Joe Joe’s cookies are a popular brand of snack made by Joe Joe’s Bakery. Many people enjoy these tasty cookies, but some may wonder if Joe Joe’s cookies are dairy-free. For those avoiding milk or milk products due to dietary restrictions, allergies, or personal preferences, it’s important to understand which Joe Joe’s cookies are dairy-free and which contain dairy. In this in-depth article, we’ll explore the key facts about dairy within the various Joe Joe’s cookie varieties so you can determine if these snacks fit your needs.
What is dairy and why do some people avoid it?
Dairy refers to foods and drinks that are produced using the milk from cows, goats, sheep, and other mammals. The most common dairy products include milk, cheese, yogurt, butter, and ice cream. Some individuals need to avoid dairy due to lactose intolerance, milk allergies, vegan diets, or other health issues that are aggravated by dairy consumption. Those with dairy sensitivities or who wish to avoid animal products altogether must be vigilant about checking labels and ingredients lists to ensure the foods they eat are 100% dairy-free.
Do Joe Joe’s cookies contain dairy?
Whether or not Joe Joe’s cookies contain dairy depends on the specific variety. Joe Joe’s offers several lines of cookies, including their classic Originals, gluten-free cookies, layered dessert sandwiches, seasonal selections, and more. Let’s take a closer look at the various Joe Joe’s cookies to determine which ones are dairy-free and which varieties contain milk, butter, or other dairy ingredients.
A Review of Dairy in Joe Joe’s Cookie Selections
Originals
Joe Joe’s signature Originals line includes many beloved flavors like Chocolate Vanilla Creme, Mint Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter Fudge, and more. Most of the Originals varieties do contain dairy as an ingredient. The chocolate crème filling and inclusion of butter in the cookie dough means these classic cookies are not dairy-free. However, there are a few exceptions. The Original Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip cookie and the vegan Oat of This World cookie are dairy-free. Those with dairy restrictions will want to steer clear of the Originals aside from these two dairy-free options.
Gluten-Free
In addition to the Original Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip mentioned above, the entire line of Joe Joe’s Gluten-Free cookies is also dairy-free. Flavors like Gluten-Free Lemon Pie, Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Chip, and Gluten-Free Double Chocolate are all made without milk, butter, or other dairy products. Those who require a gluten-free AND dairy-free cookie can enjoy this line of Joe Joe’s treats.
Cookie Sandwiches
The Joe Joe’s layered cookie sandwiches tend to contain dairy as a key ingredient in the filling. Options like the Salted Caramel Cookie Sandwich and Raspberry Creme Cookie Sandwich are made with a rich buttercream or creme filling. The cookies themselves also typically contain dairy. Only the chocolate layered cookie sandwiches seem to be dairy-free, as the filling is chocolate cream rather than dairy-based. So the Double Chocolate Cookie Sandwich may be suitable for those avoiding milk and butter, but the rest of the sandwich lineup does contain dairy.
Seasonal Cookies
Holiday offerings like Joe Joe’s Pumpkin Spice or Peppermint Bark flavors, along with other limited-edition cookie selections, often contain dairy as revealed by the ingredients lists printed on the packages. Seasonal ingredients like eggnog and peppermint buttercream mean these cookies are not dairy-free. Checking each new seasonal flavor is advised if you wish to avoid dairy while still enjoying the festive flavors.
Mini Cookies
The bite-sized Mini cookie options from Joe Joe’s seem to consistently contain dairy. Ingredients like butter, cream cheese, and milk chocolate chips make the Mini cookies a no-go for avoiding dairy. Mini offerings like Salted Caramel, Peanut Butter Chip, and Double Chocolate Chip all contain at least one dairy element.
Identifying Dairy-Free Joe Joe’s Cookies
To quickly identify which Joe Joe’s cookies are dairy-free, refer to this helpful summary:
Dairy-Free Joe Joe’s Cookies
– Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip (Originals)
– Oat of This World (Originals)
– All Gluten-Free varieties
– Double Chocolate Cookie Sandwich
Joe Joe’s Cookies With Dairy
– All other Original varieties
– All Cookie Sandwiches except Double Chocolate
– All Seasonal offerings
– All Mini cookies
Keep an eye out for those dairy-free icons on packages of Joe Joe’s cookies. A green leaf symbol indicates a vegan product, while a crossed-out milk jug icon denotes a dairy-free treat even if not fully plant-based. Rely on ingredient lists for the most accurate information and double check limited edition or seasonal cookie flavors as dairy-free status may change.
Dairy-Free Substitutes in Joe Joe’s Products
Joe Joe’s has created some ingeniously tasty dairy-free cookies by using plant-based ingredients in place of milk, butter, and other dairy products. These substitutions allow those avoiding cow’s milk to still enjoy the classic Joe Joe’s taste. Here’s an overview of how the company produces dairy-free cookies:
Vegan Butter
Instead of traditional butter made from cow’s milk, Joe Joe’s uses vegan margarines and butters made from plant oils. These provide the same rich, creamy taste and texture without the dairy.
Plant-Based Milk
Rather than cow’s milk, the dairy-free cookies are made with unsweetened almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, oat milk, or other vegan milk alternatives.
Dark Chocolate
The allergy-friendly chocolate chunks and cocoa powder used in dairy-free Joe Joe’s cookies contain no milk solids. Only real chocolate that is dairy-free is used.
Coconut Cream
Whipped coconut cream makes a light, fluffy filling to replace dairy-laden buttercream in the Double Chocolate cookie sandwiches.
Thanks to quality ingredients like these, Joe Joe’s provides delicious dairy-free cookie options that don’t compromise on taste. Those avoiding cow’s milk don’t have to miss out on these crave-worthy treats.
Nutritional Profile of Dairy-Free Joe Joe’s Cookies
Going dairy-free doesn’t mean you have to give up flavor or nutrition. Here’s a look at the nutritional profile of Joe Joe’s gluten-free, dairy-free cookies:
Cookie Variety (1 cookie) | Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
---|---|---|---|---|
Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip | 140 | 7g | 18g | 1g |
Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Chip | 150 | 9g | 16g | 3g |
Gluten-Free Double Chocolate | 140 | 7g | 19g | 2g |
As you can see, Joe Joe’s gluten and dairy-free cookies deliver indulgent flavor and a balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Those avoiding milk don’t have to feel like they’re missing out on a sweet treat.
Benefits of dairy-free cookies
Choosing dairy-free Joe Joe’s cookies offers several benefits:
– They accommodate dairy allergies and vegan diets
– Help reduce inflammation caused by dairy
– Provide relief from lactose intolerance symptoms
– Offer a tasty, allergy-friendly alternative
– Provide balanced nutrition from natural ingredients
With dairy-free options like Joe Joe’s, cookies can still be enjoyed without the downsides of milk-based ingredients.
Baking With Dairy-Free Joe Joe’s Cookies
The dairy-free Joe Joe’s cookies can be incorporated into all kinds of delicious recipes beyond just eating them straight out of the package. Here are some ideas for baking with Joe Joe’s allergy-friendly cookies:
Cookie crusts
Crush up dairy-free Joe Joe’s cookies to make flavorful crusts for pies and cheesecakes. Their buttery taste and crunchy texture make a perfect base.
Mix-ins for ice cream
Crumble gluten-free Joe Joe’s cookies into your favorite non-dairy ice cream for added crunch and flavor in every bite.
Cookie sandwiches
Use dairy-free Joe Joe’s cookies instead of traditional ones to create indulgent ice cream sandwiches. They’ll hold up well to freezing.
Layered parfaits
In a glass, alternate layers of dairy-free Joe Joe’s cookie crumbles with non-dairy yogurt and fresh fruit for a grab-and-go parfait.
Floats
For an extra decadent treat, top your favorite non-dairy milk with a scoop of vegan ice cream and crumbled Joe Joe’s cookies.
Dirt pudding
Use crushed Joe Joe’s cookies in place of Oreo cookie pieces in traditional dirt pudding recipes for a dairy-free dirt pudding.
Let your creativity run wild when it comes to using Joe Joe’s allergy-friendly cookies in baked goods and homemade treats. They add indulgence without the dairy.
Where to Buy Joe Joe’s Dairy-Free Cookies
Wondering where you can find Joe Joe’s coveted dairy-free cookies? Here are some of the top places to buy them:
Online Direct from Joe Joe’s
For the widest selection, including seasonal flavors, order directly from the JoeJoe.com website. Joe Joe’s ships their cookies nationwide.
Amazon
Amazon carries select flavors of Joe Joe’s gluten-free and dairy-free cookies through Amazon Fresh and regular purchase. Prime members can access quick shipping.
Select Grocery Stores
Certain grocery store chains like Hy-Vee, Wegmans, and Publix stock Joe Joe’s cookies in-store or carry them during holiday seasons. Check your local natural grocer.
Target
Major retailer Target includes Joe Joe’s cookies on their shelves, both in-store and online. Not all dairy-free varieties may be available.
Specialty Markets
Natural food stores like Sprouts, Earth Fare, and Whole Foods are likely to have the dairy-free Joe Joe’s offerings in stock. Check gluten-free sections.
Be sure to call ahead to confirm availability of the specific dairy-free cookies you seek. With some sleuthing, you can find these pleasing treats even without the dairy.
Dairy-Free Alternatives Similar to Joe Joe’s
While Joe Joe’s offers some of the best tasting dairy-free cookies around, there are a few other brands producing comparable snacks suitable for milk-free diets. Check out these dairy-free alternatives:
Tate’s Bake Shop
Like Joe Joe’s, Tate’s offers gluten-free and classic dairy-free cookie varieties sold online and in stores. Their crisp, buttery cookies come in chocolate chip, double chocolate, and more.
Enjoy Life Foods
All Enjoy Life cookies, bars, and snacks are dairy-free. Made in allergy-friendly facilities, they offer chocolate chip, double chocolate, and other flavors.
Anna’s GF Goodies
This brand makes gluten-free, dairy-free versions of classic cookies like Oreos, Thin Mints, and Nutter Butters for a nostalgic treat.
Pamela’s Products
Pamela’s gluten-free chocolate chip, ginger snap, and double chocolate cookies contain no dairy or nuts for allergy-friendly appeal.
Partake Foods
In flavors like chocolate chip, double chocolate, and birthday cake, Partake’s soft-baked cookies are dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan.
While not exact replicas, these brands provide a similar experience of enjoying flavorful cookies without milk, butter, or other dairy.
Joe Joe’s Dairy-Free Cookie Recipes to Try at Home
If you love the taste of Joe Joe’s dairy-free cookies, try your hand at making some allergy-friendly cookie recipes inspired by their flavors at home:
Copycat Gluten-Free Joe Joe’s Chocolate Chip Cookies
With brown rice flour, buckwheat flour, vegan chocolate chips, and dairy-free butter, you can replicate the chewy texture and rich flavor of the gluten-free Originals in your own kitchen.
Vegan Joe Joe’s Peanut Butter Cookies
For that salty-sweet peanut butter joy without the dairy, bake up some crispy cookies with peanut butter, brown sugar, gluten-free oat flour, dairy-free butter, and dark chocolate chips.
Double Chocolate Joe Joe’s Sandwich Cookies
Whisk up coconut milk and coconut oil with Dutch process cocoa powder for deeply chocolate cookies. Fill them with chocolate coconut cream for an indulgent dairy-free twist on the layered classic.
Pumpkin Spice Joe Joe’s Breakfast Cookies
Capture the flavors of fall with spiced cookies made using almond flour, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger, and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Let the familiar flavors of Joe Joe’s inspire you, then get creative with dairy-free ingredients for custom cookies the whole family can enjoy regardless of diet or allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Joe Joe’s Dairy-Free Cookies
Still have questions about enjoying Joe Joe’s popular cookies without the dairy? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Are all Joe Joe’s gluten-free cookies also dairy-free?
Yes, the entire line of Joe Joe’s gluten-free cookies is also dairy-free. Those avoiding both gluten and dairy can safely enjoy all of the gluten-free Joe Joe’s varieties.
What milk is used in Joe Joe’s non-dairy cookies?
The exact milk substitute varies, but common alternatives include almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, and oat milk. Only non-dairy milks are used in their dairy-free cookie recipes.
Can you find Joe Joe’s dairy-free cookies in grocery stores?
Yes, many national grocery store chains carry select gluten-free, dairy-free Joe Joe’s cookies either on shelves or seasonally. Check allergen-friendly sections or ask customer service about availability.
Are the mini or holiday Joe Joe’s cookies dairy-free?
Unfortunately both the bite-size mini cookies and seasonal holiday flavors typically contain dairy ingredients like butter, milk, or cream. Only the standard gluten-free cookies are guaranteed dairy-free.
What makes Joe Joe’s dairy-free cookies so delicious?
Carefully chosen ingredients like fruit purees, vegan chocolate chips, alternative flours, and dairy-free butter give Joe Joe’s allergy-friendly cookies incredible flavor without compromising taste.
Conclusion
Joe Joe’s offers some of the best tasting gluten and dairy-free cookies around. By sticking to the guaranteed dairy-free varieties and thoroughly checking labels, those avoiding cow’s milk can still satisfy their sweet tooth craving with these irresistible cookies. Thanks to quality ingredients and smart substitutions, you don’t have to miss out on enjoying Joe Joe’s as part of an allergy-friendly, flexitarian, or vegan diet. Whip up some copycat recipes, bake Joe Joe’s cookies into other dairy-free treats, and share their indulgent, allergy-friendly goodness.