Gluten-Free Holiday Desserts for Your Table

The holidays are the perfect time to gather, celebrate, and share joy—and the dessert table is often the centerpiece of that magic. If you’re serving friends or family who are gluten-free, you don’t have to sacrifice flavor, warmth, or festivity in order to accommodate everyone’s dietary restrictions. 

Here are several of our favorite gluten-free (and in many cases, dairy-free or vegan-friendly) desserts that are ideal for holiday dinners, cookie swaps, gift boxes, or cozy nights by the fire.

Gluten-Free Holiday Desserts to Make for Your Family 

Gluten-Free Sugar Cookies

These classic holiday cookies bring nostalgia and a festive flair without the gluten. The simple dough (made from a gluten-free mix) becomes soft, fluffy cookies ready to be cut into shapes like stars, trees, and snowflakes. Topped with bright icing and sprinkles, they’re perfect for a cookie tray, a holiday cookie swap, or gifting.

Gluten-Free Maple Pumpkin Pie

Warm spices, creamy pumpkin, and a nutty crust make this pie a cozy holiday classic. It uses a pecan-walnut crust and avoids wheat, so traditional holiday flavors meet gluten-free comfort. It’s a lovely option for any end-of-year celebration. 

Vegan & Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie Bars

Want all the seasonal flavor but less fuss? These pumpkin pie bars are a smart, portable alternative to a whole pie. With a gluten-free graham-cracker crust, a spiced pumpkin filling, and a crumble topping, they deliver all the cozy fall-holiday vibes—no slice cutting required. Chill before serving for the best texture.

Our Best, Easy Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe

A holiday dessert table classic, reimagined. This pie uses a chocolate almond-flour crust and a filling sweetened with maple syrup, date paste, and coconut sugar, making it naturally gluten-free with a whole-food twist. Nutty, rich, and indulgent without refined sugars, it’s a showstopper for any festive gathering. 

Chocolate Lava Cake

If you’re after something extra decadent, this molten chocolate cake is just the thing. Made with coconut flour, coconut oil, cacao, and almond flour, it delivers that “wow” (just without the gluten!). Serve warm so every slice offers a silky, gooey center that’s perfect for a special holiday dinner.

Homemade Almond Butter Cups

For a simple yet still indulgent dessert, these almond butter cups are a winner. With no flour, no dairy, and minimal refined sugar, they’re naturally gluten-free, paleo-friendly, and easy to make. They’re ideal for gifting, holiday dessert boxes, or a small sweet treat after dinner.

Earl Grey Ice Box Cake

This cake brings a sophisticated, low-stress dessert to your holiday table—and it requires no baking. Instead, this tea-infused dessert layers a mascarpone and whipped-cream filling (steeped with Earl Grey tea) between layers of gluten-free chocolate chip cookies. Chill or freeze ahead, then slice and serve for elegant presentation.

Celiac-Safe Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Cookies

These cookies bring a rich, buttery, and slightly salty edge to a holiday dessert spread. With chocolate chunks and crispy, sugar-rolled edges, they offer a satisfying shortbread texture that feels elevated—a lovely contrast to iced sugar cookies or soft brownies. 

Tips for Hosting Gluten-Free Guests at Your Holiday Dinner

Creating a welcoming holiday table starts with care, and even small gestures can go a long way when you’re hosting loved ones who eat gluten-free. Here are thoughtful, stress-free ways to keep your dinner inclusive, safe, and delicious.

1. Confirm Ingredients Ahead of Time

If you’re serving someone with gluten-free dietary restrictions, ask about their comfort level before the gathering. Some guests may avoid wheat, while others need to steer clear of barley, rye, malt, or any product with possible gluten contact. A quick ingredient check helps them feel seen and considered.

2. Prevent Cross-Contact in the Kitchen

Even gluten-free recipes can become unsafe if they’re prepared with shared tools. Simple steps make a big difference:

• Use clean cutting boards, baking sheets, and utensils
• Keep gluten-free items separate from breads and stuffing
• If someone is highly sensitive, avoid shared fryers or toasters

Tip: If space allows, designate one counter zone just for gluten-free prep.

3. Lean into Naturally Gluten-Free Staples

Fresh fruits, roasted vegetables, herbs, spices, meats, eggs, nuts, beans, and many whole grains like quinoa or rice are naturally gluten-free. Featuring these foods on the table helps everyone feel included — while keeping dinner simple, nourishing, and seasonal.

4. Label Dishes Clearly

If your buffet includes both gluten-free and conventional dishes, use small cards to note which ones are safe. It removes any guesswork, supports guests with dietary needs, and makes hosting feel thoughtful and polished.

5. Watch Out for Hidden Sources of Gluten

Some ingredients that seem “safe” can contain gluten, especially in:

• Gravy
• Marinades
• Sauces
• Spice blends
• Stock concentrates
• Baking mixes

Double-checking labels or choosing certified gluten-free products helps protect guests and keeps the menu aligned with their needs.

6. Offer at Least One Gluten-Free Dessert

A gluten-free sweet ending sends a warm message to guests with dietary restrictions. Whether it’s pie, cookies, or a chilled ice-box cake, ensuring that everyone has a safe treat to enjoy makes a big difference.

7. Ask, Don’t Assume

If you’re not sure, just ask. Most gluten-free diners have navigated plenty of meals away from home and will happily share ingredients they avoid, brands they trust, or tips that make them feel most at ease.