Is Peppermint & dark chocolate cookies Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I evaluate ingredients based on their source and potential dietary impact. For these Peppermint & dark chocolate cookies, the verdict is clear due to one specific ingredient.

The primary culprit is Unbleached Enriched Wheat Flour. This is the structural base of the cookie, derived from wheat. Since wheat is one of the major gluten-containing grains (along with barley and rye), the presence of this flour immediately disqualifies the product from being considered gluten-free. Even if the other ingredients, like the Chocolate Chips or Madagascar Vanilla Extract, are naturally gluten-free, the flour makes the entire product unsafe for those avoiding gluten.

It is also important to note that the product contains Butter and Egg, meaning it is not dairy-free or vegan. However, for the specific question of gluten, the wheat flour is the definitive factor.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, these cookies are a classic indulgence. The combination of Cane Sugar and Brown Sugar contributes to a high glycemic load, providing a quick burst of energy but likely leading to a crash later. The Butter adds saturated fat, which gives the cookies their rich texture and flavor but increases the calorie count significantly.

While the Dark Chocolate and Cocoa Powder offer some antioxidants, the amount of sugar and fat per serving generally outweighs these benefits. These cookies should be viewed as a treat to be enjoyed in moderation rather than a health food. They do not fit the criteria for low-calorie or low-sugar diet plans.