Gluten free Thanksgiving desserts make the holiday table more inclusive and joyful. My gluten-free journey began after a diagnosis of gluten sensitivity changed how I baked. At first, I feared losing the pies, cakes, and cookies I loved most.
With practice, I learned that gluten-free baking can be just as rich, comforting, and festive as traditional recipes.
Popular Gluten Free Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas
Gluten-Free Pies and Crisps
Thanksgiving desserts don’t have to be limited by gluten. With the right ingredients, you can enjoy classics like pumpkin pie and apple crisp in gluten-free form without sacrificing flavor or comfort.
| Dessert | Gluten-Free Twist | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Pumpkin Pie | Made with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend for the crust | Delivers the same crisp, flaky texture and cozy spiced pumpkin flavor as the traditional version |
| Apple Crisp | Spiced apple filling topped with oats, cinnamon, and a buttery crumble | Naturally gluten-free topping captures the essence of fall with warmth and crunch |
Both of these gluten-free desserts highlight the best flavors of autumn while ensuring everyone at the table can safely enjoy a sweet ending to the meal.
Cakes, Cookies, and Bars Without Gluten
Thanksgiving dessert tables aren’t complete without variety, and going gluten-free doesn’t mean limiting your options. From cakes to cookies and bars, these treats are festive, flavorful, and perfect for sharing.
| Dessert | Gluten-Free Twist | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Pumpkin Spice Cake | Made with gluten-free flour and topped with cream cheese frosting | Moist, warm, and spiced a cozy holiday favorite |
| Cookies (Shortbread, Macaroons) | Almond flour base creates naturally gluten-free cookies | Simple, festive, and easy to bake in batches |
| Bars (Pecan Pie Bars, Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars) | Gluten-free crusts with rich seasonal fillings | Easy to cut, serve, and share, often as popular as pies |
These gluten-free cakes, cookies, and bars provide a mix of textures and flavors that complement traditional pies, making your dessert spread both inclusive and exciting.
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Gluten Free Thanksgiving Desserts
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
Description
A delicious roundup dessert that’s perfect for Thanksgiving and entirely gluten-free, featuring a spiced almond flour crust and a rich pumpkin pie filling.
Ingredients
For the crust:
1 1/2 cups almond flour
1/4 cup coconut flour
1/4 cup melted butter or coconut oil
2 tbsp maple syrup
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
For the filling:
1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
2/3 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup canned coconut milk or heavy cream
1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix almond flour, coconut flour, melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt until a dough forms.
3. Press the dough evenly into a 9-inch pie pan and prick the bottom with a fork.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, coconut sugar, eggs, coconut milk, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
6. Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool the pie at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
9. Serve with whipped coconut cream or gluten-free vanilla ice cream.
Notes
This gluten-free pie crust holds together well and adds a nutty flavor to complement the spiced filling.
Make ahead a day in advance and chill overnight for best results.
Other gluten-free Thanksgiving dessert ideas include flourless chocolate cake, cranberry almond bars, and baked apples with oat crumble topping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: gluten-free thanksgiving, pumpkin pie, almond flour crust, gluten-free dessert, holiday baking
Top 10 Gluten Free Thanksgiving Desserts You Can’t Miss
Whether you’re baking from scratch or adapting a family recipe, this guide offers a variety of desserts perfect for the holiday. Each one is naturally gluten-free or easily adapted, ensuring a sweet and safe end to your meal.
Classic Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie
No Thanksgiving table is complete without the quintessential pumpkin pie. Its custard filling is naturally gluten-free, making it an easy choice when you use a certified gluten-free crust.
- Why It’s a Winner: Warm autumnal spices and a familiar, comforting flavor everyone loves.
- Pro Tip: Use a pre-made crust from a trusted brand or make your own with almond flour. Always use clean tools to avoid cross-contamination.
Flourless Chocolate Cake
Impress your guests with this rich, fudgy, and intensely chocolate dessert. As the name implies, it requires no flour substitutes, making it naturally and effortlessly gluten-free.
- Why It’s a Winner: An elegant, make-ahead option that pairs perfectly with berries or whipped cream.
- Pro Tip: For clean slices, let the cake cool completely and use a hot knife.
Apple Crisp with Oat & Almond Topping
This warm, fruit-forward dessert is the epitome of comfort food. By using certified gluten-free oats, you can easily create a safe and delicious nutty crumble topping.
- Why It’s a Winner: A rustic, crowd-pleasing dessert that fills the kitchen with an incredible aroma.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve à la mode with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream.
- Key Ingredients: Granny Smith apples, cinnamon, gluten-free oats, almond flour, and butter.
Gluten-Free Pecan Pie
A Southern staple that adapts beautifully to a gluten-free diet. The classic filling is naturally gluten-free; the only adaptation needed is for the crust.
- Why It’s a Winner: Delivers that classic, sweet, and nutty flavor everyone expects.
- Options: Use a trusted gluten-free pie crust or try a crustless version for a fudge-like texture.
- Watch Out For: Always verify that store-bought crusts or syrups are certified gluten-free.
Cranberry Orange Bars
These vibrant bars offer a tart and sweet contrast to richer desserts. They feature a buttery gluten-free shortbread crust topped with a bright, fruity layer.
- Why It’s a Winner: Their brilliant color and refreshing flavor cut through the richness of the meal.
- Pro Tip: Make these a day ahead; the flavors meld and improve overnight.
- Key Technique: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the best crust texture.
Sweet Potato Cake with Maple Frosting
This moist and warmly spiced cake is a fantastic alternative to pie. Sweet potato puree keeps it incredibly moist, and the maple frosting is a natural complement.
- Why It’s a Winner: A hearty, nutrient-rich cake that feels indulgent and seasonal.
- Bonus Idea: Bake the batter as cupcakes for easy individual servings.
- Key Flavor: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and pure maple syrup.
Mini Cheesecakes with GF Crust
Individual desserts are elegant and eliminate any risk of cross-contact. These mini cheesecakes can be made with a gluten-free graham cracker or nut crust.
- Why It’s a Winner: Portion-controlled, easy to serve, and highly customizable.
- Flavor Variations: Swirl in pumpkin puree, chocolate, or raspberry jam.
- Crust Options: Gluten-free graham crackers or a simple mix of almond flour and dates.
Chocolate Pecan Tart (Grain-Free)
For a truly decadent and sophisticated option, this tart combines a rich almond flour crust with a silky chocolate and pecan filling.
- Why It’s a Winner: It caters to multiple dietary needs (gluten-free, grain-free) without sacrificing luxury.
- Serving Tip: Elevate it with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt before serving.
- Ideal For: The chocolate lovers at your table.
Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies
Get a jump on the holidays with these soft, spiced cookies. Use gluten-free flour to create fun Thanksgiving shapes like turkeys, leaves, or pumpkins.
- Why It’s a Winner: A fantastic activity for families and a great make-ahead treat.
- Pro Tip: The dough freezes beautifully so that you can bake it weeks in advance.
No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars
When your oven is overflowing, these simple bars are the perfect solution. They come together in minutes and require no baking at all.
- Why It’s a Winner: A quick, easy, and foolproof option for last-minute guests or potlucks.
- Key Ingredients: Certified gluten-free oats, peanut butter, honey, and chocolate.
- Advantages: Packed with protein and fiber, offering a healthier dessert choice.
Key Ingredients in Gluten-Free Holiday Baking
Best Gluten-Free Flour Blends
- Store-bought gluten-free flour blends often combine rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch to closely mimic wheat flour texture.
- Homemade blends work well too. A mix of almond flour with a touch of cornstarch creates a tender crumb.
- Both options are versatile and perform beautifully in cakes, cookies, and bars.
Natural Thickeners and Binders
- Xanthan gum is a common binder that adds structure and elasticity to doughs and batters.
- Ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water create a natural gel-like binder, perfect for pies and crisps.
- Eggs remain a reliable option, providing stability and moisture in many gluten-free holiday recipes.
Why These Ingredients Matter
They ensure that gluten-free Thanksgiving desserts are not only safe for those with sensitivities but also delicious, tender, and satisfying for everyone at the table.
Easy Recipes for Gluten Free Thanksgiving Desserts
Pumpkin Pie and Pecan Pie Alternatives
Among the most beloved gluten free Thanksgiving desserts are pumpkin pie and pecan pie. A crust made from almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend creates the same golden, flaky base as traditional recipes. Filled with creamy pumpkin custard or rich pecan filling, these pies offer all the familiar holiday flavors in a gluten-free form. For an even simpler option, pecan pie can be made crustless, turning it into a naturally gluten-free favorite that still feels indulgent.
Gluten-Free Fruit Crisps and Cobblers
Fruit crisps and cobblers are classic additions to any lineup of gluten free Thanksgiving desserts. Apple crisps with a cinnamon oat topping or strawberry rhubarb cobblers made with gluten-free flour are both easy to prepare and full of seasonal flavor. These desserts bake up warm and bubbling, and when paired with vanilla ice cream, they become an irresistible holiday treat. Because they rely on simple ingredients and natural textures, crisps and cobblers prove that gluten free Thanksgiving desserts can be both comforting and uncomplicated.
Store-Bought Gluten Free Thanksgiving Dessert Options
Trader Joe’s Gluten-Free Dessert Options
Trader Joe’s has become a go-to for convenient and tasty gluten free Thanksgiving desserts. During the holiday season, you’ll often find gluten-free pumpkin bread mixes, flourless chocolate cakes, and frozen apple pies that can be baked fresh at home. They also carry a variety of gluten-free cookies and brownies, making it easy to put together a dessert platter when time is short. These store-bought treats allow you to enjoy the holiday without spending all day in the kitchen.
Costco Gluten-Free Dessert Selections
Costco also offers several ready-to-serve gluten free Thanksgiving desserts that are perfect for feeding a crowd. Gluten-free pumpkin pies, cheesecakes, and brownie trays often make an appearance during the holidays. Their large packs of gluten-free cookies and macaroons are budget-friendly options for big family gatherings. If you prefer to bake at home, Costco stocks gluten-free flour blends and baking essentials so you can prepare homemade desserts that still meet everyone’s dietary needs.
Hosting and Entertaining with Gluten Free Desserts
Serving Tips for Holiday Guests
When planning gluten free Thanksgiving desserts for a crowd, presentation and labeling matter. Clearly mark which desserts are gluten-free so guests can enjoy them without hesitation. Serving smaller portions, such as mini pies or bite-sized bars, makes it easy for guests to sample multiple treats while ensuring everyone has a taste. Pair desserts with seasonal garnishes like cinnamon sticks, whipped cream, or sugared cranberries for a festive finish.
Creating a Gluten-Free Dessert Table
One of the best ways to showcase gluten free Thanksgiving desserts is by creating a dedicated dessert table. Include a mix of pies, crisps, cakes, and cookies so there’s variety for every palate. Arrange the desserts on cake stands and holiday platters to make them look as inviting as they taste. Adding decorative touches, such as autumn leaves, mini pumpkins, or twinkling lights, transforms the table into a centerpiece that reflects both the season and the care you’ve put into making the holiday inclusive.
Healthier Gluten Free Thanksgiving Dessert Choices
Low-Sugar Gluten-Free Dessert Swaps
Not all gluten free Thanksgiving desserts need to be overly sweet. By swapping refined sugar with natural alternatives like coconut sugar, monk fruit, or maple syrup, you can create desserts that are both lighter and still flavorful. Pumpkin pie made with coconut sugar or pecan bars sweetened with maple syrup tastes just as indulgent as the originals. These adjustments let guests enjoy dessert without the sugar overload that often comes with the holidays.
Dairy-Free and Vegan Gluten-Free Desserts
Many holiday guests also avoid dairy, which makes dairy-free and vegan options an excellent addition to your spread of gluten free Thanksgiving desserts. Substituting almond or coconut milk for dairy milk in pies, or using coconut cream in whipped toppings, creates rich and creamy results. Vegan cheesecake made with cashews or fruit crisps topped with oat streusel are examples of desserts that satisfy both gluten-free and dairy-free diets. These variations ensure every guest can enjoy a sweet ending to the holiday meal.
Pairings and Presentation
Drinks That Complement Gluten-Free Desserts
The right drink can elevate gluten free Thanksgiving desserts into an unforgettable experience. Warm apple cider highlights the flavors of spiced apple crisps, while hot chocolate pairs beautifully with gluten-free cookies or brownies. A light dessert wine like Moscato complements pumpkin pie, and coffee is always a reliable choice to balance the sweetness of rich holiday bars.
Garnishes and Plating Ideas
Presentation matters, especially when serving gluten free Thanksgiving desserts at a holiday table. Garnishes like sugared cranberries, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of caramel can make even simple desserts feel festive. Serving pies on elegant cake stands, layering cookies in glass jars, or plating crisps in individual ramekins adds charm and makes the desserts look as special as they taste.
FAQ Section
What to bring to Thanksgiving gluten-free?
When deciding what to bring, choose gluten free Thanksgiving desserts that travel well and are easy to serve. Popular options include pumpkin pie with a gluten-free crust, apple crisp baked in a casserole dish, or a tray of gluten-free cookies and brownies. These desserts are crowd-pleasers and ensure there is something safe for everyone at the table.
What are the most common gluten-free desserts?
The most common gluten free Thanksgiving desserts include pies with gluten-free crusts, fruit crisps with oat toppings, and flourless cakes. Cookies made with almond flour and bars like pumpkin cheesecake bars are also popular. These desserts rely on naturally gluten-free ingredients or simple substitutions, making them easy to prepare and enjoy.
Does Trader Joe’s sell gluten-free desserts?
Yes, Trader Joe’s carries several ready-made options that can double as gluten free Thanksgiving desserts. Their selection often includes gluten-free pumpkin bread mixes, flourless chocolate cakes, and frozen fruit pies. These are convenient choices for busy holiday hosts who want to offer gluten-free options without baking from scratch.
Does Costco carry any gluten-free desserts?
Costco is another great place to shop for gluten free Thanksgiving desserts. Their offerings often include gluten-free pumpkin pies, cheesecakes, and large packs of cookies or macaroons. These desserts are perfect for feeding a crowd and allow you to mix store-bought convenience with homemade dishes on your holiday table.
Conclusion
Gluten free Thanksgiving desserts bring warmth, comfort, and inclusivity to the holiday table. From pumpkin pies with flaky gluten-free crusts to apple crisps bubbling with cinnamon, these recipes prove that dessert can be festive and flavorful without wheat. Store-bought options from Trader Joe’s and Costco make life easier, while homemade cakes, cookies, and bars let you add a personal touch. Offering gluten-free desserts is more than just a dietary choice; it’s a way of ensuring everyone feels welcome at one of the year’s most cherished celebrations.