There's nothing more unfortunate than baking a bunch of yummy desserts for the little one's school bake sale or birthday party only to find out another kid (or two or more) is unable to eat gluten and therefore can't indulge with the others. Or maybe it's your own kiddo who can't digest gluten properly and sometimes feels left out during these events. Whatever the case may be, kid-friendly, gluten-free desserts are here to save the day. And they are so delicious kids (and adults) without a gluten intolerance will be happy to gobble them up, too. There's no reason everyone can't hop aboard the sweet-treat train. No gluten, no problem!
Although about only one in 141 Americans actually has celiac disease, a severe gluten intolerance, up to 15 percent of people are unable to properly digest gluten. They're known as gluten sensitive because this group of proteins can give them headaches, fatigue, and upset stomachs.
Because no one wants to go through that — or have little ones suffer, either — gluten-free desserts are the way to go. Despite misconceptions, these treats aren't boring nor are they more complex to make! From rich chocolate cookies to colorful Rice Krispie treats, check out these 20 gluten-free recipes that are totally delicious, decadent, and kid-friendly. The best part with these covertly gluten-free desserts is no one will even realize there's no flour involved, so all bases are perfectly covered. No more worrying about if a little one can't enjoy the dessert, so sign us up!
GLUTEN-FREE FUDGY CHOCOLATE BROWNIES
Giving up gluten definitely doesn't mean giving up indulgent brownies. Nope, not one bit. Rich, fudgy brownies are still a must!
GLUTEN-FREE THREE-INGREDIENT FUNFETTI COOKIES
Do colorful, gluten-free cookies get any easier than this? With simply three ingredients, that's most definitely a no.
GLUTEN-FREE TRIPLE CHOCOLATE COOKIES
Triple. Chocolate. Cookies. That is all — oh, wait. Also no gluten! Just try limiting yourself to one of these decadent discs.
GLUTEN-FREE RED VELVET WHOOPIE PIES
For a throwback gluten-free dessert with a delicious twist, check out this recipe for gluten-free red velvet whoopie pies! Top with powdered sugar to finish off these babies.
EASY GLUTEN-FREE CAKE POPS
Gluten-free cake, some frosting, chocolate melts, and gluten-free sprinkles make this recipe a cake (pop, get it?) Even the kiddos can help make these easy gluten-free cake pops.
GLUTEN-FREE RAINBOW CAKE
Does the little one have a penchant for rainbow-colored stuff? Then bake this gluten-free rainbow cake! It uses a gluten-free cake mix blend, which is a little extra work but totally worth it.
GLUTEN-FREE SNICKERDOODLE BLONDIES
Why pick between a cinnamony snickerdoodle and a gooey vanilla blondie? Make this gluten-free snickerdoodle blondie and taste the best of both worlds!
GLUTEN-FREE VANILLA CUPCAKES
Vanilla cupcakes are a classic go-to for any baked goods situation! They're versatile and always super yummy. Kiddos will appreciate this gluten-free version for sure.
FOUR-INGREDIENT FLOURLESS NUTELLA COOKIES
No one would ever guess these decadent gluten-free flourless Nutella cookies only have four ingredients: Nutella, almond flour, an egg, and baking powder. Throw in some chocolate chips for an extra boost of decadence!
RAINBOW RICE KRISPIE TREATS
Some food coloring can transform plain Rice Krispie treats into a gorgeous rainbow! These rainbow Rice Krispie treats are almost too pretty to eat. Almost.
GLUTEN-FREE APPLE PIE
Not eating gluten doesn't have to equate to giving up buttery, flaky pie crust and warm, gooey apples! This gluten-free apple pie recipe is perfect for the fall season.
SOFT AND CHEWY GLUTEN-FREE CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES
Who doesn't like chocolate chip cookies? This gluten-free version uses coconut oil and a gluten-free all-purpose flour to get the job (very well) done.
GLUTEN-FREE CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE DOUGH TRUFFLES
This gluten-free chocolate chip cookie dough truffles recipe uses condensed milk to make it perfectly sweet and rich. These sweet, indulgent treats are too easy to pop into our mouths, so we better be careful!
GLUTEN-FREE S'MORES COOKIES
For a taste of a camping trip without any of the camping (or wheat!), check out this gluten-free s'mores cookie recipe. From the gooey marshmallows to the melty chocolate, these cookies are definitely what comfort tastes like.
HOMEMADE NUTTER BUTTERS
Remember those sweet and savory Nutter Butter cookies? This homemade version is gluten-free! It only requires a few ingredients: sugar, butter, peanut butter (obviously), milk, and powdered sugar.
GLUTEN-FREE MINT CHOCOLATE BROWNIE DECADENCE
Gluten-free mint chocolate brownies are the perfect balance between rich and refreshing. Any fan of mint chocolate chip ice cream will appreciate these.
GLUTEN-FREE CAKE DOUGHNUT HOLES
Doughnut holes are the perfect treats for the little ones to grab and pop in their mouths. This recipe doesn't use gluten but still creates fluffy dough.
GLUTEN-FREE CHOCOLATE CHIP PEANUT BUTTER PIE
Peanut butter lovers, rejoice! This chilled pie is ultra creamy and peanut buttery. The best part? This chocolate chip cookie crust. Whoa is right.
GLUTEN-FREE SOFT FROSTED SUGAR COOKIES
Sugar cookies are a staple when it comes to beloved kid desserts. This recipe for gluten-free soft frosted sugar cookies will help any baker mimic the yummy ones bought from the store!
GLUTEN-FREE CHOCOLATE BANANA POPS
Frozen chocolate banana pops are both healthy, delicious and gluten-free! Kiddos can even customize their pop by dipping it in their topping of choice, such as sprinkles or crushed nuts, after dunking it in the chocolate. These pops take about two hours in the freezer.
