Are you tired of sacrificing flavor and fun when it comes to cooking for your kids with dietary restrictions? Look no further! Gluten-free living doesn’t have to mean a boring or bland meal routine. In fact, many of these dietary limitations can actually lead to some amazing culinary discoveries.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 delicious gluten-free recipes that are perfect for kids. From sweet treats like peanut butter chocolate chip cookies and almond flour banana bread, to savory favorites like homemade chicken nuggets and cheesy quinoa bites, there’s something on this list for every young palate. And the best part? Each of these recipes is not only gluten-free, but also easy to make and fun to eat.
So go ahead, get cooking, and give your kids the gift of delicious food that just happens to be gluten-free!
Gluten Free Banana Pancakes
Start your day off right with these moist and flavorful gluten-free banana pancakes, made with ripe bananas and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, milk, egg, and melted butter or oil. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, butter, or fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: 4-6 pancakes (about 8-10 minutes total)
Cheesy Quinoa Bites
A delicious snack or appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion! These bite-sized quinoa bites are packed with cheesy goodness and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine quinoa, cheddar cheese, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
5. Place the quinoa bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each bite.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized, gluten-free chicken nuggets made from scratch! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying crispy, flavorful nuggets in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs (rice-based or corn-based)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together gluten-free breadcrumbs, grated cheese (if using), paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato Muffins
Sweet Potato Muffins Recipe Summary: Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and moisture to these delicious muffins, perfect for a breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: 12 muffins
Gluten Free Mac and Cheese
This comforting dish is a game-changer for those with dietary restrictions, featuring a rich and creamy cheese sauce infused into gluten-free pasta. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a warm, satisfying bowl of macaroni and cheese in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gluten-free macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose gluten-free flour
– 2 cups 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.
2. Cook gluten-free macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk, bringing mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes or 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.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bars
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bars: A Delicious Breakfast or Snack Option
These chewy bars are perfect for a quick breakfast on-the-go or as a sweet snack to satisfy your cravings. With the combination of rolled oats, crunchy apples, and warm cinnamon, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1/2 cup chopped apples (about 2 medium-sized)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Add chopped apples, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly distributed.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Get ready for a classic combination of flavors with these chewy peanut butter cookies loaded with dark chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Stir in flour mixture until just combined.
6. Fold in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Zucchini Pizza Bites
These bite-sized morsels combine the flavors of pizza with the freshness of zucchini, making them a perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 1 cup pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the zucchini into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. Roll out pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into squares, about 3 inches per side.
4. Place a zucchini round in the center of each square. Top with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with a little water and sprinkle with basil.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gluten Free Mini Waffles
These bite-sized waffles are perfect for a busy morning or a sweet treat any time of day. Made with gluten-free flours and a hint of vanilla, they’re sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour in melted butter and mix until smooth.
6. Cook waffles according to iron’s instructions (usually 3-5 minutes).
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-5 minutes per waffle
Rainbow Veggie Spring Rolls
Rainbow Veggie Spring Rolls Recipe
Bring a burst of color and flavor to your table with these vibrant spring rolls filled with a medley of rainbow veggies!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the produce section or international aisle)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup sliced zucchini
– 1/4 cup bean sprouts
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine bell pepper, carrots, zucchini, bean sprouts, and scallions.
2. Add soy sauce, garlic, and salt; mix well.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface.
4. Place about 1/4 cup of the veggie mixture in the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the bottom half up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook spring rolls for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups
These bite-sized turkey and cheese roll-ups are perfect for a quick lunch or as a snack to take on-the-go. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have these delicious treats ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sliced turkey breast
– 8 slices of cheese (such as cheddar or American)
– 4 large tortilla wraps
– 1/4 cup chopped lettuce
– 1/4 cup sliced tomato
Instructions:
1. Lay a tortilla wrap flat and place one slice of cheese in the center.
2. Add two slices of turkey breast on top of the cheese.
3. Sprinkle with chopped lettuce and sliced tomato.
4. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up into a neat package.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! These roll-ups are served cold.
Gluten Free Blueberry Muffins
Start your day with a delicious and moist gluten-free blueberry muffin, perfect for breakfast or a snack. This recipe uses almond flour instead of traditional wheat flour to create a tender crumb.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. Add eggs one at a time, followed by melted butter, vanilla extract, and blueberries. Mix until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Cauliflower Tots
Transform plain cauliflower into crispy, tot-like snacks with this simple recipe. Perfect as a healthier alternative to traditional tater tots, these Cauliflower Tots are sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a large bowl, combine the processed cauliflower, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and olive oil. Mix well.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional seasonings.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the sheet.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Avocado Pudding
This rich and creamy dessert is a healthier alternative to traditional chocolate pudding, made with ripe avocados and dark chocolate. It’s perfect for a special treat or as a healthy indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the cocoa powder, maple syrup, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Fold the melted chocolate into the avocado mixture until well combined.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Gluten Free Pizza Dough
Make delicious gluten-free pizza at home with this simple recipe. This dough is perfect for those with dietary restrictions or preferences, and can be topped with your favorite ingredients to create a tasty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup potato starch
– 1/4 cup tapioca flour
– 1 teaspoon xanthan gum
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine gluten-free flour, potato starch, tapioca flour, and xanthan gum.
2. Add salt and olive oil to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add warm water to the mixture, stirring with a fork until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide the dough into 2-4 portions, depending on desired pizza size.
6. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
Cooking Time:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the dough on a baking sheet or pizza stone and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Strawberry Chia Seed Jam
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the nutritional benefits of chia seeds, creating a delicious and healthy jam perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the strawberries and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the strawberries, chia seeds, honey, lemon juice, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Almond Flour Banana Bread
This gluten-free banana bread recipe uses almond flour as a substitute for traditional wheat flour, making it a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions. The addition of ripe bananas and sweet spices creates a moist and flavorful loaf that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, combine eggs, mashed bananas, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gluten Free Chicken Quesadillas
These flavorful quesadillas are perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch option. With the added bonus of being gluten-free, everyone can enjoy this tasty treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 4 gluten-free tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are tender.
3. In a separate pan or griddle, place a gluten-free tortilla and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
4. Add the cooked chicken mixture on half of the tortilla, then fold the other half over to form a quesadilla.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get your kids excited about healthy eating with these 18 delicious gluten-free recipes that are easy to make and fun to eat! From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and chicken nuggets, to sweet treats like banana bread and chocolate chip cookies, there’s something for every kid. Plus, many of these recipes are packed with nutritious ingredients like quinoa, sweet potatoes, and avocado. And the best part? They’re all gluten-free, making them perfect for kids with dietary restrictions. So go ahead, get cooking, and watch your little ones devour their favorite foods!
Leave a Reply