Gluten Allergy? Try These 7 Seasonal Fruit Gluten-Free Desserts

As the monsoon rains continue to soak the parched earth, a bounty of fresh seasonal fruits is available to indulge in the local markets. In this season, one can find bananas, pears, pomegranates, pineapples, and crisp red apples in abundance. More than just delicious when eaten raw, these fruits can be transformed into nourishing gluten-free desserts. 

There are some all-time classics like banana bread and pineapple crisp to apple cinnamon muffins and pear compote, which are gluten-free treats are perfect for enjoying the last flavours of lingering remnants of summer before autumn truly sets in. With only a few basic ingredients, these desserts allow the natural sweetness of the fruits to shine through. Here are some gluten free desserts: 

1. Banana Bread

A classic gluten-free banana bread consists of mashed bananas and toasted walnuts. The best part about banana bread? Using those almost rotting, overripe bananas in your fruit basket. The ripe bananas and brown rice flour provide moisture and natural sweetness. A touch of vanilla and cinnamon enhances the banana flavour. Baked until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean, slices of this quick bread are perfect for breakfast or snacking anytime. 

2. Pineapple Crisp 

Fresh pineapple chunks are tossed with honey or brown sugar syrup and topped with a gluten-free oat crisp mixture of rolled oats, chopped walnuts and brown sugar. When baked, the topping turns golden brown, and the fruit bubbles up from underneath. The topping forms a sweet and crunchy contrast to the soft fruit below. A simple dessert highlights the delicious flavour of in-season pineapple.

3. Apple Cinnamon Muffins

Moist muffins infused with apple sauce, cinnamon, and walnuts. Applesauce replaces oil and provides moisture while brown rice flour, almond meal and tapioca flour create a light yet hearty texture. Bursting with chunks of tart apple and a swirl of cinnamon sugar, each muffin beckons you with the promise of cosy comfort. And as if that isn't enough, a crunchy streusel topping crowns every muffin, begging you to take just one more bite. Fresh from the oven, their warm spiced scent will draw you back time and again. These muffins make the perfect breakfast or afternoon treat to lift your spirits on a chilly autumn day.

4. Pear Compote

In dish, the seasonal pears are simmered with lemon juice, vanilla and a touch of honey until soft and saucy. Once cooled, the compote is lightly spiced with cinnamon and ginger. Spoon the compote over coconut yoghurt or gluten-free cake for an easy dessert. This easy dessert compote lets the subtle sweetness of pears shine, perfect for topping yoghurt or gluten-free cake.

5. Mixed fruit salad with flavoured yoghurt

Seasonal fruits like bananas, pears, pineapple are tossed together with plain coconut or almond yoghurt. You can choose any flavour or just go for flavourless yoghurt. Sweeten the yoghurt with jaggery or honey. For extra flavour stir in vanilla, cardamom, or a strand or two of saffron. Arrange the fruit salad in a glass bowl and pour the flavoured yoghurt over. Garnish with nuts, coconut flakes and mint leaves. A light and healthy dessert perfect for sweltering summer nights.  


6. Coconut rice pudding

Coconut rice pudding is a soothing comfort food that makes use of all-rounder coconut. To make it, cook basmati rice in coconut milk along with raisins or sultanas, cardamom pods, and cinnamon sticks. Simmer the mixture until the rice is tender and has absorbed the rich and creamy coconut milk. Once done, and the rice has completely absorbed the coconut milk, allow the pudding to cool down, away from the heat. Store the pudding in a container and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until well chilled. To serve, scoop portions of the coconut rice pudding into bowls. Garnish with pistachios, almonds, or coconut flakes for extra texture and flavour.

7. Custard apple fool 

The creamy custard apple fool is a delicious way to enjoy the ripe flavour of the tropical fruit. Start by blending ripe custard apple pulp until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip coconut cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the pureed custard apple into the whipped cream. Scoop the light and fluffy fool into glass bowls. For an extra layer of flavour, dust the tops with fragrant cardamom powder. Enjoy the fool on its own or serve alongside biscuits for a sweet treat. The fool allows the custard apple's unique taste to emerge through in a refreshing dessert. 

Whether you choose a classic like banana bread or pineapple crisp, or try something new like apple cinnamon muffins or pear compote, these gluten-free desserts are perfect for any time of day. They make the most of the seasonal bounty without fussing over complicated recipes or ingredients. And best of all, the natural sugars in the fresh fruits satisfy your sweet tooth without weighing you down.