Are you tired of sacrificing flavor and fun when cooking meals for your little ones because they have dietary restrictions? Worry no more! Gluten-free cooking has never been easier or more delicious. In this article, we’ll share 18 mouth-watering gluten-free recipes that are perfect for kids. From classic comfort foods to sweet treats and healthy snacks, these recipes are sure to become family favorites.
From classic pancake stacks to pizza bites and chicken nuggets, we’ve got you covered with easy-to-make gluten-free meals that your kids will love. And don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about dessert! Our gluten-free cookie and muffin recipes are a hit with kids of all ages. But what really sets these recipes apart is their simplicity – no special ingredients or cooking skills required. Just pure, unadulterated yumminess.
Stay tuned for our top 18 gluten-free kid-friendly recipes that will make mealtime a breeze.
Gluten Free Banana Pancakes
Start your day with a delicious and healthy breakfast by whipping up these moist and flavorful gluten-free banana pancakes.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup coconut sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine mashed bananas, almond flour, coconut sugar, eggs, and unsweetened almond milk. Mix until smooth.
2. Add salt, baking soda, and melted coconut oil to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
5. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, butter, or fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Gluten Free Pizza Bites
A delicious and easy-to-make snack that combines the flavors of pizza with a crispy, cheesy twist. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and parsley.
3. Add olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional chicken nuggets, these gluten-free bites are perfect for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs (made from rice flour, cornstarch, or potato starch)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together gluten-free breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate dish, whisk together egg and olive oil.
4. Cut chicken into desired nugget shapes. Dip each piece in the egg mixture, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with remaining olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve: Enjoy your gluten-free chicken nuggets hot, served with your favorite dipping sauce!
Homemade Gluten Free Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic gets a gluten-free twist with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gluten-free macaroni (made from rice, corn or quinoa)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose gluten-free flour
– 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy, such as almond or soy milk)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (gluten-free)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gluten-free macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
These chewy cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while sticking to a gluten-free diet. With the addition of dark chocolate chips, they’re also rich and indulgent.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rainbow Fruit Skewers with Yogurt Dip
Brighten up your snack time with these vibrant and healthy fruit skewers paired with a refreshing yogurt dip. Perfect for kids’ parties or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed colorful fruits (grapes, strawberries, pineapple, kiwi)
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Thread a piece of each fruit onto the end of a skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
2. Repeat step 1 until all skewers are filled.
3. In a bowl, mix together yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract.
4. Serve the fruit skewers with the yogurt dip for a sweet and tangy treat.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and serve.
Gluten Free Mini Muffins
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go. Made with gluten-free flours and natural sweeteners, they’re also gentle on the digestive system.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, almond flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the mini muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Peanut Butter and Jelly Smoothie Bowl
Combine two classic favorites into a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack with this peanut butter and jelly smoothie bowl recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon grape jelly
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Toppings: sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or granola
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine banana, peanut butter, and grape jelly.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding ice cubes if desired to thicken the mixture.
3. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with vanilla yogurt and unsweetened almond milk.
4. Garnish with your choice of toppings: sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or granola.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Gluten Free Veggie Quesadillas
A delicious twist on the classic Mexican dish, these gluten-free quesadillas are packed with sautéed veggies and gooey cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 corn tortillas (gluten-free)
– 1 cup mixed veggies (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, zucchini, etc.)
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: salsa, sour cream, avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a separate pan, sauté the mixed veggies with olive oil until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place a tortilla in the preheated skillet and sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Add 1/4 cup of sautéed veggies on top of the cheese.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (4 quesadillas)
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy taste of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook for 5 minutes or until softened.
4. Add black beans to the skillet; stir to combine with onion mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning sweet potatoes and black bean mixture onto tortillas. Top with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gluten Free Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day with a warm, comforting bowl of gluten-free oatmeal infused with the sweetness of apples and warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
– 2 cups water or non-dairy milk
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/2 apple, diced (Granny Smith or other sweet variety)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or non-dairy milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until combined.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
4. If using honey or maple syrup, stir it in during the last minute of cooking.
5. Add the diced apple to the oatmeal and stir until combined.
6. Serve warm, topped with additional cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious gluten-free apple cinnamon oatmeal!
Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups with Lettuce
Get ready for a tasty and easy-to-make snack or lunch that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sliced turkey breast
– 4-6 slices of cheddar cheese
– 2 cups lettuce leaves ( Romaine or iceberg work well)
– 4 whole wheat tortilla wraps
Instructions:
1. Lay a tortilla wrap flat on a clean surface.
2. Place 2-3 slices of turkey breast in the center of the wrap, leaving a small border around it.
3. Add 1-2 slices of cheddar cheese on top of the turkey.
4. Add 1/2 cup to 3/4 cup of lettuce leaves on top of the cheese.
5. Fold the bottom edge of the wrap up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the wrap into a neat cylinder.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Cook time: None (these are served cold)
– Total time: 10 minutes
Gluten Free Spaghetti with Hidden Veggie Sauce
A creative twist on a classic favorite, this recipe combines the comfort of spaghetti with the nutritional boost of hidden vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gluten-free spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup grated zucchini
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the gluten-free spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the spinach, zucchini, crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer while you prepare the spaghetti.
6. Combine the cooked spaghetti with the veggie sauce. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa and Veggie Stuffed Peppers
Add a nutritious twist to your mealtime with these flavorful quinoa-stuffed peppers! This recipe combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers, packed with fresh veggies.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup mixed veggies (e.g., zucchini, yellow squash, carrots, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa with chopped veggies, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling them as full as possible.
4. Place peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Optional: top with shredded cheddar cheese and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Gluten Free Blueberry Waffles
Start your day off right with these fluffy and flavorful gluten-free blueberry waffles, perfect for a weekend brunch or quick breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and melted butter.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto the preheated waffle iron.
7. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until waffles are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on your waffle iron’s heat and your desired level of crispiness.
Cauliflower Tots with Dipping Sauce
Transform plain cauliflower into crispy tots and enjoy them with a tangy dipping sauce. This recipe is perfect for a healthy snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into small florets.
4. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and egg.
5. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the breadcrumb mixture.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray with olive oil.
7. Arrange the cauliflower tots on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Serve with cauliflower tots.
Gluten Free Pumpkin Bread
Celebrate fall with this moist and flavorful gluten-free pumpkin bread recipe. Perfect for a cozy autumn morning or as a delicious snack any time of the year.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional)
- Unsalted butter, melted (for greasing the loaf pan)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine almond flour, coconut sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with melted butter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding
Discover a deliciously healthy dessert with this easy-to-make Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding recipe! This creamy treat is packed with nutritious chia seeds and sweet strawberries, perfect for satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 1/4 cup sliced strawberries
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together almond milk and chia seeds. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to gel.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add sliced strawberries to the honey mixture and stir until they’re fully coated.
4. Once the chia seed mixture has gelled, add it to the strawberry mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This pudding is a no-cook recipe.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding!
Summary
Discover 18 delicious and easy-to-make gluten-free recipes perfect for kids! From breakfast to dinner, these tasty treats are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy classic favorites like banana pancakes, cheesy pizza bites, and chicken nuggets, as well as healthier options like quinoa-stuffed peppers and sweet potato tacos. Plus, indulge in sweet treats like blueberry waffles and pumpkin bread. With these simple and satisfying recipes, you’ll never have to worry about finding something gluten-free that your kids will love.
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