Do Lola’s cupcakes do gluten-free?

Gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people seeking out gluten-free options for medical reasons or by personal choice. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, adhering to a strict gluten-free diet is essential. But for many others, going gluten-free is seen as a way to potentially improve health, lose weight, or simply feel better. The gluten-free trend has led restaurants, food manufacturers, and bakeries to expand their gluten-free offerings to meet the growing demand. One bakery that has joined the gluten-free movement is Lola’s Cupcakes. But do Lola’s cupcakes actually offer gluten-free options?

What is gluten and gluten-free?

Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley and rye. For those with celiac disease, gluten triggers an autoimmune response that damages the small intestine. People with non-celiac gluten sensitivity may experience gastrointestinal distress when consuming gluten. A gluten-free diet avoids all foods and ingredients that contain gluten. This means eliminating obvious sources like bread, pasta and baked goods made with wheat flour. But it also requires checking labels and watching out for hidden sources of gluten in sauces, seasonings, broths and other processed foods.

Why go gluten-free?

For those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, the reason for following a gluten-free diet is medically necessary. Going gluten-free is the only treatment for celiac disease and can relieve uncomfortable symptoms for those with gluten sensitivity. However, a growing number of people without celiac disease or gluten sensitivity are going gluten-free in the belief that it is healthier. While the evidence is still unclear, some potential benefits of a gluten-free diet for non-celiac patients include:

  • Weight loss – Going gluten-free often leads to consuming fewer processed foods and more whole foods. It may also reduce overall calorie intake.
  • Increased energy – Some report feeling more energized after eliminating gluten from their diet.
  • Improved gastrointestinal health – For those with sensitivities to gluten, a gluten-free diet can reduce gas, bloating, diarrhea and constipation.
  • Reduced inflammation – A gluten-free diet may decrease systemic inflammation for some individuals.
  • Better heart health – Going gluten-free could improve cardiovascular risk factors like cholesterol for those with celiac disease.

However, for those without celiac disease, there is a lack of definitive evidence that a gluten-free diet improves health or leads to lasting weight loss. Still, with the popularity of gluten-free diets and the range of purported benefits, many consumers are eager to try gluten-free options of their favorite foods, like cupcakes from Lola’s.

What is Lola’s Cupcakes?

Lola’s Cupcakes is a London-based bakery chain co-founded by Toni Vernelli in 2009. It now has over 60 bakeries across the UK, specializing in American-style cupcakes. Their cupcakes are baked fresh daily and come in a variety of flavors including vanilla, chocolate, red velvet, and more unique choices like salted caramel and lemon meringue. Lola’s cupcakes have achieved renown for their soft texture and sweet, delicious flavors. Even better, the brand has expanded to offer vegan, dairy-free and lower-sugar cupcakes to accommodate various dietary needs and preferences.

Does Lola’s offer gluten-free cupcake options?

Yes, Lola’s Cupcakes does provide gluten-free options for customers following a gluten-free diet. However, availability and selection varies based on location. Some key things to know about Lola’s gluten-free cupcakes:

  • Not all locations offer gluten-free – Check the bakery’s website or call ahead to confirm if your nearest Lola’s stocks gluten-free cupcakes.
  • Limited flavors – The gluten-free range is much smaller than their full line of cupcakes. But popular flavors like vanilla and chocolate are typically available.
  • Clearly labeled – Gluten-free cupcakes are visibly labeled as “gluten-free” on bakery displays.
  • May contain traces of gluten – The bakery warns that all products are at risk of cross-contamination with gluten. Those with celiac disease need to be aware.
  • Higher price – Expect to pay a small premium for gluten-free cupcakes compared to regular versions.

While availability is inconsistent, customers report finding gluten-free cupcakes at Lola’s locations in areas like Manchester, London, Bristol, Brighton and more. Those with celiac disease should take proper precautions around potential cross-contamination.

What gluten-free cupcake options does Lola’s offer?

For branches that offer them, below are Lola’s most popular gluten-free cupcake flavors:

Cupcake Description
Vanilla gluten-free Classic vanilla cake with vanilla buttercream frosting
Chocolate gluten-free Rich chocolate cake with chocolate buttercream frosting
Red velvet gluten-free Red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting
Salted caramel gluten-free Vanilla cake with salted caramel buttercream frosting

Lola’s may occasionally offer specialty gluten-free flavors based on seasonal availability of ingredients. Those looking for gluten-free cupcakes should call their neighborhood bakery ahead of time to check what options they currently have in stock.

How does Lola’s prepare gluten-free cupcakes?

To avoid cross-contamination with gluten, Lola’s Cupcakes follows careful protocols when preparing their gluten-free cupcakes:

  • Dedicated production – Gluten-free cupcakes are baked in a separate area from regular items.
  • Sanitized equipment – Tools and baking pans are thoroughly cleaned before gluten-free production.
  • Safe ingredients – Only ingredients verified as gluten-free are used.
  • Employee training – Staff are trained on gluten-free processes and prevent cross-contamination.
  • Labeling – Clear “gluten-free” labels identify which cupcakes are safe for gluten-free diets.

However, the company does acknowledge that traces of gluten may still be found. Extremely gluten-sensitive customers should use their own judgment.

Are Lola’s gluten-free cupcakes healthy?

While gluten-free, Lola’s cupcakes are still cupcakes – so they remain an indulgent, sweet treat. In fact, some gluten-free baked goods end up containing even more sugar, fat, and calories than regular versions, to offset the differences in taste and texture when gluten is removed. For example, below is a nutritional comparison of Lola’s regular chocolate cupcake versus the gluten-free chocolate cupcake per cupcake:

Nutrition Facts Regular Chocolate Gluten-Free Chocolate
Calories 279 318
Total Fat (g) 12 16
Sugars (g) 30 34
Protein (g) 3 3

So those following a gluten-free diet for perceived health benefits should keep in mind that Lola’s gluten-free cupcakes remain an indulgent treat best enjoyed in moderation, not a daily health food.

Where can I find Lola’s gluten-free cupcakes?

The availability of Lola’s gluten-free cupcakes varies by location. Your best bet is to check their website or call your nearest bakeries to ask. They offer online ordering for pick-up as well, so you may be able to place an order ahead of time to guarantee they’ll have your preferred gluten-free flavor upon your visit. Some Lola’s locations that have carried gluten-free options include:

  • Manchester
  • London – South Kensington, Islington
  • Bristol – Cribbs Causeway
  • Brighton – Jubilee Street
  • Bath – Milsom Place
  • Tunbridge Wells

New locations may start stocking the gluten-free range or existing ones potentially discontinue it based on local demand, so do check ahead. Lola’s frequently updates their social media with news of new gluten-free flavors or locations carrying them as well.

How much do Lola’s gluten-free cupcakes cost?

Expect to pay a small premium for the gluten-free cupcakes compared to regular Lola’s cupcakes. The pricing varies somewhat by location, but is typically:

  • Regular cupcake: £2.95 – £3.50
  • Gluten-free cupcake: £3.25 – £3.95

So gluten-free versions cost roughly 50 pence extra per cupcake. Lola’s does offer regular promotions, like mix and match deals where you can pick up 3 or 6 cupcakes for a discounted price. Check if these deals apply to gluten-free flavors when ordering online or in person.

Tips for saving money on Lola’s gluten-free cupcakes

  • Opt for smaller Minis – The gluten-free Minis are slightly cheaper than full size cupcakes.
  • Buy a 6-pack – Take advantage of mix and match 6-packs for the best value.
  • Watch for deals – Look for special offers like discounts or free extras that may apply to gluten-free.
  • Share with a friend – Split a larger order to take advantage of volume savings.
  • Join the loyalty program – Sign up for their Bakehouse Club to earn points and free treats.

What are customers saying about Lola’s gluten-free cupcakes?

Reviews of Lola’s gluten-free cupcakes are generally quite positive. Most agree the texture and taste lives up to their exceptional regular cupcakes. Here’s a sampling of customer comments:

  • “Tried the gluten-free chocolate and was nicely surprised. Moist cake and creamy frosting just like the regular ones.”
  • “The salted caramel gluten-free cupcake is my favorite! Can’t even tell it’s gluten-free.”
  • “Not a lot of gluten-free options but the ones they have are delicious. Never dry or crumbly.”
  • “Happy they offer some gluten-free but wish they had a bigger selection. The vanilla and chocolate are good but get boring after awhile.”

Those with celiac disease do point out that they need to be very strict about the risk of cross-contamination. But overall, most gluten-free customers say Lola’s gluten-free cupcakes satisfy their sweet cravings.

Should you try Lola’s gluten-free cupcakes?

If you follow a gluten-free diet and love indulgent cupcakes, Lola’s gluten-free range is worth checking out when you are nearby one of their bakeries. Call ahead to ensure they offer gluten-free that day and take necessary precautions depending on your sensitivity level. While the selection is limited to mostly vanilla and chocolate, their gluten-free cupcakes deliver the delicious moist texture and frosting Lola’s is famous for. Just don’t expect them to be a healthy choice – enjoy them as an occasional gluten-free treat!

Leave a Comment