12 Easy Gluten Free Healthy Snack Recipes for Anytime Cravings

1. No-Bake Gluten Free Energy Balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond butter (or sunflower seed butter for nut-free option)
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
• 1/3 cup mini dark chocolate chips (certified gluten-free)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix thoroughly.
2. Cover and refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for up to 3 months.

These energy balls are perfect for a quick breakfast on-the-go or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. They’re packed with fiber from the oats and flaxseed, healthy fats from the nut butter and coconut, and just enough sweetness to satisfy cravings. One or two balls provide sustained energy without the crash that comes from processed snacks.

2. Crispy Roasted Chickpeas with Spices

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat chickpeas very dry with paper towels, removing any loose skins.
3. In a bowl, toss chickpeas with olive oil and all spices until evenly coated.
4. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until golden and crispy.
6. Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

These crunchy chickpeas make a perfect protein-rich alternative to chips or crackers. With about 6 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber per serving, they’ll keep you satisfied much longer than traditional snacks. The spice blend can be customized to your taste preferences – try curry powder, ranch seasoning, or cinnamon and a touch of maple syrup for a sweeter version.

3. Greek Yogurt Parfait with Berries and Honey

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup gluten-free granola
• 1 teaspoon chia seeds (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. If using vanilla extract, stir it into the yogurt.
2. Layer half the yogurt in a glass or bowl.
3. Add half the berries and a small drizzle of honey.
4. Repeat with remaining yogurt and berries.
5. Top with gluten-free granola, chia seeds, and a final drizzle of honey.

This parfait is a nutritional powerhouse, providing protein from the Greek yogurt, antioxidants from the berries, and fiber from the granola and chia seeds. It’s a balanced snack that can even double as a quick breakfast. The combination of protein and fiber helps stabilize blood sugar levels, while the natural sweetness satisfies cravings without refined sugar.

4. Rice Cake Sandwiches with Nut Butter and Banana

Ingredients:

• 4 plain rice cakes (ensure they’re certified gluten-free)
• 4 tablespoons almond or peanut butter
• 1 medium banana, sliced
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)
• 1 tablespoon hemp seeds or chia seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Spread each rice cake with 1 tablespoon of nut butter.
2. Top with banana slices.
3. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup if desired.
4. Sprinkle with cinnamon and/or seeds for extra nutrition.

This simple snack combines complex carbohydrates from the rice cake with healthy fats and protein from the nut butter, plus potassium and fiber from the banana. It’s a balanced option that provides quick energy with staying power. The combination of crunchy and creamy textures makes it satisfying, while the natural sweetness of banana eliminates the need for added sugar.

5. Homemade Gluten-Free Trail Mix

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup raw almonds
• 1/2 cup cashews
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (certified gluten-free)
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.
2. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
3. Portion into small containers or bags for grab-and-go snacking.

This trail mix provides a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to keep you energized between meals. The nuts and seeds deliver essential minerals like magnesium and zinc, while the dried fruit adds fiber and natural sweetness. A small handful makes a satisfying snack that travels well and doesn’t require refrigeration – perfect for busy days!

6. Veggie Sticks with Homemade Hummus

Ingredients for Hummus:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 3 tablespoons tahini
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2-3 tablespoons water (as needed for consistency)
• Paprika for garnish (optional)

Vegetables for Dipping:

• Carrot sticks
• Cucumber slices
• Bell pepper strips
• Celery sticks
• Cherry tomatoes
• Broccoli florets

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt.
2. Process until smooth, adding water as needed to reach desired consistency.
3. Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with paprika if desired.
4. Serve with fresh vegetable sticks.

This classic snack is naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients. The hummus provides plant-based protein and fiber, while the vegetables add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The combination of protein and fiber helps keep you full, and the crunchy vegetables satisfy the desire for something crisp without resorting to processed chips or crackers.

7. Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed clean
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut sweet potatoes into even fries, about 1/4-inch thick.
3. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil and all seasonings.
4. Arrange in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap.
5. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip and bake for another 10-15 minutes until crispy.
6. Let cool slightly before serving.

Sweet potatoes are naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients like beta-carotene, vitamin C, and potassium. These baked fries satisfy the craving for something crispy and savory without the deep-frying. They’re a great source of complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy, and the natural sweetness of the potatoes makes them appealing even to picky eaters.

8. Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups certified gluten-free rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
• 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (certified gluten-free)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, almond flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together coconut oil, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts if using.
6. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden.
8. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

These cookies are a healthier take on traditional oatmeal cookies, using nutrient-dense ingredients like almond flour and natural sweeteners. They’re lower in sugar than store-bought cookies but still satisfy the sweet tooth. The oats provide fiber and complex carbohydrates, while the nuts add healthy fats and protein for a more balanced treat that won’t spike blood sugar levels as dramatically as conventional cookies.

9. Avocado Rice Crackers

Ingredients:

• 8 plain rice crackers (certified gluten-free)
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Microgreens or sprouts (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mash the avocado with lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Spread the avocado mixture evenly on rice crackers.
3. Top with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes and microgreens if desired.
4. Serve immediately.

This simple snack combines the crunch of rice crackers with the creamy richness of avocado for a satisfying texture contrast. Avocados provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and nearly 20 vitamins and minerals, making this a nutrient-dense option. The healthy fats help keep you full and satisfied, while the crackers provide a gluten-free base that’s light yet satisfying.

10. Chia Seed Pudding Cups

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1 cup almond milk (or any non-dairy milk)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Fresh berries, sliced banana, or other fruit for topping
• 1 tablespoon chopped nuts or seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a jar or container, combine chia seeds, almond milk, sweetener, vanilla, and salt.
2. Stir well, then let sit for 5 minutes and stir again to prevent clumping.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Before serving, stir again and add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
5. Top with fresh fruit and nuts or seeds if desired.

Chia seeds are tiny nutritional powerhouses, packed with fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. This pudding makes a perfect make-ahead snack that feels indulgent but is actually quite nutritious. The combination of fiber and protein helps keep blood sugar stable, while the omega-3s support brain and heart health. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with different milks, sweeteners, and toppings.

11. Boiled Eggs with Paprika

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh herbs like chives or parsley (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
2. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 9-12 minutes (9 for medium eggs, 12 for large).
3. Transfer eggs to an ice bath to stop cooking.
4. Once cool, peel and cut in half.
5. Arrange on a plate and sprinkle with paprika, salt, pepper, and herbs.
6. Drizzle with a little olive oil if desired.

Eggs are one of nature’s most perfect protein sources and are naturally gluten-free. They contain all nine essential amino acids and important nutrients like choline, which supports brain health. This simple preparation makes for a satisfying snack that’s ready in minutes and provides about 6 grams of high-quality protein per egg. The paprika adds a mild smoky flavor and a boost of antioxidants.

12. Gluten-Free Smoothie Bowl

Ingredients:

• 1 frozen banana
• 1 cup frozen berries (blueberries, strawberries, or mixed)
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup almond milk (or any non-dairy milk)
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Toppings: gluten-free granola, fresh fruit, coconut flakes, hemp seeds

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine frozen banana, berries, yogurt, milk, and almond butter.
2. Blend until smooth but thick (add more milk if needed, but keep it thick enough to eat with a spoon).
3. Pour into a bowl and add toppings of your choice.
4. Serve immediately.

Smoothie bowls are like eating ice cream for breakfast or a snack, but they’re packed with nutrients! This version provides protein from the Greek yogurt and almond butter, antioxidants from the berries, and potassium from the banana. The thick, creamy texture makes it feel indulgent, while the toppings add satisfying crunch and additional nutrients. It’s a refreshing option for warm days or post-workout refueling.