10+ Gluten Free Dairy Free Cookie Recipes

10+ Gluten Free Dairy Free Cookie Recipes

Let’s Talk About Gluten Free Dairy Free Cookie Recipes

Welcome to our delightful recipe roundup featuring 8 scrumptious gluten free dairy free cookie recipes! that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your dietary preferences. 

Whether you’re following a gluten-free, dairy-free lifestyle due to allergies, intolerances, or personal choice, these cookie recipes offer a mouthwatering array of flavors and textures to indulge in guilt-free.

Featuring thumbprint cookies, no-bake delights, and scrumptious Samoas, each recipe presents a unique gluten-free, dairy-free twist on beloved cookie classics.

Powdered sugar dusting of an Almond Flour Thumbprint Cookie

FAQ (Ask A Dietitian!)

1. How do gluten-free and dairy-free cookies taste compared to traditional cookies?

In general, gluten free and dairy free cookies will taste different than the traditional recipe. However, the taste of gluten-free and dairy-free cookies can be enjoyable and satisfying, especially when made with high-quality ingredients and a well-crafted recipe.

Gluten-free and dairy-free cookies remain delicious, often relying on sugar for sweetness since it contains neither gluten nor dairy.

2. Can I use alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar in gluten-free and dairy-free cookie recipes?

Yes, alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar can be used in a gluten free dairy free cookie recipe. These sweeteners and others, such as honey, agave, stevia, and monk fruit, provide sweetness and their own unique flavor.

Just keep in mind that different sweeteners may have varying levels of sweetness and moisture content, so you might need to adjust the proportions of other ingredients in the recipe accordingly.

Chocolate chip and marshmallow cookies on parchment paper. The center cookie is split and the sticky marshmallow stretched and toasted

Tips for Making Gluten-Free Cookies using Gluten-Free Flour

Gluten-free flour blends can be used in a 1:1 ratio for all-purpose flour. You can beat the batter more, because gluten-free flour has less structure than all-purpose flour, beating the batter longer and more vigorously can help the dough obtain structure. 

You may notice you need to bake the cookies a bit longer with gluten-free flour vs all-purpose flour. 

Gluten-free flour-baked cookies will look and taste different. This is okay! They are two different flours and these cookies will still taste delicious. 

Tips for Making Dairy-Free Cookies

Making Dairy Free cookies can occur in a variety of ways. For example, you can use coconut oil, vegan butter, nut butter, or other fats rather than baking with butter. 

You can even make a dairy-free and vegan cookie recipe by keeping the dough egg-free. Swap the egg for flax or chia seed “eggs” by mixing 1 tbsp ground flax or chia seeds with 3 tbsp of water. 

8 Gluten Free Dairy Free Cookie Recipes

I’m sure you have heard of, seen, or eaten Gluten Free Diary Free Sugar Cookies or Chocolate Chip Cookies. But there are a variety of different cookies out there that go beyond chocolate chips!

Gluten Free Dairy Free Cookies Recipes

Powdered sugar dusting of an Almond Flour Thumbprint Cookie

1 / 11 Thumbprints

These Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Thumbprint Cookies are perfect for sharing at events! This cookie dough can be made in bulk and you can make 2, 3, or 4 different cookies with different fillings such as strawberry jam cookies, mango cookies, Nutella-filled thumbprint cookies, or lemon curd-filled thumbprint cookies. 

Recipe: Almond Flour Thumbprint Cookies

 

Multiple no sugar no oil cookies on a white rectangle plate

2 / 11 Everything But The Kitchen Sink Cookies

Cookies made with lots of wholesome ingredients are beneficial because they provide a healthier indulgence, offering a delicious way to satisfy cravings while also nourishing the body with wholesome nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants, promoting overall well-being with each bite. 

With ingredients like banana, rolled oats, cocoa nibs, apples, carrots, coconut, hazelnuts, and dried cherries, you get a naturally sweetened cookie that is full of nutrients like fiber, and other nutrients. 

Recipe: No Sugar No Flour Cookies 

 

3 ingredient banana oatmeal cookies stacked

3 / 11 Peanut Butter Cookies

Utilize almond or peanut butter as the star ingredient for a naturally gluten-free and dairy-free option. With just peanut butter, bananas, and oats, these cookies are naturally sweet, simple, and easy to make!

Recipe: 3 Ingredient Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies

 

Almond butter chocolate chip cookies on a white plate

4 / 11 Nut Butter Cookie

These almond butter cookies are like a traditional chocolate chip cookie but with almond butter! This recipe calls for almond flour in addition to almond butter for a decadent Almond Chocolate Chip cookie. 

Recipe: Almond Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies 

 

stacked pumpkin no bake cookies

5 / 11 No Bake Cookies

No-bake cookies are fantastic because they offer a quick and easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the need for an oven, making them perfect for days when you’re short on time. 

All you need are your ingredients, a bowl, and a sheet pan or platter. Option to put these cookies in the fridge for 10-15 minutes or eat it immediately. 

Recipe: Easy No Bake Pumpkin Cookies

 

lemon almond flour cookies stacked with decorative sprinkles

6 / 11 Lemon Cookies

Tangy and refreshing, these gluten-free and dairy-free soft cookies are perfect for citrus lovers. 

These lemony vegan cookies melt in your mouth. Made with almond flour, no butter, no eggs, and no refined sugar, these are healthier versions of your typical lemon shortbread cookie. 

Recipe: Soft Vegan Lemon Cookies

 

healthy samoas girl scout cookie closeup on a wooden cutting board

7 / 11 Girl Scout Cookie Favorites

Everyone has their favorite Girl Scout cookie, well mine is a Samoa! 

Gluten-free, dairy-free Samoas offer a delectable alternative to the traditional cookie, allowing individuals with dietary restrictions or preferences to still enjoy the irresistible combination of caramel, chocolate, and coconut flavors without compromising on taste or health-conscious choices.

Colleen Woods uses a date caramel made with maple syrup and dates to provide that gooey caramel we love in Samoas. 

Recipe: Gluten Free Dairy Free Samoas

 

vegan pumpkin oatmeal raisin cookies on a plate

8 / 11 Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

My husband’s favorite cookie is a classic Oatmeal Raisin. 

This comforting classic is made gluten-free and dairy-free by using certified gluten-free oats, oat flour, 100% puree pumpkin, and cocavo oil (aka coconut avocado oil).

 Recipe: Vegan Pumpkin Oatmeal Raisin Cookies 

Stuffed Dates on a stoneware plate

9/11 – 10/11 Snickers Dates & Almond Joy Dates

Another fan favorite, Snickers and Almond Joy Dates.

Technically, these are not a cookie recipe, but both recipes are bite-sized, sweet, and delicious. Best of all these recipes are no bake and ready in a flash.

Recipe: Date Caramel with Almond Butter

Recipe: Almond Joy Stuffed Dates

chocolate chips in a bwol bowl on top of a cutting board. Chocolate chips are scattered on the cutting board.

11/11 – Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate

I am always looking for a sweet treat that is loaded with chocolate. So for the chocolate lovers out there, try this cookie recipe by My Gluten Free Kitchen.

Not only is this recipe gluten and dairy free, but it is also nut free!

Recipe: Mudslide Cookies

Enjoy This Recipe Round Up? Check Out Some Others!

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Healthy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers Air Fryer

Healthy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers Air Fryer

Healthy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers Air Fryer

This Bacon “Wrapped” Jalapeno Popper Air Fryer recipe is healthy, delicious, and nutritious. I add butternut squash to the filling to provide a creamy, slightly sweet, and veggie packed bite!

Healthy Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Jalapeno poppers on an oblong white plate

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

Flavor: The combination of spicy jalapenos, creamy cheese filling, and crispy bacon is incredibly flavorful and satisfying.

Indulgence with moderation: By creating a healthier version, individuals can indulge in this delicious treat without feeling guilty about consuming excessive calories or saturated fats.

Sharing with others: Making a healthier version of a popular dish allows individuals to share their culinary creations with friends and family, promoting healthier eating habits among loved ones.

Ingredients

Experimenting with healthier ingredients allows for creativity in the kitchen. You can swap the butternut squash for pureed carrot, sweet potato, or even pumpkin!

  • Jalapenos
  • Cream Cheese – option for use vegan for dairy free
  • Butternut Squash – you can even get this in a can from Farmer’s Market Organic Purees
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese – or a vegan cheddar
  • No Nitrite Bacon – or even tempeh bacon!
  • Salt & Pepper

 

Step – By – Step Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos: Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce heat.

Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mashed butternut squash, salt, pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.

Fill the Jalapenos: Spoon the cream cheese and butternut squash mixture into each jalapeno half, ensuring they are well-filled.

Top jalapeno and filling with 1/2 tsp shredded cheddar cheese then top with a piece of bacon.

Air frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapenos are tender.

Serve: Carefully remove the jalapeno poppers from the air fryer. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

 

How to Serve This Recipe

Below are some suggestions for serving this recipe.

Arrange on a Platter: Place the jalapeno poppers on a serving platter or plate, arranging them neatly for presentation.

Garnish: If desired, garnish the jalapeno poppers with fresh chopped cilantro, green onions, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Serve Warm: Jalapeno poppers are best enjoyed warm, so serve them promptly after cooking.

 

Healthy Bacon "Wrapped" Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers on a platter and plate.

Enjoy This Bacon Wrapped Jalapeno Air Fryer recipe?

Try These Other Air Fryer Fan Favorites!

Easy Air Fryer Camembert

Camembert Cheese on stacked plates with sliced bread topped with nuts and dried fruit. A pair of hands is slicing into the cheese and spreading it along bread.

Air Fryer Frozen Brussels Sprouts with Horseradish Aioli

A stoneware bowl with a creamy Horseradish Aioli inside a casserole dish with air fried brussel sprouts. A fork is dipping one Brussel Sprout into the dip.

Air Fryer Baked Apples

A grey speckled dessert plate with 2 halves of baked apples with pecan oat topping and a scoop of creamy ice cream and a silver and blue handled spoon cutting into the baked apple.

 

Healthy Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Jalapeno poppers on an oblong white plate

Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
These Jalapeno Poppers are a spin on the classic. The addition of butternut squash adds a touch of sweetness and more veggies!
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 177 kcal

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • rubber spatula
  • measuring spoons
  • Tongs

Ingredients
  

  • 8 jalapenos
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup frozen butternut squash, thawed and mashed
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp fresh cracked pepper
  • 8 tsp shredded cheddar cheese, divided you will use 1/2 tsp cheddar cheese on each popper
  • 4 strips no nitrite bacon, cut into 4 pieces

Instructions
 

Prepare the Jalapenos

  • Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to reduce heat.

Prepare the Filling

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mashed butternut squash, salt, pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.

Fill the Jalapenos

  • Spoon the cream cheese and butternut squash mixture into each jalapeno half, ensuring they are well-filled.
  • Top jalapeno and filling with 1/2 tsp shredded cheddar cheese then top with a piece of bacon.

Air frying

  • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
  • Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  • Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the jalapenos are tender.

Serve

  • Carefully remove the jalapeno poppers from the air fryer. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

To make Vegan or Dairy Free: Swap Cream Cheese with Cashew Cream or a Vegan Cream Cheese. Swap Cheddar cheese by mixing in nutritional yeast to Vegan Cream cheese swap. Omit bacon. Top with diced chives and paprika after cooking.
To make Vegetarian: Omit bacon and top with diced chives and paprika after cooking. 
This recipe is Gluten and Grain Free, Soy Free, and Peanut/Nut Free.
Option to serve with some Greek yogurt or sour cream as an easy dipping sauce!

Nutrition

Calories: 177kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 5gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 41mgSodium: 268mgPotassium: 161mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2446IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 74mgIron: 0.3mg
Keyword appetizer, healthy
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
The Best Ever Healthy Cowboy Caviar Recipe

The Best Ever Healthy Cowboy Caviar Recipe

The Best Ever Healthy Cowboy Caviar Recipe

Cowboy Caviar is sometimes also called Texas caviar or cowboy dip. I love to bring it to potlucks with a big ole bag of corn tortilla chips. 

Dietitian tip, this is also a cowboy caviar salad.

rainbow colored cowboy caviar in a white bowl with herbs as a prop to the left

Cowboy Caviar Ingredients

  • Lentils – I always make Cowboy Caviar using at least 2 different legumes. Usually, I use 2 different-sized legumes, but for this recipe, I decided to celebrate the new year by swapping in Lentils. 
  • Beans – I used black beans
  • Sweet Corn – option to use canned, fresh, or frozen corn
  • Peppers – options to use green bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, or red bell peppers. 

Spice tip: You can completely omit the jalapeno or only add 1 to reduce the heat. However, if you want the dish super spicy, don’t remove the ribs or seeds of the jalapeno. This is where most of the jalapenos’ heat comes from.

  • Onions – shallots, white, sweet, yellow, or red onions work well. 
  • Herbs – I decided to use parsley

Herb Tip: Consider swapping the parsley with cilantro or any other herb you love!

  • Optional ingredients  avocado, tomatoes, black eye peas, or spicy peppers

Ingredients top down in cowboy caviar recipe. Many different varieties of colorsCowboy Caviar Dressing Recipe

 I like to keep this dressing simple with only five ingredients – oil, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.

Use a flavorful olive oil. There is no actual cooking in this recipe, so there is no need for the extra virgin stuff. For the vinegar, I used a lovely lemon champagne vinegar on hand. You could use white balsamic, champagne, or red wine vinegar, or add some freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice.

Ever been to one of those fancy olive oil and vinegar shops? Those are perfect for a recipe like this. I bought a raspberry white balsamic vinegar that, if I still had it, would have tasted divine in this dish!

Or keep it simple with a store-bought or homemade Italian dressing. 

How To Make Cowboy Caviar

First, chop all your veggies. Then pour them in a large bowl. I try to keep my veggie pieces roughly the size of a black bean.

Next, Mix! Add all the dressing ingredients to a bowl or mason jar, then whisk or shake! Then pour the salad dressing over your veggies and mix! 

Finally, serve! 

Ingredients for cowboy caviar in large white bowl, all of which are separated and not mixed together yet

How To Serve This Recipe

Some options for serving this yummy dish include:

  • In an Endive (lettuce) cup
  • With Crackers or Chips
  • As a fun and creative Bruschetta
  • Right out of a bowl!

I enjoy using ramekins as small serving bowls as a side dish with dinner.

 

Cowboy Caviar in Ramekin

Sharper Nutrition Fix: Lentils

Lentils are also inexpensive, healthy, environmentally friendly, and easy to make! It’s no surprise that lentils are a major food source throughout the Americas, Caribbean, and Mediterranean regions.

Let’s dive a little deeper, shall we!? 

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe with Lentils

Lentils are an all-star flexitarian staple I always keep on hand in my pantry. 

Inexpensive

Lentils only cost about $1.50 for a 16oz bag at Kroger, a local grocery store in Huntsville. Lentils are available for purchase at most grocery stores. Because lentils do not take long to cook, I recommend purchasing dried lentils to get the most bang for your buck!

Healthy

Lentils are high in fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals. Combine lentils with a whole grain, and you have a complete protein source with all nine essential amino acids. 

Fun fact: Populations with the greatest lentil consumption also have the lowest rates of cancer, specifically breast and colorectal. 

Good for the Environment

Lentils are green, and I don’t mean the color! Lentils work with bacteria that convert atmospheric nitrogen to useful ammonia or nitrates. They also improve soil fertility and are highly water-efficient.

Quick and Easy 

Did you know that dried lentils are quick to whip up? Just 15 minutes on the stove, and you are good to go! Dried Lentils are much quicker to cook than dried beans.

Versatile

You will find many cowboy caviar recipes on the internet. For example, Pioneer Woman Cowboy Caviar uses black-eyed peas instead of lentils. Other recipes include avocado whereas my cowboy salad recipe does not include it. You can get creative with flavors or just use what you have on hand!

cowboy caviar in white bowl close up

Like This Recipe? Try These Flexitarian Dishes, Too!

Jacob’s Black Bean Burger Salad

A large black bean burger patty laid overtop a spinach salad with cucumbers, shallots, and sliced cherry tomatoes.

Black Bean and Mango Salad

Black Bean Mango Salad with spoon

Layered Arugula and Spinach Salad with Smoked Trout

Fork in salad spearing smoked fish, greens, and bright red picked beets.

Cowboy Caviar with Lentils

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This Cowboy Caviar with Lentils is healthy, yummy, and irrisistable during a potluck! Enjoy this as a salad, a side, or as a dip!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 8 people
Calories 260 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 rubber spatula
  • 1 Small bowl
  • 1 Whisk

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can corn, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cooked lentils
  • 1 jalapeno, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 red pepper, diced
  • 2 shallots, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup champagne vinegar or red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1-2 tbsp honey
  • kosher salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Vegetables

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the corn, black beans, cooked lentils, jalapeno, bell pepper, red pepper, shallots, and parsley.

Make The Dressing

  • In a separate small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients.

Combine and Toss

  • Pour salad dressing overtop of your veggies. Gently toss everything together until well combined, making sure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.

Adjust Seasoning and Serve

  • Before serving, give the cowboy caviar a good stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  • Serve the cowboy caviar as a dip with tortilla chips or as a side salad. It also works well as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.

Nutrition

Calories: 260kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 7gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 5mgPotassium: 411mgFiber: 7gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 836IUVitamin C: 39mgCalcium: 23mgIron: 2mg
Keyword dip, easy, healthy, plant based, vegan
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Flexitarian Resources: Podcasts

Flexitarian Resources: Podcasts

Flexitarian Resources: Podcasts

South Bites A Nutrition Podcast

  • Episode 237: The How & Why of Flexitarian Eating – Dawn Jackson Blatner & Amanda Blechman from. 
  • Episode 238: How Flexitarianism Supports a Healthy Relationship with Food – Chelsey Amer, Dawn Jackson Blatner & Amanda Blechman. 
  • Episode 239: How Flexitarianism Can Reduce Food Waste & Save Money – Rosanne Rust, Dawn Jackson Blatner & Amanda Blechman 

Liz’s Healthy Table Podcast

  • Episode 97: Eat Like A Flexitarian…With a Side of Joy with DJ Blatner, RDN.

What You’re Eating

NPR

Here & Now

 

Flexitarian Resources: Books

Flexitarian Resources: Books

Flexitarian Resources: Books