Why gluten-free baking is having a moment
(BPT) - Consumers are increasingly choosing easy, convenient foods to support their active, busy lifestyles. This trend includes ready-to-bake treats such as brownies and cookies, but with alternative ingredients like those found in Ghirardelli's new Gluten Free Double Chocolate Brownie Mix. That's right, gluten free isn't just for people with food allergies anymore, it's the choice of ingredient-savvy consumers as well as those with gluten sensitivities. In fact, current research shows the U.S. market for gluten-free foods is among the largest in the world. That's why gluten-free baking is having a moment.
Gluten free as a lifestyle choice
Nearly a third of consumers currently follow a gluten-free diet or have done so in the past. Grocery stores are paying attention, dedicating shelf space and expanding product selections to please the palates of this growing demographic. It's easier than ever to bring home ready-to-eat and easy-to-make gluten-free goodies.
A gluten-free lifestyle encourages experimentation in the kitchen and introduces new flavors and textures. Gluten-free bakers are discovering that mixing and matching alternative flours, such as rice flour, creates blends that rival the original texture of wheat flour. Use almond flour in your banana bread for an extra-nutty kick. Or swap in oat flour to make pancakes that are thick and sweet. Explore different ingredients that suit your taste. Today's gluten-free baked goods are innovative and indulgent.
Restaurants and retailers jumping on the gluten-free bandwagon
Cookie connoisseurs and brownie-baking enthusiasts are benefitting from the evolution of gluten-free baking at bakeries and restaurants, as well as in their own kitchens. In fact, the term "gluten free" has grown 39% on menus over the past four years, making it more accessible than ever. Gluten-free treats are now readily available for people who want to have their desserts and eat them, too.
American consumers are increasingly aware of gluten intolerance and the benefits of clean eating. This heightened awareness is driving growth of allergen-free items on grocery shelves. From bread and pasta to baking mixes, whole aisles of gluten-free products are now available.
Where sweet meets gluten free
Meanwhile, Americans also consume 2.8 billion pounds of chocolate each year, according to Jobera. And now you don't have to choose between chocolate goodness and living your best life, regardless of your dietary preferences.
So, why not feed your chocolate craving with Ghirardelli's Gluten Free Double Chocolate Brownie Mix, which combines premium semi-sweet and bittersweet chocolate chips, plus a unique blend of cocoa powders and a hint of vanilla to create the signature Ghirardelli flavor profile. Instead of wheat flour, the gluten-free recipe uses brown rice flour. It's the same delicious taste as the original Double Chocolate Brownie Mix, but now available to more consumers than ever before. An 18-ounce brownie pouch mixed with butter, water, oil and an egg yields an 8X8-inch pan of rich, fudgy, gluten-free brownie bliss.
When it comes to gluten-free baking, the possibilities are deliciously limitless!
Source: BrandPoint
