A green and highly efficient synthesis of 5,5-(phenylmethylene)bis(1,3-dioxane-4,6-dione) derivatives through tandem Knoevenagel condensation and Michael addition of aromatic aldehydes and 1,3-dioxane-4,6-dione in gluconic acid aqueous solution (GAAS) is described. Gluconic acid aqueous solution could be recycled and reused several times without significant loss of its effciency.