I first met my lifelong nemesis — tree nuts — when I was just seven years old. My mother, in an innocent attempt to jazz up our Thanksgiving meal, chopped walnuts for a dish. Moments later, my eyes swelled completely shut. I looked like a childhood boxer who had lost the fight. That was my introduction to allergies.
A similar scene replayed itself the night before my first ski lesson at Boreal Ridge in Tahoe. My Uncle Howard took us out for a cozy fireside dinner, where I eagerly chomped on a Russian Tea Cake. Big mistake. My tongue swelled, my throat itched, and hives spread across my skin like wildfire. As the years rolled on, my reactions got progressively worse. Eventually, my breathing was affected, and many hospital visits followed — definitely not by choice. It just happened.
These days, I never leave home without my EpiPen. I even make sure it’s noted on my reservations: “Allergic to tree nuts.” I steer clear of bread, desserts, and pretty much anything that might harbor those sneaky little allergens. I’ve been known to mindfully eat as I see a floating almond slice in my salad… Had a few comped dinners and escapes from restaurants with a crew of paramedics.
But I’ll admit — one of the reasons I’m such a fan of Japanese cuisine is because 99% of the time, it’s only sesame seeds I have to look out for — and those for me are allergy-free.
Cooking has become my safe haven — hence the first half of my career. I always will love it… Yet, I know the struggle others face when it comes to cooking for someone with severe allergies. People often seem afraid to cook for me, worried they might slip up.
If you have a loved one navigating the royal pain-in-the-ass reality of tree nut allergies, I’ve got you covered.
Here’s a list of my favorite tree-nut-free goodies — because sometimes fruits and veggies just don’t cut it. These treats are safe to share, absolutely delicious, and guaranteed to please.
Quick heads-up: I do earn a small commission if you decide to purchase through these links. But trust me, I’ve personally tried every single one of these and put my heart and soul into recommending only the best for you.
Some of my favorite go-to treats and snacks — perfect for mindful munching, whether you’re topping a smoothie, spreading on fruit, or enjoying straight out of the bag!
🔗 Raaka Chocolate Best Sellers Trio — One of my two favorite nut-free chocolates. Organic, vegan, fair trade, soy-free, non-GMO, and gluten-free. Perfect for a guilt-free treat.
🔗 Pascha Organic Dark Chocolate Bars, 85% Cacao — My other favorite! Rich, dark, and delicious. UTZ certified, gluten-free, and non-GMO.
🔗 Julian Bakery® ProGranola® Cereal, Vanilla Cinnamon — A great once-in-a-while smoothie topper or a crunchy handful straight from the bag.
🔗 SunButter Organic Sunflower Butter — Perfect right off the spoon or spread on a banana with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
🔗 PALEO TIGER Crunchy Tiger Nut Butter — Such a wonderful, unique find! I love mixing it with a little protein powder for an extra boost. AIP, paleo-compliant, nut-free, and full of prebiotic goodness.
🔗 LIVING TREE COMMUNITY FOODS Organic Raw Tahini — Delicious on its own or blended into a smoothie or yogurt bowl. Raw tahini is something special!
🔗 Sunfood Superfoods Chocolate Cacao Nibs — So good as a smoothie topper or mixed into cottage cheese for a crunchy, chocolatey twist. I happen to love it in my iced matcha!
🔗 Artisana Organics Raw Coconut Butter — My all-time most decadent ingredient! It’s like white chocolate — amazing for topping smoothies or making truffles. YUM!
🔗 New Primal Grass Fed Beef Sticks — The most convenient travel snack ever. Keto, gluten-free, sugar-free, high-protein, and Whole30 approved.
🔗 Kale Bros, The Classic Kale Chips — Perfect for hikes, picnics, or anytime you want a light, crispy snack. Vegan, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly.
Many of these ingredients are featured in the recipes I created for my 14 Mood-Boosting Superfoods Guide.. Get it HERE! Grab more recipes to Make Your Nut Free Snacks at Home. LINK HERE.
I’d love to hear which one becomes your NEW favorite! 😉