The perfect Shabbat dessert does not need to have wheat. There are many delicious gluten-free desserts, from plain to decadent, that you can safely enjoy! With a little creativity and experimentation, sweet satisfaction is on the way.

When choosing an alternative Shabbat dessert, think about whether you are trying to create a gluten-free version of a recipe or are looking to make something that doesn’t require wheat at all. That it has all the properties of a wheat flour cookie or Are you satisfied with the mango sorbet?

If you are risk averse, go for the recipe that never calls for wheat. Choose fresh fruit, sorbets, mousse, or meringue cookies. This is a flawless method. You won’t miss gluten because it was never supposed to be there. You can make your own or buy ready-made sorbets and ice creams (they should be non-dairy if eaten after a meat meal).

Another option is to buy gluten-free baked desserts at a specialty bakery.

You can also make gluten-free cookies, brownies, and cakes with specialty mixes.

Gluten-free frozen items can save the life of a quick Shabbat dessert. Just fill and bake.

Are you really adventurous? Ready to take the risk of gluten-free baking? While it takes more effort, the results can be quite rewarding. Choose your recipes wisely, seeking multiple rave reviews whenever possible. Do you have the necessary ingredients in your kitchen? If not, do you know where to get them (supermarket health section, specialty store, order online)? Experiment with various flours until you find the desired flavor and consistency you are looking for (be patient and keep trying). Alternative flours can be made from: amaranth, arrowroot, corn, beans, hemp, quinoa, rice, sorghum, soy, and tapioca. A combination of flours usually works best.

Passover recipes can be a treasure, as many people avoid wheat (in addition to matza) during the holidays. If the label says non-gebrokts, it is gluten free. If the recipe contains matzo flour, farfel or matzo cake flour, all bets are off. You’ll want to stock up on your favorite gluten-free items over Easter (also a great idea for soy and corn allergies).

If you have multiple food allergies, keep in mind that just because a food is wheat free does not mean it is safe for all food allergies. In contrast, many gluten-free baked goods have nuts and eggs. Examine ingredients for allergens before selecting a recipe or store-bought product. Search may also contain statements that may indicate cross contamination, allergen traces, or shared equipment. There are some companies that actually have dedicated facilities and do not make any products that are allergenic. Please note that you will pay a premium for these specialty products.

Whether you choose a ready-made gluten-free dessert for your Shabbat meal or make your own, the results can be delicious. The only limitation is your imagination.