So you’re gluten free and bummed you can’t eat the infamous Marzipan rugelach? Here’s what I have to say to that: oh well! They aren’t even that good anyway- trust me I tried them once. I promise you there are way better dessert options out there!
I am excited to share with you 13 gluten free desserts that you have to try on your next trip to Israel! With options from the Golan to Tel Aviv and beyond no matter where in Israel you are you will never be lacking dessert ideas!
Tori Bakes Cupcakes
Tel Aviv, 100% gluten free bakery by order only
I hate cupcakes, well cake in general to be honest. But, I LOVE these! Tori is a wizard, a magician, and a unicorn all rolled into one kick ass baker. She has a way with gluten free flour that I cannot explain, well maybe it’s because she was a pastry chef BEFORE she was diagnosed with Celiac. Now she uses her skills to create gluten free version of glutenous desserts.
If you are in Tel Aviv and don’t order from her I promise you will regret it. She makes cakes, cookies, specialty desserts for the holidays and more. (Yes, the header image is her sufagniyot!)
Etrog Man Acai Bowl
Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, 100% gluten free health food and juices shop
It’s dessert and it’s healthy- what a win win!! The Etrog Man’s açaí bowls are hands down the best in Israel and one of my weaknesses. Topped with tons of fresh fruit, this soft serve açaí is gigantic and usually serves as a full meal for me. When they ask me what I want on top I always say “whatever you want but with tahini!” Best to let the experts pick, in my opinion.
Caramel’s Gluten Free Kanafe
Akko, Gluten Free Bakery
I have been drooling since the very first time I saw this bakery recommended on one of the many celiac Facebook pages I am in. I had a date set to visit and everything before Corona happened! Now, they’re the first place I’m going when it’s safe to travel again. If you beat me there please let me know how it is! I have heard only amazing things about their gluten free version of this classic Middle Eastern cheesy noodle dessert!
Check them out on Facebook!
Taco’s Luis Mexican Chocolate Cookie
Jerusalem, meat restaurant that is nearly 100% gluten free (just minus the churros and fried fish!)
Yittie, one of the owners of Tacos Luis, told me the secret to making their cookie so delicious is that it is 90% chocolate and 10% flour… I am here for it! This cookie is both sweet and salty with a little bit of a bite to it. It is the kind of cookie that is both crunchy and melts in your mouth all at the same time. Need I say more or are you convinced?
Cafe Kadosh Monster Macaron
Jerusalem, dairy cafe with a world renowned bakery
Why yes, this is a macaron stuffed with fluffy whipped cream and topped with fresh fruit! And the picture does not lie, its the size of 6 regular macarons! Kadosh is one of the most talked about bakeries in Jerusalem and for a long time I thought that there was nothing for me to eat there! Little did I know, they actually have 3 different gluten free dessert options. This one is my personal favorite.
Tamara Yogurt
Tel Aviv, Yogurt shop with soft serve yogurt, açaí, and popsicles
There is never a time when I am not craving Tamara. Their plain bio yogurt is one of my favorites ways to cool off on a hot afternoon in Tel Aviv. I enjoy it topped with fruit and tahini but they have chocolate and other sugary toppings too! Not in the mood for yogurt? Their açaí is the bomb.
Literally ANYTHING from Gluteria
Tel Aviv, 100% Gluten Free Restaurant
You really can’t go wrong here! Gluteria has it all and they do it all well. From artisan pizza to cookie ice cream sandwiches, you will not be disappointed with whatever you choose to order. Personally, I love the brownie Sunday!
Glidium’s Freakshake
Haifa, ice cream shop inside of a mall known for their milkshakes
Ice cream, meringue, berries, whipped cream, and macarons all in one dessert! Holy cow! This over the top “freakshake” was the first I ever tried. It was recommended to me by my foodie friend and freakshake guru Britany aka The Sweet Wanderlust. It was a special experience and I would say you might want to split it with a friend because its over the top sweet!
Mousseline’s Basil Ice Cream
Jerusalem, Ice Cream Shop (with gluten free cones!)
I know what you’re thinking, basil ice cream? Why? The answer is: because its amazing! Even my skeptical grandfather who eats only chicken fingers and bread loved it. It’s one of those things you just have to try it to believe it. But, if it ends up not being your thing you can always choose one of their other flavors because they are all delish. I recommend the coffee, chai, or marzipan!
De Karina Chocolate Factory Milkshake
Kibbutz Ein Zivan, Golan Heights (you can also order their chocolate online)
If you didn’t get your fill during the chocolate making workshop at De Karina, grab yourself one of these rich and over the top milkshakes. Made with all fresh ingredients and in house chocolate, it is easily one of the best milkshakes in Israel. They also have chocolate liquor and you would be a fool not to buy a few bottles while you’re there.
Nocturno’s Gluten Free Chocolate Cake
Jerusalem, dairy cafe with tons of gluten free and vegan options!
There is no better way to finish off a night out I the shuk (market) than with a piece of this gooey gluten free chocolate cake and an Irish Coffee. Looking for food food too? Nocturno has tons of gluten free options for you and their kitchen is open late.
Oldie’s Loaded Pancakes
Ra’anana, Pancake Bar
Who doesn’t love a good pancake? Especially when it’s covered in all your favorite toppings like chocolate, tahini, sprinkles, and more! If you’re in Ra’anana you do not want to miss this yummy treat.
Power Coffeeworks Coffee Shake
Jerusalem, Coffee Shop
The best way to start your day or give yourself a boost before a long night! This coffee shake is made with freshly ground coffee blended with ice cream and it is too good to be true.
There you have it! 13 gluten free desserts that you have to try on your next trip to Israel! Let me know in the comments which one is on the top of your list!
Looking for more gluten free eats in Israel check out this one on the iconic Machane Yehudah Market!
