The holidays are a time for delicious food and cherished family traditions. But if you’re avoiding gluten, enjoying those classic dishes can feel tricky.

The good news? Making gluten-free versions of holiday favorites doesn’t mean giving up flavor or texture. With just a few clever swaps and easy techniques, you can bring all the comfort and nostalgia of the season to the table — completely gluten-free. Here’s how:

The perfect gluten-free gravy

Gravy is a must on most holiday tables, but it’s traditionally made with flour to achieve the right consistency.

To create a rich, gluten-free version, use cornstarch, arrowroot, or gluten-free all-purpose flour as a thickener. These alternatives give the same creamy, savory texture without compromising on flavor.

For added depth, cook the gravy with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary or a splash of gluten-free soy sauce.

Fluffy gluten-free dinner rolls

Nothing rounds out a holiday meal like soft, warm dinner rolls.

For a gluten-free batch, opt for a high-quality gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, which usually includes a combination of rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch. Add a touch of xanthan gum to mimic the elasticity of gluten.

Additionally, letting the dough rise a little longer than usual will help achieve the same fluffy texture you know and love.

Indulgent gluten-free stuffing

Stuffing is a holiday staple, and creating a gluten-free version is easier than ever.

Start with a loaf of gluten-free bread: sourdough, white, or multigrain works well. Cube and toast the bread for a hearty texture, and mix with sautéed onions, celery, garlic, and your favorite herbs.

A bit of gluten-free broth will moisten the mixture. If you’re feeling adventurous, add extras like sausage or dried cranberries for a flavor boost.

Gluten-free pie crusts for every pie lover

From pumpkin to pecan, a perfect pie crust makes any holiday dessert special.

To make a gluten-free pie crust that’s both flaky and tender, use a combination of gluten-free flour, almond flour, and cold butter or coconut oil. Mix the dough carefully. Over-mixing can make it tough.

Lastly, chill the dough before rolling it out, and bake it slightly before filling to avoid any sogginess. This technique yields a crust that holds together beautifully and tastes just as good as the traditional version.

Creamy gluten-free mashed potatoes with a boost

Mashed potatoes are naturally gluten-free, so you won’t need to change much here. However, to make them extra creamy, use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery texture. Boil and mash them with a bit of butter, add a splash of cream, and season with salt and pepper.

If you like a little extra flavor, mix in roasted garlic or fresh chives. These additions add richness without complicating the classic taste of mashed potatoes.

Sweet, gluten-free holiday cookies

No holiday is complete without cookies.

For a gluten-free twist, use almond flour, coconut flour, or a blend of gluten-free all-purpose flour and tapioca starch. These flours create a light, chewy texture that works well for a variety of cookie recipes, from sugar cookies to chocolate chips.

To add a nutritional boost without altering the taste, discreetly mix in a scoop of collagen powder with the dry ingredients. This gives the cookies a subtle protein boost that balances holiday indulgence.

Don’t forget to chill your dough before baking to control spreading, then bake and decorate them with festive icing or sprinkles for that classic holiday touch.

Tips for a successful gluten-free holiday feast

Cooking gluten-free doesn’t mean you need a whole new set of recipes. Many traditional holiday dishes can be modified with a few simple substitutions. Here are some general tips for a stress-free, gluten-free holiday:

• Label carefully: Be sure to double-check ingredients like broths, sauces, and seasonings that may contain hidden gluten.
• Go slow on thickening agents: Many sauces and gravies use flour as a thickener. Use cornstarch or arrowroot in smaller amounts to avoid a chalky texture.
• Mind the cross-contamination: If cooking for multiple dietary preferences, keep gluten-free ingredients and utensils separate from those containing gluten.

THE TAKEAWAYS

By making small adjustments, like the tips mentioned above, you’ll be able to bring all the comfort and nostalgia of holiday favorites to the table, ensuring that everyone, gluten-free or not, can enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal.

This year, let your creativity flow as you create new holiday memories with dishes that are just as delicious and even more inclusive.

Related Blogs:

• How to Navigate a Gluten-Free World
• The Hidden Sources of Gluten: 11 Tips for Spotting Sneaky Culprits
• How to Completely Go Gluten-Free: Best Tips for Beginners
• Gluten-Free on a Budget: How to Eat Well Without Breaking the Bank
• 20 Cheap and Easy Keto Recipes to Try

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