If you're someone who likes sweets but steers clear of gluten, you're in the right place. When it comes to gluten free candy, there's endless options from chocolates to gummies and fruity treats.
Finding delicious candies and/or food while catering to celiac disease or allergy restrictions can be challenging. I've been gluten-free for many years now so it's safe to say I have a good idea of what the best celiac-friendly candies are!
The good news is, your favorite candies like Lindt, Reeses, Skittles, and even Mike n Ikes, are normally gluten-free. However, different types of these candies (and gluten free cereal too) may contain gluten so it's important to read the ingredients carefully.
In this post, well do a deep dive into the best gluten-free candies so you never feel like you're missing out again. I promise, there's more options out there than skittles!
This post will make it much easier during Halloween and other holidays. When special events revolve around candy and desserts, it can be hard to find options suitable for a gluten intolerance. There is a variety of candy, and good candy, that's certified gluten free so you should have no trouble finding something that works for you.
What should I look for in gluten-free candy labels?
When choosing gluten free candies, it's important to look for a clear label that indicates "gluten-free" or "certified gluten free." You may also find a gluten free symbol or scan the ingredient list for anything like wheat, modified food starch (derived from wheat), or malt flavoring.
Gluten free chocolate candy
1. Classic Chocolate Bar
Most milk or dark chocolate bars like Hershey's, Lindt, Enjoy Life, Simple Human, etc. are gluten free. Normal chocolate bars are typically made with sugar, cocoa, milk, and a couple of other gluten-free ingredients. Of course, be sure to double check labels, but most simple chocolate bars are gluten-free.
2. Peanut Butter Cups
The original Reeses Peanut Butter Cups and Justin's Peanut Butter Cups are gluten-free. However, seasonal Reeces like Reeses eggs, hearts, and Christmas trees are not gluten free.
3. Snickers
Snickers are arguably one of the best candy bars out there so it's great that they're celiac friendly. All snickers, including the fun sized and minis, are gluten free.
4. M&Ms
Most M&Ms like classic, mini, caramel, peanut, etc. are gluten free but the pretzel M&Ms and crispy M&Ms are not gluten-free. Be sure to double check the ingredient label on seasonal M&Ms as well. I love using M&M's in my gluten free monster cookies and these peanut butter reindeer cookies.
5. York Peppermint Patties
Although York Peppermint Patties aren't everyones first choice of candy, they are absolutely delicious after they've been in the freezer for a few hours. And, most varieties are gluten free. However, the york minis and shaped patties contain gluten.
More gluten free chocolate candy
- Hershey's Kisses
- Almond Joy
- Heath Bar
- Mounds Bar
- 3 Musketeers bar
- Butterfinger candy bars (original flavor only)
You can also learn more about the store bought gluten free pretzels and gluten free tortillas we recommend. Plus, store bought gluten free chips, gluten free cereal, gluten free crackers and gluten free Halloween candy we prefer.
Gluten free fruity candy
1. Jelly Beans
Jelly Belly jelly beans are normally gluten free but there are some other brands of jelly beans that have gluten-containing ingredients. It's important to double check the label for cross contamination and keep in mind that certain flavors of jelly belly beans may contain gluten.
2. Cherry Sours
Like other popular candies, gluten ingredients will depend on the brand and manufacturing. However, most brands of cherry sours are safe for a gluten-free diet.
3. Skittles
The fun, colorful, and fruity skittles are in fact gluten free! While skittles are packaged in a factory that produces gluten containing products, the manufacturer understands the importance of preventing cross contamination.
4. Jolly Ranchers
Jolly ranchers are packed with tons of fruity flavor and a touch of nostalgia. These hard candies are made from straight sugar and flavoring so they can be enjoyed without compromising your dietary restrictions or food allergies.
5. Starbursts
These delicious chewy squares are made from a sugar and corn syrup base which is gluten free. Everyone has their own favorite color, but boy am I happy that pink starbursts are gluten free!
Gluten free gummy candy
1. Gummy bears
There are tons of gummy bear brands that offer gluten free options. Haribo, Black Forest, and Albanese are all known for gluten free gummy bears but it's best to double check the label before consuming.
2. Life savers
Life savers are an iconic candy that have been around for years. And lucky enough, they are gluten free. From the classic peppermint to the fruity flavor of wild cherry, you can enjoy them all on a gluten free diet.
3. Smart sweets
Smart sweets are one of my favorite gluten-free candy brands that specializes in low sugar, high fiber treats. These are a great option if you're looking for a healthier alternative to classic candies.
4. Lily's peach rings
Most peach rings contain gluten but Lily's peach rings contain that burst of peachy flavor without the gluten. They're made with real fruit for that perfect summer sweet treat.
5. Dots
If you're on the hunt for a candy thats bright, chewy, and packed with playful flavors, Dots candy is perfect for you. You can eat them plain or use them to decorate cookies, cupcakes, and cakes.
Other gluten free candy
1. Smarties
These classic tablet shaped candies are sweet, satisfying, and gluten free. The simplicity of this candy has stolen the hearts of many candy enthusiasts, including me! All of smarties candy company's products are gluten free, including the smartie sucker.
2. Red hots
You either love or hate red hots but they're one of the best movie theater candies. Not only can you enjoy red hots as a snack, but I love using them to make these gluten free Red Hot cookies.
3. Salt water taffy
If you're looking for both a classic and gluten-free candy option, salt water taffy will satisfy that sweet tooth. With tons of diverse flavors, there's something for everyone when it comes to salt water taffy.
4. Candy corn
I don't know about you, but Halloween might be my favorite time of the year. Candy corn does not contain gluten but is packed with all the Fall sensations. Serve a bowl of candy corn alongside Smoking Halloween Mocktails for the perfect party.
5. Bubble gum
Classic bubble gum is almost always gluten free. So chew, chew, chew away!
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