Finding tasty gluten-free snacks can be challenging when you have dietary restrictions. Whether you’re living with celiac disease, have a gluten sensitivity, or simply choose to avoid gluten in your diet, having accessible snack options is important for maintaining both satisfaction and nutrition throughout your day.
From naturally gluten-free foods like fruits, nuts, and vegetables to specially crafted products like cookies, chips, and brownies, the market offers more choices than ever before. You’ll find options to satisfy both sweet and savory cravings while keeping your diet on track.
1. Snyder’s of Hanover Gluten Free Mini Pretzels
Snyder’s of Hanover offers gluten-free mini pretzels that don’t compromise on taste or texture. These bite-sized snacks deliver the satisfying crunch and flavor you expect from traditional pretzels without the gluten.
These pretzels are low in fat and make a versatile snack option. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with hummus, cheese, or your favorite dip for a more substantial treat.
They’re made without dairy, eggs, or milk, making them suitable for various dietary needs. Even if you don’t follow a gluten-free diet, you’ll likely enjoy the taste and quality of these mini pretzels.
2. Rind Apple Chips
Rind Apple Chips offer a delicious gluten-free snacking option made from 100% Sweet Fuji Apples. These crispy thin-cut fruit chips keep the skin on, which adds extra fiber and nutrients like pectin.
They’re naturally sweet with no added sugar. These chips are also vegan, paleo-friendly, and kosher certified.
Rind Apple Chips are perfect for on-the-go snacking. They’re made in the USA from non-GMO ingredients, making them a healthy choice you can feel good about.
The chips come in convenient packaging, typically in 2.7-ounce packs that are easy to toss in your bag or desk drawer.
3. Whoa! Dough Bars
Whoa! Dough offers a delicious solution for your cookie dough cravings. These plant-based snack bars are safe to eat right out of the package or can be baked.
These bars are certified gluten-free, dairy-free, non-GMO, soy-free, and kosher. They’re made with real ingredients and contain no artificial additives.
Whoa! Dough comes in multiple flavors including Chocolate Chip and Sugar Cookie. The bars provide a healthier alternative to traditional cookie dough while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
You can enjoy these convenient snack bars anytime while following your gluten-free lifestyle.
4. Nairn’s Oat-based Crackers
Nairn’s offers a variety of gluten-free crackers made in their dedicated gluten-free bakery. These crispy, light alternatives to traditional oatcakes are packed with wholesome flavors.
These crackers are safe for celiacs and contain no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. They’re also high in fiber and made with non-GMO ingredients.
For a sweet treat, try their gluten-free offerings like Chocolate Chip Oat Grahams or their Breakfast Biscuits in Blueberry and Raspberry flavors. Nairn’s also makes Crunchy Oat Bars in tasty varieties including Honey, Belgian Chocolate Chunk, and Raisin, Apple & Cinnamon for an on-the-go snack option.
5. Spudsy Sweet Potato Puffs
Spudsy Sweet Potato Puffs offer a crunchy, satisfying snack option for your gluten-free lifestyle. These puffs are made from rescued imperfect sweet potatoes, giving them an eco-friendly edge.
All Spudsy products are vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free, making them suitable for various dietary needs. They come in several flavors including Crunchy Cinnamon and Cheezy Cheddar.
You can enjoy these plant-based, allergen-free snacks anytime—with lunch, at the office, or during late-night cravings. The convenient 4-ounce bags make them perfect for on-the-go snacking.
6. Glutenfreeda Quinoa Mac & Cheese
Glutenfreeda offers a delicious gluten-free alternative to traditional mac and cheese using quinoa pasta. This provides a protein-rich base that delivers a satisfying texture similar to wheat pasta.
The product comes in different flavor options including cheddar varieties that deliver that classic cheesy taste you crave. Glutenfreeda’s mac and cheese maintains a creamy consistency without sacrificing flavor.
It’s made with organic quinoa, making it a healthier choice than conventional mac and cheese. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner when you want comfort food that aligns with your gluten-free diet.
7. Good Thins Simply Salt Rice Gluten Free Crackers
These round rice crackers offer a perfect crunch with every bite. Good Thins Simply Salt Rice Crackers are certified Gluten-Free by GFCO, making them a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivity.
The simple seasoning of salt gives these crackers a versatile flavor that pairs well with many toppings. You can enjoy them plain or use them as a base for your favorite dips and spreads.
These snacks are made without artificial colors, artificial flavors, high fructose corn syrup, or cholesterol. They’re also Non-GMO Project Verified, which is great if you prefer to avoid genetically modified ingredients.
8. Savor By Suzie Gluten Free Pretzels
Savor By Suzie offers certified gluten-free pretzel twists that are also grain-free. These pretzels are made with a nutrient-dense dough containing ingredients like cassava flour, potato starch, and fava bean protein.
A dedicated gluten-free pretzel oven bakes these pretzels to prevent cross-contamination. The pretzels come in multiple flavors, with Sea Salt being one popular option.
If you follow a Paleo diet, you’ll be pleased to know these pretzels are Paleo-friendly. You don’t need to have dietary restrictions to enjoy their satisfying crunch and classic pretzel taste.
9. Artisan Tropic Cassava and Plantain Chips
Artisan Tropic offers some of the best cassava and plantain chips on the market. Their cassava strips are simply harvested, cut, roasted, and seasoned, with minimal processing compared to flour-based chips.
These snacks have a perfect crunch and just the right amount of salt. The long strips are ideal for eating alone or with your favorite dip.
These chips are certified Gluten-Free, Paleo, and Non-GMO Project verified. They’re also vegan and Glyphosate Residue Free.
Artisan Tropic is family-owned and uses sustainable palm oil in their products. You can find their snacks in variety packs, giving you a chance to try different flavors.
10. Lil Bucks Gluten Free Bars
Lil Bucks offers delicious gluten-free snacks made from sprouted buckwheat. These bars provide a crunchy, protein-packed option for your snacking needs.
Despite their name suggesting “buckwheat,” these treats are actually grain-free. Buckwheat is a fruit seed that’s naturally high in fiber and protein.
The bars are not only gluten-free but also paleo-friendly. You can find them at Whole Foods nationwide or order them online with a 25% discount on your first purchase using code LILBUCKS25.
These nutritious snacks are also organic and nut-free, making them suitable for various dietary needs.
11. Harvest Snap Peas
Harvest Snaps are veggie-based chips made from real peas that offer a satisfying crunch without gluten. They come in several flavors including Lightly Salted, Black Pepper, and tomato basil.
These snacks are packed with plant protein and fiber, making them more nutritious than typical potato chips. Each serving contains about 5g of protein and less sodium than regular chips.
Harvest Snaps are certified gluten-free and non-GMO verified, perfect for school lunches or on-the-go snacking. They’re also nut-free, making them suitable for those with nut allergies.
You can find these crunchy snacks in single-serve bags or larger sharing sizes for family snacking.
12. Rice Cakes with Peanut Butter
Rice cakes with peanut butter make a quick, satisfying gluten-free snack. They’re simple to prepare and provide a good balance of carbohydrates and protein.
Many rice cakes are made with whole-grain brown rice and are naturally gluten-free. Always check packaging to ensure they’re certified gluten-free if you have celiac disease or severe sensitivity.
For extra flavor and nutrition, try adding sliced bananas on top. This creates a sweet and salty combination that’s both filling and delicious.
Element Snacks offers pre-packaged peanut butter rice cakes that are certified gluten-free and kosher. You can also make your own by spreading your favorite peanut butter on plain rice cakes.
13. Trail Mix with Nuts and Dried Fruit
Trail mix is a convenient gluten-free snack option that combines nuts and dried fruits for a balance of protein and natural sweetness. You can find ready-made options like Premium Orchard’s high-energy mix with peanuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, and pistachios.
Orchard Valley Harvest offers a heart-healthy mix containing almonds, cranberries, walnuts, and chickpeas that’s certified gluten-free with no artificial ingredients.
For texture variety, try Sahale Snacks Classic Fruit + Nut Trail Mix, which pairs dry-roasted almonds, cashews, and pistachios with sweetened apples and tart cranberries.
You can also make your own trail mix by combining your favorite nuts like Blue Diamond Almonds with freeze-dried fruits for a customized gluten-free snack.
14. Ruffles Baked Cheddar & Sour Cream Potato Chips
These baked chips offer the bold, ridged texture Ruffles is known for with a delicious cheddar and sour cream flavor. Unlike traditional fried chips, these are oven-baked.
This healthier alternative contains 65% less fat than regular potato chips. You still get the satisfying crunch and taste without as much guilt.
While the packaging indicates they’re gluten-free, some caution is needed. According to consumer reports, they don’t contain gluten ingredients but are produced on shared equipment.
Perfect for parties or family movie nights when you want a lighter snack option. The familiar ridges hold the flavor well for a satisfying snack experience.
15. Maple Sea Salt Kettle Popcorn from Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s Maple Sea Salt Kettle Popcorn offers a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. This gluten-free snack is popped in coconut oil and high oleic sunflower oil, then coated with a light maple-sugar glaze and sea salt.
At just $2.99 per bag, this affordable treat won’t break your budget. The maple flavor is subtle but adds a perfect hint of sweetness to the classic kettle corn base.
This seasonal favorite ranks number one in Tasting Table’s listing of Trader Joe’s gluten-free items. It’s also relatively low in calories, making it a guilt-free option when you’re craving something both sweet and crunchy.
16. Gluten-Free Joe-Joe’s Cookies
Trader Joe’s Gluten-Free Joe-Joe’s Cookies are a delicious alternative to traditional sandwich cookies. These chocolate cookies with vanilla cream filling are made with a blend of rice flour, tapioca starch, oat flour, and cornstarch.
These cookies don’t taste like “health food.” They have a satisfying crunch and rich chocolate flavor from cocoa and semisweet chocolate.
These cookies are free from high fructose corn syrup. The lemon-flavored variety uses alternative flours including brown rice flour, potato starch, white rice flour, and almond flour.
These cookies are made in Canada specifically for Trader Joe’s and provide a tasty option when you’re looking for gluten-free treats.
17. Sour Cream & Onion Gluten Free Chips
Sour cream and onion chips with a gluten-free guarantee offer the perfect tangy snack without worry. Several brands like The Good Crisp Company, Utz, and Popchips offer these flavored options.
These chips contain no gluten fillers and still maintain that classic canister chip experience. Many also exclude artificial additives and top allergens.
When shopping, look for clear “gluten-free” labeling on packages. Brands like Utz even offer ripple-cut versions that are gluten-free and cooked without hydrogenated oils.
Always double-check packaging, as ingredients can change. These chips make a convenient snack when you need something quick and satisfying.
18. Hard Boiled Eggs
Hard boiled eggs make excellent gluten-free snacks packed with protein. They’re naturally dairy-free and low carb, making them suitable for many dietary needs.
Prepare them ahead of time and store in your fridge for quick snacks throughout the week. Just peel and eat with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
For more flavor, try topping hard boiled eggs with bagel seasoning or mash them with a little mayo for a quick egg salad. Add them to salads or on top of gluten-free toast.
Air fryer hard boiled eggs also provide an easy option that doesn’t require boiling water.
19. Tuna Salad with Celery Sticks
Tuna salad paired with celery sticks offers a protein-packed, naturally gluten-free snack option. The crisp celery provides a satisfying crunch and serves as the perfect vessel for creamy tuna salad.
To prepare this snack, mix canned tuna with mayo or Greek yogurt, diced onions, and pickles. Some recipes include boiled eggs for extra protein or apples for sweetness.
You can make it in just 15 minutes for a quick lunch or afternoon bite. The combination of flaky tuna and crunchy celery creates a balanced texture that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
20. Hummus and Gluten Free Pretzels
Hummus paired with gluten-free pretzels makes a delicious and filling snack. The creamy texture of hummus complements the crunchy pretzels perfectly.
Brands like SNYDER’S offer gluten-free pretzel options that come in various shapes, including rods. These pretzels taste great and keep that classic pretzel crunch.
Enjoy this snack with store-bought hummus or make your own at home. Add carrot sticks alongside the pretzels for extra nutrition and color.
This combination provides protein from the chickpeas in hummus and satisfying crunch from the pretzels. It’s a great option for on-the-go snacking or quick mini-meals.
21. Fruit and Veggie Puree Squeeze Pouches
Fruit and veggie puree squeeze pouches make excellent gluten-free snacks that are convenient and nutritious. Many brands like Happy Baby Organics offer pouches that are certified gluten-free and vegan.
These pouches can contain a variety of fruits and vegetables, including applesauce, beet, carrot, sweet potato, and peas. You can find them in single flavors or combination blends.
While marketed for babies, these pouches are perfect for anyone wanting a quick and healthy snack. They’re especially handy when traveling or when you need something on-the-go.
Many parents use these pouches daily as an easy way to incorporate fruits and vegetables into their family’s diet. You can also find organic options with no added sugar.
Understanding Gluten-Free Ingredients
Knowing which ingredients contain gluten and finding suitable alternatives is essential for anyone following a gluten-free diet. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye that helps foods maintain their shape and texture.
Common Substitutes for Wheat and Gluten
Rice flour serves as one of the most popular wheat alternatives in gluten-free products. It has a mild flavor that works well in many recipes.
Almond flour adds protein and a slightly nutty taste to baked goods. It creates moist textures in cookies and muffins.
Oats are naturally gluten-free, but choose certified gluten-free oats to avoid cross-contamination during processing.
Tapioca starch and potato starch help create the binding effect that gluten typically provides. They work well in combination with other flours.
Ingredients to avoid:
- Wheat starch
- Malt extract (from barley)
- Dextrin (when derived from wheat)
- Traditional soy sauce (contains wheat)
Nutritional Considerations in Gluten-Free Snacks
Many gluten-free snacks incorporate nutrient-dense ingredients to boost their health profile. Greek yogurt with berries and gluten-free granola creates a protein-rich snack with beneficial probiotics.
Nuts and seeds add healthy fats, protein, and fiber to gluten-free diets. They make excellent stand-alone snacks or additions to other foods.
Nutrients to focus on:
- Fiber (often lower in gluten-free products)
- B vitamins (typically fortified in wheat products)
- Iron (may need supplementation)
Look for snacks with short ingredient lists featuring whole foods. All-natural ingredients like almonds, chia seeds, and rolled oats (certified gluten-free) provide lasting energy and better nutrition than processed alternatives.
How to Choose Safe Gluten-Free Snacks
Selecting truly gluten-free snacks requires attention to detail and knowledge of potential hidden sources of gluten. Stay vigilant about food labels and understand cross-contamination risks to avoid accidental gluten exposure.
Reading and Interpreting Food Labels
Always check for “certified gluten-free” labels, which indicate the product contains less than 20 parts per million of gluten. This certification provides the highest level of safety for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Look for allergen statements that specifically mention wheat. Remember that barley and rye are also sources of gluten but aren’t always included in these statements.
Be wary of ingredients like:
- Malt (derived from barley)
- Modified food starch (unless specified as corn or tapioca)
- Dextrin (unless specified as gluten-free)
- Hydrolyzed vegetable protein (may contain wheat)
Call manufacturers directly if you’re uncertain about a product’s gluten status. Many companies now list this information on their websites or have dedicated allergen hotlines.
Recognizing Potential Sources of Cross-Contamination
Shared equipment presents a major risk for gluten cross-contamination. Food companies may process products on the same machinery used for wheat-containing foods, even if all ingredients are gluten-free.
Look for statements like “made in a dedicated gluten-free facility” for the highest level of protection. Dedicated facilities eliminate the risk of airborne flour or shared equipment issues.
Be cautious with bulk bins at grocery stores. Shoppers often use the same scoops for gluten-containing and gluten-free products, creating contamination risks.
Restaurant foods pose challenges too. Even naturally gluten-free items like french fries might be cooked in the same oil as breaded products.
Always ask about preparation methods and shared cooking surfaces. Staff can clarify their procedures to help you make safe choices.
When in doubt, choose naturally gluten-free snacks like fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and plain dairy products. These simple options bypass many contamination concerns.
