Are Sprinkles Gluten Free?

by Addison LaBonte October 25, 2023

When it comes to adorning our favorite desserts, sprinkles are the delightful, colorful confetti that adds a dash of joy to any sweet treat. But for those on a gluten free diet, the question often arises: Are sprinkles gluten free?

Whether you’re living with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or simply following a gluten free lifestyle, understanding the gluten content in seemingly innocuous products like sprinkles is crucial.

Check out this post about Rice Krispies and Is Baking Soda Gluten Free? In addition, learn about Is Peanut Butter Gluten Free?

Different Types of Sprinkles

Sprinkles come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. Here is a breakdown of the different types of sprinkles.

Jimmies: These are the most commonly known type of sprinkle. They are tiny, rod-shaped, and come in various colors. They are a staple for donuts, cupcakes, and ice cream.

Nonpareils: Also known as “hundreds and thousands” in some countries, these are tiny round balls, often used on cookies, truffles, and cake pops.

Dragees: These are small, ball-shaped sprinkles that are often metallic-colored like gold or silver.

Sequins: These come in a wide variety of shapes, such as stars, hearts, flowers, or seasonal shapes like snowflakes and pumpkins.

Sanding Sugar: This sprinkle is colored sugar. It is coarser than regular sugar but finer than crystal sugar. It adds a sparkly, crunchy texture to pastries.

Crystal Sugar: Similar to sanding sugar but larger, these clear or colored sugar crystals are often used on cookies and muffins for added crunch and shine.

Pearl Sugar: These are large, opaque white sugar pearls, often used in Scandinavian baking, like on Swedish cinnamon buns.

Confetti (or Confetti Sprinkles): These are flat, round discs, larger than nonpareils, and come in various colors.

Candy Beads: Typically larger than nonpareils, candy beads are spherical and have a candy shell exterior. Check out these Cosmic Brownies!

Edible Glitter: This type of sprinkle is flat.

Shaped Sprinkles: Beyond quins, many companies produce a wide array of unique sprinkle shapes to match themes and holidays.

Edible Flowers: While not traditional “sprinkles,” edible dried flowers are sometimes used to decorate cakes and pastries.

When using gluten free sprinkles, especially the more decorative ones like dragees, always check whether they are edible or meant for decorative purposes. Each type provides a different texture, aesthetic, and often taste, allowing bakers to get creative with their creations!

Make these Funfetti Cookies!

Ingredients in Sprinkles

Sprinkles, also known as jimmies or hundreds and thousands in some parts of the world, are a popular topping for desserts like ice cream, cupcakes, and cookies. The exact ingredients can vary based on the brand, type, and region, but here are some common ingredients typically found in traditional sprinkles:

Sugar: This is the primary ingredient in sprinkles. It gives them their sweetness and is the main component of their structure.

Cornstarch: Helps give sprinkles their structure and prevents them from melting easily.

Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil: This type of oil helps in giving sprinkles their firmness.

Soy Lecithin: Acts as an emulsifier, helping to stabilize the sprinkles and keep their shape.

Dextrin: A type of carbohydrate derived from starch, which can contribute to the texture.

Tapioca Starch: Another ingredient that can be used to help give the sprinkles their structure.

Colors: These can be natural or artificial, depending on the brand. Common colorings include Red 40, Blue 1, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6, among others.

Confectioner’s Glaze: This gives sprinkles a shiny appearance.

Natural and Artificial Flavors: These add flavor. For instance, some sprinkles might have a hint of vanilla flavor.

Salt: Used in tiny amounts to balance out the sweetness.

Carnauba Wax: Often used in nonpareils (the tiny round sprinkles) to give them a glossy finish.

Gum Arabic: Acts as a stabilizer.

It’s important to note that there are now many variations of sprinkles, including all-natural versions, vegan sprinkles, and sprinkles made without artificial colors or flavors. As with any product, it’s essential to read the ingredient list if you have specific dietary restrictions or concerns.

Try these sour cream cookies!

What to Look Out For

When buying or using sprinkles, there are several things to be aware of, especially if you have dietary restrictions, allergies, or specific health concerns.

Allergens:

Gluten: Some sprinkles might contain gluten or be processed in facilities that handle gluten-containing products.

Dairy: Some sprinkles may contain milk derivatives.

Soy: Soy lecithin is a common ingredient in sprinkles.

Artificial Colors: Many sprinkles use artificial colors, which some individuals prefer to avoid due to personal health beliefs or sensitivities. Examples include Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 5.

Artificial Flavors: While many sprinkles might use natural flavors like vanilla, some use artificial flavors.

Trans Fats: Hydrogenated oils can be a source of trans fats, which have been linked to various health concerns.

Vegan and Vegetarian Concerns:

Confectioner’s Glaze: Often derived from insects, making it non-vegan.

Gelatin: Some sprinkles, especially those that are gel-like or have a unique texture, might contain gelatin, an animal derivative.

Kosher/Halal: If you adhere to kosher or halal dietary laws, check for certification or avoid sprinkles with animal-derived ingredients or alcohol-based flavors.

GMOs: Some consumers prefer to avoid genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Ingredients like cornstarch or soy lecithin might come from genetically modified crops unless labeled otherwise.

Cross-contamination: Even if the primary ingredients are safe for your dietary needs, there’s a risk of cross-contamination if the sprinkles are manufactured in facilities that also process allergens like nuts, dairy, or gluten. Read more about contamination in Are Corn Flakes Gluten Free?

Shelf Life: While sprinkles have a relatively long shelf life, they can become stale or lose their crunchiness over time. Always check expiration dates.

Origin: Some consumers prefer products made in certain countries due to concerns about ingredient sourcing, manufacturing practices, or regulatory standards.

Price: Specialty sprinkles, like all-natural or organic versions, might be more expensive than traditional ones.

I love these sprinkle sugar cookies!

Best Gluten Free Sprinkles Brands

If you’re seeking gluten free sprinkles, some brands specialize in gluten free or allergen-free products, ensuring that there is no cross-contamination during the manufacturing process. Here’s a list of brands that are known for producing reliable gluten free sprinkles:

1. Supernatural

Supernatural offers plant-based, all-natural sprinkles without artificial dyes, and they are known for their gluten free and vegan products. Their items are also free from major allergens like soy and dairy.

2. Sweets Indeed

Their sprinkle mixes are not only vibrant and diverse, but they are also gluten free. They also offer various themed sprinkle mixes suitable for different occasions and holidays.

3. Wilton

Wilton, a well-known baking supplies brand, offers some gluten free sprinkle options. Ensure to check labels as not all their products are gluten free.

4. Fancy Sprinkles

This brand offers a plethora of sprinkle mixes, and many are gluten free. Their website allows you to filter products to show gluten free options only.

5. Sweetapolita

Sweetapolita offers a wide range of whimsical sprinkle mixes, many of which are gluten free. They make it easy to check the ingredients and allergen information on their website.

6. India Tree

India Tree provides naturally colored and crafted sprinkles that are gluten free. Their products tend to be more natural, using colorings derived from plants.

7. ColorKitchen

Focusing on natural colors and ingredients, ColorKitchen offers sprinkles that are gluten free, artificial dye-free, and plant-based.

8. The Gourmet Baking Co.

Known for their elegant and unique sprinkle blends, The Gourmet Baking Co. offers several gluten free options.

Try these gluten free cupcakes!

Grocery Store Brands:

When it comes to grocery store brands that offer gluten free sprinkles, availability may vary depending on your location and the stores in your vicinity. Major grocery chains often have their own store brands (private labels), and some of them might offer gluten free sprinkles. Here are some grocery store brands that might have what you’re looking for:

1. Kroger (Kroger Brand)

Kroger’s store brand might offer gluten free sprinkles. Check the labels on their generic store brand products in the baking aisle.

2. Walmart (Great Value)

Walmart’s Great Value brand often includes a variety of baking products, and they might have gluten free sprinkles available.

3. Target (Good & Gather)

Target’s Good & Gather line focuses on quality ingredients, and you might find gluten free sprinkles among their offerings.

4. Whole Foods Market (365 Everyday Value)

Whole Foods focuses on healthier and organic options. Their 365 Everyday Value brand could have gluten free and naturally-colored sprinkles.

5. Trader Joe’s

Trader Joe’s offers a curated selection of products under its own brand, including some baking essentials. Gluten free sprinkles might be among their seasonal or year-round offerings.

6. Safeway/Albertsons (Signature SELECT)

The Signature SELECT brand from Safeway/Albertsons might offer gluten free sprinkles among its baking products.

7. Publix (Publix Brand)

Publix’s own brand might offer a selection of sprinkles, and some of them could be gluten free.

8. ALDI (Baker’s Corner)

ALDI’s Baker’s Corner brand focuses on baking products, and they might have gluten free sprinkles in their assortment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are all rainbow sprinkles gluten free?

No, not all rainbow sprinkles are gluten free. Always check labels for gluten content and potential cross-contamination.

Do sprinkles have flour?

Typically, no. Sprinkles are sugar-based, but always check labels for specific ingredients & allergens.

Are cake make sprinkles gluten free?

Some are, but always check labels for gluten content and cross-contamination risks.

What are sprinkles made out of?

Sprinkles are made from sugar, cornstarch, hydrogenated vegetable oil, wax, and artificial colors/flavors. Ingredients can vary by brand.

Are Betty Crocker sprinkles Celiac safe?

Betty Crocker sprinkles do not contain gluten.

For a sweet treat, make this Edible Sugar Cookie Dough!