The holiday season is just around the corner, and with it comes a flurry of festive gatherings and celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for some delicious and easy-to-make dishes to enjoy during the holidays, we’ve got you covered. In this special edition, we’re featuring 20 gluten-free recipes that are sure to become new holiday traditions in your household.
From sweet treats like Gluten Free Gingerbread Cookies and Gluten Free Pecan Pie, to savory main courses like Roasted Turkey with Gluten Free Gravy and Herb Crusted Salmon, these recipes offer a wide range of flavors and options to suit every taste. And the best part? They’re all gluten-free, making them perfect for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the holiday season, highlighting some of our favorite festive gluten-free recipes. So grab your apron, get cooking, and let’s make this holiday season one to remember!
Gluten Free Gingerbread Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are a perfect treat for the holiday season or any time you need a little pick-me-up. Made with gluten-free flours and infused with the warmth of ginger, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/2 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup golden syrup
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat 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 baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and ginger.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of roasted butternut squash soup, perfect for chilly fall and winter days. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the squash and pairs it with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the squash and sprinkle with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast the squash for 45 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor with onion, garlic, and broth.
6. Blend until smooth, then add heavy cream if desired.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or croutons.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including roasting time)
Gluten Free Stuffing with Herbs
A flavorful and aromatic gluten-free stuffing recipe infused with fresh herbs, perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. This recipe is a great alternative to traditional bread-based stuffings.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups gluten-free cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic, sage, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cooked herb mixture, parsley, and thyme.
5. Toss until well combined.
6. Transfer the stuffing to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday table with this sweet and tangy Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham, perfect for serving to family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange marmalade, brown sugar, honey, mustard, cloves, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
4. Place ham in a roasting pan and score the surface with a sharp knife.
5. Brush the cranberry orange glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes per pound or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
7. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the size of your ham.
Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this colorful and nutritious Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe! This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa with black beans, diced tomatoes, cilantro, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Gluten Free Pecan Pie
A classic Southern dessert gets a gluten-free makeover with this simple and delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 9-inch gluten-free pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Stir in pecan halves and salt.
5. Roll out gluten-free pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
6. Pour pecan mixture into pie crust.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Rosemary Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes with the aromatic flavors of garlic and rosemary. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, softened butter, heavy cream or whole milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten Free Pumpkin Bread
This moist and flavorful pumpkin bread is a perfect treat for the fall season. Made with gluten-free flours, it’s a great option for those who need to avoid gluten in their diet.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1 teaspoon xanthan gum
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flours, xanthan gum, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, pumpkin puree, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chopped nuts, if using.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet impressive side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts, while a tangy balsamic glaze adds depth and sophistication.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan.
5. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened and syrupy (about 10 minutes).
6. Toss roasted Brussels sprouts with the warm balsamic glaze.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Gluten Free Sweet Potato Casserole
A classic Southern-inspired side dish with a twist! This gluten-free sweet potato casserole is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, and it’s surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum (gluten-free)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup gluten-free graham cracker crumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and xanthan gum. Mix well.
3. Add heavy cream and melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herb Crusted Salmon
This recipe brings together the flavors of fresh herbs and succulent salmon to create a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, dill, thyme, and garlic.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly over each salmon fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gluten Free Chocolate Yule Log
A classic Christmas dessert gets a gluten-free makeover with this rich and decadent chocolate yule log.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments. Allow to cool slightly.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly. Drizzle with melted chocolate.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cake is set.
8. Let cool completely before cutting into a yule log shape.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Apple Cider
This recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of spices to create a cozy and inviting drink perfect for crisp autumn days or chilly winter nights.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6 cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
– 1 lemon slice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, cinnamon stick, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Remove from heat and add brown sugar and lemon slice (if using). Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
5. Strain the cider into mugs and serve hot, garnished with a cinnamon stick if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Gluten Free Cornbread
Gluten-Free Cornbread Recipe: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite!
Here’s a simple recipe that yields a moist and flavorful gluten-free cornbread:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal (gluten-free)
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (gluten-free)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk or non-dairy milk alternative (such as almond milk)
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
– Honey or maple syrup to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, almond flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk or non-dairy milk alternative, egg, melted coconut oil or unsalted butter, and honey or maple syrup (if using).
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth out.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Turkey with Gluten Free Gravy
Roasted Turkey with Gluten-Free Gravy Recipe
Summary:
This recipe provides a delicious roasted turkey dish paired with a rich and savory gluten-free gravy, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 2 cups turkey drippings (reserved from roasting the turkey)
– 2 tablespoons butter or gluten-free alternative
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Rinse and pat dry the turkey. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Roast the turkey in a roasting pan for approximately 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. While the turkey is roasting, mix the chicken broth and gluten-free flour to create the gravy.
5. Reserve 2 cups of turkey drippings before finishing the gravy with butter or gluten-free alternative.
6. Serve the roasted turkey with the warm gluten-free gravy.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours for the turkey, plus an additional 10-15 minutes for the gravy preparation.
Gluten Free Cranberry Sauce
This sweet and tangy sauce is a perfect accompaniment to your holiday turkey or roasted meats. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously gluten-free condiment that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and cornstarch.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries pop and the mixture thickens (about 10-15 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Let cool to room temperature before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Baked Acorn Squash with Maple Syrup
Roast this seasonal favorite with a hint of maple syrup for a sweet and savory side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a small bowl, mix together maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the squash halves.
5. Place the squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cut side up.
6. Add water to the baking sheet, about 1/4 inch deep, around the squash.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gluten Free Cheese Biscuits
These buttery, cheesy biscuits are a perfect accompaniment to your favorite soups or stews. Made with gluten-free flours and a hint of sharp cheddar, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in grated cheese, salt, and baking powder.
5. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together.
6. Roll out dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a biscuit cutter.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe. Creamy spinach, tangy feta, and earthy mushrooms come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (any variety)
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the caps.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gluten Free Eggnog Cheesecake
This gluten-free eggnog cheesecake is a unique and delicious twist on the classic dessert. The combination of creamy eggnog, sweet cheesecake, and crunchy graham cracker crust is sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in eggnog, vanilla extract, and salt.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 delicious and gluten-free recipes! From sweet treats like Gluten Free Gingerbread Cookies and Gluten Free Pecan Pie to savory dishes like Roasted Butternut Squash Soup and Herb Crusted Salmon, there’s something for everyone. Plus, don’t miss out on classic holiday fare made gluten-free, such as Cranberry Orange Glazed Ham, Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers, and Spiced Apple Cider. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need some inspiration for your own holiday meals, these recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer.
