If you have someone special on your list who follows a gluten-free lifestyle, here are thoughtful, practical gift ideas they’ll genuinely appreciate.
Cookbooks are always a welcome present—even for people who don’t see themselves as avid bakers or cooks. A beautiful, inspiring cookbook can open new possibilities and help make favorite recipes accessible again. Below I highlight some standout gluten-free books, plus I mention where I keep my recommended cooking tools and appliances if you want gift ideas beyond books.
Some of the newest books on my shelf are listed below. If you prefer to shop for tools or appliances, I maintain an updated list of recommended products on my blog that includes the gadgets and brands I use myself—silicone baking mats, pasta wheels, pie crust savers, flour containers, mixers, beater blades, bread makers, pizza pans, and more—making it an easy place to find tried-and-true gifts.
The Latest & Greatest in Gluten-Free Books
- The Intolerant Gourmet by Barbara Kafka (Artisan, 2011)
New York Times bestselling author Barbara Kafka writes from personal experience: she is both lactose- and gluten-intolerant. In this book she commits to recreating the sensations of rich, satisfying dishes—often associated with dairy—using alternatives like gelatins, eggs, coconut milk, oils, and puréed nuts. Her focus leans to savory dishes rather than baked goods; she openly admits not to have perfected gluten-free sandwich bread. What makes this book especially useful are the practical sections: “How We Do It,” grain and flour tables, and a chapter of essential recipes such as stocks and spice mixes. Kafka also recommends favorite gluten-free pasta brands with tasting notes, and the book’s 300 recipes center on vegetables, salads, soups, and meats. Her warm, conversational voice makes the book both a reference and a resource you’ll return to again and again.
The Gluten-Free Asian Kitchen by Laura B. Russell (Ten Speed Press, 2011)
Asian cuisine is often naturally accommodating to gluten-free diets, and this book is a practical guide to making flavorful Asian meals at home. Laura B. Russell covers sauces, wrappers, noodles, and ready-made gluten-free ingredients, offering brand recommendations and a helpful “Guide to Gluten-Free Asian Noodles.” The book is filled with gorgeous photos and many recipes that come together quickly using store-bought gluten-free noodles or wrappers. If you want to explore bold flavors and textures without missing gluten, this book is a great pick.
- The Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free Kitchen by Denise Jardine (Ten Speed Press, 2011)
Nutrition educator Denise Jardine presents a comprehensive dairy- and gluten-free approach to everyday cooking. The book offers a range of recipes—vegetarian dishes, yeasted and quick breads, and desserts—and includes a useful “Basics” section with recipes for a master gluten-free flour mix, dairy alternatives (including nut milk yogurt and nut cheese), stocks, essential sauces, and more. Expect inventive dairy-free recipes alongside dependable gluten-free baking solutions.
Gluten-Free Makeovers by Beth Hillson (Da Capo Press, 2011)
Beth Hillson, a long-time gluten-free advocate and founder of The Gluten-Free Pantry, reworks familiar recipes into gluten-free versions with straightforward, no-fuss results. She explains how to create multiple flour blends and the science behind them, which is helpful whether you’re a novice or an experienced home baker. This book is practical, comforting, and ideal for anyone who wants dependable gluten-free versions of classic favorites.
- Simply Sugar & Gluten-Free by Amy Green (Ulysses Press, 2011)
Amy Green shares her personal journey of improved health after eliminating refined sugars and gluten. The book focuses on alternatives like agave nectar, coconut palm sugar, stevia, and carob chips, and includes a variety of recipes from brownies to sorbets. While not dairy-free, it’s a strong resource for anyone looking to reduce refined sugar while staying gluten-free.
Defeat Wheat by Brian Gansmann (Sakura Publishing, 2011)
This recent title mixes humor, personal story, and practical advice for living well after a celiac diagnosis. Brian Gansmann outlines how food choices, exercise, and a change in mindset helped him regain health, lose weight, and build muscle. It’s an inspiring, accessible read for anyone new to gluten-free living or considering a lifestyle change.
Ebooks
If you need a thoughtful gift in a hurry, gluten-free e-cookbooks are instantly downloadable and often beautifully photographed. They cover everything from holiday baking to everyday breads and meals and make convenient last-minute gifts.
My three published books are also listed on the “Books” tab of my site:
- Free For All Cooking: 150 Easy Gluten-Free, Allergy-Friendly Recipes the Whole Family Can Enjoy (Da Capo Press, 2010)
- The First Year: Celiac Disease and Living Gluten-Free (Da Capo Press, 2008)
- Nearly Normal Cooking for Gluten-Free Eating (BookSurge, 2006)
Whether you choose a cookbook, a useful kitchen tool, or an ebook, these gifts encourage creativity and make gluten-free cooking more enjoyable. Happy gifting and happy reading!
~jules