Grain-free desserts offer the perfect solution for satisfying your sweet cravings while adhering to dietary preferences or restrictions. If you're gluten-free, paleo, or simply exploring healthier alternatives, these treats are a delightful way to indulge without compromising on taste.
Packed with wholesome ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes, this guide provides everything you need to create delicious grain-free desserts.
What Are Grain-Free Desserts?
Grain-free desserts exclude grains such as wheat, rice, oats, and corn. Instead, they use alternatives like almond flour, coconut flour, and tapioca starch. These desserts are not only gluten freebut often lower in carbohydrates, making them suitable for those on paleo, keto, or low-carb diets.
1. Choco-Almond Fat Bombs
Chocolate Almond Butter Fat Bombs - An Easy No-Bake Keto Dessert Or Snack!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Preparation:
- In a bowl, mix almond butter, melted coconut oil, cocoa powder, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
- Stir until smooth and combined.
- Spoon the mixture into silicone molds or mini muffin cups.
- Freeze for about 1 hour or until solid.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
2. Coconut Flour Brownies
How to Make Coconut Flour Brownies
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup coconut flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup dairy-free chocolate chips (optional)
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix coconut flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, melted coconut oil, honey, and vanilla extract.
- Combine both mixtures and stir until smooth. Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing into squares.
3. Avocado Chocolate Mousse
Avocado Chocolate Mousse Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons coconut milk (or almond milk)
Preparation:
- Scoop the avocado flesh into a blender or food processor.
- Add cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, salt, and coconut milk.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh berries or whipped coconut cream.
4. Lemon-Pistachio Energy Bites
Pistachio Energy Balls whole food plant based | oil free cooking | travelsnack | chef julia
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pistachios, shelled
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup honey
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Preparation:
- In a food processor, pulse pistachios and shredded coconut until finely chopped.
- Add honey, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
- Process until the mixture sticks together.
- Roll into small balls and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
5. Almond Butter Cookies
3 INGREDIENT ALMOND BUTTER COOKIES (KETO FRIENDLY/GLUTEN FREE)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond butter
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar or maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of sea salt
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix almond butter, coconut sugar (or maple syrup), egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and sea salt.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls.
- Place on the baking sheet and press each ball slightly with a fork.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges turn golden.
- Let cool before serving.
6. Berry Coconut Cheesecake
No-Bake Coconut Raspberry Cheesecake | Cheesecake Recipe
Ingredients for crust:
- 1 cup almonds
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey
Ingredients for filling:
- 2 cups cashews (soaked for 4-6 hours)
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a springform pan with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, pulse almonds, shredded coconut, melted coconut oil, and honey to form the crust.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan and bake for 10 minutes.
- For the filling, blend soaked cashews, coconut milk, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the cashew mixture onto the cooled crust.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
- Top with fresh berries before serving.
7. Grain-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
GLUTEN-FREE CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES | 'nuff said
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine almond flour, baking soda, and sea salt.
- Stir in melted coconut oil, honey, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and form into balls, then flatten slightly on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges turn golden.
- Let cool before serving.
8. Paleo Banana Bread
Gluten-Free Paleo Banana Bread with No Added Sugar
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas, eggs, honey, and vanilla extract.
- Stir in almond flour, coconut flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and sea salt until fully combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing.
9. No-Bake Coconut Lime Bars
Keto Coconut Lime Squares I No Bake Dessert I
Ingredients for crust:
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Ingredients for filling:
- 1 cup coconut cream
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
- In a bowl, mix shredded coconut, almond flour, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup to form the crust.
- Press the mixture into a lined baking pan.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together coconut cream, lime juice, lime zest, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the lime mixture over the crust and smooth it out.
- Refrigerate for 2-3 hours until set.
- Cut into bars and serve chilled.
10. Chia Seed Pudding
How to Make Chia Pudding for Breakfast - Two Spoons
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh berries for topping
Preparation:
- In a bowl, whisk together chia seeds, coconut milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, then stir again.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the chia seeds to thicken.
- Top with fresh berriesbefore serving.
11. Coconut Macaroons
Easy Coconut Macaroons Recipe | So delicious!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in shredded coconut, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt.
- Scoop spoonful of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape them into mounds.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the macaroons are golden brown.
- Let cool before serving.
12. Paleo Apple Crisp
Paleo-Friendly Apple Crisp
Ingredients:
- 4 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, toss apple slices with lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt.
- Spread the apples evenly in a baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix almond flour, shredded coconut, coconut oil, and honey to form the topping.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the apples are tender and the topping is golden.
- Let cool before serving.
13. Chocolate Coconut Truffles
Homemade Chocolate and Coconut Truffles - Easy Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Preparation:
- In a bowl, combine shredded coconut, melted coconut oil, cocoa powder, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
- Stir until well combined and form the mixture into small balls.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Serve chilled.
14. Lemon Coconut Bars
Lemon Coconut Bars
Ingredients for crust:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey
Ingredients for filling:
- 1/2 cup coconut cream
- 1/4 cup honey
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- For the crust, mix almond flour, shredded coconut, melted coconut oil, and honey. Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan.
- For the filling, whisk together coconut cream, honey, lemon zest, lemon juice, eggs, and sea salt.
- Pour the filling over the crust and bake for 20-25 minutes, until set.
- Let cool before slicing into squares.
15. Banana Coconut Popsicles
Banana Coconut Pops - 3 Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
Preparation:
- In a bowl, mix mashed bananas, coconut milk, honey, and vanilla extractuntil smooth.
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut into each mold.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Unmold and serve.
16. Chia And Almond Pudding
Almond Milk Chia Pudding
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup almond milk
- 2 tablespoons almond butter
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
- In a bowl, combine chia seeds, almond milk, almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Stir well to combine, then refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight.
- Serve topped with fresh fruit or nuts.
17. Paleo Pumpkin Pie
Easy Paleo Pumpkin Pie | Gluten Free + Gut Friendly
Ingredients for crust:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 2 tablespoons coconut flour
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey
Ingredients for filling:
- 2 cups canned pumpkin
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- For the crust, combine almond flour, coconut flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, melted coconut oil, and honey. Press the mixture into a pie pan.
- For the filling, whisk together pumpkin, eggs, coconut milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and sea salt.
- Pour the filling into the crust and bake for 40-45 minutes, until set.
- Let cool before serving.
18. Coconut Flour Pancakes
COCONUT FLOUR PANCAKES | fluffy, low-carb recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup coconut flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of sea salt
Preparation:
- In a bowl, whisk together all ingredients until smooth.
- Heat a pan over medium heat and lightly grease with coconut oil.
- Pour small amounts of batter into the pan to form pancakes.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve with fresh fruit and maple syrup.
19. Almond Flour Chocolate Cake
Almond Flour Chocolate Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch cake pan.
- In a bowl, combine almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and sea salt.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, honey, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
- Mix the wet and dry ingredients until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before serving.
20. Strawberry Coconut Ice Cream
Coconut Strawberry Ice Cream (no dairy no eggs) | CaribbeanPot.com
Ingredients:
- 2 cups frozen strawberries
- 1 cup coconut cream
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
- In a blender or food processor, blend frozen strawberries, coconut cream, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Transfer the mixture to an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Freeze for 2-3 hours to firm up before serving.
21. Chocolate Almond Bark
How To Make Chocolate Almond Bark | Global Sugar Art
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup almonds, chopped
- 1/4 cup coconut flakes
Preparation:
- Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave.
- Once melted, pour the chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle chopped almonds and coconut flakes over the chocolate.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour or until the bark hardens.
- Break into pieces and serve.
22. Peach Coconut Sorbet
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe peaches, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup coconut water
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Preparation:
- In a blender, combine chopped peaches, coconut water, honey, and lime juice.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Freeze for 3-4 hours before serving.
23. Mocha Almond Fudge
Mocha Almond Fudge Ice Cream | Byron Talbott
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Preparation:
- In a bowl, mix almond butter, melted coconut oil, cocoa powder, coffee powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
- Pour the mixture into a silicone mold and freeze for 1 hour.
- Unmold and serve chilled.
24. Coconut Almond Granola
Coconut Almond Granola
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup almonds, chopped
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix shredded coconut, chopped almonds, melted coconut oil, honey, cinnamon, and sea salt.
- Spread the mixture on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
- Let cool before serving.
25. Fig Coconut Bars
Figs Energy Balls | Mumtaz Hasham
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried figs, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 1 tablespoon honey
Preparation:
- In a food processor, combine chopped figs, shredded coconut, almond flour, melted coconut oil, and honey.
- Pulse until the mixture sticks together.
- Press the mixture into a baking dish and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Cut into bars and serve.
26. Raw Chocolate Coconut Fudge
How to make Coconut Chocolate Fudge - easy dairy free, vegan dessert recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
Preparation:
- Mix melted coconut oil, cocoa powder, honey, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
- Pour into a silicone mold and sprinkle shredded coconut on top.
- Freeze for 1-2 hours until set.
- Cut into pieces and serve.
27. Cinnamon Apple Chips
Baked Cinnamon Apple Chips | Easy Recipe!
Ingredients:
- 4 apples, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 200°F (93°C).
- Arrange apple slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and coconut sugar.
- Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
- Let cool before serving.
28. Raw Raspberry Cheesecake Bites
Raspberry Cheesecake Bites Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 4 hours
- 1/2 cup raspberries
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
- In a food processor, blend cashews, raspberries, coconut oil, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Roll into small balls and refrigerate for 2-3 hours.
- Serve chilled.
29. Coconut Chocolate Pudding
Coconut Chocolate Pudding
Ingredients:
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
- In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, cocoa powder, honey, and vanilla extract.
- Heat over medium heat, whisking until smooth.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
30. Almond Joy Energy Bites
Almond Joy Protein Balls Recipe - Home & Kind
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almonds
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
Preparation:
- In a food processor, pulse almonds and shredded coconut until finely chopped.
- Add almond butter, honey, and cocoa powder, and process until combined.
- Roll into small balls and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Serve chilled.
Benefits Of Grain-Free Desserts
1. Improved Digestion
Eliminating grains can help reduce bloating, gas, and other digestive discomforts, especially for those sensitive to gluten or other compounds found in grains.
2. Lower Inflammatory Response
Many grains contain compounds that can trigger inflammation in some individuals. Grain-free desserts are often anti-inflammatory, making them suitable for managing chronic conditions.
3. Nutrient-Dense Ingredients
Alternatives like almond flour and coconut flour are rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients, offering more health benefits than traditional grain-based flours.
4. Better Blood Sugar Control
Grain-free recipes often rely on low-glycemic sweeteners and flours, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent energy crashes.
5. Supports Weight Management
With fewer refined carbohydrates and more satiating fats and proteins, grain-free desserts can help control appetite and support weight loss or maintenance goals.
6. Suitable For Multiple Diets
Grain-free treats align with various dietary lifestyles, including paleo, keto, and gluten-free diets, making them versatile for different preferences.
7.Improved Skin Health
Reducing grain consumption may benefit skin conditions like acne and eczema, which can sometimes be exacerbated by inflammation and blood sugar spikes. Incorporating anti-aging foods for skininto your diet, such as those rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and vitamins, can help promote clearer, more youthful-looking skin by reducing inflammation and supporting skin health.
8. Enhanced Flavor Profiles
Grain-free desserts often highlight the natural flavors of nuts, fruits, and other wholesome ingredients, resulting in richer and more satisfying tastes.
9. Allergy-Friendly Options
These desserts cater to those with allergies or intolerances to wheat and gluten, providing safe and delicious alternatives.
10. Boosts Creativity In The Kitchen
Working with grain-free ingredients inspires experimentation and innovation, introducing exciting new recipes and techniques to your cooking repertoire.
Tips For Perfect Grain-Free Desserts
- Choose the Right Flour: Almond and coconut flours are staples. Experiment to find the right balance.
- Use Natural Sweeteners: Opt for honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar.
- Binders Are Essential: Eggs, chia seeds, or flaxseeds work well as binders.
- Storage Tips: Most grain-free desserts keep well refrigerated; some freeze beautifully.
FAQs
What Flours Are Best For Grain-free Desserts?
Almond flour, coconut flour, and tapioca starch are the most popular choices for grain-free baking.
Can Grain-free Desserts Be Made Vegan?
Yes! Use flaxseeds, chia seeds, or applesauce as egg substitutes.
Are Grain-free Desserts Healthier Than Traditional Ones?
Grain-free desserts often contain fewer carbs and more nutrients, but it depends on the ingredients used.
How Can I Store Grain-free Desserts?
Most can be refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in airtight containers.
Final Words
Grain-free desserts offer a creative and satisfying way to enjoy sweet treats while sticking to your dietary goals. With these 30 simple recipes, you can try new flavors and textures, ensuring there's something for everyone. So, grab your apron and start baking your way to delicious, wholesome indulgence!