The Two Gluten-Free Girl Scout Cookie Varieties
For those navigating a gluten-free diet, the annual Girl Scout Cookie season can be a confusing time. Fortunately, the organization has made strides to include options that cater to dietary needs. There are currently two main varieties of certified gluten-free cookies offered, though availability depends on the baker that your specific Girl Scout council works with.
Toffee-tastic®
Toffee-tastic® cookies, made by Little Brownie Bakers, are certified gluten-free shortbread-style cookies with toffee bits. They are verified by NSF to meet FDA gluten-free guidelines, although they are baked on equipment that also processes wheat products. The equipment is thoroughly cleaned and tested between batches to maintain gluten-free standards.
Caramel Chocolate Chip
ABC Bakers produces the certified gluten-free Caramel Chocolate Chip cookie. This chewy, oatmeal-based cookie contains caramel and chocolate chips. Unlike Toffee-tastic®, these cookies are made in a dedicated gluten-free facility, which can be an important consideration for individuals with severe gluten sensitivities.
How to Know Which Gluten-Free Cookie is Available in Your Area
Girl Scouts partner with either ABC Bakers or Little Brownie Bakers, and the gluten-free cookie offered by your local council will depend on which baker they use. To determine availability, visit the official Girl Scout cookie finder online, enter your zip code, and check your local council's information. You can also inquire directly with a Girl Scout or at a cookie booth.
Comparing the Gluten-Free Girl Scout Cookies
| Feature | Toffee-tastic® | Caramel Chocolate Chip |
|---|---|---|
| Baker | Little Brownie Bakers | ABC Bakers |
| Flavor Profile | Buttery, shortbread-like cookie with toffee bits | Chewy, oatmeal cookie with caramel and chocolate chips |
| Texture | Crisp, delicate, with a satisfying crunch | Chewy and soft |
| Certification | NSF Certified Gluten-Free | GFCO Certified Gluten-Free |
| Facility | Baked on a production line with wheat, but cleaned and tested to meet standards | Produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility |
| Key Ingredient | Rice Flour, Tapioca Starch | Oat Flour |
How to Order Your Gluten-Free Girl Scout Cookies
- Find a Local Troop: Use the Girl Scout Cookie Finder on the official website to locate nearby booths selling cookies. The booth locator details available cookies.
- Use the Digital Cookie Platform: If you know a Girl Scout, ask for their Digital Cookie® link to order online for delivery.
- Pre-Order: Some councils may require pre-orders for gluten-free cookies due to limited production. Check with a troop member about pre-order timelines.
Considerations for those with Celiac Disease
For those with Celiac disease, the difference in production facilities is important. While both are certified gluten-free, ABC Bakers' Caramel Chocolate Chip cookie is made in a dedicated facility, reducing the risk of cross-contamination compared to Toffee-tastic® which is made on shared equipment with cleaning protocols. Always review product packaging and the baker's website for allergen details. The official Girl Scouts website provides further information on their safety commitment: Official Girl Scouts Website.
Conclusion
Individuals following a gluten-free diet can enjoy Girl Scout cookies thanks to certified options like Toffee-tastic® and Caramel Chocolate Chip. The availability of these distinct cookies depends on your local council's baker. Utilizing the official cookie finder and examining product specifics ensures a safe and enjoyable experience while supporting the Girl Scouts.
