Navigating gluten-free cooking and baking can feel overwhelming, but the right cookbooks make all the difference. Whether you’re managing celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or simply trying a gluten-free diet, these cookbooks will inspire you with delicious gluten-free recipes. From foolproof bread recipes to indulgent dessert recipes, this guide covers the best gluten-free cookbooks for every home cook.
Looking for more in-depth reviews of cookbooks? Check out all of the gluten-free books we have reviewed.
Jump to:
- Gluten-Free on a Shoestring by Nicole Hunn
- The How Can It Be Gluten-Free Cookbook by America’s Test Kitchen
- Against All Grain: Meals Made Simple by Danielle Walker
- Sweet Laurel: Recipes for Whole Food, Grain-Free Desserts by Laurel Gallucci and Claire Thomas
- The Complete Gluten-Free Vegan Cookbook by Justin Weber
- The Gluten-Free Almond Flour Cookbook by Elana Amsterdam
- Gluten-Free Girl Every Day by Shauna James Ahern
- The Gluten-Free Gourmet Bakes Bread by Bette Hagman
- Artisanal Gluten-Free Cooking by Peter and Kelli Bronski
- 1000 Gluten-Free Recipes by Carol Fenster
- Baked to Perfection by Katarina Cermelj
- Honorable Mentions
- Why These Cookbooks Are the Best for Gluten-Free Living
- FAQ
- Must-Have Ingredients for Gluten-Free Cooking
- Conclusion
Gluten-Free on a Shoestring by Nicole Hunn
Budget-conscious and packed with simple recipes, this cookbook ensures you don’t break the bank while enjoying gluten-free cooking. Nicole Hunn simplifies gluten-free baking and cooking with easy-to-find ingredients from your local grocery store. Favorites include foolproof bread recipes, flaky biscuits, and even fried chicken—all without wheat flour. For those new to gluten-free food, this book is a practical and accessible starting point.
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The How Can It Be Gluten-Free Cookbook by America’s Test Kitchen
The ultimate guide for perfectionists in the kitchen, this book explains the science behind gluten-free cooking. Detailed instructions on creating your own flour blends using rice flours, tapioca starch, xanthan gum, and psyllium husk ensure your gluten-free pantry is well-equipped. From fluffy pancakes to rich chocolate cake, this cookbook delivers flawless results. It also features helpful cross-contamination tips, making it ideal for those with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance.
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Against All Grain: Meals Made Simple by Danielle Walker
Danielle Walker’s Against All Grain: Meals Made Simple is the perfect cookbook for busy home cooks who want to enjoy flavorful, wholesome meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Focusing on gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free and paleo recipes, Walker offers a collection of simple, fast meals that don’t sacrifice taste or nutrition. From one-pan dinners to quick breakfasts and snacks, each recipe is designed to fit into hectic schedules while nourishing the whole family. With practical meal prep tips and time-saving techniques, this cookbook helps home cooks confidently create delicious, allergy-friendly meals with ease, making it an essential addition to any gluten-free collection.
Check out our in-depth review here: Against All Grain: Meals Made Simple review.
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Sweet Laurel: Recipes for Whole Food, Grain-Free Desserts by Laurel Gallucci and Claire Thomas
For those seeking desserts that are gluten-free, sugar-free, and dairy-free, this book is a dream. The recipes prioritize natural ingredients like almond flour, maple syrup, and coconut oil to create rich, decadent treats. Classic recipes like chocolate cake and inventive creations like matcha coconut tart make this book a favorite for gluten-free bakers, especially those managing multiple dietary restrictions like lactose intolerance.
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The Complete Gluten-Free Vegan Cookbook by Justin Weber
The Complete Gluten-Free Vegan Cookbook by Justin Weber is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to embrace a plant-based, gluten-free lifestyle. This cookbook offers over 200 vibrant and delicious recipes that cater to both beginners and seasoned cooks. From hearty mains to indulgent desserts, Weber’s approach emphasizes using whole, unprocessed ingredients to create satisfying meals that are free from gluten and animal products. The book features a wide variety of recipes, including international dishes, comfort foods, and creative twists on classic favorites. With clear instructions and nutritional tips, The Complete Gluten-Free Vegan Cookbook empowers home cooks to explore a new way of eating that is not only healthy but also flavorful and easy to prepare.
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The Gluten-Free Almond Flour Cookbook by Elana Amsterdam
Elana Amsterdam revolutionizes gluten-free baking with recipes that use almond flour to create moist, flavorful baked goods. This book offers everything from muffins and scones to savory dishes like pizza crusts and quiches. With a focus on easy recipes and a short ingredient list, it’s ideal for busy cooks who don’t want to sacrifice flavor.
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Gluten-Free Girl Every Day by Shauna James Ahern
Blending storytelling and recipes, Shauna James Ahern’s book shares her personal journey with celiac disease alongside delicious gluten-free recipes. From thin-crust pizza to comforting soups, each recipe is crafted to bring joy back to gluten-free eating. The book’s focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and good food makes it a standout for those wanting to explore the emotional side of gluten-free living.
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The Gluten-Free Gourmet Bakes Bread by Bette Hagman
A classic from the first gluten-free cookbook author, this book is a treasure for those who miss bread on a gluten-free diet. Bette Hagman’s innovative use of tapioca starch, xanthan gum, and other gluten-free staples creates bread recipes that rival traditional wheat versions. Her detailed guidance ensures foolproof results for new and experienced bakers.
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Artisanal Gluten-Free Cooking by Peter and Kelli Bronski
This cookbook offers a fresh take on gluten-free recipes, with everything from fried chicken to artisanal cupcakes. The recipes prioritize flavor and texture, making it an excellent choice for gluten-free eaters who want to cook restaurant-quality meals at home. The Bronskis also provide insights into managing cross-contamination and building a gluten-free pantry.
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1000 Gluten-Free Recipes by Carol Fenster
Carol Fenster’s cookbook focuses on everyday meals and special occasions, with a mix of old recipes reimagined and innovative creations. From gluten-free bread to rich desserts, this book covers all the bases. Fenster’s emphasis on whole grains and cross-contamination safety makes it a trustworthy choice for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
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Baked to Perfection by Katarina Cermelj
Katarina Cermelj’s Baked to Perfection is a game-changer for anyone looking to master gluten-free baking. As a scientist turned baker, Cermelj dives deep into the chemistry of gluten-free flours and techniques, delivering foolproof recipes that rival traditional bakes in taste and texture. This James Beard Award-winning cookbook is filled with a variety of recipes, from crusty bread to decadent chocolate cakes, making it a must-have for those navigating a gluten-free diet. What sets this book apart is its clear guidance on using alternative ingredients like psyllium husk, xanthan gum, and oat flour to replicate the elasticity and structure of wheat flour. With approachable instructions and stunning photography, Baked to Perfection empowers home cooks to create everything from artisanal sourdough to flaky pastries and comforting desserts.
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Honorable Mentions
- The Gluten-Free Gourmet by Bette Hagman – The first gluten-free cookbook that brought hope to gluten-intolerant families.
- Gluten-Free Baking by Rebecca Reilly – Perfect for those managing multiple dietary needs, including lactose intolerance.
- True Roots by Kristen Callavari – It has accessible, plant-based recipes that beautifully cater to gluten-free and dairy-free diets while focusing on simple, wholesome ingredients.
Why These Cookbooks Are the Best for Gluten-Free Living
These cookbooks are more than collections of recipes; they’re guides to navigating the challenges of celiac disease and gluten intolerance. With tips on managing cross contamination, using alternative flours like sorghum flour and brown rice flour, and finding gluten-free products in grocery stores, these books simplify the gluten-free journey.
FAQ
For beginners, Gluten-Free on a Shoestring by Nicole Hunn is an excellent choice. It offers simple recipes with ingredients easily found in grocery stores and focuses on comfort foods like fried chicken and biscuits.
Yes, many focus on baking! The Gluten-Free Almond Flour Cookbook by Elana Amsterdam, The Gluten-Free Gourmet Bakes Bread by Bette Hagman and Baked to Perfection by Katarina Cermeljspecialize in bread recipes, cakes, and pastries using alternative flours like almond flour and sorghum flour.
Several do! “Sweet Laurel” and “Gluten-Free Vegan” cater to those with both gluten and lactose intolerance, featuring dairy-free recipes alongside gluten-free ones.
Yes, gluten-free baking often requires ingredients like xanthan gum, tapioca starch, psyllium husk, and rice flours to replicate the structure and texture of wheat flour. Most are readily available at health food stores or online. If you are not baking and just cooking, you can focus on flour-free recipes, which should be gluten-free by default.
Books like “Gluten-Free Vegan” by Rebecca Reilly and “Sweet Laurel” cater specifically to vegan diets, combining gluten-free recipes with plant-based ingredients.
Some, like “Sweet Laurel,” focus on whole grains and natural sweeteners, making them suitable for those pursuing a healthier lifestyle or weight loss. However, the primary goal of gluten-free cookbooks is to provide delicious recipes free from gluten, not necessarily low-calorie options.
Many cookbooks, like those by America’s Test Kitchen and Carol Fenster, include tips on avoiding cross-contamination, such as using dedicated tools and ensuring your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Gluten-free recipes are carefully designed to work with specific flour blends and ingredients. Substituting regular flour will typically not yield the desired results and generally will not be gluten-free.
Must-Have Ingredients for Gluten-Free Cooking
Creating delicious gluten-free recipes starts with a well-stocked pantry. From versatile flours to essential binders and dairy-free alternatives, these staples will set you up for success in gluten-free cooking and baking.
Gluten-Free Flours and Starches
Flour is the foundation of many recipes, and gluten-free options offer unique flavors and textures. Rice flour and brown rice flour are mild and versatile, while almond flour adds a rich, nutty taste perfect for desserts. Sorghum flour provides a slightly sweet, whole-grain flavor, and tapioca starch adds elasticity to baked goods. For those who prefer convenience, a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend is a great choice.
Essential Binders
Without gluten to provide structure, binders play a key role in holding recipes together. Xanthan gum is a common choice for creating elasticity, while psyllium husk adds both fiber and structure, especially in bread recipes.
Alternative Grains
Whole grains add variety and nutrition to gluten-free meals. Quinoa is a protein-rich option for side dishes or flour blends, amaranth offers a nutty flavor for porridge or baked goods, and millet’s mild taste makes it a versatile addition to both savory and sweet dishes.
Dairy-Free Substitutions
Many with gluten intolerance also avoid dairy, making substitutions essential. Plant-based milks like almond, oat, or coconut milk work well in both cooking and baking. Dairy-free butter alternatives and creamy ingredients like cashew cream or coconut cream are perfect for sauces, soups, and desserts.
Other Gluten-Free Pantry Staples
Round out your pantry with oat flour (certified gluten-free), arrowroot powder for thickening, and natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or sorghum syrup. These ingredients not only enhance flavor but also make recipes adaptable to different dietary needs.
By keeping these must-have ingredients on hand, you’ll be ready to tackle any gluten-free recipe, from comforting bread to indulgent chocolate cake. With the right staples, cooking and baking gluten-free becomes an enjoyable, creative experience.
Conclusion
Whether you’re baking with oat flour, experimenting with new flour blends, or trying ancient grains for the first time, these cookbooks will make your gluten-free eating journey full of flavor and fun.
What’s your favorite gluten-free cookbook?
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