During the autumn and winter season we see our fair share of pies, traditional apple, coconut custard, banana cream as well as pumpkin spice to name a few. We often indulge in these holiday sweet treats without hesitation, where as individuals with a gluten allergy lick their lips and turn away in an effort to evade the thought of consuming an ingredient that seems almost natural to the rest of us.
It seems more and more people are being diagnosed with this specific allergy. Those who simply have gluten intolerance suffer from digestion problems, fatigue, shortness of breath, anemia, bloating and depression to name a few. Although the symptoms are not life threatening, they are uncomfortable enough to avoid gluten at all costs. Unfortunately individuals with Celiac Disease must eliminate gluten entirely from their diets being that their severe allergic reaction can prove to be fatal. This is an allergy that must be taken seriously. Even restaurants are becoming more accommodating by providing gluten free entrée and dessert options on their menu. Sure you might not be gluten intolerant, but what if a friend or family visits who does happen to have this strict diet? Here are some tempting holiday pie recipes that taste so great, no one will miss the gluten.
The Perfect Gluten-Free Pie Crust– This is a tried and true recipe. Such great flavor and consistency, your guests wouldn’t know it was gluten and dairy free. http://thedustybaker.com/2011/11/02/perfect-gluten-free-pie-crus/
Banana Cream Pie– Try this popular banana cream pie recipe. The custard is made using coconut milk and the bananas are cooked in your choice of rum or Kahlua. This step by step recipe also includes a dairy free option to accommodate lactose intolerance as well. http://glutenfreegirl.com/banana-cream-pie-gluten-free-and-dairy-free/
Pumpkin Pie w/ Praline & Coconut Pecan Crust– This light and fluffy pie delicately marries the flavors of pumpkin, praline, coconuts and pecans into a mouthwatering pie your guests won’t believe is gluten free as well as vegan. http://glutenfreegoddess.blogspot.com/2010/11/gluten-free-pumpkin-pie-with-praline.html
Holiday In a Hand Pie– Sure Thanksgiving just came and went, but what will you do with all that left over pumpkin, stuffing, turkey and cranberry sauce? Make a hand pie of course! This award winning recipe will win over your guests the way it won over the pie contest judges. The dough includes quinoa flour, tapioca starch and even Vietnamese cinnamon. Unique flavors bring this pie together and will automatically become a holiday favorite, even among those without any food allergies. http://thedustybaker.com/2011/09/26/holiday-in-a-hand-pie/
Chocolate Cream Pie– You can’t forget the chocolate! This chocolatey cream pie contains all the right flavors for those with a gluten allergy, plus it’s also vegan! Paired with a gluten free crust recipe made with grape seed oil, almond flour and agave nectar, this pie can satisfy choco-holics of with all types of food allergies. http://www.elanaspantry.com/chocolate-cream-pie/
Savory Sweet Potato & Duck Pot Pie– If your gluten free guest doesn’t exactly have a sweet tooth, here is a drool-worthy pot pie recipe made with a gluten free pie crust using chickpea, rice and tapioca flour. Since some broths contain gluten, make sure to purchase a gluten free poultry broth. http://jenncuisine.com/2011/11/sweet-potato-and-duck-pot-pie/