With so many people adopting gluten free diets, it’s important to know which canned frostings are safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Canned frosting is a popular baking item that can be used to decorate cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and more. But not all canned frostings are created equal when it comes to being gluten free.
What is gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley, and rye. For those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine. This can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, fatigue, and more. The only treatment for gluten related disorders is adopting a strict lifelong gluten free diet by avoiding all foods and products containing gluten.
Why check canned frosting for gluten?
Since wheat is a common ingredient in many processed foods, it’s important for those avoiding gluten to read labels carefully. Canned frosting may contain wheat flour, barley malt, or other gluten containing ingredients. Small amounts of cross contamination are also possible during manufacturing. Consuming even trace amounts of gluten can cause issues for those with celiac disease or sensitivities. So it’s crucial to choose only frostings confirmed as gluten free when decorating baked goods.
What ingredients indicate canned frosting is not gluten free?
Here are some common ingredients that signal a canned frosting contains gluten:
- Wheat flour
- Barley malt
- Rye flour
- Malt extract or malt flavoring (usually derived from barley)
- Modified food starch (may be derived from wheat)
Any canned frosting containing those ingredients, or listing that it’s made in a facility that also processes wheat, should be avoided if you’re maintaining a gluten free diet.
What are some gluten free canned frosting brands?
Here are some popular canned frosting brands that offer gluten free options:
Duncan Hines
Many flavors of Duncan Hines canned frosting are labeled gluten free including:
- Creamy Home-Style Vanilla Frosting
- Creamy Home-Style Chocolate Frosting
- Creamy Home-Style Cream Cheese Frosting
- Creamy Home-Style Coconut Pecan Frosting
Always check labels for the latest gluten free information as formulations can change over time.
Pillsbury
Select Pillsbury canned frostings are gluten free:
- Vanilla Frosting
- Cream Cheese Frosting
- Chocolate Fudge Frosting
Betty Crocker
Betty Crocker offers several gluten free canned frosting options:
- Vanilla Frosting
- Chocolate Fudge Frosting
- Cream Cheese Frosting
- Extra Creamy Vanilla Frosting
Tips for using gluten free canned frosting
Here are some useful tips for safely using gluten free canned frosting:
- Always read the label carefully looking at the ingredients list and any allergy information.
- Check for certification symbols like the GFCO Certification Program if you want added assurance.
- Look for cans without any dents or damage, as that could potentially allow for cross contamination.
- Make sure to thoroughly wash any utensils, piping bags, or decorating tools before using to prevent cross contamination.
- Use a fresh knife to open a new container of frosting to avoid spreading gluten containing particles from other sources.
- Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly.
Gluten free frosting alternatives
Besides canned frosting, there are other easy gluten free frosting options to consider:
- Make your own frosting – Mix powdered sugar with butter, cream cheese, vanilla, and milk or cream. Add cocoa powder for chocolate frosting.
- Use ready-to-spread frosting – Many brands offer gluten free varieties sold refrigerated near canned frosting.
- Try frosting mixes – Some gluten free brands sell dry frosting mixes to prepare at home.
- Use whipped cream cheese – Soften cream cheese and whip it alone or with powdered sugar.
- Top with fruit spreads – Jams, marmalades, and fruit preserves offer fruity flavor for frosting cakes or muffins.
With so many different frosting options, you can still decorate delicious gluten free baked goods. Just be sure to read all labels carefully if opting for pre-made canned frosting.
Gluten free baking tips
Besides frosting, here are some other tips for gluten free baking success:
- Use blends of gluten free flours like rice, tapioca, potato starch, etc. Gluten free all-purpose flour blends are also available.
- Stick to recipes developed for gluten free baking which account for texture and structure differences.
- Add xanthan gum or guar gum to help mimic the binding qualities of gluten.
- Adjust moisture by adding extra eggs, oil, liquid, or moisture retaining fruit purées as needed.
- Let baked goods cool completely before assembling or frosting to prevent crumbling.
- Use alternative pans like cupcake liners or parchment paper if sticking is an issue.
With practice, you can master gluten free baking and decorate beautiful cakes, cookies, muffins, and more for your gluten free lifestyle.
Common questions about gluten free canned frosting
Is Duncan Hines cream cheese frosting gluten free?
Yes, Duncan Hines canned cream cheese frosting is labeled gluten free.
What about Pillsbury cream cheese frosting?
Pillsbury’s canned cream cheese frosting variety is also gluten free.
Can I find gluten free chocolate canned frosting?
Yes, many popular brands like Duncan Hines, Betty Crocker, and Pillsbury offer gluten free chocolate canned frosting.
Are store brand canned frostings gluten free?
It depends. Some store brands indicate gluten free status on their labels. But without that, you’ll need to read the ingredients to determine if wheat, barley, or malt are included.
Should I worry about cross contamination in canned frosting?
Manufacturing facilities typically have controls in place to prevent cross contamination on shared lines. But if you’re highly sensitive, choose brands that are certified gluten free for added assurance.
The bottom line
Finding gluten free canned frosting is easy with major brands like Duncan Hines, Pillsbury, and Betty Crocker offering options clearly labeled gluten free. Always thoroughly read ingredient labels and allergen info for the most up-to-date details. And consider making your own frosting or using refrigerated gluten free frosting for extra convenience and customization.
With some care taken to choose safe ingredients, you can still decorate and enjoy delicious baked goods despite food restrictions. A gluten free diet shouldn’t mean missing out on the fun of frosting cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and other tasty treats.