Whether you go out or stay home for dinner, finish the evening with one of these indulgent and delicious gluten free dessert recipes this Valentine's Day!
I was enthusiastically telling a friend the other day that we’ve made it nearly all the way through the season that shall not be named without any major illnesses then one week later all five of us went down, one by one, like dominoes. We’ve been wading through a muck of ear infections, fevers, stomach bugs, bronchitis (and a partridge in a pear tree) for a week now, but I think we’re all on the up and up!
Lesson learned – the first rule of staying healthy is you do not talk about staying healthy. Goodness gracious!
Anyway, I’m happy everyone is feeling better not only because wiping down light switches and door handles is getting old, but also because it’s a holiday week – Valentine’s Day is right around the corner! Lincoln’s school has canceled their Valentine’s Day-themed party for a “spring party” (I have thoughts) but we can still celebrate at home with a fun and tasty homemade treat. If there’s any holiday where dessert really shines it’s Valentine’s Day so I’m happy to share 10 gluten free dessert recipes that you and your sweetie(s) can make and/or devour together this year.
From mouthwatering lava cakes, to classic fudgy brownies, cut out sugar cookies begging to be frosted and decorated, to a can’t-be-beat easy fruity treat for the chocolate hater in your life (I see you!) I hope you’ll find something fun to enjoy later this week. I’m also including four tried and true Valentine’s Day dinner ideas if you’re staying it this year (cheers to that!) Happy holiday from me to you!
10 Gluten Free Dessert Recipes
Chocolate-Peanut Butter Lava Cakes for 2
Readers are CRAZY for this chocolate + peanut butter dessert recipe not only because it’s the definition of luscious, luxurious, decadent (shall I go on?) but also because it is one of the easiest and fastest desserts to whip up. The recipe also makes just enough for two so it’s perfect for Valentine’s Day.
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Gluten-Free Fudgy Brownies
The ultimate brownie! These babies are rich, dense, ultra fudgy, and made in just one bowl. Sprinkle with powdered sugar or use a heart-shaped cookie cutter for a sweet presentation.
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Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake
This is another beloved dessert recipe here on IGE. All you need is store-bought crispy sugar cookies, strawberries, whip cream, and 12-24 hours for it to chill in the fridge. Make the night before Valentine’s Day and it will reach soft, cakey perfection just in time for your post-dinner dessert.
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Chocolate-Peppermint Puppy Chow
I originally created this recipe for Christmas, but the color and minty flavor are perfect for Valentine’s Day too. I had to laugh at an email I recently received about this recipe from a reader – she confessed to losing count of how many times she made it over the holidays. I FEEL YOU DEAR READER! Tip:use round mint candies as there won’t be candy canes in stores right now.
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Brown Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
Want to knock the socks off your valentine? Turn ordinary oatmeal chocolate chip cookies into Life Changing Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies by simply browning the butter before whipping it with the rest of the wet ingredients, PLUS sprinkling course sea salt on top of the dough balls before baking. Expect a proposal after one bite.
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Almond Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies
If you’ve got a health conscious Valentine they will really appreciate these chocolate chip cookies which are soft and chewy, made with almond flour instead of refined flour, and much lower in sugar than their traditional counterparts. I literally pop these silver dollar-sized cookies like chips – so yummy!
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Soft and Chewy Gluten-Free Sugar Cookies
Cookie-decorating party with the kids, anyone? These sugar cookies are soft, chewy, and you can make them as drop (round) cookies, or cut into hearts and bake. You would never, EVER know they’re gluten free. In fact, I have had countless people tell me they’re the best sugar cookies they’e ever had, period! Psst:Hobby Lobby has a HUGE assortment of holiday themed gluten free sprinkles!
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Triple Berry Crumb Bars
These suuuuuper easy yet impressive bars have been going gangbusters on social media lately. The crust and crumb mixture are one in the same, and you can truly use any berry that’s on sale at the grocery store. Perfectly sweet and fruity, best when made ahead of time, and great for someone who doesn’t love chocolate.
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Chocolate Tart with Graham Cracker Almond Crust
The chocolate mixture in this tart is so rich it should have a bank account. I guess Dads aren’t the only ones with bad jokes! Anyway, this dessert recipe looks and tastes extremely gourmet but it’s super simple, make ahead, and most importantly, made with everyday ingredients. Don’t forget the whip cream and fresh berries, which really cut through the richness of the chocolate.
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Almond Stuffed Chocolate Covered Cherries
Skip the box of chocolates this year for Almond Stuffed Chocolate Covered Cherries instead. INSANE. Insane!! So fabulous and you’ll feel like a fancy chocolatier enrobing cherries stuffed with almonds in warm dark chocolate. Just three ingredients necessary for this fun treat.
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4 Valentine’s Day Dinner Recipes
Surf & Turf for Two
Yes, YOU can make surf and turf at home! I break down what cut of steak to get, timing, and everything. You and your valentine will feel like you’re dining at a fancy restaurant when you dig into this dish.
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Perfect Grilled Steak with Herb Butter
Whether you grill this succulent steak indoors or out, your efforts will be rewarded with the most decadent dinner you can imagine. It’s ALL about that herb butter, which is make (way) ahead of time too!
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Chicken with Cherry-Wine Pan Sauce
An oldie yet goodie! Chicken with Cherry-Wine Pan Sauce continues to be one of my most popular Valentine’s Day recipes, years after posting it. It’s all about that silky cherry-wine pan sauce – so pretty.
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Pan-Roasted Steak with Caramelized Onions & Goat Cheese
Steak + brown butter + caramelized onions + softened goat cheese = match made in Valentine’s Day heaven! This is another dish that will make you feel like you’re at a restaurant while staying in the comfort of your own home. So mouthwatering
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