Our Favorite Allergy-Friendly Thanksgiving Swaps

How to make Thanksgiving inclusive, delicious, and worry-free.

Thanksgiving is a holiday built on comfort, togetherness, and favorite family dishes. But for anyone managing food allergies or dietary preferences, this celebration can feel overwhelming. Classic Thanksgiving recipes often include gluten, dairy, nuts, or processed ingredients that not everyone can enjoy.

The good news: creating an allergy-friendly Thanksgiving has never been easier. With a few thoughtful swaps—and desserts made with clean, organic ingredients—every guest can enjoy a delicious, inclusive holiday spread.

At Steve & Andy’s, we bake organic, gluten free, vegan, and nut-free cookies crafted for everyone at the table. Whether you’re gluten-free, dairy-free, or simply choosing cleaner ingredients, these swaps help you build a Thanksgiving menu that’s full of joy, not allergens.

1. Swap Traditional Stuffing for a Gluten-Free Grain Bowl

Conventional stuffing is often packed with gluten, butter, and heavy ingredients. Try a lighter, allergy-friendly alternative: A warm grain bowl made with quinoa or wild rice, roasted vegetables, olive oil, and fresh herbs like thyme and sage.

It’s a cozy, savory side with the same nostalgic flavor—minus the allergens.

Perfect for guests avoiding wheat while still craving something hearty.

2. Trade Heavy Cream Sides for Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes

Traditional mashed potatoes rely on butter and cream.
Instead, try plant-based butter and oat milk for the same creamy texture.

Top with roasted garlic or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
Rich, comforting, and completely dairy-free—this swap makes a meaningful difference for anyone with sensitivities.

3. Replace Pie with Gluten-Free Desserts Everyone Will Love

Pumpkin pie is a Thanksgiving classic, but it’s not always allergy-friendly.
This year, create a gluten free dessert platter using Steve & Andy’s organic cookies—clean ingredients, nostalgic flavor, and zero compromise.

A few favorite options:

• Gluten-Free Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
  Soft, comforting, and naturally sweetened with real bananas. They bring homemade warmth to any dessert table.

• Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies (Soft Baked)
  A cozy blend of oats and chocolate—ideal for dunking into oat milk or pairing with coffee.

• Chocolate Chip Cookies (Thin & Crispy)
  Light, crisp, and irresistibly buttery in flavor.

• Coconut Oatmeal Cookies (Crispy & Chewy)
  An elegant blend of toasted coconut and oats—perfect for anyone who prefers something refined and not overly sweet.

These gluten free desserts are easy to serve, universally loved, and crafted from organic, clean ingredients.

4. Trade Traditional Gingerbread for Gluten-Free Ginger Snap Cookies

Gingerbread cookies can be tricky for guests avoiding gluten or dairy.
Our Gluten-Free Ginger Snap Cookies offer that same seasonal warmth—crispy edges, bold ginger spice, and molasses sweetness.

They pair beautifully with hot cider, tea, or coffee and add a festive touch to any Thanksgiving dessert spread.

5. Create a Healthier S’mores Dessert Bar

For a fun, interactive dessert idea, build a gluten free s’mores bar.
Use Steve & Andy’s cookies instead of graham crackers:

• Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Thin & Crispy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Layer with vegan marshmallows and dark chocolate for a creative treat guests of all ages enjoy.

6. Choose Cookies Over Candy for Cleaner Desserts

Thanksgiving tables often overflow with sugary desserts, pie leftovers, and boxed candy.
Instead, offer healthier gluten free cookies made with organic, non-GMO ingredients.

Try these crowd-pleasers:

• Oatmeal Raisin (Soft & Chewy)
  Warm spices, juicy raisins, and a cozy flavor profile.

• Soft Baked Chocolate Chip
  Velvety texture and classic chocolate chip flavor—perfect comfort food.

Every cookie is organic, gluten free, vegan, and nut-free, making dessert inclusive for everyone.

7. Stock Up on Allergy-Friendly Treats for Guests

Hosting a mix of dietary needs?
Build a gluten-free cookie platter or pick up a Steve & Andy’s Variety Pack so everyone can choose their favorite flavor.

These cookies are perfect for:

• dessert boards

• hostess gifts

• Thanksgiving baskets

• post-dinner coffee or tea pairings

They’re clean, delicious, and designed to make all guests feel included.

8. Why These Swaps Matter

Thanksgiving is about connecting with the people you love.
Making allergy-friendly swaps ensures no one feels left out or worried about what’s on their plate.

Choosing organic and gluten-free options also supports a healthier table and a more sustainable way of celebrating.
Our cookies make inclusive hosting easy—clean ingredients, thoughtful baking, and flavors everyone recognizes.

A Thanksgiving to Feel Good About

This year, let your table reflect the true spirit of Thanksgiving: gratitude, comfort, and goodness. With a few simple swaps—and a plate of Steve & Andy’s vegan, gluten free cookies—you can create a holiday meal that’s welcoming, wholesome, and deeply satisfying.

A celebration everyone can enjoy.