Becky Excell on making a gluten-free Christmas that doesn't compromise on flavour

Becky’s enthusiasm for festive favourites extends to cookies and traybakes, which she says are great for sharing. “You can use up all sorts of ingredients from your cupboards – leftover chocolate, dried fruit, even the crumbs from gluten-free biscuits!” Her signature Christmas creations often involve making use of storecupboard essentials, transforming them into showstopping festive bakes.

Overcoming challenges with gluten-free baking

For Becky, one of the greatest joys of her career is debunking the myth that gluten-free baking has to be complicated or subpar. “The key is to understand your flours,” she explains. “You can’t always do a straight swap with regular flour. A mix of rice flour, tapioca starch, and a little xanthan gum works wonders.” She’s also a fan of using nut flours like almond for added flavour and texture.

Becky’s trial-and-error journey has made her an expert at troubleshooting common pitfalls. Her top tip? “Always let your dough rest – it makes it much easier to handle.” This simple yet vital step can make all the difference, especially during the chaos of Christmas baking.

Favourite festive comforts

Becky’s love for Christmas is rooted in family traditions and the comfort of sharing food. “My favourite festive dish has to be stuffing,” she says with a smile. Her go-to recipe includes gluten-free breadcrumbs, sage, onion and a touch of apple for sweetness. It’s a dish that reminds her of family gatherings and the joy of eating together without restrictions.

Desserts are another highlight of her Christmas table. Becky is known to whip up a gluten-free Christmas pudding that rivals any traditional version. “It’s all about the spices and the mix of fruits. Get that right and nobody misses the gluten.”

Cooking for loved ones

Cooking for friends and family is a central theme in Becky’s culinary life. “There’s something magical about watching someone take a bite and realise it’s gluten-free,” she shares. Christmas, in particular, is a time for Becky to showcase how inclusive food can be. Her spreads feature a mix of traditional and creative dishes, catering to all dietary needs while still feeling indulgent.

Becky encourages everyone to give gluten-free baking a go, even if they’re not avoiding gluten themselves. “You never know when a guest might have dietary requirements, and it’s such a lovely way to make them feel welcome.” Her recipes aim to bridge the gap between those with and those without dietary restrictions, proving that good food truly is for everyone.

What good food means

For Becky, good food is all about creating memories and making people feel cared for. “It’s the joy of sitting down at the table and sharing something you’ve made with love,” she reflects. Whether it’s a gluten-free mince pie or a hearty stuffing, Becky’s festive favourites showcase her dedication to making food inclusive and delicious.

This Christmas, Becky’s advice is simple: “Don’t overthink it. Enjoy the process and share the joy – because that’s what food is all about.”