In addition, if you’re preparing a large meal, it’s one less thing in your oven. Cooking the gluten free cornbread in the waffle maker only takes 4 minutes per waffle. Fast and delicious!

Other Uses for Gluten Free Cornbread

I use this recipe as the base for my gluten free cornbread stuffing. However, my husband’s favorite use for this batter is my gluten free corn dog waffles. It also pairs nicely with my Cozy Comfort Chili. Cut the recipe in half and use it to top this Mexican Beef & Cornbread Bake from Five Heart Home! Or turn it into breadcrumbs to coat chicken!

Want cornbread, but have additional dietary restrictions? Introduce those on a corn / grain free diet to this Paleo Cornbread from Gluten Free Palate. Avoiding eggs and dairy? Try this Top 8 Free Cornbread from Allergy Awesomeness. She uses applesauce as a replacement for eggs, just like my basic gluten free donut recipe.

Easy Gluten-Free Cornbread Recipe (from Bette Hagman’s The Gluten-Free Gourmet Cookbook)

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Easy Gluten Free Cornbread

Course Recipes

Keyword cornbread, gluten free cornbread

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes minutes

Total Time 40 minutes minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 cup corn flour can use gluten free all purpose flour, also
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 eggs beaten
• 1 cup whole milk or 1 cup buttermilk, and leave out the vinegar
• 1 tbsp cider vinegar
• 4 tbsp butter melted

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350. If using iron skillet to bake cornbread, lightly coat it with oil and place in oven to warm. Otherwise, line muffin tins (or mini muffin tins) with liners – or grease and flour them well.
• Combine milk and vinegar to as a buttermilk substitute. Allow to sit for at least 5 minutes. (You can just use buttermilk if you have it, and leave out the vinegar.) 
• If using polenta, grind it in spice grinder 10-15 seconds to break it down finer into cornmeal. Combine cornmeal, corn flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt in bowl. Whisk together well.
• Whisk in beaten eggs, melted butter, and milk + vinegar. Batter will not be runny, but not incredibly thick either.
• Pour into heated skillet or spoon into prepared muffin tins. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the top starts to turn a golden brown. (I would check on it after 20 minutes.)

What’s your favorite use for corn bread? Do you use is it in recipes for just enjoy it as is? Do you have any mix-ins you like to add? Please leave me your suggestions, below! 

**This post is not sponsored. However, it 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 December 2016

The post Easy Gluten Free Cornbread- A Bette Hagman Recipe appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Gluten, Egg and Dairy Free Bread

These fresh, never frozen, Schar Artisan bread  loaves are soft and ready for your sandwich fixings straight out of the bag. In addition, this bread  is egg-free and dairy-free as well! Made with millet, quinoa and honey, provides more nutrition and deeper flavor than overly processed rice flour. No toasting needed. That is, unless you want toast, which is simply smashing!

What Do You Look For in Gluten Free Bread?

I recently asked my Facebook followers what they defined as the ultimate test of a gluten free bread. One person stated that when it was toasted, she wants the butter to melt into all the nooks and crannies like real bread. Well, the Schar artisan bread definitely stood up to that challenge! Many stated the wanted to be able to eat it fresh from the bag. I definitely find myself wanting to snag a slice right out of the package!

The Schar Artisan bread meets many of the desires my followers mentioned.

• Doesn’t crumble or fall apart. This bread is sturdy!
• It smells amazing fresh out of the bag
• Doesn’t mold immediately after opening the bag. I’ve left a package open 3-5 days with no problems.
• Doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. At my local Meijer, this package costs only $5.99.

Ultimate Test- Gluten Free Grilled Cheese

However, my test for gluten free bread always involves a grilled cheese sandwich. Not matter how old you get, nothing beats a grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup. The Schar Artisan bread, while sturdy, is a bit rigid. It didn’t make for the most flexible grilled cheese. Regardless, the cheese melted well and the sandwich tasted delicious. I layered spinach and thinly sliced apple in mine. What extras do you like in your grilled cheese, if any?

Gluten Free Bread that Doesn’t Fall Apart

Another follower mentioned that they longed for a bread that made a PB + J sandwich that did not fall apart. Well, this Schar Artisan bread definitely passes that test. I actually used sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter. Between preparing lunches for my husband at school, and running a kids GF camp, I try to use products that are free of as many allergens as possible.

If the Schar Artisan bread line contains one fault, it is that it contains soy. I love that the bread is egg and dairy free. I hope that someday they can find a way to remove the soy from their ingredients as well. OYou can now order these breads, and all their shelf stable products, directly from the online Schar store.

Have you tried the newer Schar Artisan bread? What are your thoughts? Share any creative recipes with me, please!

I was given these products to review but my opinions are completely my own.

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When Did Aldi Start Offering Gluten Free Products?

Aldi launched the LiveGfree product line in spring of 2018. New Aldi’s gluten free products have ebbed and flowed over the years. In addition, each year, they stock their shelves will “Special Buys” or “Aldi Finds” that make us run to the store in excitement.

Are Aldi and Trader Joe’s the Same Company?

No. As I explain in my post about Trader Joe’s, People often (incorrectly) assume Trader Joe’s and Aldi have the same parent company. The two businesses were separately owned by two German brothers. Originally the brothers jointly owned Aldi in Germany. However, after a difference of opinion, they amicably split the company into Aldi Sud and Aldi Nord.

Aldi Nord acquired the Trader Joe’s chain that started in California. Aldi Sud operates the Aldi locations in the United States. Confusing?  The Kitchn further explains the Aldi and Trader Joe’s connection, for those who want to dig deeper. However, like Trader Joe’s , Aldi relies on separate manufacturers to make their products, placed in Aldi packaging. The practice is often called “private label.”

Does Aldi Have a Gluten Free Section?

Years ago, Aldi did have a separate gluten free endcap. However, that no longer exists. Gluten Free products at Aldi are now spread throughout the store.

Does Aldi Label Their Gluten Free Products?

Aldi gluten free products bear their own labeling. However, not all products that are gluten free may bear that label. Also, while Aldi offers a gluten free product line, LiveGFree, they sell other gluten free products that are not part of the LiveGFree line.

ALDI knows that a lot of our customers have special dietary needs and are looking for clear, easy–to-understand ingredient information on the products we sell. The best way to be certain a product is gluten-free is to look for products with the certified gluten-free seal, like our exclusive liveGfree product line. All of the products in our liveGfree line are required to be certified by an approved organization that verifies each product’s levels of gluten is less than 10 parts per million.

From the Aldi FAQ

I emailed Aldi asking for further clarification about their products that have a gluten free label, but are not part of their LiveGFree product line. Below is the (very prompt!) reply they sent me.

Thank you for contacting us.

ALDI knows a lot of our customers have special dietary needs and are looking for clear, easy-to-understand ingredient information on the products we sell. The best way to be certain a product is gluten-free is to look for a gluten-free seal on the packaging. ALDI products with a gluten-free symbol not included in the liveGfree product line must meet FDA regulations by containing less than 20 parts per million of gluten.

What Gluten Free Certifications Does Aldi Use?

Additionally, all products within our liveGfree line are certified by an approved organization that ensures less than 10 parts per million of gluten is present within the finished product which exceeds the FDA’s regulations. liveGfree products are certified by one of the following three independent certifying bodies which is listed on the packaging:

• The Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) (Gluten Intolerance Group)
• Gluten-Free Certification Program (GFCP) (Beyond Celiac)
• Celiac Sprue Association (CSA) (It is now called the National Celiac Association.)

What About “May Contains” Statements?

Please note, if a product is labeled as gluten free but has a “may contain wheat” statement on the ingredients label, this means the product does not contain wheat, but wheat is present in the manufacturing facility. The “May Contain” statement is not required by law; however, the FDA requires strict allergen control programs to prevent cross contact for the top 8 allergens, which includes wheat.

To help you determine if other products contain gluten, look at the ingredients list and the “contains statement,” located under the ingredients list. In many cases, the list will specifically state whether the product is “gluten free.”

Does Aldi Sell Name Brand Products?

Yes, they sell quite a few name brand products. While many are “Aldi Finds,” some name brand products are available all the time. For instance I can buy Crest toothpaste and Dawn Dish soap there. My most frequent brand name purchase is my Lifeway Kefir.

Does Aldi Take Manufacturer’s Coupons?

No, they do not. Aldi takes great pride in their low prices. They often run sales, which you can find on their website. Aldi shelves now have digital price tags. Tags with a red background are sale prices.

What Other Things Should I Know About Shopping Gluten Free at Aldi?

First, know that you’ll have to use a quarter to retrieve a shopping cart. It will be returned to you when you return your cart. Secondly, know that Aldi is a large store. They aren’t multiple brands of products. For example, you won’t be able to choose between multiple brands of butter. There is simply Aldi’s house brand of butter. It really makes shopping faster and easier, IMO.

Third, know that many of the items available at Aldi are sold as “Aldi Finds.” These products are available for a short period of time. When they’re gone, they’re gone. PLEASE DON’T HOARD ITEMS. Take only what you need, so that more people are able to try products.

Everyday Aldi’s Gluten Free LiveGFree Products

While some locations may carry certain Aldi’s Gluten Free products, others may not. I chose to share first what I can find in my store all the time. 

Aldi’s Gluten Free Baking Mixes

They carry chocolate, yellow and pancake baking mixes. (Sadly, the recipe I used to make these strawberry shortcakes is no longer on the back of the box!) In addition, they also stock a cornbread mix of which I failed to take a picture! All mixes are free of soy as well!

Snacks and Crackers

One note about these crackers. They do contain oat fiber, although they are certified gluten free through GFCO. Aldi also sells grain free pretzels, that are on an end cap. Aldi recently started selling more grain free and Keto items, and offers almond crackers as well.

Aldi Gluten Free Granola

You’ll find Aldi’s gluten granola stocked near the cereal. I am unaware of whether these are made with purity protocol oats. They are however certified gluten free. They come in three flavors – Raisin Almond , Apple Almond and Cranberry Cashew.

Aldi’s Gluten Free Pasta

For those looking for more whole grains in the pasta, Aldi’s gluten free and organic quinoa blend pastas taste fantastic!

Aldi’s Gluten Free Frozen Section

There are four sections where I find specific LiveGFree items. The first aisle houses the baking mixes and snacks. The second aisle stocks the pasta. The third location to find Aldi’s gluten free products is the freezer section. Gluten free pizza is a must, right? They offer cheese and pepperoni pizzas. I don’t think I’ve ever eaten one. Have you tried them?

Chicken Nuggets. Every (small and big) kid’s favorite! Aldi’s gluten free chicken nuggets are certified gluten free through GFCO.

Bread Aisle

Many swear that Aldi’s gluten bread is their favorite, over any other brand.] It comes in white and whole grain.

My store carries the LiveGFree General Tso’s all the time. Personally, the sauce is too spicy for me. Sometimes I buy this and add my homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce instead.

That’s the end of what I would call the “everyday” Aldi’s gluten free finds. However, every May, Aldi releases some fun and exciting products. I’ll start with the biggest draw!

May Gluten Free “Aldi Finds”

Every spring, usually in May, Aldi offers many gluten free “Aldi Finds.” This is in connection with Celiac Disease Awareness Month. Here are just a few of the products that seem to return every year. Miss them when they’re gone? Most Aldi gluten free products are “private label,” meaning another company makes them and they’re sold in Aldi packaging. Read my post on Gluten Free Aldi Finds Alternatives to be able to find these products year round.

Aldi Gluten Free Cheesecake Sampler

Every year people go CRAZY over Aldi’s gluten free cheesecake. Certified gluten free, it includes four separate flavors.

Aldi LiveGFree Frozen Skillet Meals

Aldi’s Gluten Free Skillet meals were new this May. Did you buy any? They are certified gluten free through NSF, which is located in Ann Arbor. Did you read about my visit there? 

Aldi LiveGFree Ravioli

When Aldi’s gluten free line launched 4 years ago, they sold individual frozen ravioli meals. This may they sold a large bag, theoretically big enough to share with someone else. I bought the Spinach and Cheese ravioli. Did you try it?

LiveGFree Empandas

So true story, the other day my husband made lunch. I asked what he was cooking, and he said “empanadas.” I replied, “the Aldi’s gluten free ones in the freezer?” Ironically, no, he had made his from scratch. Which means I get to eat these another day!

Other Seasonal Aldi’s Gluten Free Items

Gluten Free Stuffing and French Fried Onions

I can still find the Aldi’s gluten free stuffing at my store. I think it’s a hold over from Easter. However this, and gluten free French Fried Onions, show up every year around Thanksgiving.

A few other Aldi’s gluten free items I found include Gluten Free Bites (which I’m sure are made by The GFB) and cheese crackers. I also find them on the shelves of my local Aldi at other times of the year.

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 Trader Joe’s, Kroger, Meijer, Horrocks and Plum Market. My friend Sandi has excellent posts about shopping gluten free at Walmart and Costco.

Are there items that your Aldi stocks that mine does not? What are your favorite Aldi’s gluten free finds? Leave me a comment below!

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