Sugar and Spice and Everything (Not) Nice

These gluten-free Pumpkin Chai Snickerdoodles are full of sugar and spice and everything nice. I wish I could say the same of my life lately. The darkness of crime has infiltrated our neighborhood recently. On one day, a young man about to start a family, gunned down at a corner gas station.

Another evening, a single mom clings to her child as thugs, armed with a gun, break into her home. Neighbors threatening to move, because the ugliness has encroached even nearer to their doorstep. Truth be told, all this darkness knocks at the door of my heart too. There are days I live in fear and anger. Not so much fearful of my own safety, but fearful as I don’t know how to make it stop.

Baking is my Therapy

So I turn to baking. There’s something so comforting about the repetition of rolling cookie dough. The small ball of sugary sweetness, gently manipulated in your hand. The added sparkle of sugar, clinging to outside of the dough, like symbiotic glitter.

Baking these gluten-free Pumpkin Chai Snickerdoodles acts like therapy and art all at once. There is almost a sense of hope, as baking becomes the art of the “possible.” You as the baker help these random ingredients form together to make something extraordinary.

Egg Free Cookies

And trust me, these (egg-free!) gluten-free Pumpkin Chai Snickerdoodles are extraordinary. My secret ingredient? Gray Duck Chai concentrate, made from freshly ground spices on the day it is brewed. Crafted by hand, in small batches, and made from organic ingredients that support local economy. Oregon Chai concentrate would work well in these cookies, as well. 

Why We Stay

People ask us all the time why we don’t leave Flint. So much of that answer mirrors the creation of these cookies. These gluten-free Pumpkin Chai Snickerdoodles came about because I had leftover pumpkin to use. (After remaking my chocolate-swirled pumpkin muffins.) I dislike throwing away leftovers. Even the smallest remainder is worth saving and repurposing.

Similarly, so many in Flint feel they are “left over’ or “abandoned.” Especially the kids in my neighborhood, living without fathers or intentional role models. If I gather their potential, add some layer of sparkle to the bitter tang in their lives, isn’t it worth it? Just like these cookies, these kids appear hard on the outside, but a softness hides inside that is worth discovering.

It Takes a Village

We also don’t leave Flint because we also see the investment from so many others, trying to make this city a better place. Young couples moving into the neighborhood, so they can be a resource for others. Businesses setting up shop because they want to be part of building a better community.

Non-profits like Communities First, renovating an abandoned, beat-up school because they know outside appearances don’t determine inner worth. Coffee shops partnering with the local homeless shelter to teach skills and change lives. Flint needs all of our investment, because drastic change requires combined effort.

Inspiration from Others

I didn’t create these gluten-free Pumpkin Chai Snickerdoodles on my own, either. I gained insight from blogs like Sally’s Baking Addiction and The Whole Bite blog and Half Baked Harvest. Half Baked Harvest’s Chai Spice Sugar makes these cookies really phenomenal, while Sally’s wisdom taught me how to make these egg-free. (Without additional substitutes, just like my gluten-free pumpkin donuts!) These ladies share their baking wisdom and insight for all of us trying to make something beautiful from bits of grains and spices.

It Gets Better

So here I sit, sharing my heart and this recipe for gluten-free Pumpkin Chai Snickerdoodles. They’re made with love and creativity and belief that that things can get better. That a gathering of simple things and simple people can add sweetness to the day of someone else.

It may take getting your hands dirty. Like these cookies you may get rolled around a bit, squished at times. However, if you’re like me, you realize it molds you into something new. Something different than you expected, but it changes your life for the better. That is, if you let it.

Time Well Spent

As I write this, we have just entered the season of advent. The church defines it as time of waiting and preparation. A time of anticipation and hope. While the holidays can seem hectic, may we enjoy the simplicity of baking cookies and drinking tea and simply spending time with those around us.

Even when we use that time helping clean up broken glass or giving a ride to the store or hugging the heartbroken. The miracle of Christmas isn’t just that Jesus was born. The miracle was that He saw our crazy mess and decided to “move into the neighborhood” anyway. May we be just as bold.

Other Pumpkin Based Recipes

Looking for more uses for canned pumpkin? If you need it egg free, these two ingredient pumpkin donuts are my FAVORITE!  I love these small batch pumpkin muffins, swirled with Nutella! This decadent small batch gluten free pumpkin roll is a sure winner as well! And of course, the holidays aren’t complete without pumpkin pie.

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Gluten Free Pumpkin Chai Snickerdoodles

Course Recipes

Keyword egg free cookies, gluten free snickerdoodles, pumpkin snickerdoodles

Prep Time 1 hour hour 30 minutes minutes

Cook Time 12 minutes minutes

Total Time 1 hour hour 42 minutes minutes

Ingredients

Cookie Dough

• 2 cups gluten-free flour I used Krusteaz
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp cream of tartar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• optional 1 tsp corn starch
• 1 stick butter softened (or vegan butter)
• 1/3 c brown sugar
• 2/3 c white sugar
• 1/2 c pumpkin 114 g, room temperature
• 2 tbsp chai concentrate or less depending on preference

Chai Spice Sugar from Half Baked Harvest

• 1/3 c sugar
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp allspice
• 1/2 tsp ginger
• 1/2 tsp cardamom
• 1/4 tsp cloves

Instructions

• In a small bowl, measure the gluten-free flour. This is best done with the “spoon and level” method. Lightly spoon the flour into the measure cup and then use a flat edge to level off the excess. 
• To the flour add the baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. *When making the batter, I thought it was too wet and added the cornstarch. I would suggest baking one or two cookies prior to adding it. However, corn starch often adds a softness to cookies that is wonderful! *
• In a separate larger bowl, cream the butter and sugars together. Next, add the pumpkin. (Make sure it is not super cold, as cold pumpkin will harden the butter.) 
• Finally, instead of adding traditional vanilla, use up to 2 tbsp chai concentrate. As these cookies do not contain egg, you can add the chai concentrate to taste. Place batter in refrigerator and allow to firm for at least an hour. (Most gluten-free cookie batters benefit from refrigeration.) 
• Remove batter from refrigerator. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 
• In a small container, mix together the Chai Spice Sugar ingredients. Using a large tablespoon, scoop out some batter, and roll between palms to create a ball. Next, coat dough ball in Chai Spice Sugar blend. Next, flatten the dough ball between your palms. Finally, if desired, coat the flattened cookie with an extra dusting of the Chai Spice Sugar. I highly recommend it! 
• Bake cookies at least an inch apart on a parchment lined cookie sheet. Bake for 10 – 12 minutes. (I accidentally baked one batch for 16 minutes and they still turned out just fine. I assume this is due to the moisture in the pumpkin.) 
• Allow cookies to cool on cookie sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Makes approximately 2 dozen cookies. 

What speaks “Christmas” into your heart? What are your favorite cookies to make? Please share your story with me below. I promise I’ll read and  respond! 

** 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 December 2017

The post Gluten-Free Pumpkin Chai Snickerdoodles appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Delicious Gluten Free Donuts, With Only Three Ingredients

These gluten free pumpkin donuts use only three ingredients. They are as follows: King Arthur Gluten Free Classic Yellow Cake Mix, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice. That’s it. You don’t need  the additional ingredients listed on the back of the box. No butter or oil. No eggs. No milk. Just the cake mix, pumpkin puree, and spice. And technically, the spice is optional. 

What Ingredients are in the King Arthur Gluten Free Cake Mix?

King Arthur Gluten Free Classic Yellow Cake Mix contains none of the top 9 allergens, as ingredients. Some of those allergens are present in their facility, so visit King Arthur’s website to learn more about their Allergen Program. It contains sugar, tapioca starch, rice flour, corn starch, emulsifiers made from rice starch and fatty acids, baking powder, salt, natural vanilla flavor and xanthan gum.

Can I Use a Different Gluten Free Cake Mix?

In theory, yes. When I first published this  back in 2017, I used the Really Great Foods Golden Cake Mix. I combined equal ounces of cake mix with an equal amount of pumpkin puree, and they were perfect. Some of the best donuts I’d ever tasted.

However, when I’ve tried this same ratio with other cake mixes, it never turned out as well. I was on a mission to recreate them with a mix I could easy find at the store. 

In other failed attempts, I felt that they pumpkin donut batter was too moist and dense. Therefore, I combined one King Arthur Gluten Free Classic Yellow Cake mix (which is 22 oz) with 16 ounces of pumpkin puree.

Why 16 oz? Because most cans of pumpkin puree contain 15-16 ounces of puree. I really am all about making recipes as easy to follow, as possible. 

Should I Glaze these Gluten Free Pumpkin Donuts?

These gluten free pumpkin donuts are perfectly delicious on their own. However, you can add a glaze or coating of cinnamon and sugar, if you like.

However, I find these donuts can kind of sticky if they’re not eaten the same day they are baked. Adding a glaze or coating in melted butter & cinnamon sugar only increase this issue, after 24 hours. 

I chose to do a drizzle of melted white chocolate over the top. I tried to melt the Enjoy Life White Baking Chips, to use a dairy free topping. However, that turned into a HOT MESS. (Literally.)

I found greater success using Guittard’s Choc-Au-Lait white baking chips. (They are not dairy free.) As you can see, my drizzling technique needs some improvement. However, the donuts taste amazing, and that’s all that matters.

Can I Freeze These Gluten Free Pumpkin Donuts?

You should definitely be able to freeze this. However, I’d try to do so on a parchment paper lined cookie sheet. Remember how I said these donuts can be sticky after the first day?

Without parchment paper, these will freeze to the cookie sheet. After freezing the donuts for about 1-2 hours, you should then be able to safely transfer them to a freezer safe plastic bag for long term storage.

I Don’t Have a Donut Pan. Can I Make These in a Muffin Pan?

Yes, you can. In fact, The Big Man’s World has a recipe for 2 Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins on his website. His post also includes ideas for mix-ins. Food.com recommends using an 18 0z cake mix and and a 15 oz can of pumpkin pure. I think the key to baked good success is using less pumpkin than cake mix, in ounces. 

Other Donut and Pumpkin Recipes

The inspiration for these donuts came from The BakerMama’s  Two Ingredient Baked Cake Donuts post. Check it for ideas on making baked goods by simply adding applesauce or mashed bananas.

More in the mood to bake from scratch? Try my basic gluten free donut recipe (with egg and dairy free options), as well as my gluten free donut muffin recipe. 

Searching for more gluten free pumpkin based recipes Try my gluten free (and egg free!) pumpkin chai snickerdoodles, and my grain free pumpkin pie bars.

Following a Whole 30 diet? Try Dessert for Two’s Whole 30 Pumpkin Muffins. (Made with almond & coconut flour.) And of course, if you want a traditional, from scratch donut recipe, check out The Gluten Free Austrian’s Baked Pumpkin Donut recipe. 

Print

Gluten Free Pumpkin Donuts

Ingredients

• 1 King Arthur Baking Yellow Cake Mix, 22 oz
• 16 ounces pumpkin puree
• 2-3 tsp pumpkin pie spice optional
• Melted Earth Balance Butter for Dipping approximately 1/2 cup
• Mix of cinnamon and sugar approximately 1 cup sugar with 2 tsp cinnamon
• Melted white chocolate Optional

Instructions

• Using mixer, thoroughly blend cake mix and pureed pumpkin. Add pumpkin pie spice if using. (I roughly used the recipe from Budget Bytes for homemade pumpkin pie spice.)
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. (By doing this step second, you allow the batter to rest, and allow the flour to absorb all the moisture from the pumpkin.)
• Transfer batter to piping bag or ziploc bag. Cut tip of bag and pipe batter into donut pan. Lightly rap pan on counter to release any air bubbles.
• Bake donuts for 10- 12 minutes, rotating pans half way through. After removing from oven, allow donuts to cool 2-3 minutes before transferring to cooling rack. Allow all donuts to cool prior to coating in cinnamon and sugar.
• Note- I only recommend dipping the donuts in butter and sugar if you’re going to eat them on the same day. Otherwise, the additional moisture from the butter will make the donuts gummy on the next day 
• Lightly dip donuts in melted Earth Balance Buttery Spreads. Next, lightly dip donuts in cinnamon and sugar mixture. Return donuts to cooling rack to set.
• Additional option. Melt while baking chips and use it as a drizzle on the donuts. I prefer Guittard White Baking Chips. 

*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 23rd 2017

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What are Top 9 Food Allergens?

The top 9 food allergens include eggs, dairy, peanut, tree nut, sesame, soy, wheat, fish and shellfish. These account for 90% of all food allergies. However, anyone can have an allergy to anything. The FARE fact sheet notes that “40 percent of children with food allergies are allergic to more than one food.”

*Sesame joined the list of top 8 food allergens in January of 2023. Some of the items on this list may be free from the top 8, but include sesame. 

What is FALCPA?

The Food Allergen Labeling Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) requires brands to label for these top 9 allergens. This must declare this in the ingredients OR a contains statement. “Contains” statements are not required. Also know that “may contain” statements are not required nor regulated by the FDA. They are not a good predictor of whether a product actually contains an allergen / gluten.

Wheat vs. Gluten

FALCPA declares wheat as an allergen, but not gluten. Please note that rye and barley are not required to be labeled. Therefore always read labels for words such as rye, barley, malt and Brewer’s Yeast. (Brewer’s Yeast is often spent material after making regular beer.) Always, always  read food labels.

Below is a list of products that contain none of the top 9 allergens as ingredients. Most products bear a gluten free certification logo. Certifying organizations in this list include GFCO and the National Celiac Association. This post includes Amazon affiliate links, which gives me part of the sale for advertising. It does not impact the price you pay.

Top 9 Allergen Free Spreads

• Sunbutter – made from Sunflower seeds (Trader Joe’s sells a cheaper version)
• 88 Acres – made from sunflower seeds
• Finally Nut Free Spreads – made from chickpeas
• The Amazing Chickpea – made from chickpeas
• Oat Haus – made from oats, free from top 9 allergens EXCEPT 1 product made with dairy
• Paradise Spreads (Sweet) – made from pea protein

Top 9 Allergen Free Snacks – Seeds and Such

Super Seedz

SuperSeedz come in various flavors, including Sea Salt, Cinnamon & Sugar and Cocoa Joe. They undergo third party testing to verify they are gluten free. Find SuperSeedz on Amazon 

That’s It Snacks

That’s It Snacks are free from the top 12 food allergens. They offer fruit snacks bars, a dried fruit and seed snack mix, and dried fruit truffles. All gluten, dairy, and soy free! Shop directly from their website, or Amazon. 

Greater Knead Bagel Chips

Possibly best known for their bagels, The Greater Knead also makes gluten free bagel chips. They maintain a strict gluten free facility and products go through ELISA testing for gluten. Find the Greater Knead Bagel Chips on Amazon and on the Greater Kneads website.

FitJoy

I finally tried FitJoy Pretzels and Crackers at the Sweets and Snacks Expo in 2024. I’ve heard everyone rave about them, and now I know why! I really loved their Honey Mustard Pretzels. All of their products are gluten free and grain free. Use their store locator to find them near you, or order them through Amazon.

*Note – They now have peanut butter in their production facility.

CHOMPS

I was pleasantly surprised to learn that CHOMPS meat sticks are free from the top 9 allergens. They’re also pork free! Use their store locator to find them near you, or order them on Amazon.

*Note – “While the product itself is allergy-friendly, our sticks are produced in a facility where soy, milk and sesame are also present. The facility is SQF Certified and a strict allergen control process is in place to prevent cross-contamination.”

Top 9 Allergen Free Snacks – Cookies

Partake Foods

Partake Foods recently made news with a large investment from Jay Z. These cookies are certified thru GFCO, and do contain oats. You can order Partake Foods on Amazon or thru their website.

Cybele’s Free to Eat Cookies

I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Cybele, the owner of Cybele’s Free to Eat, for years. Her snickerdoodles are amazing! They are certified thru GFCO. Find her cookies (and pasta!) on their Amazon landing page. The cookies are available at many Walmart stores, and the pasta is available at Kroger.

Rule Breaker Snacks*

On the Rule Breaker Snacks website, they state that they do not use soy. However, their FAQ page warns that when they tested for soy, results came back at 274 parts per billion of soy. (Testing rules are usually PPM, not PPB.) Therefore families who restrict soy may want to consider this info. Order Rule Breaker Snacks on Amazon or thru their website. They are certified gluten free thru GFCO.

Allergy Smart Cookies

I actually met the owner of Allergy Smart many years ago at a House Wares show. These cookies are gluten free and free from the top 9 allergens. Please know that they do contain oats. Use their store locator (I’ve recently seen them at Fresh Thyme) or order them on Amazon.

Top 9 Allergen Free Snacks – Other Baked Goods

All Free Bakery

For those who love O’Dough’s bread, they started a new gluten free brownie line called All Free Bakery. Like their breads, they are certified gluten free thru GFCO. Order directly from the O’Dough’s website or buy at Fresh Thyme.

Red Plate Foods

Red Plate Foods products are gluten free, vegan, and free from the top 9 food allergens. They offer whoopie pies, cupcakes, cookies, muffins and more. In Michigan you can find their products at Better Health, Fresh Thyme, Meijer, and even NCG cinemas! You can order Red Plate cookies on Amazon, as well as their vanilla, cinnamon and chocolate granola.

Paradise Spreads

I met the owner of Paradise Spreads at the Sweets and Snacks Expo in 2024. I loved that her snack packs contain gluten free pretzels. Spreads come in different flavors such as chocolate, salted caramel, and strawberry.

Right now they’re available at some stores in Indiana. You can also order from them directly their website.

Top 9 Allergen Free Snacks -Frozen Treats

Better Bites Bakery

Better Bites Bakery, based in Austin Texas, started due to their own food allergies. Their  cupcakes, Do Bites, and cake balls are certified thru GFCO. Order directly from the Better Bites Bakery website or buy at Whole Foods or Super Target. They are now also available on Amazon. Temporarily Not in Production.

Top 9 Allergen Free Bars and Other Treats

Free Yumm Foods

Free Yumm Foods products do not bear a separate gluten free certification label. However, they are produced in a dedicated gluten free facility. The Free Yumm website states that they use purity protocol oats in their bars. Find Free Yumm on Amazon.

Made Good Foods

Made Good Foods is another faithful camp contributor. Certified thru GFCO, they make crispy rice treats, mini cookies and granola products. They state that they use purity protocol oats. Find Made Good Foods on Amazon and in stores.

Blake’s Seed Based

My cousin’s husband bought these Blake’s Seed Based Crispy Treats while we were in Seattle, and I LOVED them. Blake’s also sells sunflower seeds, seed bars and granola bars. Their products are free from the top 9 allergens, including sesame. Find them in stores, or on Amazon. 

88 Acres

88 Acres products are free from the top 9 allergens, and them some! They also contain no sulfites, no corn, no GMOs, no palm oil, and no artificial sweeteners. They make snack bars and nut free spreads. Their chocolate sunflower seed spread is my FAVORITE. Find them in stores, and on Amazon. 

Friendly Grains

I’ve always loved these Crunchy Rollers, unaware that they’re free from the top 9 allergens. And I had no clue that they came in various flavors! The Cinnamon Churro ones are pretty tasty. You can order directly from their website, or they’re also available on Amazon.

Top 9 Allergen Free Candy and Chocolates

Yum Earth

Yum Earth has been offering top 9 allergen free snacks for many years now. While their licorice isn’t quite like Twizzlers Pull-And-Peel, it’s still a fun and chewy snacks. They also make suckers, Giggles (similar to Skittles), fruit snacks, lollipops, and more. You can order directly from their website, or from Amazon.

Yum Earth has recently disclosed that they use gluten free wheat starch to shape their candies.

The Froot Thief

The Froot Thief is a fun fruit roll-up kind of snack. Right now they come in three flavors – strawberry, apple, and mango. The Strawberry flavor is currently available at Costco, Plum Market and Fresh Thyme. You can order them on Amazon.

Free 2 B

Free 2 B makes top 8 allergen free chocolate dessert cups, chocolate chips, and more. Famous for Sun Cups, they also make a dairy free caramel cup! They are certified thru the National Celiac Association. Order directly from the Free 2 B website. They are now also available on Amazon. Can’t wait for delivery? Find them near you with their store locator.

No Whey Chocolate

I previously mentioned No Whey Chocolates in my Easter Candy blog post. Their products are made in a top 8 allergen free and gluten free facility, per their website. Order thru there of find No Whey Chocolates on Amazon

Pascha Chocolate

Pascha Chocolate makes a large line of top 8 allergen free chocolate bars, certified thru GFCO. Their website states soy is present in their facility, but not in their products. Order directly from the Pascha Chocolate website. Find their entire product line on Amazon.

Top 9 Allergen Free Pantry Staples

Little Northern Bakehouse

Fun Fact- Based on ingredients, I’m fairly certain Little Northern Bakehouse makes the gluten free bread for Aldi. Made in Canada, they’re available at Fresh Thyme stores. Little Northern Bakehouse doesn’t have direct order on their website, but you can order the full range of their products, including bagels and pizza crusts, on Amazon.

Queen’s St Bakery

Made in Canada, and available at Whole Foods and Meijer stores, Queen St. Bakery offers assorted bagels and breads. They’re free from the top 9 allergens, including sesame. Use their store locator to find them near you. You can order directly from their website.

Looking for more than just snacks? Check out my post of easy top 8 allergen free meals, sides and desserts! From chili, to buddha bowls, to donuts, you’ll find something that everyone can indulge in! Know of any top 8 free snacks I missed? Please leave a note in the comments! 

Originally Published 2022

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Wanting to skip the work and order cinnamon rolls? Gluten Free Specialties and Bliss Bakery ship nationwide. Many other Michigan Gluten Free Bakers have them for sale, in store.

Basic Recipe

This recipe for Basic Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls from Iowa Girl Eats uses Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Gluten Free Baking Flour. A straight forward recipe to get anyone started!

• My gluten free cinnamon roll recipe using Cup 4 Cup
• Basic Gluten Free Cinnamon Roll Recipe using King Arthur Measure for Measure
• Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls using Pillsbury Flour Blend
• Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls using Pamela’s Artisan Blend
• Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls using Better Batter
• Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls using Authentic Flour Blend

Dairy Free

Need to stay away from butter and milk? This dairy recipe for Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls from Allergy Free Alaska avoids casein. She does use individual flours, so you may need to adjust liquids if using a premade gluten free flour blend. Added bonus? This recipe contains no xanthan gum, as written!

Vegan (Egg and Dairy Free)

The 52 Minute Gluten Free Cinnamon Buns from GF Jules are perfect for those avoiding eggs and dairy. They’re yeast free as well! They do use her proprietary flour blend, which you can order through her website or on Amazon.

Yeast Free

Ain’t no one go time to wait for dough to rise when you’re craving these beauties! This recipe for Yeast Free Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls from The Gluten Free Austrian is absolute perfection. I love her tip for perfectly rolling the rolls! 

Top 8 Allergen Free

The orange rolls work great for those staying away from wheat, eggs, dairy, milk, peanuts, tree nuts and soy. Find the recipe for these Gluten Free Vegan Orange Rolls on Allergy Awesomeness. 

Keto

To be honest, I don’t know much about the keto diet. However, I know that Wholesome Yum writes TONS of keto recipes. Her Fathead Keto Cinnamon Rolls look like the perfect start to a Christmas morning.

Grain Free

All my grain free baking starts with Chebe mix. Naturally gluten free, their cinnamon roll mix works for so many things! (Like my mini apple cheesecakes!) Here’s how to make Grain Free Cinnamon Rolls, with that mix.

Small Batch

Sometimes, you just need a sweet treat for a small gathering. No more than four. (Or keep them all to yourself!) My recipe for  Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls for Two is based on the one from Dessert for Two. Requires no yeast!

Fruit Fillings

These Gluten Free Lemon Blueberry Sweet Rolls from Eat with Clarity are bursting with fruit in every bite. I think you’d be able to sub a different fruit, such as apple or cherry, if you’d like. The Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting on top sounds DELICIOUS.

Easy Cake

This Gluten Free Cinnamon Roll Cake from Gluten Free Palate has all the flavor of rolls, without all the work. The cake itself only uses 8 ingredients! I’d definitely add her glaze on top. Check her post for her link for traditional gluten free cinnamon rolls, as well.

Fancy Shapes

True, this is not a traditional cinnamon roll. However, this Gluten Free Cinnamon Star Bread from King Arthur Flour looks phenomenal! It uses their new Gluten Free Bread Flour. Please be aware that it contains gluten free wheat starch. Want it grain free? Try this Grain Free Raspberry Holiday Star Bread from The Savory Celiac.

Pull Apart Deliciousness

This Gluten Free Monkey Bread has been majorly popular with my followers. Made with Bob’s Red Mill Pizza Crust Mix, you only need to add yeast, water, eggs and oil to make the dough. Looking for more of a cinnamon roll flavor? Add this glaze from My Gluten-Free Kitchen’s Gluten Free Pull Apart Cinnamon Rolls.

Do you have a favorite take on cinnamon rolls? What other specialty breads do you make during the holidays? Please tell me in the comments below!

**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 2019

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Who Owns Mama Alana’s Pantry

Alana Stamper is the owner of Mama Alana’s Pantry. She is “a first-generation American of Italian descent, who knows firsthand the challenges of living with chronic illness including a rare bone disease, Lyme Disease and dietary restrictions due to Celiac Disease. You can learn more about her in this interview she did with Voyage Michigan.

Can you share a story of a customer who’s been greatly impacted by your business?

I just love when customers find me and are so happy they found good and delicious food that is safe for them to eat. It makes my hard work seem worth it. I have a rare bone disease which is hard to manage. When I get the calls or emails telling me how happy my customers are, it makes me want to keep going.

What would you like consumers to know about Mama Alana’s Pantry?

I have a small business and everything is made to order. The products we have in stores are made and packaged in my bakery to protect it from any cross contact with gluten. I take pride in everything I do, and am so thankful for all my customers.

I’m hoping in the future to put together online baking courses to help my customers bake their own gluten-free products. I’ve had many inquiries for sourdough baking, and am interested to know what other types of gluten free baking courses people are looking for. 

How should customers place a special order? Do you ship?

My website is the best way to place a special order. If customers have a special order or any questions they can email me at mamaalanaspantry@gmail.com or call (248) 531-8088. In addition, we request 2 – 4 weeks notice for special orders.

Customers can pick up orders at our commercial kitchen. We also ship our mixes, and many of our baked goods such as donuts, bagels and bread. We cannot ship cakes or cupcakes.

Mama Alana’s Pantry Contact Information

Mama Alana’s Pantry is one of many gluten free bakers across the state of Michigan. Visit my blog post to see a comprehensive list of all the gluten-free bakeries in Michigan, complete with interactive map! Looking for more local eats? Check out my list of gluten free baked good options at Michigan Farmers Markets.

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What Makes Wacky Cake “Wacky”?

This vegan chocolate cake goes by many names. Wacky cake. Depression Cake. King Arthur Flour calls it a “Cake Pan Cake.” Mainly because you can mix all the ingredients in the pan and bake it. No extra bowls needed. No matter what you call it, it tastes amazing.

I learned to make this gluten free wacky cake from my mother in law. Who in turn learned to make it from HER mother in law. Since we have no offspring, I guess this makes you all my children, and you’re learning it from me!

What Gluten Free Flour Do You Use in This Cake?

The first time I made this, I used King Arthur Flour’s Measure for Measure gluten free flour blend. Since then, I’ve switched to Cup 4 Cup, which is now dairy free and free from the top 9 allergens. It contains a higher proportion of starch than most other flours. Therefore, I find it to be more like “cake flour.”

Now I will admit the top of my cake always looks bubbly like this, and is a bit tacky. I even reduced the amount of oil that my mother-in-law uses. She uses 1/3 cup of oil in her cake, and I use 1/4 cup. However, the whole thing gets covered in a pourable frosting, and it all still tastes amazing.

What Frosting is on this Gluten Free Wacky Cake?

I will confess that I lack expert skill in making the one minute boiled chocolate frosting my mother in law uses. It was grainy. Or too soft. Or too hard. Ironically, my husband says in the 40+ years he’s been eating it, his mom has made the frosting all those ways, and more. So don’t feel bad if you try it and it’s not perfect.

However, I make it easier on myself and make a chocolate ganache as a topping instead. It’s a simple 1:1 recipe, by weight. Use 3/4 of cream, and 1 cup of chocolate chips. If you need to keep it dairy free, you can use canned coconut CREAM. (not milk) As for dairy free chocolate chips, use Enjoy Life Foods or Guittard’s extra dark dairy free chocolate chips.

Egg Free and Dairy Free Substitutions

As previously mentioned, this gluten free wacky cake contains no eggs or dairy as written. Mom’s original recipe for the boiled chocolate frosting calls for dairy and milk. Feel free to use those if your body tolerates dairy.

This cake is free from the other top 9 allergens, if you use an oil that is soy free. It would make a great dessert to serve with one of these Top 9 Allergen Free Dinner recipes. Visit the Allergylicious website to learn about egg substitutes. Go Dairy Free shares great tips on substituting dairy.

More Gluten Free & Egg Free Cakes

These box-mixed-based gluten free vegan Lemon cupcakes from Allergy Awesomeness will make every mouth happy. This Vegan Vanilla Layer Cake from Allergylicious works great with berries. And this Vegan Caramel Apple Bundt Cake from Sarah Bakes Gluten Free is a real show stopper!

OUT OF COCOA? – According to this recipe for Vanilla Crazy Cake from Totally the Bomb, you can leave out the cocoa. However, this also means you need to reduce the amount of vinegar and increase the vanilla. 

Print

Gluten Free Wacky Cake

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Cool Time 1 hour hour

Total Time 1 hour hour 45 minutes minutes

Ingredients

For The Cake

• 1 1/2 c Cup 4 Cup Flour Blend
• 1 tsp xanthum gum omit if using a flour blend that already contains xanthan gum
• 1 c sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 4 tbsp baking cocoa
• 4 tbsp oil
• 1 tbsp white vinegar
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 tsp espresso powder – optional
• 1 c water

For Boiled Chocolate Frosting

• 4 tbsp baking cocoa
• 1 c sugar
• 8 tbsp butter
• 1/4 c. milk of your choosing
• 1 tsp vanilla

OR For 2 Ingredient Ganache

• 3/4 c cream (coconut cream if dairy free) – 6 oz
• 1 c dark chocolate chips – 6 oz

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9X9 square cake pan with at least 2 inches in height on the side.
• In a large bowl, mix together flour, xanthan gum (if not already in your flour blend), espresso powder, sugar, baking soda, salt and cocoa. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
• In a small bowl, mix together wet ingredients (oil, vinegar, vanilla and water). Add wet ingredients to dry, mixing thoroughly. Pour batter into pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. (I baked mine for 27 minutes, but your oven may vary.)
• Allow cake to cool completely for an hour or more before attempting to pour on fudge frosting.
• To make the boiled chocolate frosting, combine all ingredients EXCEPT the vanilla in a medium saucepan. (I prefer to use non-stick.) Cook over low-medium heat and bring to a boil. Allow to boil for 4-5 minutes until it reaches the "soft ball" stage, approximately 240 degrees.
• Remove from heat and add vanilla. Immediately pour frosting on cooled cake. DO NOT WAIT FOR IT TO THICKEN BEFORE POURING! The fudge frosting will harden as it cools. Allow to cool for an hour prior to serving.
• If making 2 ingredient ganache, warm cream (or coconut cream) in a microwave safe bowl for 1 min 30 seconds. (I like to use a Pyrex measuring cup.) Add chocolate chips to warmed cream and stir until all chocolate melts. Pour over cake and allow to set for at least an hour before serving.

Notes

Cup 4 Cup brand flour blend contains more corn starch that other gluten free flour blends. If you’re using King Arthur Measure for Measure, you may want to add an extra tbsp of corn starch. 

Alternate frosting option – You could also top this cake with a very easy dairy free chocolate ganache. Combine 6 oz Thai Kitchen (3/4 cup) coconut cream with 6 oz dairy free (1 cup) chocolate chips. Warm the cream first, and then add chocolate chips, until they melt. 

Have you made a version of this gluten-free vegan chocolate cake before?  For more recipes from my mother-in-law, check out her recipe for Lemon Curd! What family dessert traditions do you enjoy your family? I’d love for you to share them below!

Originally Published May 2017

The post Gluten Free Wacky Cake : Vegan Chocolate Cake appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Every person should visit Marquette at least once in their life. Located in Michigan’s majestic Upper Peninsula, it’s located on the banks of Lake Superior, and home to Presque Isle Park. It’s also home to the iconic Ore Dock, which is popular with photographers.

For those with Celiac Disease, a new “must visit” is the recently opened, Honey Haven Baking Company. This dedicated gluten free bakery gets its name from its popular Honey Sourdough Sandwich Bread made with local honey.

I recently communicated with Bailey Knight, owner of this new gluten free paradise. Read below about the mission of her bakery, and where you can find her gluten free goodies.

1. What inspired you to become a dedicated gluten free baker?

I have loved baking for as long as I can remember. It is very fun to experiment and
taste test all at the same time. My focus for gluten-free is because I have Celiac
Disease.

I was diagnosed at 24 after struggling my whole life without a clue what was causing my issues. I knew our area needed more gluten-free options and that a bakery could bring so much joy to those who can’t have baked goods from non-dedicated gluten-free bakeries.

2. Are there other highlights of your baked goods? Dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free etc.?

All of our baked goods are gluten, dairy, egg, peanut, sesame, and soy free. We
do not use nuts in our baking, but do not label ourselves nut-free due to Coconut
Oil being in our buttercream and muffins. (Technically coconuts are a fruit.) We recently switched from oat milk to rice milk in our baked goods, so our baked goods would be accessible to those who are oat intolerant.

3. What steps do you take to guarantee your products are gluten-free?

We are a dedicated Gluten-Free bakery. All of our products are gluten-free,
and there is a strict no-gluten policy for all staff who work here. We only use certified gluten free flour blends, including King Arthur’s Measure for Measure flour blend. We are also in the process of seeking gluten free certification for our bakery.

4. Can you share a story of a customer who’s been greatly impacted by Honey Haven Baking Company?

For this, I would like to share the story of my son and how I started to get back into
baking. I had given up bread and all things baked goods when I was diagnosed with
Celiac. When my youngest son was no longer able to have dairy, both of our lives
changed drastically.

My then 2-year-old is a huge chocolate lover, specifically milk chocolate. I knew I needed to come up with a solution so that he could still have the things he loves, like chocolate chip cookies and chocolate cake, that I could safely bake without using regular flour. Through this journey, I created my first round of Gluten, Dairy, Egg, and Soy-Free bread and chocolate cake.

The joy on my son’s face when he got that first chocolate cupcake is something I will never forget. Now, my son will never have to miss out on a cupcake for his birthday, a slice of fresh bread at dinner, or a chocolate chip cookie as a treat.

5. What would you like consumers to know about Honey Haven Baking Company?

I would like for people to know that we are very dedicated to offering inclusive
options for those with food allergies. Our mission is to make sure that all can feel
included in any occasion. We hope to start offering shipping in the months to come.

Also, we hope to encourage local restaurants to stock our gluten free bread and buns. So far, Slap Shot Negaunee offers our gluten free bread for sandwiches. Hopefully we’ll be able to update you soon on restaurants that offer our buns for burgers!

Honey Haven Baking Company Location and Hours

603 N 3rd St. Marquette, MI, 49855
Hours Tuesday-Saturday 10 am – 6 pm
906-251-8043 – (Best contact method for ordering)
Website (coming soon) | Facebook | Instagram | Email

Honey Haven Baking Company 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! Looking for more local eats? Check out my list of gluten free baked good options at Michigan Farmers Markets. 

The post Honey Haven Baking Co. – Gluten Free Marquette appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

What is PB2 Powdered Peanut Butter?

When I first saw the peanut butter bread on the Glen and Friends You Tube channel, I knew I had to try it. Since it contains no eggs, it easily scaled down to a smaller batch. Like Glen, I agreed that it needed more “peanut butter” flavor. However, I was concerned about upsetting the balance of liquids and fats by adding more peanut butter.

Which lead me to add PB2 powdered peanut butter to the batter. PB2 takes roasted peanuts, presses the oils from them, and then grinds the rest to a powder. It resembles a powder similar in texture to cocoa powder.  The general rule in turning a “yellow cake” into a chocolate one is to swap out equal parts of flour for cocoa powder. Therefore, I took out 1/4 cup of the flour from Glen’s recipe, and substituted the PB2. It worked great, and deepened the peanut flavor in this bread.

If you don’t have PB2, simply use 2 cups of gluten free flour, instead of 1 3/4.

This Gluten Free Peanut Butter Bread makes an amazing PB +J!

Can You Make This Bread Without Dairy and Eggs?

This gluten free peanut butter bread uses no eggs. (No yeast, either.) However, it does require the use of milk. I did make this bread using Cup 4 Cup flour, which is now dairy free. This recipe works well with King Arthur Flour Measure for Measure, which contains no dairy. To substitute the milk, I would try canned coconut milk, either full fat or lite.

Can You Make This Bread Without Peanut Butter?

Great question. I don’t know. In theory, if you can’t have peanuts, I think other nut butters might work.  I think I would attempt almond butter, like I did in these Almond Butter Chai Cookies.  If you can’t tolerate any nuts, you can try SunButter. However, it might turn your baked goods green. For this recipe, I used natural peanut butter, with no added hydrogenated oils.

Turn this Gluten Free Peanut Butter Bread into Gluten Free French Toast, and top with caramelized bananas!

Why You Should Bake This Peanut Butter Bread at 325*.

The first time I baked this gluten free peanut butter bread, it split on the side. I believe this is because I baked it at too high a temperature. Instead of 350, bake this at 325 for a longer period of time. The Kitchn recommended baking it at a higher temp for the first 10 minutes, but that still caused my bread to split. Low and slow is what you want to go for.

When I baked this bread the second time, I added 1/2 cup Enjoy Life Mini Chocolate Chips, and it turned out perfectly. The first loaf, in the above pictures, was prepared using a stand mixer. This made the batter much smoother. The second time I prepared it in a bowl, and stirred it with a spoon. The top of the baked loaf ended up lumpier, but still delicious.

Can I Make This Recipe Into Muffins?

King Arthur Baking wrote a fantastic blog post about how to make muffins from a quick bread recipe. Here’s the gist. Fill muffin wells with 3-4 tablespoons of batter. (I like this scoop.) Then bake at 375 degrees for 23-28 muffins.

Other Peanut Butter Recipes

I absolutely love peanut butter. In our house, we put it on top of these buckwheat pancakes. My Peanut Butter Pie Shake is a great treat without any refined sugar, and includes hidden fruit! Make it with my homemade gluten free graham crackers. 🙂 If you’re looking for something savory, I could put this 5 ingredient peanut sauce by Minimalist Baker on just about every meal.

If you’re looking for different flavors of bread, try my gluten free blueberry zucchini bread. Craving pumpkin bread? Try this one from Wheat by the Wayside, in my pumpkin bread pudding recipe.  In addition, What the Fork wrote a super list of gluten free quick bread recipes. She even has her own gluten free quick bread cookbook!

Print

Gluten Free Peanut Butter Bread

Equipment

• PB2 Powdered Peanut Butter Bundle, Keto Diet, Gluten Free, Mix in Protein Shakes & Smoothies, Low Carb, Original Peanut Butter & Peanut Butter Cocoa Flavors (2 Jars – 6.5 Oz Each)
• Cup4Cup Multipurpose Flour, 3 Pounds, Certified Gluten Free Flour, 1:1 All Purpose Flour Substitution, Non-GMO, Kosher, Made in the USA
• Organic Brown Sugar Bulk Resealable bag (3lb) – raw Light Brown sugar for Baking, Kitchen sweetener, Glazes & More – Made with Organic Molasses for a Sweet and Flavorful Taste
• Organic Cane Sugar Crystals (5lb sugar packet) – Preservative & bone-char free, vegan food sugar substitute, gluten free, Non-GMO, fine natural sugar sweetener for cooking, beverages, & more
• Enjoy Life Semi Sweet Chocolate Mini Chips, 10 oz

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 c gluten free flour I used Cup 4 Cup brand
• 1/4 c powdered peanut butter
• 3 tbsp white sugar
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/3 c milk optional 4 tsp vinegar
• 1/2 c natural peanut butter
• if you use Jif, which contains sugar, I’d reduce each type of sugar by 1 tbsp
• optional – 1/2 c mini chocolate chips

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 325 degrees. 
• In a large bowl, or stand mixer, combine flour, peanut butter powder, sugars, baking powder and salt. Stir to make sure that all ingredients are blended well, especially making sure that the peanut butter powder is evenly distributed. 
• Next, add milk slowly, blending thoroughly. The first two times I made this, I just used plain milk. The third time, I used a milk to which i added vinegar. I'm not sure I could tell a big difference, but it definitely didn't' hurt. If you're going to add the vinegar to the milk, allow the milk to set for 5 minutes before adding to the batter. 
• Finally, add peanut butter. Make sure to stir thoroughly, but don't over mix. If adding chocolate chips, do so after stirring in the peanut butter.
• Pour into a greased or parchment paper lined loaf pan. (I've done it both ways.) I used a medium loaf pan, which helps with creating a taller loaf. It measures 8.5 x 4.5. You can use a large 9 x 5 loaf pan. Your loaf will just be shorter. 
• Place in a 325 degree heated oven and bake for 50 minutes. The first time, I baked this at 350 for 40 minutes. However, it split along the top. (Although it was completely cooked in the center.)  The original recipe called for baking it at 325 for one hour.I think 50 minutes is more accurate. To prevent the top from over browning, you may want to cover with foil after the first 30 minutes. 
• Remove from the oven and allow to cool in pan for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the sides to cool and firm up. Then remove from the pan and place on the rack to cool completely before slicing. Probably at least an hour. 

What’s been on your baking list lately? Any new recipes I should try? Leave me a note in the comments! 

**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 July 2020

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No Donut Pan Needed

I created multiple gluten free donut recipes for this site. Mocha Donuts. Donuts topped with peanut butter ganache. Even pumpkin donuts. However, they all require the use of a donut pan. Which I highly recommend to everyone. However, sometimes you want donuts and don’t have that pan!

Therefore, I played around with my basic gluten free donut recipe, and tried the batter in a muffin tin. Automatic success! The great thing about this recipe is that it is “small batch.” It makes 6 regular sized donuts, and 14 mini donuts. Perfect for a treat, but without a lot of extra left around.

What Kind of Coating is On These Donut Muffins?

I coat these gluten free donut muffins in a blend of cinnamon and sugar. You could, however, coat it in anything you like. Use pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a new flavor twist. Or coat them in powdered sugar. I’ve always wanted to learn how to make peanut covered donuts, as my dad loved those.

To keep this recipe free from the top 8 allergens, I used melted coconut oil for dipping. If you can tolerate dairy, you can use melted butter. (For that matter, if you can tolerate dairy, you can use regular milk in the batter, as well.) I don’t recommend canola oil, as I find melted coconut oil acts more like melted butter in recipes.

How Many Mini Muffins Does This Recipe Make?

This recipe makes only 14 mini gluten free donut muffins. I love that, because it’s just enough for my husband and I to share. Plus a few to stash in the freezer for a later date. Speaking of freezing, they do reheat well. I place them on a plate, and microwave them for 8-10 SECONDS. They taste just like they came out of the oven!

What Pan Do You Use to Make These Mini Muffins?

I previously stated you need no special pan for these gluten free donut muffins. However, I’d highly recommend a mini muffin pan if you can find one. I used it to make these Gluten Free Cranberry Bites, as well. Outside of baking, you can use them to make your own peanut butter (or Sunbutter) chocolate cups.

Can I Make These in a Regular Muffin Tin?

Yes! Actually, the first time I made this, I prepared them in a regular muffin tin. I baked them in silicone liners. Once cooled, I coated them with cinnamon and sugar. I took a picture, next to the standard donut recipe. I wanted you to be able to visually see the comparison.

Can I Use Eggs and Dairy in This Recipe?

Yes, you can use eggs and cow’s milk in this recipe. I personally prefer the recipe using applesauce, but you do you. 🙂 You can use any kind of milk you like in this recipe.

Other Gluten Free Donut Recipes

Looking for other donut recipes? Need to avoid grains? Try these Paleo Cinnamon Donut Muffins from the Southern In Law blog. If you’re a fan of cassava flour, these Cassava Flour Donuts with Apple Cider Glaze from Otto’s sound fantastic. Of course, if you want to try yeasted, fried donuts, try these Incredible Gluten Free Yeast Donuts from Let Them Eat Gluten Free Cake.

Print

Gluten Free Donut Muffins : Top 8 Free

Equipment

• King Arthur, Measure for Measure Flour 3 Pounds
• Nutiva Organic Steam-Refined Coconut Oil, Neutral Flavor
• Wilton mini muffin pan

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp coconut oil or butter
• 1 tbsp oil I used canola.
• 1/4 c sugar
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla
• 3 tbsp applesauce or 1 egg or 2 tbsp aquafaba
• 3/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp nutmeg
• 1 1/4 c flour I used King Arthur Flour Measure for Measure, 155 grams
• 1/2 c rice milk or your milk of preference

For the topping

• 2-3 tbsp melted coconut oil or butter
• 1/2 c white sugar
• 1-1.5 tsp cinnamon or other spice

Instructions

• In a small bowl, melt coconut oil in microwave for 30 seconds. Meanwhile, measure milk in a 1/2 measuring cup and also allow to come to room temperature.  
• While those are coming to room temperature, combine baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg and flour in a small bowl. I personally prefer weighing my flour instead of using a measuring cup, and I sift my flour prior to adding it to the other ingredients. Set bowl of dry ingredients aside. 
• Place melted coconut oil and canola oil in bowl of stand mixer. To that, add the white and brown sugars, and vanilla. Cream ingredients together for 3 minutes. 
• Add applesauce and whip for up to 1 minute. 
• Alternately add bowl of dry ingredients and milk, adding half of each until incorporated. Use a rubber spatula to make sure all flour is dissolved into the batter. 
• Allow batter to rest for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350 degrees.
• ightly spray muffin pan with cooking oil (like Pam) and dust with gluten free flour. Fill the wells with batter. For mini muffins, I like to use a small scoop, which holds approx. 1.5 tbsp. If using a larger muffin pan, use two scoops per well. 
• Bake at 350 degrees for 13-15 minutes for mini muffins, 16-18 minutes for standard size muffins. Allow to cool in donut pan for 5 minutes, then remove and place on cooling rack.
• While donut muffins are cooling, combine sugar and cinnamon in a small glass bowl. 
• In a separate shallow bowl, melt 2-3 tbsp coconut oil. (I use my microwave to do this.)  
• Dip donut muffins in coconut oil, then roll in cinnamon sugar mixture. I find it easiest to dip and coat the bottoms of all the donut muffins. After the bottoms are coated, then i go back and dip the tops in coconut oil, and cover in cinnamon and sugar. I find it's easier to handle the donut muffins this way, and creates less mess. 
• Enjoy fresh. They can also be frozen and reheated in microwave for 8-10 SECONDS.

Notes

To turn these into apple cider donut holes, boil one cup apple cider, until it reduces down to 1/2 cup, and use this in place of the milk. I also ground Bare baked apple chips i my blender, and subbed a 1/4 ground apple chips for 1/4 gluten free flour.

**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 Gluten Free Donut Muffins : Top 8 Free appeared first on MI Gluten Free Gal.

Where is Thrive Dining Hall at MSU?

Situated near the center of campus, Thrive resides inside Owen hall. Previously exclusively for graduates, Michigan State opened this hall to all students. Because of the uniqueness of Thrive’s meal offerings, the school reserved rooms for students with food restrictions.

Due to its small size, Owen became an ideal dorm to renovate for a specialty dining option. Michigan State previously did this with Holmes and Holden halls. Those smaller dorms became ideal to transform into kitchens that serve no peanuts, tree nuts or coconut.

Why was Thrive Created?

As I previously wrote, Michigan State offers gluten free options across campus. However, staff increasingly found themselves receiving calls about their ability to accommodate food allergies. While they liked how U of M offered a separate food allergy room, MSU felt the need to do more to help more students, as well as staff. Their goal was to not help students to “survive” on a few options, but to “thrive” with a safe dining area of their own.

How Safe is the Thrive Kitchen?

Read this excerpt from MSU’s recent publication on the Exciting Changes to Owen Hall.

“Thrive at Riverwalk Market at Owen will be certified free from the top eight food allergens (milk, eggs, soy, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish) as well as sesame and gluten. The location will be certified by Kitchens With Confidence, a third-party accreditor that will regularly examine protocols and policies to verify the location as being free of the allergens listed. Certification includes reviewing the path of food from delivery at the dock to storage areas, food preparation areas, and serving.”

What Food Do They Offer?

Thrive contains three serving stations, a soup and salad bar, a soft serve machine that serves Dole Whip, and beverages. The three serving stations, named Tenderland, Grid and Pantry, serve very specific items. Tenderland offers hand breaded chicken fingers and french fries, daily, at lunch and dinner.

The Grid station serves foods such as tacos, noodle bowls, grain bowls and ethnic creations. The Pantry station serves steak, rotisserie chicken, potatoes, and other “traditional” types of meals.There is discussion of possibly adding a vegetarian station in the future, should enough interest arise.  Visit Eat At State for the daily Thrive menu.

I must admit my biggest excitement was the housemade coconut milk vanilla yogurt. I’ve tried many dairy free yogurts, and this is by far the best I’ve ever tried. You’ll find the yogurt on the salad bar, along with their house made Gluten free granola. They prepare it daily with Bob’s Red Mill gluten free oats. And of course I loved the Dole Whip.

But I Can’t Have …

Michigan State realizes people live with other food restrictions as well. Students can work with the dietitian and dining hall staff to have made-to-order meals prepared for their health needs. In addition, foods that contain pork, beef or alcohol are labeled as such.

What Feedback Have They Received?

I spent the meal talking with MSU’s head dietitian, Gina Keilen. She was eager to create Thrive to serve students and staff. However, she’s been astounded by the positive reception it’s had, just in their first month of opening. Not just her, but service staff have been humbled by the praise and happy tears from visitors.

She mentioned this positive reception has reinvigorated the entire dining services department. Staff with dietary restrictions are eager to work here and help others like them. Staff willingly take extra certification classes, understanding their knowledge can truly be a matter of life and death.

What Hours is Thrive Open?

Right now, hours are Monday – Friday 11 am – 3pm / 4:30- 7 pm, and Saturday & Sunday 11 am – 3 pm. As they gauge student interest, breakfast service may be added. (Gina stated chefs are already in the kitchen, playing with recipes in preparation for when that day comes.) Thrive is open to the public. Breakfast costs $9, lunch and dinner $13, and children ages 2-9 cost $6.75. Children under the age of 2 eat free. Click here for more info on meal costs and dining plans.

Where Do I Park?

There is some limited (and paid) parking right in front of Owen Hall. The last time I visited, on a Sunday in November, I had no problems finding a parking spot. If that space is full the best locations to park are Ramp 3 (Wharton Center) or Ramp 1 (next to the College of Law). For more questions about parking at MSU, visit their Visitor Parking page.

Thrive Location, Hours and Contact Information

Owen Hall
735 E Shaw Lane
East Lansing MI 48825

Hours : Monday – Friday 11 am – 3pm / 4:30- 7 pm Saturday & Sunday 11 am – 3 pm

Eat at State (MSU Dining) Website | Facebook | Instagram

Other Dining Halls I’ve Visited

University of Michigan
Oakland University
Western Michigan University

**I received a free meal while visiting. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own. I am beyond excited that Michigan State chose to take this drastic step to help students. **

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