I will be the first to admit that, while fall is still my favorite season, my excitement over the holidays has changed drastically since going gluten-free. Gluten-free fall products were nonexistent when I was first diagnosed with Celiac. I never realized everything I took for granted: stuffing, gingerbread houses, Christmas cookies, pumpkin bread—the list goes on.
After two sad, cookie-less holiday seasons, I decided enough was enough. I want to be able to stuff my face with pumpkin products for three months straight just like all my gluten-eating friends. So, I set out on a mission: to find the best gluten-free fall product alternatives out there. Because everyone deserves a slice of pumpkin pie on Thanksgiving.
If You're Craving Cookies: Enjoy Life's Soft Baked Snickerdoodle
Snickerdoodle often becomes the forgotten cookie flavor until fall rolls around. Luckily, these cookies are sold year-round, so once you get hooked (which you will), you can keep them on hand all year. Soft baked = soft and chewy goodness. Oh and the best part? No baking required.
If You're Craving a Fall Flavored Bar: Larabar's Seasonal Flavors
Save the Gingerbread for December, but stock up on Snickerdooodle and Pumpkin Pie before they disappear for the next 12 months. These seasonal flavors follow Larabar's three to eight ingredient promise, making them a wholesome, mid-afternoon treat. Larabar focuses on using natural sources of protein, rather than whey or soy based powders, so these bars won't upset your tummy either.
For Baking that Thanksgiving Day Pie: KinniKinnick's Frozen Pie Crust
Sure there are tons of GF pie crust mixes on the shelves now, but for real, who has the time to make a pie crust? Run to the freezer aisle and grab this dual pack of pre-made crusts. The best part? Two crusts = two pies. So go ahead, make the pumpkin and the apple.
Or If You Forgot to Bake for the Potluck: Daiya's Pumpkin Spice Cheezecake
For those last minute Friendsgiving invites. Pull this bad boy out of the freezer to thaw, pick out your finest serving platter, and slice away. The GF crust tastes just like a graham cracker crust, and the filling is perfectly spiced and oh so creamy. Oh, and did we mention you get bonus points for bringing a dish that's gluten-free and vegan?
If You're Craving Pumpkin Spice 24/7: Nature's Path's Pumpkin Spice Waffles
Because sometimes the pumpkin spice cravings begin at 7 am. Top it off with a heaping dose of maple syrup, some fresh cinnamon, and dare I say a dollop of whipped cream. In all honesty, these could be served as breakfast or dessert, or both. Fact: There is no such thing as too much pumpkin spice.
To Pair with Breakfast: Califia Farms' Cold Brew Pumpkin Spice Latte
Beware: Gluten can sneak into syrups and additives, making that am coffee stop unpleasant for your tummy if you aren't careful. Play it safe and pour yourself a Venti-sized glass of Califia Farms' almond milk cold brew. Or if you're feeling fancy, try making your own pumpkin spice latte.
For the In-Between Class Snack: Annie's Snickerdoodle Bunny Cookies
Relive your childhood with these snickerdoodle animal crackers. We all know a sugar kick is needed during that 9 am to get you through the rest of the day, so these are the perfect school day snack.
And For the Midnight Munchies: Bark Thins' Dark Chocolate with Pumpkin Seeds
Warning: Must be stashed in a bedside table, cookie jar, or sock drawer, because your roommates will steal these. Everyone needs a salty and sweet treat on hand for midnight snacking. While the price tag may not be as "college-friendly" as a Hershey bar, I promise you this is worth a "treat yo' self" splurge.
And For the Most Important Fall Recipe: King Arthur's Pumpkin Bread Baking Mix
Make it your goal to always have a baked good on your counter this fall season. And start with a classic. My tip? Top it with cream cheese. Or make mini muffins to grab on your way out the door. And then after class. And then before bed. And then repeat the next day.
So next time you get invited to a Friendsgiving, wake up craving pumpkin spice, or find yourself drooling over the seasonal packaged goods at Publix, remember there is hope. We gluten-free peeps can enjoy the year's most beautiful food season, too.