Casey Cromwell: Casey the College Celiac

A Celiac's Guide to Eating Gluten Free in Florence, Italy

2023-05-19T19:58:00.001-07:00

If you've ever wondered what eating gluten free in Italy looks like, I have good news: it looks like TONS of celiac-safe pizza, pasta, pastries and more. And I'm sharing another guide to Italy, this time covering what I ate as a celiac traveling to Florence in November, 2022.

If you read my Rome, Italy post, skip to the restaurant list unless you want a refresher on the gluten free basics I'm sharing in both posts!

*Everyone with celiac disease has different boundaries, and that's OK. If you are looking to dine at only Dedicated Gluten Free restaurants/bakeries, there are several included and clearly marked in this list. I am only including restaurants that I personally tried and had good experiences with, but restaurant options and policies can change. Please treat this as a guide only, and use your own judgement on what options fit your individual dietary needs.*

Basics to Know About Eating Gluten Free in Florence, Italy

How common is gluten free food in Italy?

100% Gluten Free Cafes, Bakeries and even grocery stores are relatively common in Italy, especially in bigger cities like Rome, Naples and Milan. Despite myths otherwise, this isn't because celiac disease is any more prevalent in Italy. It still affects about 1% of the population, the same as most other places in the world. But as Dr. Marco Silano, chair of the Italian Celiac Association, points out, food plays a HUGE role in Italy socialization and culture. So it's especially important to make sure everyone can participate, even if they can't eat gluten.

The Italian Celiac Association (AIC) works with restaurants to ensure they have proper gluten free protocols and training, and you can find MANY restaurants with entirely dedicated kitchens, prep areas and ovens. And since Italians with celiac receive up to a 140-euro monthly stipend for gluten free food, you can find gluten free food in many pharmacies (as well as all grocery stores).

How can I find celiac-safe spots in Italy?

I primarily used the Find Me Gluten Free app to check for gluten free friendly spots near me, but you can also pay 2.99 for a 2-week trial of the Italian Celiac Association's app that shows all restaurants approved by the AIC for celiac customers. Many restaurants even have signs out front saying they have gluten free options or are approved by the Italian Celiac Association, so it's decently easy to find options just walking around as well.

Is the language barrier an issue if I don't speak Italian?

My boyfriend and I don't speak any Italian and we only had one or two instances of language issues during our 10-day trip. For the most part, Italy is very English friendly. I would recommend learning some key gluten free phrases in Italian, like:

Senza glutine = gluten free
celiaca/celiaco = celiac
senza lattosio = dairy free
amido di frumento deglutinato = made with gluten free wheat starch (which is celiac safe but not safe if you have a wheat allergy)

You can also purchase gluten free "restaurant cards" that explain celiac disease and your dietary needs in Italian on Amazon, or I've heard of great things about this one.

What gluten free food can I bring back to the US from Italy?

Customs allowances can change, so always check the US Customs website for the most up-to-date info. But at the time of my trip (and of publishing this in on December, 31 2022), each person can bring $800 worth of goods from Italy. This includes food items like baking mixes, snack bars, chocolate and candy, and most processed items as long as they don't contain meat, cheese or animal products. Find more info here.

Can I eat wheat in Italy if I have celiac??

You can eat gluten-removed wheat flour, which is more common in Europe and specifically formulated to remove the gluten and be safe for celiacs. Regular wheat starch is NOT gluten free and you should only eat wheat starch if it is in a product that is tested and verified to be glute free. And if you have a wheat allergy, this is still not a safe option for you.

Many gluten free pizzas and baked goods in Italy taste as good as gluten BECAUSE they are made with gluten free wheat starch, which results in a much more gluten-like texture. But if you want to avoid gluten removed wheat starch while visiting Italy, that is totally possible. You will just need to ask more questions about ingredients or look for "amido di frumento deglutinato" (made with gluten free wheat starch) on packaging.

A Celiac's Favorite Gluten Free Spots in Florence, Italy

Ciro and Sons - AIC Certified Pizza & Winner of the Gluten Free Pizza Championship

Ciro and Sons is a world champion for gluten free pizza, and can make almost everything on their menu gluten free and lactose free, including all their pizzas! They’re certified by the Italy Celiac Association. Gluten free meals are made in a dedicated kitchen and they have AMAZING gluten free bread as an appetizer.

This is one of the only places I dined at in Italy with vegan cheese available. And my gluten free, lactose free pizza with vegan cheese was delicious and the crust impressed me AND the gluten-eating boyfriend.

The gluten free pizza was fluffy in the middle, crispy on the edges and and it was SUCH a treat to get WARM, FREE gluten free bread as an appetizer when they brought the regular gluten bread. And my bf even liked my gluten free bread better than his.

Venchi - 95% Gluten Free Chocolate Store in Florence, Venice, London and More

Venchi is a chocolate store in the Florence and Venice train stations (and many others, I assume) that has Certified Gluten Free luxury chocolates, many of which are also dairy free and vegan. They also have gelato that is 100% gluten free, and all the chocolate in their store (except for ones in display cases that could have come in contact with gluten) are gluten free. If you're a chocoholic like me, this shop will feel like paradise!

If you aren't in Italy yet but are soon going to be in New York, London, Egypt or another big city, you can also find Venchi at many spots in the rest of the world.

Sgrano - 100% Gluten Free Cafe

Sgrano is a 100% gluten free restaurant with gluten free sandwiches, pizzas, desserts and more. We were in a rush and ended up getting sandwiches instead of the fried dough balls I was eyeing that would take extra time. My boyfriend said this was the best gluten free bread he’s ever had, and the sandwiches were bigger than our heads (literally) too!

I will say that this is the BUSIEST restaurant we were at during our entire visit, even though it was the off-season, so I'd prepare for a wait or order your food ahead-of-time before sightseeing in Florence for a bit and coming back to grab it.

Cortese Cafe 900 - 100% Gluten Free and Vegan Coffee and Chocolate Shop

This 100% gluten free, vegan and raw coffee and chocolate shop is located in the historic area of Florence, Italy. They have delicious chocolate desserts, ice cream and coffee. Many cafes in Italy DO have a soy milk option but this was one of the few with almond milk (which I personally do best with).

All treats have the ingredients written next to them so it’s easy to avoid gluten free oats, if needed. We both got cappuccinos (very creamy, loved the sugar to sprinkle on top) + several raw treats. Even my vegan-skeptic boyfriend was impressed by the desserts!

Lorenzo de' Medicini - AIC Certified Restaurant

This pizza and pasta restaurant is certified by the Italy Celiac Association to be celiac safe, and they actually have the same menu as Ciro and Sons. I ordered seafood pasta, and all the seafood was cooked well and the pasta was super flavorful. My boyfriend got the steak, which was also very tasty.

Overall, though, it felt like a less upscale version of Ciro and Sons. (I was also kinda bummed they didn't offer any free gluten free bread when they brought the regular bread to the table -- unlike at Ciro and Sons). So this restaurant is definitely not a bad option, but not my first pick for when we go back to Italy.

Antica Gelateria Fiorentina - 100% Gluten Free Gelato

This gelato shop is 100% gluten free (even the ice cream cones & cookies are gluten free) and have many dairy free flavors. This was my favorite gelato spot in Italy, mainly because of the variety in dairy free flavors, including dark chocolate.

Pin this Gluten Free Rome, Italy Guide for Future Use!

I'd love to hear if you've ever been to Italy since going gluten free, or what you would be most excited to eat there! I will be posting my guide to eating gluten free in Venice next!

Gluten & Dairy Free Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls (Vegan Option)

2023-01-04T06:30:00.001-08:00

If you're craving gluten free and dairy free cinnamon rolls that taste just as good as the gluten desserts you used to eat, you're at the right place. Because these gluten free cookies and cream cinnamon rolls are gooey, chocolatey, easy to make and even easier to devour! And depending on the cookies you use, these can be vegan as well.

I shared this easy gluten free cinnamon rolls recipe first on my Instagram here, which is where I'm most active these days. Follow along at @collegeceliackc to be the first to see a lot of the recipes, restaurant reviews and more that will later be shared on the blog.

A Few Reasons These Cookies and Cream Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls Are a New Family Fave:

Just to get you extra excited to get baking, I wanted to share a few reasons why my family has become obsessed with these gluten free cinnamon rolls:

The cinnamon roll dough only requires three ingredients, if you don't want to include the extra seasonings/extracts. And NO YEAST is required for these gooey treats.
The dairy free yogurt that makes up a lot of the cinnamon roll base replaces the typical eggs and dairy needed for cinnamon rolls. Plus, this yogurt keeps the cinnamon rolls moist without the need for any oil in the main base.
The homemade glaze is super easy to make (and you may never go back to using store-bought frosting ever again)
The Cookies and Cream filling gives a chocolatey twist to traditional cinnamon rolls, making this the perfect dessert for chocolate lovers and cinnamon roll lovers alike!

So with all that said...let's get baking!

Ingredients For This Gluten Free Cinnamon Roll Recipe:

In my experience, this recipe makes enough for 10 medium to large cinnamon rolls.

For the Cinnamon Roll Dough:

2 cups dairy free yogurt (I used So Delicious Coconut Yogurt in the Unsweetened Vanilla flavor)

2 & 1/2 cups gluten free all purpose flour + enough to cover a baking mat (I used King Arthur)

4 tsp baking powder

1 tsp of cinnamon

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cookies and Cream Filling:

3 TBSP coconut sugar (I used my favorite gifted coconut sugar from Foods Alive)

3-4 TBSP crushed gluten free chocolate cookies (I used some gifted My Dad's Cookies, but you can also use Gluten Free Oreos, JoJo's, etc. Use vegan cookies to make this recipe vegan)

1 TBSP cocoa powder

1 tsp cinnamon

Enough coconut oil or applesauce to wet the dough before adding the filling

For the Cinnamon Roll Glaze:

1/2 cup cashews, boiled for 10 minutes

3 TBSP maple syrup

3 TBSP almond milk

1 tsp vanilla extract

How To Make This Vegan Cinnamon Roll Recipe:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Then combine all of the dry ingredients for the dough, followed by your yogurt. Knead the dough until it forms a ball, adding some sprinkles of flour as necessary.

3. Transfer your ball of dough from your mixing bowl to a baking mat rubbed with coconut oil to prevent sticking. Then use a baking roller to roll your dough out into a rectangle that's about a quarter of an inch thick.

4. Add a layer of coconut oil or applesauce on top of your dough. Then mix and spread your filling onto it.

5. Carefully roll your dough into a log, and slice into rolls around 1-inch wide using a knife dipped in flour if needed to help it cut without sticking. Re-dip the knife as needed in flour until all the cinnamon rolls are cut.

6. Place your cinnamon rolls in an oven-safe casserole dish rubbed with coconut oil. Then pop your cinnamon rolls in the oven for 16 to 20 minutes.

7. While your cinnamon rolls are cooking, boil your 1/2 cup of cashews for 10 minutes. Let cool and then blend with the other glaze ingredients. You can add 1/2-1 TBSP of additional almond milk if needed to blend.

8. Wait for your cinnamon rolls to cool before adding the glaze, as well as an optional cookie crumble (from one additional chocolate cookie) and sprinkles.

How to Enjoy Your Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls

These gluten free cinnamon rolls are best eaten fresh, but can be kept in a sealed storage container for up to 5 days in the fridge. And if you do try out the recipe, I'd love for you to share how the final product turned out and your thoughts on social media and tag me (collegeceliackc on most channels).

Want to Save This Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for Later? Pin the recipe below!

And tell me in the comments: what's your favorite gluten free treat to bake?

A Celiac's Guide to Eating Gluten Free in Rome, Italy

2022-12-31T20:20:00.003-08:00

Did you know that Italy is actually one of the MOST celiac and gluten free friendly places to visit? I have celiac disease and visited Italy for the first time last year, in November of 2022, and was blown away by all the gluten free pizza, pasta, cannoli and more.

And now I'm sharing all of my favorite places to eat gluten free in Rome, Florence and Venice -- plus, my top tips for traveling to Italy while gluten free in general! So let's dig into the first edition of my guide to eating gluten free in Italy...starting with Rome!

Basics to Know About Eating Gluten Free in Rome

How common is gluten free food in Italy?

The Italian Celiac Association (AIC) works with restaurants to ensure they have proper gluten free protocols and training, and you can find MANY restaurants with entirely dedicated kitchens, prep areas and ovens. And since Italians with celiac receive up to a 140-euro monthly stipend for gltuen free food, you can find gluten free food in many pharmacies (as well as all grocery stores).

How can I find celiac-safe spots in Italy?

Is the language barrier an issue if I don't speak Italian?

Senza glutine = gluten free
celiaca/celiaco = celiac
senza lattosio = dairy free
amido di frumento deglutinato = made with gluten free wheat starch (which is celiac safe but not safe if you have a wheat allergy)

You can also purchase gluten free "restaurant cards" that explain celiac disease and your dietary needs in Italian on Amazon, or I've heard of great things about this one.

What gluten free food can I bring back to the US from Italy?

Can I eat wheat in Italy if I have celiac??

A Celiac's Favorite Gluten Free Spots in Rome, Italy

Pizza En Trevi - AIC Certified Pizza near the Trevi Fountain

Our first meal after arriving in Italy was pizza and we were super impressed with the celiac protocol at Pizza in Trevi. This pizzeria right near the Trevi fountain in Rome is accredited by the Italian Celiac Association, and all their gluten free orders are prepared in a separate area and oven.

All of their speciality pizzas can be made gluten free, and I went with the Pizza with Salmon for something different! Once I ordered a gluten free meal, I was given a separate place mat and utensils. They also can accommodate dairy free diets (by removing cheese) and have gluten free pasta, salads and dessert as well.

The gluten free pizza was SUPER crispy and all the ingredients tasted extremely fresh. My boyfriend also loved his gluten pizza, so it was a win-win. They also have all their ingredients clearly listed on the menu for the gluten free crust, so if you have additional dietary restrictions or want to avoid gluten-removed wheat starch, Pizza en Trevi is a great place to try.

La Pasticciera Senza Glutine - 100% Gluten Free in the heart of Rome

This 100% gluten free bakery and cafe is small but packed with delicious finds. They have many sweet & savory options, including custard-filled donuts donuts and suppli (savory Italian rice balls), which were our two favorite items from here. They have dairy free & vegan options too.

The owner was very sweet and also happy to give out gluten free restaurant recommendations, so don't feel shy to ask. There isn't really space to eat in the store, but it's a short walk to the Roma Termini or the Colosseum.

Celiachiamo Lab - 100% Gluten Free near Vatican City, Rome

If you’re ever near Vatican City in Rome, Italy, you MUST go to Celiachiamo Lab. It is an AMAZING 100% gluten free bakery / bistro that also functions as a 100% gluten free grocery store. They have gluten free croissants, cannoli, mini pizzas, sandwiches, and every gluten free dessert you can imagine. This ended up being my FAVORITE spot we visited in all of Italy during our 10-day trip...mainly thanks to the gluten free Cannoli and chocolate-filled donuts. The shop workers are super friendly and speak decent English, so I recommend asking about dairy free options or gluten free restaurant recommendations while you're there!

As for the grocery shop section, they have over 4,000 products (!!!), including packaged goods, frozen items and more. I did find that gluten free speciality food in Italy is a tiny bit cheaper than in the US, so Celiachiamo Lab is also the perfect spot to stock up on gluten free treats to bring back to the US.

La Soffitta Renovatio - AIC Certified near Vatican City, Rome

Our favorite restaurant of our Italy trip (for the food and service) was definitely La Soffitta Renovatio near Vatican City in Rome. It is AIC certified and almost everything on the menu can be made gluten free. All gluten free meals come with a gluten free flag and they have many lactose free / dairy free options too.

I ordered the house-made gluten free ravioli — my first ravioli I’ve had in a restaurant since my celiac diagnosis 9 years ago. It was melt-in-your-mouth tender, super flavorful and I loved the spinach and cheese filling. My boyfriend and I also split a gluten free pizza, and the gluten free pizza crust was super soft and pliable, fluffy on the edges and the toppings were super fresh. My boyfriend’s gluten carbonara was his fave dish from Italy.

We were too full for dessert but they also had a HUGE display case of goodies. This is one restaurant we will always eat at when visiting Rome!

Grom Gelato - 100% Gluten Free in Rome

This gelato shop is 100% gluten free — and that includes their ice cream cones, and even baked goods like brioches, biscotti and gelato cookie sandwiches at some locations! They also have a variety of dairy free sorbet options, and my boyfriend and I both LOVED how creamy and rich our chocolate gelato (with chocolate pieces throughout) was.

You can find Grom throughout Italy, including at most large train stations for a yummy travel day. And you can also find their prepackaged gelato, gelato on gluten free cones and other goodies in many grocery stores around Italy.

Cimarra 4 - AIC Certified in Rome near Coliseum

Cimarra 4 can make ALL of their dishes gluten free and most already are + they have dairy-free options (including lactose-free cheese). They are made in a separate kitchen and oven, and our food came out SUPER quickly too.

I got the gluten free calzone (my first calzone EVER) and it was so fluffy and tender. My boyfriend also really enjoyed his pizza, and this is the perfect place to eat dinner before going to see the Coliseum at night.

Taliani Roma - 90% Gluten Free Bakery in Rome

This bakery/cafe isn't 100% gluten free but all their gluten free baked goods are made with dedicated equipment in a different location than their few gluten items. There is a risk of “air contamination” in their baking area (from what I understood through the language difference, this refers to the fact that outside air can get inside the baking space as they cook in a historic building that can’t be sealed).

BUT because I’d heard many positive celiac reviews and all their GF foods are separated in the bakery, I felt safe eating and these were seriously some of the prettiest and TASTIEST pastries I had in Italy! As always, my goal is to give y’all enough information for you to make the right decision for YOU. If you're dairy free, this was also one of the most dairy-free bakeries I found in Rome because all dairy-free options are clearly labeled in the display case!

Gluten Free Finds at Roma Termini - From AIC Bakeries, Gluten Free Kit Kats and More

On the 2cd floor of Roma Termini next to the bathrooms are dessert stores with a section dedicated to Napoleoni Gluten Free products. Napoleoni Gluten Free is accredited by the Celiac Association of Italy, and I found cookies, brownies, high-scale cakes and more in the shops. I only got a chance to try the cookies, but they were super yummy.

In a convenience store on the bottom level of Roma Termini, I found 2 of my new fave chocolates: gluten free seasonal KitKats (shaped like Santa's and labeled "Senza glutine" on the back) and Cookies n’ Creme Chupa Cups that are also marked senza glutine. Highly recommend on stocking up on both of these! And if you aren't in Italy yet but want to get your hands on some gluten free kit kats, you can also find some on Amazon (imported from Canada) here. More deets on the Canada KitKat labeling info here.

And if you have time, check out the pharmacy on the second floor of Roma Termini. It has a bunch of Schar Gluten Free products (they have SO much more variety in Europe than in the US) + other gluten free brands!

Pin this Gluten Free Rome, Italy Guide for Future Use!

I'd love to hear if you've ever been to Italy since going gluten free, or what you would be most excited to eat there! I will be posting my guide to eating gluten free in Florence and Venice soon!

Gluten Free Caramelized Banana S'mores Bake (Nut Free, Vegan Option)

2022-08-06T19:37:00.002-07:00

This post features product generously gifted by Schar and Foods Alive. All opinions, thoughts and photos are my own.

This gluten free S'mores Bake with Caramelized Bananas is the perfect way to end summer -- especially because this S'mores Bake is made in 15 minutes or less, uses only 5 ingredients and is made in the oven (or toaster oven), no campfire required.

Plus, it has all the classic S'mores components you're craving: gooey chocolate, chewy marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers...except this S'mores dessert is gluten free, nut free, optionally vegan and the perfect size to share with a fellow gluten free foodie.

I first shared this easy gluten free dessert recipe on my Instagram, where I'm much more active these days. If you want first access to all the gluten free recipes I've been making lately -- like Gluten Free & Vegan Peanut Butter and Chocolate Donut Holes, Blueberry Streusel Breakfast Cookies and High Protein Cowboy Caviar Pasta Salad - as well as funny gluten free videos and weekly gluten free giveaways, follow me there at collegeceliackc. :)

And with that said...let's get baking!

Gluten Free Caramalized Banana S'mores Bake Recipe

4 graham crackers (I used these Honeygrams from Schar but you can sub with a GF and vegan option!)

1 ripe banana, mashed

1 TBSP coconut sugar (I used my fave from Foods Alive here)

2-3 TBSP chocolate chips, vegan if desired

2 handfuls of mini marshmallows (I used Dandies vegan marshmallows)

How to Make Your Gluten Free S'mores Bake

To make this easy gluten free s’mores dessert, preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Crumble 4 grapham crackers in an oven-safe bowl. In another bowl, mash 1 ripe banana with 1 TBSP coconut sugar, and add the mix on top of the crumbled honeygrams.

Add as much chocolate chips as your heart desires and two handfuls of mini marshmallows. Bake at 350 for 12 minutes and broil on high for 15 seconds. Then dig in!

Pin This Post for Easy Gluten Free Baking Later on...

If you do try making this gluten free S'mores dessert for yourself, let me know by tagging me (collegeceliackc) on Instagram or Facebook (at Casey the College Celiac).

And tell me in the comments - what's your favorite summer dessert?

Gluten Free and Keto Friendly PB&J Cupcakes (Sugar Free)

2022-05-14T13:15:00.001-07:00

This post is generously sponsored by Scotty's Everyday. Thank you for supporting brands that support Casey the College Celiac.

The only thing better than gluten free cupcakes? Gluten free and keto cupcakes filled with jam and topped with an easy peanut butter frosting! Now that Spring and berry season is here, it's the perfect time to get PB&J an upgrade in the form of gluten free PB&J cupcakes. And these are super easy to make and taste just like your typical decadent dessert - despite being gluten free, sugar free and keto friendly.

And this is all possible thanks to Scotty's Everyday Ket Cupcake and Cake Mix! Besides being gluten free, this gluten free Cupcake Mix is also 0 net carbs, non-GMO and free of the nut flours found in most alternative mixes. One of the biggest surprises? Even though I live in Colorado and am baking at a high altitude, these gluten free cupcakes turned out SUPER fluffy.

So if you're looking for a gluten free or keto cupcake recipe that could fool your friends or family into thinking they're eating a regular "gluten" cupcake, you're at the right place. Let's get baking!

Gluten Free and Keto PB&J Cupcake Ingredients

1 Cupcake/Cake Mix from Scotty's Everyday

6 TSP regular or dairy free butter

3 large eggs

1/2 cup water

1 TBSP vanilla extract

Keto-friendly jam of your choice (sugar free if desired)

Nut butter of choice (I used almond)

Sugar free powdered sugar

How to Make Your Gluten Free Peanut Butter and Jelly Cupcakes

First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees. combine the softened butter, 3 large eggs, 1/2 cup of water and 1 TBSP vanilla extract. Then add the cupcake mix and make your batter. I mixed mine by hand with a whisk, but you can also use a mixer.

Once combined, fill your cupcake liners halfway. Then add a spoonful of your jelly to the middle, and cover with more batter. Repeat until all cupcakes are ready, and optionally add a swirl of jelly on the top of each cupcake. Bake for 20-22 minutes and let cool before icing.

For a healthier, easy icing, I simply mixed around 2 TBSP of nut butter (creamy is best) with sugar free powdered sugar to taste. I only frosted a few of the cupcakes, adding a jelly heart on top for fun. But these were equally delicious without any icing, or you could do a simple drizzle of nut butter on top.

Pin This Post for Easy Keto Cupcake Baking Later on...

If you do try making these gluten free jam stuffed peanut butter cupcakes for yourself, let me know by tagging me (collegeceliackc) on Instagram or Facebook (at Casey the College Celiac). And if you're looking for some easy-to-use and versatile gluten free and keto friendly baking mixes, I can't recommend Scotty's Everyday enough!

And tell me in the comments - what's your favorite flavor of cupcake?

Cookie Dough Peanut Butter Cups (Gluten Free)

2022-02-01T20:10:00.006-08:00

This post is features product generously gifted by Highkey Snacks, Foods Alive and Seeds of Collaboration. All opinions, thoughts and photos are my own.

Need an easy Valentine's Day dessert that everyone will love? These homemade gluten free peanut butter cups will blow your mind...especially since they're made with crunchy gluten free cookies for some sweet crunch in the middle.

And even though this gluten free peanut butter cup recipe sounds decadent, they're healthier than most gluten free candies. They're sweetened only with date syrup (and the sugar in whatever gluten free cookies you pick) and are easily made nut free and vegan! Plus, no baking is required!

Gluten Free Peanut Butter Cup Recipe

1 cup of melted cacao butter wafers (I used from Foods Alive, here)

1 cup of cacao powder

1/4 cup of date syrup

Your choice of seed or nut butter (I used Seeds of Collaboration Tahini for this batch, but any works!)

Your choice of gluten free cookies (I used High Key Snacks' Chocolate Chip Cookies)

How to Make Your Vegan Peanut Butter Cups

To make, melt your cacao butter wafers in the microwave until smooth. Combine with the cacao powder and date nectar.

Next, fill a reusable muffin tin about 1/4 of the way with your chocolate mixture. Then add a dollop of nut butter and some crumbled gluten free chocolate chip cookies, and cover with more of the chocolate mixture.

Freeze for at least an hour and then enjoy!

Pin This Post for Easy Access to Gluten Free Cookie Dough Peanut Butter Cups...

I always love knowing if you make any of my recipes, so if you try out this recipe, let me know by tagging me (collegeceliackc) on Instagram or Facebook (at Casey the College Celiac). Can't wait to see! :)

And tell me in the comments - what's your favorite allergy friendly dessert for Valentine's Day?

Pumpkin Cookie Brownie Bars (Gluten Free, Vegan Option)

2021-12-22T16:06:00.004-08:00

This post is features product generously gifted by Performance Nut Butter. All opinions, thoughts and photos are my own.

Need a last-minute gluten free Christmas dessert that everyone will love? Then these gluten free Pumpkin Cookie Brownie Bars are calling your name! Gluten free, optionally vegan and the best of both cookie and brownie worlds!

And even though these cookie brownie bars sound decadent (and taste like a real treat!), they're healthier than the traditional sl*tty brownies version. Not only are these gluten free and (optionally vegan), but they also don't have any butter -- and do have hidden veggies in the form of pumpkin. So let's get baking...

Gluten Free Cookie Brownie Bars Recipe

1/4 cup rice flour

1/4 cup coconut flour, separated into two 2 TBSP

1/4 cup + 3 TBSP coconut sugar

1/4 cup cacao powder

1/4 cup + 2 TBSP pumpkin puree

2.5 TBSP nut butter (I used Performance Nut Butter)

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 cup water/milk

Handful of chocolate chips

Sprinkle of cinnamon

3 drops vanilla stevia

How to Make Your Gluten Free Pumpkin Cookie Brownie Bars

To make these gluten free brownie bars, first preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

Then mix your Brownie Layer by combining 1/4 cup rice flour, 2 TBSP coconut flour, 1/4 cup coconut sugar, 1/4 cup cacao powder, 1/4 cup pumpkin purée, 1/3 cup water or dairy free milk, 1.5 TBSP nut butter and 1 tsp baking powder.

Press into bottom of a lines 9X9 baking tray and sprinkle marshmallows on top. Use vegan marshmallows to make this recipe vegan!

Next, make your cookie layer by mixing 2 TBSP coconut flour, 3 TBSP coconut sugar, 1 TBSP nut butter, 2 TBSP pumpkin purée, 1/4 cup water/milk, handful of chocolate chips, sprinkle of cinnamon and three drops of vanilla stevia. Place on top of marshmallow layer and bake for around 30 minutes!

All that's left to do is devour. ;)

Pin This Post for Easy Gluten Free Christmas Baking Later on...

And tell me in the comments - what's your favorite untraditional Christmas dessert?

15 Easy Gluten Free Christmas Cookies and Other Desserts

2021-12-13T14:23:00.002-08:00

The holidays are here yet again, and 'tis definitely the season for Christmas cookies and other Christmas desserts! So, I thought I'd round up some of the best gluten free Christmas cookies and other gluten free desserts I've shared on my Instagram this year so far.

With these gluten free Christmas dessert recipes, everyone will be able to enjoy a tasty treat this year. And whether you're looking for vegan snickerdoodle cookies, the best gluten free pumpkin cookies or just Christmas desserts that everyone will love, you've come to right place! So let's stop talking and start drooling over these 15 easy gluten free Christmas cookies and other desserts...

Gluten Free Christmas Cookies, 1: Sweet and Salty Banana Snickerdoodles (Vegan)

For a sweet and salty spin on the traditional Christmas cookie of snickerdoodles, combine 2 mashed banana, 1/3 cup coconut flour, 1/3 cup rice flour, 2 tsp cinnamon, 2/3 cup mixed nuts and seeds, 2/3 cup crushed gluten free pretzels, 2 TBSP nut butter, 1 tsp baking powder and 1/4 cup water in a food processor.

Roll in cinnamon sugar and bake at 375 for 15-17 mins.

Gluten Free Christmas Cookies, 2: Cinnamon Sugar Banana Cookies Stuffed with Chocolate (Vegan)

To make, preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Mix 3/4 cup All Purpose GF flour, 3/4 cup Rice flour, 2.5 mashed bananas, 1/4 cup + 1 TBSP water, 1/4 cup coconut sugar, 2 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp baking powder and three drops of vanilla stevia.

Take a tablespoon of batter and place chocolate inside, then cover with rest of batter. Bake for 10-13 minutes and enjoy!

Gluten Free Christmas Cookies, 2: Super Easy Brownie Cookies (Vegan Option)

To make them, preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Then mix 2 ripe bananas (mashed), 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp coconut flour, 1/2 cup GF brownie mix (I used Mama Stoen's), 1 cup GF all purpose flour, 3 TBSP cacao powder, 1 TBSP date syrup, 3 drops vanilla stevia and 1/2 cup water.

If desired, add pieces of Undercover Snacks' chocolate quinoa snacks on top. Bake for 10-12 minutes, and top with nut butter of choice.

Gluten Free Christmas Cookies, 4: Almond Butter and Granola Stuffed Cookies (Vegan)

First, put small circles of nut butter on parchment paper and place in freezer.

Then mix together 3/4 cup all purpose GF flour, 1/2 cup coconut flour, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 TBSP cacao, 2 TBSP date syrup, 1/2 tsp baking powder and 1/2 cup water.

Place 6 large, thin cookie shapes on parchment paper. Add the frozen nut butter disks and granola of choice on top, before adding the other half of the cookie batter on top to enclose the filling. Bake at 375 degrees for 15-18 mins. Let cool and dig in!

Gluten Free Christmas Cookies, 5: Chocolate Granola Cookies with a Molten Chocolate Center (Vegan)

Combine 1 1/4 cup granola, 1 ripe mashed banana, 3 prunes (soaked and shredded), 1 TBSP cacao powder, 3 TBSP rice flour, 1/4 cup coconut flakes and 1/4 cup of water or juice from the soaked prunes. Add more if needed to get food processor to blend.

First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Mix all ingredients in a food processor until a wet dough is formed. Take half a tablespoon of dough and shape into a ball. Add your choice of chocolate, and then top with more dough. Bake for 20-23 minutes. Then enjoy!

Gluten Free Christmas Cookies, 6: Single Serve Microwave Chocolate Chip Cookies (Vegan)

Just combine half a ripe banana with 3 TBSP of Pamela's Products Chocolate Chip Cookie mix and 2 TBSP coconut flour and microwave for 45-90 seconds depending on desired gooeyness.

Gluten Free Christmas Cookies, 7: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies with a Date Pumpkin Drizzle (Vegan)

To whip these Christmas cookies up for yourself, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Then mix 1 1/2 cup GF flour, 1/3 pumpkin purée, 1/3 cup + 2 TBSP water or dairy free milk, 3 TBSP date syrup, 1 tsp baking powder, a heavy sprinkle pumpkin spice and cinnamon. Combine and add 1/4 cup pumpkin spice granola and a handful of chocolate chips.

Bake for 11-15 mins. While they bake, make your sweet sauce! Just mix around 1 TBSP of date syrup with a spoonful of pumpkin purée and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice. Then drizzle on the cookies and enjoy!

Gluten Free Christmas Cookies, 8: Pumpkin White Chocolate Walnut Cookies (Vegan)

To make these cookies, combine 3/4 cup All Purpose GF flour, 3/4 cup @viddiesbakery rice flour, 1/3 cup pumpkin purée, 1/4 cup coconut sugar, 2 tsp pumpkin spice, 1 tsp baking powder, three drops vanilla stevia and a handful of vegan white chocolate chips and crushed walnuts (or pumpkin seeds for a nut free option.

Bake for 13-15 minutes at 350 and then devour!

Christmas Desserts, 11: Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes with a Chocolate Center (Vegan)

To make these donut holes for yourself, preheat the oven to 375 F. Then combine 2 mashed bananas, 1 cup all purpose flour, 1/2 cup coconut flour, 1/4 cup coconut sugar, 1 cup water/milk, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp cinnamon and 3 drops vanilla stevia. Then scoop half a teaspoon of batter into a muffin tin, place a small piece of @beyondgood chocolate in the center, and cover with more batter.

Bake for 16-20 minutes and let slightly cool. Roll in cinnamon sugar and add melted chocolate drizzle (optional). Then dig in!

Christmas Desserts, 10: Sunflower Butter Chocolate Cup Banana Blondies (Vegan)

Just combine 1 cup all purpose flour, 1/4 cup coconut flour, 1/4 cup coconut sugar, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/8 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp cinnamon, 2 ripe mashed bananas, 1/3 cup applesauce, 1/4 cup water, a splash of vanilla extract and 2 sunflower butter chocolate cups. Bake at 350 for 25-28 mins!

Christmas Desserts, 11: Chocolate Sunbutter Butter Lava Cake (Vegan)

Combine 1 ripe banana, mashed, 1/2 cup flour (I did 2 TBSP all purpose GF 3 TBSP quinoa flour and 3 TBSP coconut flour), 6 TBSP water or plant based milk, 1 TBSP coconut sugar, 1 TBSP cacao powder, 3/4 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, and sunflower butter cups.

Then bake at 350 degrees F for 15 minutes. Optional: add extra nut butter, dairy free ice cream, etc to the top!

Christmas Desserts, 12: Double Chocolate Protein Fudge (Vegan Option)

To make my Protein Fudge, first blend together 3 ripe bananas, 1/4 cup chocolate protein powder, 1/4 cup cacao powder, 1/4 cup date paste, 1 7.4 oz can condensed coconut milk (melted), 3 TBSP coconut flour and 1 TBSP water.

Then pour three quarters of the batter into a lined 9X9 baking tray. Cut one gluten free salted caramel protein bar (I used Caveman Foods) into pieces and sprinkle most on the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, add the final pieces of the bar and place in freezer overnight or until set. Then cut into cubes and store in fridge or freezer!

Christmas Desserts, 13: Pumpkin Brownie Cookie Bars (Vegan Option)

To make them, first preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

Press into bottom of a lines 9X9 baking tray and sprinkle marshmallows on top. Use vegan marshmallows to make this recipe vegan!

Christmas Desserts, 14: S'mores Granola Balls (Vegan Option)

First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Mix together 1 1/4 cup mixed nuts/seeds or granola, 1 ripe banana, 3 prunes (soaked and shredded), 2 tsp cinnamon, 3 TBSP rice flour, 1/4 tsp coconut flakes, 1/4 cup water or juice from soaked prunes in a food processor until a wet dough is formed.

Take half a tablespoon of dough and shape into a ball. Fill with a few chocolate chips and marshmallows (vegan, if desired). Add another half tablespoon of dough and mix into a ball. Bake for 20-23 minutes. The marshmallows may dissolve partially from baking, so never say no to adding extra either.

Christmas Desserts, 15: Coconut Chocolate Magic Bars (Vegan Option)

Coconut lovers...here's a gluten free Christmas dessert for you! To make these Coconut Chocolate Magic Bars, combine 1 ripe banana, 1 cup GF flour, 1/2 cup quinoa flour, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 6 TBSP water and a shake of cinnamon and press into a 9X9 parchment-lined cake tray.

Then top with 3/4 cup shredded coconut, 1 cup chopped mixed nuts, 3/4 cup chopped chocolate and 1 can of condensed coconut milk. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes - let cool and dig in!

Happy holidays and happy Christmas cookie season!

Especially now that I live close to my family, baking Christmas cookies and other treats is one of my favorite holiday activities. When I was diagnosed with celiac disease five years ago, I worried about not being able to enjoy that delicious tradition - but, as all of these yummy gluten free Christmas cookie recipes and desserts show, you can definitely enjoy Christmas treats even with dietary restrictions.

And for even more gluten free Christmas cookie recipes and more yummy eats, check out these posts:

Let me know in the comments what your favorite Christmas treat is or which of these Christmas cookies or holiday dessert recipes you want to try first!

Gluten Free and Vegan Christmas Breakfast Toasts

2021-12-05T13:02:00.004-08:00

This post is generously sponsored by Little Northern Bakehouse.

Everybody knows about Christmas cookies...but have you tried a festive Christmas breakfast like Christmas tree avocado toast or a hummus snowman? These Christmas recipes are super easy to make and even easier to eat for breakfast, lunch or even breakfast for dinner.

And if you still aren't sold, this simple avocado toast and hummus toast recipe is:

Gluten free, vegan and nut free
Packed with veggies in a fun, festive way kids will love
Super tasty and versatile

And if you haven't tried Northern Bakehouse's yummy breads and bagels, this is your sign to add them to your Christmas list. Not only are their breads certified gluten free, but their products are also peanut and nut free, non-GMO and (for the most part) vegan. For this recipe, I used their Seeds and Grains Bread, which has extra seeds added in. I LOVE the extra crunch - and the extra nutrition.

And if you're looking for an easy Christmas breakfast recipe or a festive easy lunch or dinner everybody in the fam will love, these cute toasts check both boxes!

Ingredients for a This Christmas Tree Avocado Toast Recipe - Perfect for Christmas Breakfast:

1 slice of Seeds and Grain Bread from Little Northern Bakehouse

1/2 ripe avocado

Plain hummus for the start + plain hummus mixed with beet powder for the ornaments

Roasted zucchini for the presents and pumpkin seeds for the ornaments

Ingredients for a This Snowman Hummus Toast Recipe - Perfect for Christmas Breakfast:

1 slice of Seeds and Grain Bread from Little Northern Bakehouse

A tub of plain gf and vegan hummus

Plain hummus mixed with beet powder for the scarf

Roasted zucchini for the hat and nose and pumpkin seeds for the buttons, eyes and arms

How to Make this Christmas Breakfast Recipe of Festive Toasts:

This Christmas breakfast is as easy as it gets! First, toast your bread slices (if desired) while you roast a few strips of zucchini. Then add mashed avocado onto one slice in the shape of a Christmas tree and cut the roasted zucchini slices into squares and strips for the present. Mix a little hummus with beet powder, grab your pumpkin seeds, and put everything into place. Repeat with the snowman toast, except using hummus for the main part of the design!

I Hope These Easy Christmas Breakfast Recipes Help Bring Some Fun to Your Gluten Free Holiday Eats!

I had a ton of fun making these gluten free Christmas breakfast recipes, so I hope you enjoy these toasts as much as I do!

And if you want to try Little Northern Bakehouse's products for yourself, you can find them in the freezer section of most natural food stores. Perfect to keep in the fridge or freezer for easy eats during the holidays or any time of the year!

Let me know in the comments if you’ve ever tried their products or what your favorite gluten free Christmas recipes are!

Double Chocolate Protein Freezer Fudge (Gluten Free, Vegan)

2021-11-30T09:37:00.002-08:00

This post is features product generously gifted from Caveman Foods, but all opinions, thoughts and photos are my own.

Craving gluten free fudge or freezer fudge -- but trying to eat healthier? Then this double chocolate protein freezer fudge needs to land on your to-do list, ASAP! This double chocolate protein fudge is super creamy with bites of crunchy and chewy protein bar, and you'd never guess this freezer fudge is gluten free, vegan and so easy to make.

Not only is this double chocolate protein freezer fudge gluten free, but it's also:

Vegan and allergy-friendly
Super easy to make - you just throw most of it in a blender!
Crazy delicious...even if you don't love coconut (you can't even taste the condensed coconut milk!)
Loaded with some extra protein so it's perfect for pre or post workout, or a healthier treat.

Dreamy Gluten Free and Vegan Protein Fudge

3 ripe bananas

1/4 cup chocolate protein powder (I used vegan)

1/4 cup cacao powder

1/4 cup date paste

1 7.4 oz can of condensed coconut milk (melted)

3 TBSP coconut flour

1 TBSP water

1 Caveman Foods Chocolate Salted Caramel Protein Bar

How to Make Your Double Chocolate Protein Fudge

Like most of the gluten free and vegan recipes I share, this one is super easy to make!

First blend together all the ingredients except the protein bar.

Then pour three quarters of the batter into a lined 9X9 baking tray. Cut one Caveman Foods protein bar into pieces and sprinkle most on the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top, add the final pieces of the bar and place in freezer overnight or until set. Then cut into cubes and store in fridge or freezer!

If You Make This Gluten Free Chocolate Protein Fudge, Definitely Let Me Know What You Think!

If you do try making this vegan protein fudge for yourself, let me know by tagging me (collegeceliackc) on Instagram or Facebook (at Casey the College Celiac).

And tell me below...what's your fave chocolatey dessert?

Vegan Banana Blondies with Sunflower Butters Cups (Gluten Free, Nut Free)

2021-11-20T16:54:00.003-08:00

This post is features product generously gifted by No Whey Chocolate. All opinions, thoughts and photos are my own.

Need an allergy-friendly dessert recipe for the holidays? Then you'll love these vegan Banana Blondies with Sunflower Butter Cups. Gluten free, nut free, vegan and loaded with chocolatey goodness.

And even though these donuts sound decadent (and taste like it!), they're healthier than the fried version. Not only are these gluten free donuts baked, but also they're mainly sweetened with mashed banana. Plus, they're vegan, dairy free and nut free as well! So let's get baking...

Gluten Free Vegan Banana Blondies Recipe

2 bananas, mashed

1/3 cup applesauce

1 cup All Purpose GF Flour

1/4 cup coconut flour

1/4 cup coconut sugar

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/8 tsp baking soda

1 tsp cinnamon

1/4 cup water/milk

Splash of vanilla extract

2 PeaNOTcups from No Whey Chocolate

How to Make Your Gluten Free Banana Blondies

To make, just combine 1 cup all purpose flour, 1/4 cup coconut flour, 1/4 cup coconut sugar, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/8 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp cinnamon, 2 ripe mashed bananas, 1/3 cup applesauce, 1/4 cup water, a splash of vanilla extract and 2 crumbled PeaNOT Cups.

Bake at 350 for 25-28 mins! Then devour. ;)

Pin This Post for Easy Gluten Free Blondies Baking Later on...

And tell me in the comments - what's your favorite allergy friendly dessert?

Gluten Free Eats Near Rocky Mountain National Park (Estes, Colorado)

2021-11-09T14:32:00.001-08:00

If you follow me on Instagram, you know that my boyfriend and I took a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park (around Estes, Colorado) last month. I'd never visited a national park before, and the nature blew me away...but so did the food! So I wanted to share some of my favorite gluten free eats and gluten free restaurant options at Rocky Mountain National Forest.

I brought a decent amount of food with me in a Yeti cooler and we bought some food from the local Safeway for plainer eats. (And if you don't feel safe eating at non-gluten-free-only restaurants, that Safeway is an awesome way to buy foods that you cook in your own room or cabin). But here are three restaurants/eateries I felt safe eating at and enjoyed!

And now that I've been living in Colorado for over six months now, I have lots more travel planned - in and out of the state! So stay tuned for even more gluten free restaurant reviews and gluten free eats in Colorado and beyond. :)

Gluten Free Eats at Rocky Mountain National Park, Place #1: The Sugar Shack

At downtown Estes, Colorado, I found that there were TONS of fudge and ice cream shops. But at the last one we checked out, I majorly scored with dairy free (and gluten free) ice cream, plus FUDGE!

Sugar Shack sells ice cream / sorbet, fudge, candy, popcorn and more and I was pleasantly surprised to learn that almost all their fudge is gluten free! It is made in a shared space with the non-gluten-free flavors, but I felt comfortable eating it and didn't get sick. (As always trust your gut and go with your own comfort levels. My boyfriend and I sampled several, but we ended up going with the M&Ms flavor: sweet, chocolatey and not overly rich. Honestly I could’ve eaten the whole block in one sitting.

I also got some orange sorbet that was super creamy and flavorful. Compared to the other ice cream shops we stopped by, Sugar Shack clearly labeled which flavors of ice cream were gluten free - plus they had several dairy free options. I will definitely be dreaming of the Sugar Shack - especially that fudge!

Gluten Free Eats at Rocky Mountain National Park, Place #2: Boss Burgers and Gyros

There were several burger joints in Estes Park, but we decided to hit Boss Burgers and Gyros. It was a small, local joint, but I saw that they had Udi's gluten free buns on the menu and had good reviews on Find Me Gluten Free. I told the cashier that I needed it to be gluten free and that I had celiac disease, and they were careful about preparing my order: a BBQ Chicken burger.

Overall, the bun was fluffy (and held together surprisingly well), the chicken was juicy and my boyfriend loved the gyro he ordered. The BBQ was a bit too sweet for me, but otherwise, 10/10! I did not order fries, so I don't know if they have a dedicated fryer - but if you're interested in eating here and want fries, be sure to ask!

Gluten Free Eats at Rocky Mountain National Park, Place #3: Ed's Cantina

This was our least favorite gluten free restaurant stop of the trip, but it was still pretty tasty. I loved that Ed's Cantina had gluten free options clearly indicated on the menu, and they had a variety of choices. I went with the vegetable enchiladas (which were also vegan) and ate around the corn tortillas since I can’t eat corn.

The sauces were super flavorful, though the plate was a little small and not totally worth the price. My boyfriend loved the nachos and queso dip (one of the best he's ever tried - and he's a nacho connaisseur, lol) but his buffalo enchiladas were only OK. But if you LOVE Mexican food, this may be your fave joint in Estes, Colorado.

Gluten Free Eats at Rocky Mountain National Park - and the Bottom Line of Traveling with Celiac Disease

Since my celiac diagnosis, I’ve gotten a lot more chill about traveling. I still do some research beforehand and bring back-up food but I go with the flow more, and this trip was a prime example of that strategy working well!

If you want even more in-depth tips about traveling with celiac disease, check out some of my previous posts here and here.

And let me know in the comments - what bite from this trip would you want first??

Coconut Chocolate Magic Bars (Gluten Free, Dairy Free Option)

2021-11-04T20:27:00.002-07:00

This post is features product generously gifted by Alter Eco Foods. All opinions, thoughts and photos are my own.

Now that the holiday season is officially here, I'm in full baking mode...including making these gluten free Chocolate Magic Bars! Now, I've heard them called by many names: magic bars, magic cookie bars, 7 layer magic bars or magic bars with coconut. Mine don't have seven layers, but these gluten free magic bars DO taste like they'll give you seven minutes of heaven!

Plus, compared to traditional magic bars, these coconut chocolate magic bars are dairy free, have no oil or butter and can easily be nut free if you replace the nuts with seeds. And if you're a fan of chocolate or coconut, then prepare to fall in love with this slightly healthier version of a classic magic bar.

Gluten Free Coconut Chocolate Magic Bars

1 ripe banana, mashed

1 cup All Purpose GF Flour

1/2 cup quinoa flour

1 can of condensed coconut milk

3/4 cup shredded coconut

1 cup chopped mixed nuts

3/4 cup chopped chocolate (dairy free if desired)

6 TBSP water

1 tsp vanilla extract

Shake of cinnamon

How to Make Your Gluten Free Magic Bars

First combine the banana, flour, flour, vanilla extract, water and a shake of cinnamon. Form a dough and press into a 9X9 parchment-lined cake tray. Then top with shredded coconut, chopped mixed nuts, chopped chocolate and condensed coconut milk.

Bake at 350 for 30 minutes - let cool and dig in!

Pin This Post for Easy Gluten Free Magic Cookie Bar Baking Later on...

If you do try making these gluten free magic bars for yourself, let me know by tagging me (collegeceliackc) on Instagram or Facebook (at Casey the College Celiac).

And tell me in the comments - what's your favorite fall dessert?

Chocolate Filled Gluten Free Banana Donut Holes (Vegan)

2021-09-30T20:39:00.004-07:00

This post is features product generously gifted by Beyond Good. All opinions, thoughts and photos are my own.

I'm always down for donuts, and when they're gluten free donuts filled with vegan chocolate...well, who can turn those down?? Now that temperatures are getting colder, I'm craving banana bread and pumpkin bread more than ever...so I whipped up some banana bread donuts with a creamy chocolate filling and a crunching cinnamon sugar coating!

Gluten Free Chocolate Filled Donut Holes Recipe

2 mashed bananas

1 cup All Purpose GF Flour

1/2 cup Coconut Flour

1 cup water/milk

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp cinnamon

3 drops vanilla stevia

1 Beyond Good chocolate bar

Optional: 3 TBSP cinnamon sugar

How to Make Your Gluten Free Stuffed Chocolate Donuts

First, combine 2 mashed bananas, 1 cup all purpose flour, 1/2 cup coconut flour, 1/4 cup coconut sugar, 1 cup water/milk, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp cinnamon and 3 drops vanilla stevia. Then scoop half a teaspoon of batter into a muffin tin, place a small piece of Beyond Good chocolate in the center, and cover with more batter.

Bake for 16-20 minutes and let slightly cool. Roll in cinnamon sugar and add melted chocolate drizzle (optional). Then dig in!

Pin This Post for Easy Gluten Free Donut Baking Later on...

If you do try making these gluten free chocolate stuffed donut holes for yourself, let me know by tagging me (collegeceliackc) on Instagram or Facebook (at Casey the College Celiac).

And tell me in the comments - what's your favorite flavor of donut?

59 Gluten Free Back-to-School Breakfast and Lunch Recipes

2021-09-15T14:08:00.001-07:00

Back-to-school season is officially here...and that means it's time to enjoy some gluten free back-to-school breakfasts and lunches! So to help you all get into the swing of things, I've rounded up 59 of the best gluten free breakfast and lunch recipes. And don't worry. If you eat paleo, keto, vegan or low carb, this round-up still has plenty of recipes for you. Not to mention, most of them are very kid-friendly and perfect for the entire family!

So whether you're going back to school or just want some tasty ideas to change up your usual gluten free breakfast or lunch routine, keep reading to discover 59 delicious back-to-school gluten free breakfast and lunch recipes!

Gluten Free Back-to-School Breakfast Recipes

1. Gluten Free Pumpkin Breakfast Cookies - Homebody Eats

Breakfast cookies are always a winning gluten free breakfast - before school or otherwise!

2. The Best Gluten Free Bagels (Vegan) - Allergy Friendly Alaska

These homemade bagels will upgrade any pre-school breakfast.

3. Leek, Bacon and Mushroom Potato Hash - Fifteen Spatulas

This is one flavorful gluten free hash that will wake anyone up with some yummy smells from the kitchen.

4. Gluten Free Baked Vanilla Donuts (Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Nut Free) - The Gluten Free Austrian

If you need a back-to-school morning treat, these gluten free donuts are the perfect solution.

5. Healthy Hemp Granola (Vegan, Nut Free Option) - Healthy with a Chance of Sprinkles

This healthy vegan granola is perfect for eating as cereal, sprinkling on yogurt or even packing as a snack.

6. Gluten Free Vegan Double Chocolate Muffins - Living Beyond Allergies

Was anyone else sold as soon as they saw double chocolate??

7. Yeast Free Gluten Free Cinnamon Rolls (Yeast Free, Soy Free, Dairy Free) - Eating Gluten Free and Dairy Free

Cinnamon rolls that are gluten free, yeast free and dairy free? Yes please!

8. Gluten Free Dairy Free Pancake Cereal - Marathons and Motivation

The pancake cereal trend gets a gluten free twist with this recipe!

9. Vegan Chickpea Egg Salad - Lovely Lentils

Miss egg salad on a vegan diet? Then this gluten free breakfast recipe is just what you need.

10. Cinnamon Sweet Potato Breakfast Cookies Recipe - Any Reason Vegans

Only three ingredients are needed to these healthy breakfast cookies.

11. Air Fryer Baby Breakfast Potatoes (Vegan) - Bites with Bri

Gluten free breakfast potatoes that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside? Air fryer to the rescue!

12. Peanut Butter Overnight Oats (Vegan Option, Nut Free Option) - Mae's Menu

Eating a gluten free healthy breakfast has never been easier thanks to this overnight oats recipe.

13. Gluten Free and Dairy Free Blueberry Waffles - Mama of Minis

Fluffy, sweet and filled with blueberries - what could be better?

14. Quick and Easy Keto Breakfast Bites - I Hacked Diabetes

Ground meat, eggs, cheese and bell pepper combine to form yummy keto breakfast bites.

15. Gluten Free Pop Tarts - Beyond Flour

Gluten free pop tarts?!? Dreams have come true!

16. Easy Gluten Free Apple Muffins - What the Fork Food Blog

Fall is here, so bring on the festive apple recipes!

17. Easy Protein Overnight Oats (Dairy Free Option) - The Oregon Dietician

These gluten free oats are thiccc and packed with yummy ingredients like bananas and nut butter.

18. Nut Free Chocolate Spread (Paleo) - A Sweet Alternative

This nut-free chocolate spread is easy to make and more nutritious than the store bought sugary stuff. Use it in sandwiches or as a dip for fresh fruit.

19. Gluten Free Banana Pancakes (Dairy Free, Vegan Option) - The Texanerin

These gluten free pancakes are super fluffy and perfect for kids and adults alike!

20. Gluten Free Strawberry Muffins (Paleo, Dairy Free) - Organically Addison

Is there really any better flavor combo for gluten free muffins than strawberries and chocolate?

21. Gluten Free Baked Donuts - Temecula Blogs

You can make these gluten free donuts in your oven or your pressure cooker, and they'll come out fluffy and moist every time.

22. Gluten Free Bagel Sandwiches - Gluten Free Supper

Use your favorite gluten free bagel - or the bagel recipe at number 2! - to make these epic gluten free bagel breakfast sandwiches.

23. Air Fryer Tater Tots - Aubrey's Kitchen

Need a gluten free breakfast that everyone will love? Then whip up some gluten free tater tots in your air fryer.

24. Oven Baked Chocolate Pancake (Vegan, Nut Free, Paleo) - LB Health and Lifestyle

This healthy oven baked chocolate pancake is a healthy, quick & easy breakfast recipe made in just 15 minutes. Baking the pancake in the oven, rather than on a stove as traditionally done, makes them quicker and easier to prepare and allows you to make a large batch in one go without standing flipping each one.

25. Instant Pot Apple Pie Oatmeal (Vegan) - Profusion Curry

This gluten free breakfast is extra easy to make thanks to the instant pot.

26. Mini Crustless Broccoli Quiche - Flavor the Moments

No crust, no problem!

27. Gluten Free Sweet Potato Bread - Cooked By Julie

This gluten free sweet potato bread is so moist it melts in your mouth! The ultimate breakfast recipe.

28. Flourless Banana Pancakes (No Added Sugar) - Mountain Berry Eats

These pancakes are perfect for busy school weekdays and come together in minutes by making the batter in your blender!

29. Healthy Carrot Cake Oatmeal (Vegetarian) - Randa Derkson

Healthy cake for breakfast? Yes please!

30. Keto Blueberry Pancakes - How 2 Do Keto

Who says you can't eat pancakes while on a keto or low carb diet?!?

31. The Best Gluten Free Banana Nut Bread Bars - Kathyrn's Kitchen Blog

Gluten free banana bread gets an upgrade with chocolate chips, nuts and a dreamy glaze.

32. Gluten-Free Potato, Bacon & Egg Breakfast Burritos (Dairy Free Option) - Meaningful Eats

Gluten free burritos are always a good idea, especially when they're for breakfast!

33. Vegan Oatmeal Pumpkin Banana Bread - My Plantiful Cooking

Moist yet fluffy, this pumpkin banana bread is easily portable and can be eaten warm or at room temperature! Super easy to make, one bowl and only requires a handful of simple ingredients.

34. Keto Drop Biscuits (Low Carb, Dairy Free Option) - Cassidy's Craveable Creations

These Keto Drop Biscuits have a soft, buttery taste with a perfect texture that is light, soft, flaky, and tender. Plus, they can be made dairy-free and there's no rolling required!

35. Easy Blueberry Chia Pudding (Vegan, Paleo) - Cook at Home Mom

The most delicious way to start your day, this Blueberry Chia Pudding is made with just four simple ingredients. It’s super creamy and lightly sweet, with lots of blueberry flavor and just a hint of lemon. Best of all, it’s Paleo, Vegan, and naturally Gluten friendly!

36. Brown Rice Pancakes - A Peachy Plate

You'd never guess that these soft, fluffy pancakes are made from rice flour.

Gluten Free Back-to-School Lunch Recipes

37. Fruit Sticks with a Coconut Greek Yogurt Honey Dip - Aleka's Get Together

These super easy Fruit Sticks are like fruit fries! Crunchy bites of melon with a creamy coconut dip takes your average fruit platter to the next level!

38. Vegan Fried Rice - Culinary Shades

Gluten free fied rice is delicious and easy to make. It is loaded with veggies and perfect for school lunch.

39. Gluten Free Tofu Thai Wrap with Coconut Almond Butter Dip (Vegan) - Xoxo Bella

If you want to experience maximum flavour from a wrap this gluten free tofu Thai wrap is perfect! The wraps are filled with flavourful, marinated tofu, as well as health veggies and a coconut almond butter dip.

40. Paleo Chicken Salad - The Jam Jar Kitchen

This Paleo Chicken salad combines shredded chicken breast with grapes, green apples, celery, onion, pecans and tarragon for a healthy and delicious meal!

41. Homemade Granola Bars (Paleo, Vegetarian) - Ottawa Mommy Club

Granola bars are great for breakfast or lunch since they are filling and yummy. Plus, this gluten free recipe does not contain any oats.

42. Low Carb Chicken Pizza Crust (Low Carb, Keto) - Low Carb Spark

This Chicken Pizza Crust Recipe has almost zero carbs and needs only two main ingredients plus some seasonings of choice. It’s easier to make than the famous fathead pizza crust and customizable with your favorite toppings.

43. Protein Snack Pack - The Forked Spoon

Protein Snack Packs filled with hard-boiled eggs, almonds, hummus, and crunchy veggies. An easy and delicious lunchtime meal-prep solution perfect for any protein lover, these fantastic little protein snack packs are perfect for school lunches, post-workout snacks, or picnics in the park.

44. Chickpea Tuna Salad - Vanilla Bean Cuisine

This chickpea salad is perfect to make ahead of time so school lunches are super easy all week.

45. Crispy Keto Pizza Crust (Low Carb) - Healthy with Jamie

Kids will love helping you make this yummy and easy gluten free pizza!

46. Healthy Gluten Free Crepes + Fillings (Dairy Free) - Healthy Taste of Life

Make these gluten free crepes sweet or savory - they'll make for a delicious lunch either way!

47. Southwest Quinoa Salad (Vegan) - Beyond the Chicken Coop

This southwest salad will shake up the usual school lunches and offer some plant based protein.

48. Egg Salad With Bacon (Keto, Paleo and Whole30) - What a Girl Eats

Bacon adds even more flavor to your traditional paleo egg salad.

49. Chickpea Flatbread (Vegan) - My Cooking Journey

Pair with some veggies and hummus, and you'll have a yummy packed lunch.

50. Chicken Muffins (Paleo, AIP) - Go Healthy with Bea

Leftover rotisserie chicken gets transformed into a gluten free muffin perfect for back-to-school packed lunches.

51. Gluten Free Pizza Rolls - Science and Crumbs

Who says no to gluten free pizza?!?

52. Sunflower Butter Energy Balls (Nut Free) - The Dizzy Cook

Energy balls are the perfect sweet snack to add to a school lunch.

53. Gluten Free Cheez-It Crackers - Real Food RN

Cheez-It crackers are the perfect addition to a packed lunch. But why eat the processed version when you can make your own from real food with just 5 ingredients?

54. Vegan Apricot, Date and Walnut Slices - The Vegan Larder

If your kids are begging for a candy bar in their lunch box, these are the perfect healthy alternative.

55. Easy Grab and Go Gluten Free Breakfast Pockets - Fearless Dining

These Gluten Free Breakfast Pockets are so easy to make. Fill them with your favorite fillings!

56. Gluten Free Chickpea Nuggets (Vegan, Oil Free) - This Healthy Kitchen

Gluten free chickpea nuggets are a fun twist on a classic. Featuring wholesome ingredients for an allergen friendly, delicious nugget that’s perfect for dunking.

57. 3-Ingredient Keto Salami Roll Ups (Low Carb) - Sorey Fitness

These 3-Ingredient Keto Salami Roll Ups are so easy to make and perfect to serve as part of a lunch or to enjoy as a snack! They're so yummy, you won't even miss the tortilla!

58. Vegan Hummus - Kelly Stil Well

This homemade hummus recipe will keep you from buying hummus from the store ever again!

59. Apricot and Coconut Bars (Vegan, Refined Sugar Free) - It's Not Complicated Recipes

Add this gluten free and vegan bar to school lunches so you have the perfect fuel for that afternoon slump.

59 Gluten Free Back-to-School Breakfast and Lunch Recipes: The Bottom Line

Whether you're going back to school this year, have kids who are going to school or just love yummy breakfast and lunch recipes, I hope this round up gives you some delicious gluten free inspo!

And let me know in the comments - what recipe do you want to try first?

5 Surprising Ways My Body Changed After My Celiac Diagnosis

2021-09-04T20:19:00.000-07:00

Since my celiac diagnosis nine years ago, “gluten free gain weight” or “eating gluten free lose weight” have been two of the most common Google searches. And I get why - I went gluten free for celiac disease, and I noticed big changes in my appearance and body over the years.

So even though I do NOT believe eating gluten free is a healthy idea for people without celiac disease or other medical reasons, I wanted to share how my body has changed since my celiac diagnosis. I am not a doctor and this is purely my personal experience over the span of nine years, but I hope this post will help:

If you just learned you have celiac disease and you’re feeling alone about some possible celiac symptoms or side effects. (Like noticing a change in your weight!)
If you’re a gluten free veteran and still struggling with some problematic symptoms.
If you have fibromyalgia and are wondering if going gluten free could help your pain.
If you know someone with celiac disease and want to know more about just how much can be impacted by their chronic illness.

So without further ado, here are seven surprising ways my body changed after my celiac diagnosis!

How My Body Changed After my Celiac Diagnosis, Change 1: I discovered more food intolerances.

Before I developed celiac disease around 17 years old, I never had any issues with gluten, dairy, peanuts or other allergens. But lactose intolerance is associated with celiac disease because of the damage typically done to the intestines before a celiac diagnosis. While many people with celiac disease can later eat dairy with no problems once their intestines heal, I’ve personally still noticed bloating, acid reflux and skin breakouts when I eat too much dairy.

And after my bloating, gas and stomach problems (to not get too TMI here!) persisted after going gluten free, I went on a low fodmap diet after talking to my doctor. Many weeks and reintroductions of different high fodmap triggers later, I’ve accepted that some high fodmap foods - like garlic, onion and mango - are no longer my friends.

How My Body Changed After my Celiac Diagnosis, Change 2: I had trouble gaining weight on a gluten free diet.

One of the common myths related to celiac disease is that everyone with celiac disease is thin. While I fit that stereotype, I want to start off by saying not everyone with celiac disease is thin or even underweight pre-diagnosis!

But talking about my personal experience, I lost a good deal of weight before and right after my celiac diagnosis. I even ended up being hospitalized and fed via a feeding tube (read more about that here) because I kept losing weight after I began eating gluten free. And for several years post-diagnosis, no matter how much I ate, the scale stayed at 88 pounds.

It wasn’t until six years after my diagnosis that I finally got back to my pre-celiac healthy weight. So know that if you’re struggling to gain weight and have already exhausted solutions with your doctor, more time may just be needed. And if you ever need to talk to someone who understands how frustrating it can be to hear that you’re “lucky” to be unhealthily thin, my Instagram DMs are always open!

How My Body Changed After my Celiac Diagnosis, Change 3: Some of my fibromyalgia symptoms decreased in severity.

I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia at 11 years old (here is my diagnosis story) and chronic pain is my normal. So one of the biggest blessings I experienced with my celiac diagnosis was that my fibromyalgia pain actually went down!

There is some research connecting a gluten free diet with lower inflammation and pain in people with fibromyalgia. My mom, who also has fibromyalgia, went gluten free with me to see its effect on her too. While we both still have bad days, eating gluten free (and without various other trigger foods we’ve discovered) has helped a lot!

How My Body Changed After my Celiac Diagnosis, Change 4: My symptoms of being “glutened” shifted in timeline and form.

When I first went gluten free after my celiac diagnosis, I got glutened more often since I was still learning about cross-contamination, safe places to eat out, etc. But I usually wouldn’t feel glutened until a few days after I accidentally ate gluten, and my “glutened symptoms” were typically extreme fatigue, brain fog and a mildly upset stomach.

The longer I’ve been gluten free, though, the more intense my reactions to gluten have gotten. Now when I accidentally ingest gluten or my food comes into contact with gluten, I usually notice it within a few hours. I get extremely bloated, have a lot of stomach pain, acid reflux and often feel fatigued and blurry (thank you, brain fog) for several days.

Everyone’s reaction and sensitivity to gluten are different, and I know some with celiac disease who even have to go to the emergency room after an especially bad exposure. But keep in mind that how you react to gluten right after your celiac diagnosis may change over time!

How My Body Changed After my Celiac Diagnosis, Change 5: My taste buds changed…

Like I’ve shared in the past, my celiac diagnosis is one of the biggest triggers of me becoming a foodie! When gluten was off-limits, that gave me the motivation to try new foods I’d never considered, like dragonfruit, lentils, buckwheat, curry - the list really goes on and on!

But what I think is most interesting is how my taste buds have changed in terms of gluten free food alternatives. When I was first diagnosed and went gluten free, I tried a TON of gluten free substitutes that I found…meh. But years later, I retried some of them - like Schar’s pizza crust and King Arthur’s gluten free cookie mix - and absolutely LOVED them!

I definitely think that one of the benefits of being gluten free for a long time is that you do forget what gluten really tastes like…not to mention, learning what gluten free alternatives are out there that you love. So if you’re new to eating gluten free and are feeling discouraged about the options you’ve tried and disliked so far, know it gets better!

How My Body Changed After my Celiac Diagnosis, Change 6: I kept struggling with stomach problems, to the extent that…

One of the ironic ways that celiac disease has physically changed my body is that I now have mild scarring on my lower stomach from heat packs. When my stomach is upset or I’ve been glutened, heat packs are one of my main sources of relief. And since I have a high pain tolerance from fibromyalgia, I didn’t notice that some heat packs were burning hot.

I included this less as an educational warning (though if you use heat packs, be careful!) and more as an example of the strange ways our invisible illnesses can be made physical. And just like with bloating or stomach problems, these scars can be somewhat embarrassing to talk about with new romantic partners. But they are part of who I am - just like your own symptoms, physical or otherwise, are - and that is never something to be ashamed of!

How My Body Changed After my Celiac Diagnosis, Change 7: I’m more fit and aware of my health than ever before.

I was 18 years old when I felt what it’s like to watch your body waste away and be close to completely giving out on you. As challenging as it was to work my way back up from being 83 lbs and malnourished to the point that a neo-natal nurse had to put in my IV, I’m grateful.

It taught me to be thankful for my body. To be grateful that I can “treat” my celiac disease with a gluten free diet. To not take my health for granted.

So while my body certainly still has its issues and bad days, I’m proud to be active and progressing with my weights at the gym. I’m proud to be aware of my diet and to try to include a mix of nutritious and fun gluten free foods.

And if you take one message away from this blog post, I hope it’s that a celiac diagnosis - or really any medical diagnosis - can be a blessing in disguise. And it could be the key to helping you learn how to feel your healthiest and happiest, one day at a time.

How has celiac disease - or another chronic illness - changed your body? Can you relate to any of my points? I’d love to hear in the comments or DM me on Instagram at collegeceliackc!

Gluten Free Avocado Everything Bagels For Kids (Vegan)

2021-09-01T19:42:00.000-07:00

This post is generously sponsored by Little Northern Bakehouse.

Even though I'm officially done with school, I love finding new back-to-school gluten free recipes - and especially if you have kids who love playing with their food, you'll love this frog-inspired gluten free avocado everything bagel recipe!

Little Northern Bakehouse was kind enough to send me a few flavors of their breads and bagels to eat, and I couldn't resist their fluffy vegan Everything Bagel. So, I decided to combine the trends of avocado toast with everything bagel, and make it as cute as it is tasty! Plus, this easy gluten free breakfast is also vegan and nut free!

How? Mostly thanks to Northern Bakehouse's yummy breads and bagels. Being certified gluten free, their products also peanut and nut free, non-GMO and (for the most part) vegan. I keep mine stored in the freezer and defrost them in the fridge overnight or by microwaving for a few minutes when I'm craving some fluffy bread. Their Cinnamon Bagel is my favorite, but I also love their Everything Bagel.

And if you're looking for an easy gluten free back-to-school breakfast, this Avocado Everything Bagel checks all the boxes!

Ready to leap into the school year with a frog-inspired bagel? First, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients for a This Frog-Inspired Breakfast Bagel Recipe:

1 Everything Bagel from Little Northern Bakehouse
1/2 ripe avocado
Roasted zucchini for the wings, carrots for the feet, eyes and smile, and mushroom for the eyes

How to Use These Healthy Bagel Toppings to Create Your Own Edible Frog Bagel:

First, toast your bagel (if desired) while you roast a few strips of zucchini. Then add mashed avocado onto the bagel (covering the middle hole, for an owl design - I used part of the either half of the bagel to fill the hole). Cut the carrot in the shape of eyes, feet and a smile, and the mushrooms into eyes. Put everything into place and tap yourself on the back for your decorating abilities and enjoy!

I Hope This Frog-Inspired Bagel Toppings Idea Helps You Have More Fun with Back-to-School Breakfasts!

I know I had a lot of fun coming up with how to create a frog out of healthy bagel toppings, and I hope your family leaps into the school year with yummy breakfasts like this!

And if you want to try Little Northern Bakehouse's products for yourself, you can find them in the freezer section of most natural food stores. Their breads are definitely a great option if you're gluten free, especially if you have additional food allergies or dietary preferences.

Let me know in the comments if you’ve ever tried their products or what fall flavor you’re looking forward to the most!.

Single Serve Microwave Chocolate Chip Cookie (Gluten Free, Vegan)

2021-08-23T19:27:00.004-07:00

This post is features product generously gifted by Pamela's Products . All opinions, thoughts and photos are my own.

Looking for the best microwave gluten free chocolate chip cookie recipe? You'll love this single-serve gluten free chocolate chip cookie. This allergy-friendly cookie is super soft and fluffy, full of chocolate chips, and ready in five minutes or fewer thanks to the microwave! Plus, these gluten free cookies are vegan and nut free as well.

And if you're currently going through a heatwave like me, one of the best parts of this microwave dessert recipe is not having to turn on the oven to get a yummy cookie made!

Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

3 TBSP Pamela's Products Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix

2 TBSP coconut flour

1/2 mashed banana

How to Make Your Gluten Free Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

Like usual, this gluten free cookie recipe is super easy to make.

Just combine half a ripe banana with 3 TBSP of Pamela's Products Chocolate Chip Cookie mix and 2 TBSP coconut flour. Mix and mold into a cookie shape. Then microwave for 45-90 seconds depending on desired gooeyness.

Pin This Post for Easy Gluten Free Cookie Baking Later on...

If you do try making these gluten free chocolate chip cookies for yourself, let me know by tagging me (collegeceliackc) on Instagram or Facebook (at Casey the College Celiac).

And tell me in the comments - what's your favorite flavor of cookie?

19 Red Flags that Make People with Celiac Feel Nervous

2021-08-12T18:56:00.002-07:00

When you have celiac disease and need to eat gluten free to be healthy, it becomes second nature to notice "red flags" that indicate your food might not be safe...whether they are statements seen on a restaurant menu or spoken by a family friend. So I thought I would round up 19 of the most common phrases/statements that make my celiac spidey senses go, "YIKES!"

If you have celiac disease, hopefully this list helps you feel less alone or helps you know what to look for if you're newly diagnosed. And if you don't have celiac disease but know someone who does, maybe this list will help you understand what your loved one is going through.

1. "We'll just find some food somewhere when we get there!"

2. "Made on shared equipment with wheat."

For help understanding labeling laws and what is really celiac safe, I can't recommend @celiacdietician on Instagram enough!

3. Sees the "gluten free" options displayed right below the gluten option at a bakery. Hellooo crumbs.

4. "How much weight did you lose going gluten free???"

Repeat after me: A gluten free diet is NOT a weight loss diet.

5. Gets to a work event that promised "gluten free options." The catering staff has no idea what gluten is...

6. "But insert person here can eat this just fine and they're GF!"

7. When a gluten free bun looks a little too suspiciously fluffy.

If you haven't seen my viral Instagram reel...it's worth a look and a laugh.

8. "Oh yea, we have tons of options without milk!"

9. Finds a gluten free menu! ...then asks about the fryer and learns it's shared.

Note to newbie celiacs: it's not safe to eat even "gluten free" food that has been cooked in the same fryer as gluten-containing foods.

10. "I wish I had celiac so I wouldn't eat so much at parties!"

11. Sees crumbs on the counter with the gluten free food.

12. "One bite can't hurt that much???"

13. Sees something labeled "reduced-gluten," "gluten-friendly,", "gluten lite," etc.

14. "I knew insert relationship to person here and they grew out of celiac!"

One of the many common myths about celiac disease...

15. "Why does EVERYONE have dietary restrictions nowadays, huh?"

16. "Can't you just pick the toppings off the pizza?"

17. Sees a homemade baked good at the party marked "gluten free" with no box or ingredients label...

18. When you find a "gluten free" restaurant online...and then you read the reviews...

And if you need help finding safe spots to eat, some of my favorite gluten free apps are listed here!

19. "What the heck can you even eat?!?"

Answer: a lot of yummy things. ;) My Instagram is proof!

The Bottom Line: Red Flags of Living with Celiac Disease

One of the challenges and benefits of living with celiac disease is that our health is - much of the time - in our own hands. We can control our disease by controlling our diet, and advocating for our dietary needs plays a HUGE role in that.

So if you ever see or hear one of these red flags and feel uncomfortable, please remember: it is not only your right to double-check that your food is safe or to defend your dietary choices, but it's also a requirement of staying healthy. And you should never feel guilty for doing just that.

What's a "red flag" that I didn't include in this list, or one that you notice for your own chronic illness or dietary restrictions? I'd love to hear in the comments!

Gluten Free Secretly Healthy Cookie Dough (Vegan, No Bake)

2021-08-08T20:10:00.003-07:00

This post is features product generously gifted by Stevita. All opinions, thoughts and photos are my own.

Craving gluten free cookie dough but trying to eat a healthy diet? Then you'll love this secretly healthy cookie! Learning how to make gluten free cookie dough is super simple, and this vegan cookie dough only has seven ingredients.

As an added bonus, this gluten free cookie dough recipe is also:

Higher in protein, thanks to quinoa flour and nut butter
Sweetened only with mashed banana and a few drops of Stevita
Super versatile - add cacao powder to make it extra chocolatey, or peanut butter cups to give it an even nuttier twist!

Gluten Free and Vegan Cookie Dough Recipe

1 ripe banana, mashed

1/4 cup coconut flour

1/4 cup quinoa flour

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp nut butter

3 TBSP almond milk

4-8 drops Stevita Naturals' Natural Vanilla Stevita Drops (depending on desired sweetness)

Handful of sugar-free chocolate chips and sprinkles

How to Make Your Gluten Free Healthy Cookie Dough

Like most of the gluten free and vegan recipes I share, this one is super easy to make!

All you have to do is mash your banana and mix it with all the other ingredients. Then viola! You have your vegan cookie dough.

If you want to take your healthy cookie dough to the next level, you can add some extra nut butter on top. And definitely measure the amount of chocolate chips you add with your heart, not your hand. ;)

If You Make This Gluten Free and Vegan Cookie Dough, Let Me Know What You Think!

If you do try making this vegan cookie dough for yourself, let me know by tagging me (collegeceliackc) on Instagram or Facebook (at Casey the College Celiac).

And tell me below...what dessert would you like to see me make gluten free and healthier next?

50 MORE Gluten Free Kid-Friendly Recipes for Picky Eaters

2021-07-18T13:34:00.001-07:00

Need some kid-friendly recipes that are allergy friendly and delicious? I've got your back! Y'all loved my last round up of gluten free recipes for picky eaters...

So, I've collected 50 MORE gluten free recipes for kids that are specifically designed to please even the pickiest of kids! Included are gluten free breakfast and dinner recipes, so you can start and end your kid's day of eating right, with minimal struggles to get them to enjoy what's on their plate.

So let's dive on in. Here are 50 more gluten free recipes for kids that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. :)

Gluten Free Recipes for Kids: Breakfast Edition

1. Banana Breakfast Cookies (Egg Free) - Just As Tasty

If you or your child can't tolerate gluten free oats, you'll especially love this breakfast cookie made using quinoa flakes!

2. Easy Gluten Free Homemade Mochi Waffles - Keeping It Relle

Chewy mochi center with a crunchy golden brown exterior makes for the best mochi waffles. This easy recipe creates a cross between Belgain waffles and Japanese mochi. The ultimate homemade breakfast dish.

3. Healthy Cinnamon Rolls (Refined Sugar Free) - Hungry Hobby

Healthy Cinnamon Rolls without yeast, refined grains, or refined sugar. Doused with an optional greek yogurt cream cheese frosting!

4. Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Breakfast Casserole - What a Girl Eats

This gluten free breakfast casserole is meatless and gluten free but full of flavor!

5. "Mr. Grinch" Berry Banana Bread (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac

Even when it isn't Christmas time, kids will love the fun green and red color of this vegan banana bread.

6. Mushroom Stuffed Tomatoes (Dairy Free, Soy Free, Nut Free) - Whiskaverse Baking

These mushroom & quinoa stuffed tomatoes are a fresh and flavorful dinner that fits great into a meal-prep lifestyle. They involve no dairy, soy, nuts, or gluten, making them a dish that everyone in your family can enjoy.

7. Paleo Blueberry Banana Muffins (Dairy Free, Refined Sugar Free) - Joy Food Sunshine

These Paleo Blueberry Muffins taste just like bakery muffins but they're good for you! They have the perfect crumb and just the right amount of sweetness!

8. Mini Crustless Quiche Cups with Sausage and Cheese - Two Healthy Kitchens

These gluten-free Mini Crustless Quiche Cups take just minutes to prep, and bake up in no time! Even better…they refrigerate and freeze beautifully, so they’re a perfect make-ahead breakfast recipe for busy mornings, too!

9. Cacao Protein Balls (No-Bake) - All Nutrition

Energy bites are perfect for breakfast. These cacao energy balls are kid-friendly, gluten-free, and healthy!

10. Gluten Free Healthy Donuts (Dairy-Free) - Fearless Dining

These delicious gluten-free and dairy-free donuts are a great no-guilt breakfast donut that kids will love.

11. Spinach Banana Pancakes (Vegan, No Added Sugar) - The Conscious Plant Kitchen

These healthy spinach banana pancakes are easy blender banana oat pancakes made with no eggs, no dairy, and no sugar added. They are naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and perfect as a toddler or kid food to introduce spinach. As always, be sure to use gluten free oats!

12. Buckwheat Muffins (Vegan) - A Sweet Alternative

These chocolate buckwheat muffins are gluten-free, nut-free, refined sugar-free, and vegan. They’re nutritious and perfect for a gluten free kid-friendly breakfast.

13. Pineapple Mango Smoothie (Dairy Free, Vegan) - The Littlest Crumb

This 5-minute pineapple mango smoothie is made with frozen mangoes, frozen pineapples, and a blend of mango and pineapple juices. Gluten free, vegan and dairy free so everyone can enjoy!

14. Sweet Potato and Zucchini Healthy Strata Bake - Kidgredients

Whip up this eggy bake for a gluten free breakfast, or put it in your kids' lunch boxes as an easy lunch.

15. Homemade Granola (Vegan) - My Chef's Apron

Homemade crunchy granola with chewy jumbo raisins, apples, healthy seeds, cinnamon powder, and coconut shreds. It's delicious, gluten-free, vegan with tons of tasty ingredients—perfect for breakfast or as a snack or dessert topping!

16. Coconut Flour Pancakes (Dairy Free, Refined Sugar Free) - Zest for Baking PIC OPTION

Craving some fluffy, grain free, dairy free pancakes? Then look no further! These coconut flour banana pancakes get two thumbs up for being delicious, soft and perfectly sweetened with banana – no refined sugar added!

17. Chocolate Chia Seeds Pudding (Vegan, Low Carb, Keto) - Profusion Curry

Chocolate Chia Seeds Pudding makes for a decadent and healthy breakfast that kids will dive right into.

18. Gluten Free Waffle Recipe - Caramel and Cashews

These gluten free waffles are golden brown with crispy edges and a fluffy center. They're everything you want in a delicious waffle without any gluten. You can also freeze them for later if you don't have time to make them from scratch.

19. Strawberry Chunky Monkey Quesadilla (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac

Who can say no to berries, nut butter and chocolate all enclosed in a gooey quesadilla?

20. Best Easy Low Carb Healthy Protein Keto Pancakes (Dairy Free) - Healthy with Jamie

These delicious and fluffy gluten free pancakes are made with all clean ingredients.

21. Stewed Pears - Keep Calm and Eat Ice Cream

These stewed pears have just four ingredients and are quick and easy to make. They are refined sugar free and make a delicious snack, dessert or even breakfast!

22. Banana Breakfast Cookies (Eggless) - Just as Tasty

Every kid dreams of eating cookies for breakfast, and these gluten free breakfast cookies are the perfect morning treat.

23. Baked Oatmeal Waffles (Vegan) - Rainbow Nourishments

These Baked Oatmeal Waffles only take three simple ingredients and are ridiculously easy to make!

24. Slow Cooker Vegan Steel Cut Oats with Apples & Cinnamon - Sugar and Snappeas

Apple and cinnmon turn what could be a bland breakfast into a delicious gluten free breakfast anyone will enjoy.

25. Cassava Flour Blueberry Lemon Muffins (Nut Free, Grain Free, Paleo) - Organically Addison

These Blueberry Lemon Muffins are the perfect healthy breakfast or snack for gluten free picky eaters! They are also nut free, grain free and Paleo.

26. Sheet Pan Keto Pancakes (Low Carb) - Ditch the Carbs

All the flavor of pancakes without the carbs or effort flipping them!

Gluten Free Recipes for Kids: Dinner Edition

27. Gluten Free Orange Chicken (Panda Express Copycat) - Life, Love, Liz

This Gluten Free Orange Chicken recipe is super easy and results in a delicious Panda Express Copycat meal.

28. Easy Oven Baked Chicken Drumsticks (Dairy Free) - On My Kid's Plate

This easy oven baked chicken drumsticks recipe is delicious for family dinners and requires only a little prep time. Add potatoes and carrots for a simple and classic and juicy sheet pan meal.

29. Cheesy Keto Breadsticks - Marathons and Motivation

Breadsticks are always a favorite with kids, but it can be hard to find a gluten-free version. With this easy to make keto bread stick recipe, your kids can joy cheesy breadsticks dipped in marinara sauce gluten free!

30. Gluten Free Scalloped Potatoes with Bechamel Sauce - Go Healthy with Bea

These cheesy scalloped potatoes with gluten free Bechamel are the best! This old fashioned French side dish is easy and even the pickiest of kids will gobble it up.

31. 5-Ingredient Paleo Low Carb Chicken Nuggets - Wholesome Yum

This paleo, low carb chicken nuggets recipe is easy to prepare with just 5 ingredients. You can make them fried or baked!

32. Grandma’s Chicken and Biscuit Casserole - Mountain Berry Eats

The quick and easy version of gluten free chicken and dumplings, this delicious weeknight dinner will make even the pickiest eaters smile.

33. Delicious Grain Free Biscuits - Cedar Birch Musings

No one can resists these gluten free biscuits, which are super light and fluffy. Made with almond flour and tapioca, they will win over any picky eater.

34. Whole 30 Mississippi Pot Roast - Jam Jar Kitchen

This Whole30 Mississippi Pot Roast is a fabulous, set and forget it slow cooker meal that gives a crock pot classic a clean makeover!

35. Zucchini Pizza Bites (Vegan, Paleo, Grain Free) - Debra Klein

When PIZZA Is calling....here's how to answer. Kids love these mini gluten free pizzas and it's a great way to get everyone involved in meal time, putting on their toppings of choice.

36. Easy Blueberry Turkey Meatballs (Whole 30, AIP) - Wholesome Family Living

Looking for a meatball recipe that doesn’t use eggs? Try these kid-friendly blueberry turkey meatballs which only require five ingredients and help hide veggies for your kiddos!

37. Creamy Baked Vegan Mac And Cheese (Nut And Gluten-Free) - Wow It's Veggie

This gluten-free mac & cheese is kid-friendly, so easy and delicious!! Everyone who tries it loves it!

38. Grain Free Fried Chicken Nuggets (Low Carb, Keto) - The Short Order Cook

Every kids loves chicken nuggets. These gluten-free homemade chicken nuggets are crispy & enjoyed by everyone.

39. Gluten Free Falafel - A Mummy Too

Kids will love how crispy this gluten free falafel is on the outside and how soft it is on the inside. Flavored with garlic, curry powder and plenty of fresh coriander, this is the perfect flavorful gluten free dinner for a picky eater!

40. Easy Crock Pot Baked Ziti - Crockpots and Flipflops

You will have everyone leave the dinner table happy with this easy gluten free dinner. Filled with simple and delicious ingredients this is always a favorite classic!

41. Kids' Guacamole (Vegan, Paleo) - Carrots and Cookies

Guacamole is a delicious side dish for anyone, but this guacamole recipe is made specifically with kids in mind!

42. Paleo Chicken Nuggets (Keto, Whole30) - Cassidy's Craveable Creations

Made with crushed pork rinds, these Paleo Chicken Nuggets are extra crispy and tender. Even if you're not a huge fan of pork rinds, kids and adults alike will love them! They're also keto, whole30, gluten-free, and have a nut-free and egg-free option!

43. Beyond Meat Meatloaf (Vegan) - Vegetarian Mama

Kids will love this gluten free and vegan take on your traditional meatloaf.

44. Gluten Free Bagel Sandwich - The Gluten Free Supper

Breakfast for dinner anyone? This Gluten Free Bagel Sandwich is super delicious and simple to throw together when you're craving breakfast!

45. Shrimp Boil - Little Sunny Kitchen

Shrimp Boil is a classic Southern summer favorite! With tender shrimp, baby red potatoes, andouille sausage, and corn on the cob, it’s a delicious meal for your next pool party.

46. Vegan Gluten-free Teriyaki Cauliflower Wings - Zardy Plants

Eating gluten free and vegan has never been tastier!

47. Gluten Free Meatballs & Polenta - XOXO Bella

This gluten free comfort food recipe is as easy to make as it is to eat.

48. Pepperoni Pizza Frittata (Whole 30, Low Carb) - Cook at Home Mom

Is there any more kid-friendly recipe than pizza?? This frittata flavor is sure to win your kids over.

49. Stuffed Peppers with Butternut Squash and Quinoa (Vegan) - Melissa Traub

These stuffed peppers are the perfect way to use up any leftovers, and you can easily add meat for more protein if needed.

50. Chicken Burrito Skillet - Cultured Table

All the delicious flavors of a burrito bowl but even easier since you're cooking everything in one skillet!

The Bottom Line of Gluten Free Recipes for Kids!

Whether you have your own picky eaters in your family or are just looking for delicious gluten free recipes the whole family will enjoy, I hope this round up gives you some yummy new gluten free recipes to try!

Secretly Healthy Cinnamon Sugar Pop Tarts (Gluten Free, Dairy Free)

2021-07-11T17:02:00.001-07:00

This post features product generously gifted by Flax 4 Life. All opinions, thoughts and photos are my own.

Craving some secretly healthy homemade pop tarts? Then you'll love these gluten free homemade pop tarts. Just picture biting into a flaky, slightly chewy pastry filled with caramelized bananas, lots of cinnamon, a little bit of coconut sugar and crumbled pieces of a Flax 4 Life Ginger Snap cookie. Heaaaaaaven.

And did I mention this cinnamon sugar pop tart recipe is also dairy free and SUPER easy to make? Yes, dessert dreams do come true!

A Few Reasons Why This Healthy Homemade Pop Tarts Recipe is So Awesome:

Before I dive right into the recipe, I thought I'd share a few quick bullet points about why this dairy free pop tarts recipe seriously blew me - and my fam - away:

You only need three ingredients to make the homemade pop tarts dough, and five ingredients for the filling. And you probably already have all the necessary ingredients in your fridge and pantry.
No dairy is needed, and you can swap the Flax 4 Life cookies with your fave vegan cookie to make homemade vegan pop tarts!
There is NO sugar in the pop tart dough and a relatively small amount in the cinnamon sugar filling and glaze.

So if you're looking for a gluten free dessert that's a lot healthier than its traditional counterpart, uses simple ingredients and is easy enough for your kid to help you make it, keep scrolling. And if you're just looking for a dang tasty cinnamon sugar pop tart recipe, keep scrolling as well! ;) .

Gluten Free and Dairy Free Homemade Pop Tarts Recipe

Makes enough for two pop tarts.

Cinnamon Sugar Pop Tart Dough:

1/2 cup All Purpose Gluten Free Flour

1 tsp oil

1/4 cup cold water

Heavy dash of cinnamon

Extra flour for sprinkling

Cinnamon Sugar Pop Tart Filling:

1 banana, ripe

1.5 TBSP dairy free butter

1 TBSP coconut sugar

1/2 of a Flax 4 Life Ginger Snap Cookie, crumbled

1 tsp cinnamon

How to Make Homemade Pop Tarts

As with most of my gluten free recipes, making these homemade healthy pop tarts is super easy.

First, heat up a sauce pan to medium heat. Add your dairy free butter and your coconut sugar and cinnamon. Stir as the butter melts and you combine all the ingredients. Once the butter is melted, add your chopped banana and crumbled up Flax 4 Life cookie. Cook until the banana is caramelized - it took mine a couple of minutes. Then set to the side.

Next, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and create your dough. Combine the gluten free flour, oil, cinnamon and mix well. Then add the cold water and stir with a fork until a dough is formed. Lightly flour parchment paper, and use a roller to roll your dough into a thin sheet. Then cut into four squares, and add your filling to two of them. (You will have extra filling we'll use on top after baking!) Place the remaining two squares on top and use a fork to pinch the borders closed. Be sure to also poke some holes on top so your homemade pop tarts don't explode!

Bake for 20 mins on parchment paper. Top with the remaining filling and dig in!

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If you do try making these vegan banana muffins for yourself, let me know by tagging me (collegeceliackc) on Instagram or Facebook (at Casey the College Celiac).

And tell me in the comments - what's your favorite flavor of muffin?

Gluten Free and Vegan Sweet N' Salty Banana Muffins

2021-07-04T12:22:00.001-07:00

This post is features product generously gifted by Savor Street. All opinions, thoughts and photos are my own.

If you love fluffy, gluten free and vegan banana muffins, you'll love this twist on a classic. A sweet gluten free banana muffin combines with crunchy grain free pretzels, creamy nut butter and sweet chocolate chips to be the perfect gluten free breakfast, snack or dessert.

These gluten free muffins are lower in sugar thanks to being sweetened partially by bananas, and they're also nut free if you use a seed butter as a topping instead of a nut butter. And if you're traveling this summer, I can't recommend these vegan chocolate chip muffins enough as an easy travel snack or breakfast!

Gluten Free and Vegan Banana Muffins Recipe

3 ripe bananas blended with 1/2 cup dairy free milk

1.5 cup All Purpose GF Flour

2 TBSP date syrup

2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp cinnamon

Splash of vanilla extract

1/4 cup vegan chocolate (I chopped up part of a Pascha Chocolate bar)

Handful of Savor Street pretzels

Optional: Nut or seed butter of choice (I used Split Nutrition)

How to Make Your Gluten Free and Vegan Chocolate Chip Muffins

Like usual, this gluten free banana muffin recipe is super easy to make!

First, combine all the ingredients except the last two and put in muffin tins. Top with crumbled pretzels and bake 400 degrees for 20 mins. Cool and top with nut butter if desired. Then dig in!

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If you do try making these vegan banana muffins for yourself, let me know by tagging me (collegeceliackc) on Instagram or Facebook (at Casey the College Celiac).

And tell me in the comments - what's your favorite flavor of muffin?

Gluten Free Banana Bread Donuts (Egg Free, Vegan Option)

2021-06-26T17:27:00.000-07:00

This post is features product generously gifted by Undercover Snacks. All opinions, thoughts and photos are my own.

The only thing better than gluten free banana bread? Gluten free donuts that have the same, delicious flavor of banana bread! These gluten free donuts are super easy to make, taste like your favorite banana bread in donut form, and are extremely allergy friendly. Plus, if you don't include the crumbled Undercover Snacks' cookies, these gluten free donuts are vegan donuts as well!

Because these donuts are baked, they don't have the light, fluffy texture of traditionally fried donuts. But if you love moist banana bread or soft donuts, you're going to love these gluten free banana bread donuts. You may never want to use anything but a donut pan for your banana bread ever again!

Ingredients Needed for Your Gluten Free Donuts

Makes 10 donuts

2 ripe bananas

1 cup gluten free flour

1 tsp baking powder

2 TBSP coconut flour

1 tsp cinnamon

2 TBSP date syrup

Splash of vanilla

1 TBSP nut butter

1/2 cup water + 2 TBSP if needed

Optional: 3 Undercover Snacks' cookies, crumbled up

How to Make Your Gluten Free Banana Bread Donuts

Like usual, this gluten free banana bread recipe is super easy to make!

First, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then mash your bananas and mix all the ingredients except the Undercover Snacks. Then place the batter in an oiled donut pan, and crumble up two of the Undercover Snack cookies on the tops. Bake for around 30 minutes. Then let cool, and if desired, ice with a mix of vegan yogurt, and dragonfruit or beet powder for color. Add the last crumbled up Undercover Snacks' cookie on top, and dig in!

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If you do try making these vegan donuts for yourself, let me know by tagging me (collegeceliackc) on Instagram or Facebook (at Casey the College Celiac).

Gluten Free Monthly Favorites: Eating Out Gluten Free in Colorado, Dating with Chronic Illness and More!

2021-06-15T21:13:00.006-07:00

Hi there...it's been a hot minute, hasn't it? And since a lot has changed in the life of Casey the College Celiac, I thought I'd share an update about what it's like living and eating gluten free in Colorado, dating with chronic illness, working a full-time job and much more!

Plus, since last month was Celiac Awareness Month, I'll also be sharing some of my favorite gluten free eats and products and exciting things to watch out for this June. (Hint: if you love gluten free giveaways, you're gonna want to follow me on Insta at collegeceliackc).

What I’m Eating:

More adventurous Colorado local eats - such as elk burgers and grilled salmon. I also tried mussels for the first time and was pleasantly surprised by how yummy they were and how easy they were to make.
Some ammmazing gluten free baked goods. If you follow me on Instagram, you already know that I've been BIG into baking ever since I got settled into my new place. Some of my latest healthy treats have included cookie dough banana bread…suppper fudgy brownies made with dairy free yogurt…and oat-free oatmeal cookies with a molten chocolate center!
All the gluten free sushi! If you're looking to eat gluten free in Colorado Springs, I can't recommend Dozo Sushi enough. They have gluten free options marked clearly in the menu, and can provide gluten free soy sauce. I've gotten the salmon and cucumber rolls so far, and both were fresh, large servings and relatively inexpensive. I've eaten at Dozo Sushi weekly for several weeks in a row now because it is such an easy place to eat gluten free with friends.
Some new-to-me and some go-to gluten free brands (some gifted), including:
- Wilde Chips, which are actually high protein thanks to ingredients like chicken and pork! I was SUPER skeptical when I won these in a giveaway, but they are insanely crispy and I’d never guess that they contain meat!
- Undercover Snacks, which are chocolatey cookies made of quinoa and other yummy ingredients. Nut free and addictive!
- Allllll the Coconut Bliss ice cream. As I shared in my last post, I used their new Soft Serve Mix to make my own homemade ice cream but I also love their pre-made pints.
- D'vash Organic's new Superfood bites (basically, chocolate-covered date bars - YUM) and energy bars. I'm a huge date fan, so I'm eating at least one of these a day.
- Tons of pizza! Banza released their chickpea-based, pre-made pizza crusts last year and I’ve recently become OBSESSED! The texture is fluffy yet crispy around the edges, and these are definitely one of my favorite gluten free and vegan pizza crusts available.
And of course, expect more yummy eats to be covered on the blog soon!

What I’m Doing/Loving:

Exploring the world of dating! Earlier this year, I left a long-term relationship and after getting settled in Colorado, I decided to try dating apps for the first time. To say it’s been an adventure is an understatement, and part of that adventure has been navigating chronic illness and dating. I’ll write an updated full blog post on the topic soon, but a few key pieces of advice I’d offer so far are:
If you’re using dating apps or have to write a bio, don’t be afraid to mention that you’re gluten free (or anything else you’re comfortable sharing right away).
Dates - especially early ones - don’t need to revolve around food. Take imitative and suggest other options like going for a walk, meeting up for coffee, etc.
You’re not going to click with everyone - for various reasons. And the people who have true potential as partners will be able to handle whatever medical quirks your body throws at them.
Hanging out with my folks' pups. I've been spoiled by being able to visit these cute dogs without having to live with them...and expect to see plenty more of them on the blog!

Working a new role at Real Good Foods. As of last month, I officially moved from Community Manager to Senior Content Manager, and I’m enjoying all the new opportunities and challenges that come with it! I honestly am extremely grateful to be working for such an amazing company and brand, and if you want even more content from me, be sure to check out Real Good Food’s social media accounts.

Enjoying returning to some of my favorite pre-Covid activities, like thrifting and going to the gym! One fun fact you all may not know about me is that I LOVE thrifting and very rarely buy clothes brand new. As for the gym…as someone who works remotely, being able to get out and be surrounded by people is always a nice change. As is a good, sweaty workout!

What I’m Planning:

Traveling to Los Angeles for work later this month! My job is remote, but our entire team is meeting up for a Summit later this month in LA. Since I only moved from LA two months ago, I’m not dying to go back but it will be fun to explore downtown LA and hang out with my amazing coworkers. And I’m quite sure that plenty of delicious gluten free food is going to go down, so keep an eye out!
Continuing to meet more people and explore more of Colorado Springs. So far, I’m really enjoying Stratton Open Space and the Garden of the Gods, as the name suggests, was stunning. I’m also loving the Principal’s Office, which is a coffee house and bar that is in an old schoolhouse (along with several other small businesses).

Trying out more of the gluten free restaurants in Colorado Springs is also on my to-do list. A new 100% gluten free restaurant called Homemade To Go recently opened up that has gluten free fried chicken, gluten free cupcakes and much more, so I can’t wait to try it out!

Monthly Favorites: My First Two Months Living in Colorado Springs

Over the last few months, I've had a LOT of life changes. It's been scary and overwhelming and exciting and exhausting all at the same time, and I'm still working on finding my flow. But I do know that right now, I feel at home. I feel optimistic about how the next month is going to go, from the gluten free eats I'm going to try to the adventures I know will come my way - from work and otherwise.

And if you want to be one of the first to learn about my latest yummy gluten free recipe or funny truths about dating with chronic illness, be sure to follow me on Instagram! I'm most active over there and also regularly hold some amazing giveaways for free gluten free stuff.

And as always...my Insta DMs are open, and I always love hearing from y'all!

What's something fun about what you're eating or doing this month? Or what's some fun plans you have coming up? I'd love to hear!