Good news, bread lovers! No matter if you’re giving the gluten-free lifestyle a try, avoiding gluten due to a diagnosed medical condition (like celiac disease), or simply limiting this protein from your diet, you can eat your bread and enjoy it too. Hallelujah!! That’s right — with so many healthy and delicious bread alternatives, you no longer have to settle for gluten-free bread that tastes like cardboard. But, that doesn’t mean all gluten-free bread is healthy. And — if we’re being totally honest — there are some gluten-free options out there that still taste like cardboard!
So in an effort to make your gluten-free journey simple, seamless, and of course, delicious, we’re breaking down the best gluten-free bread options on the market. And trust me, as a true bread-lover, I’m no easy grader. In order to get the green light, these healthy gluten-free bread alternatives had to score high in three categories: taste, texture, and nutrition.
Ahead, the best gluten-free bread on the market. Because your bread-loving heart deserves the very best.
RELATED: 5 Delicious Treat Recipes You Would Never Know Were Gluten-Free
What Is Gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. It gives bread its chewy, spongy texture; essentially, it’s the protein that holds bread together. If you’ve ever kneaded dough (or watched the dough kneading process), you know it’s a heavy-handed process that involves stretching and rolling the dough. What you’re really doing is strengthening the gluten strands to create a light, airy, elastic-like texture. But if the dough is not thoroughly kneaded (or made with the proper gluten-free replacements), you’ll end up with a thick, dense block of bread. Remember that cardboard-like bread I mentioned earlier? Yeah, that.
The good news is that you can achieve that chewy, airy bread texture we all know and love, sans gluten. Gluten isn’t a must-have ingredient, but if you’re leaving it out, you must replace it with the proper ingredients.
How to Choose a Gluten-Free Bread
First, you’ll want to verify the bread is gluten-free! The best way to confirm this is with an FDA-certified gluten-free label. When looking at the ingredient list, you’ll want to avoid ingredients such as: wheat, barley, rye, malt, and brewer’s yeast.
And aside from gluten, there are some other not-so-healthy ingredients you’ll want to avoid. Steer clear of refined, processed, and artificial ingredients, as well as excess sugar or sodium. The healthiest breads have a short, simple ingredient list with whole food ingredients. Ideally, you’ll want to choose gluten-free breads that use natural sweeteners (like honey), and healthy grain alternatives (like coconut flour or almond flour).
RELATED: What You Really Need to Know About Baking With Gluten-Free Flour
The 10 Best Gluten-Free Breads
Ahead, the must-have gluten-free breads and our favorite ways to enjoy them! Note: For optimal freshness, we recommend storing these breads in the freezer. Because they are free of preservatives and made with whole food ingredients (win-win), they may spoil easily if stored outside of the fridge or freezer!
#1 Canyon Bakehouse 7-Grain Bread
This 7-grain bread is free from nuts, dairy, gluten, and soy and is made with nutrient-dense (gluten-free) grains such as whole-grain sorghum, brown rice, and whole-grain millet. It toasts and freezes well and has a similar texture and size to regular bread. With just 2 grams of sugar, it’s a healthy option for any gluten-free dieter! With that said, it does contain eggs. While it may not be best suited for vegans or plant-based eaters, it’s a great whole-grain, gluten-free option for vegetarians and consumers who enjoy eggs.
Per 1 slice serving: 90 calories, 1.5g fat (0 g saturated), 17g carbs, 110mg sodium, 2g sugar, 1g fiber, 2g protein
#2 Food For Life Sprouted Gluten-Free Flax Bread
This tasty choice is not only gluten-free, but it’s also loaded with plant-based nutrients such as organic and sprouted quinoa, millet, chia, and flax seeds! Sprouted nuts, grains, and seeds are easier to digest and have more bioavailable nutrients. Therefore, this gluten-free bread is a great option for anyone with a sensitive digestive system. It is 100% plant-based, rich in fiber and Omega-3 fatty acids, and contains just one gram of sugar (coming from natural sources like applesauce).
Per 1 slice serving: 110 calories, 2.5g fat (0 g saturated), 21g carbs, 115mg sodium, 1g sugar, 4g fiber, 2 g protein
#3 Outer Aisle Cauliflower Sandwich Thins
Looking for a low-carb, gluten-free bread alternative that’s healthy and wholesome? Look no further. This Cauliflower Bread is a deliciously nutritious alternative to processed bread (and all grain-based breads, in general)! It’s made from four simple ingredients: Cauliflower, Eggs, Cheese, and Nutritional Yeast. Keep in mind the dairy and egg ingredients make it an unsuitable choice for vegan bread-eaters. With that said, this healthy variety is Keto and Paleo-friendly and free from flour, gums, soy, and nuts. And thanks to the cauliflower, it has one serving of veggies in every 2 pieces! Plus, it’s packed with protein while remaining low in carbs, calories, sugar, and fat.
Try it in various flavors such as: Jalapeno, Italian, Original, and Everything.
Per 2 piece serving: 100 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated), 3g carbs, 240mg sodium, 1g sugar, 1g fiber, 9g protein
#4 Zukkee Kitchen Sourdough Bread
(Image Source: Zukkee’s)
This organic, gluten-free bread is truly *chefs kiss* and worth the extra penny. Not only is it vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free, but this Zukkee’s Sourdough bread is also made with the highest quality ingredients, such as organic sorghum and brown rice flour. Even the water used to make it is as pure as ever (it’s made with 7.4 pH pure spring water that’s gone through advanced filtration). While it’s harder to find, you’ll be supporting a small business in California with an inspiring mission. Plus, all loaves are handcrafted, and based on taste and quality!
Per 1 serving slice of plain: 78 calories, 2.6g fat (0 g saturated), 16.9g carbs, 182 mg sodium, 0.1 g sugar, 0.9 g fiber, 1.4 g protein
#5 Bread SRSLY Gluten-Free Sourdough
If you’ve been searching for the best gluten-free sourdough bread on the market… you’re going to want to give this delicious brand a try! Bread SRSLY uses a traditional sourdough fermentation that’s free of gluten and made with wholesome ingredients like organic rice, millet, and sorghum. It’s completely plant-based, free from refined ingredients, and has a taste to die for! It’s soft, fluffy, and everything you’d want a slice of sourdough to be. Did we mention it’s free from the top 8 allergens and comes in a variety of flavors?
You can find their Gluten-Free Sourdough varieties in the following flavors: Cinnamon Raisin Classic and Seeded.
Per 1 slice serving of Classic Sourdough serving: 110 calories, 1g fat (0 g saturated), 23g carbs, 200mg sodium, 0g sugar, 1g fiber, 2g protein
#6 Base Culture Original Keto Bread
This grain-free, gluten-free, dairy-free bread is not only tasty, but it’s incredibly nutritious! The Original Keto Flavor is made with simple whole food ingredients such as almond flour, eggs, almond butter, flax, apple cider vinegar, and psyllium husk. It’s keto-friendly with a bland, nutty taste and consistency similar to regular bread. It’s higher in fat and protein, making it a more satiating option. Try it toasted with avocado or nut butter or topped with your favorite sandwich fixings!
P.S. It comes in different gluten-free flavors and varieties, including non-keto options. Flavors include Cinnamon Raisin, 7 Nut & Seed, Sourdough, Simple White, Soft Sandwich, and Cheese Bread.
Per 1 slice serving: 110 calories, 6 g fat (0.5g saturated), 8g carbs, 180mg sodium, 0g sugar, 4g fiber, 4g protein
#7 Simple Kneads Gluten-Free Bread
Simple Kneads Gluten-Free Bread comes in three delicious flavors: Quinoa Power Grains, Pumpkinickel, and Sourdough. If the tasty names aren’t enough to convince you, the nutrition facts of this healthy gluten-free bread will surely do the trick! All three varieties are free from refined and artificial ingredients. Instead, they’re made with whole food sources such as quinoa, sorghum, buckwheat, flax, and sunflower seeds. With just 90 calories per slice and natural sweetness coming solely from raisins, what’s not to love?!
Per 1 slice serving of Sourdough: 90 calories, 2g fat (0g saturated), 16g carbs, 160mg sodium, 0g sugar, 3g fiber, 3g protein
#8 Unbun Bread
The best gluten-free bread is made with real, whole-food ingredients. So naturally, this nutrient-dense Unbun Bread gets a spot on our list. It’s made with a mix of almond flour, eggs, flax, coconut flour, extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and psyllium husk. Although it’s not vegan, it’s grain-free and keto-friendly, making it a suitable (and nutritious) choice for a wide range of dietary plans. It has a light, spongy texture and is one of the top-rated gluten-free bread choices among consumers. Best of all, it’s rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, helping to keep you satiated and energized. It has more of a multi-grain flavor and has a similar texture to plain bread. Try it toasted on top of a burger or as a healthy alternative to refined white bread!
Per 1 slice serving: 90 calories, 6.5 g fat (1g saturated), 6g carbs, 225mg sodium, 1g sugar, 4g fiber, 3.5g protein
#9 Julian Bakery Almond Bread
This Paleo almond-based bread is one of the best gluten-free breads on the market, based on ingredients and taste! It’s made with wholesome ingredients like almond flour, coconut flour, egg whites, and psyllium husk and is free from any artificial ingredients or preservatives. Plus, it comes in at just 60 calories per slice, with 7 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber per one slice serving! This is a great option for anyone looking to maximize their nutrients without overindulging on calories, carbs, and fat. Store this bread in the fridge to preserve freshness, and enjoy it whenever you’re looking to satisfy your bread cravings!
It comes in other yummy flavors, too such as: Coconut, Keto, and Seed Medley Bread!
Per 1 slice serving: 60 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated), 6g carbs, 115mg sodium, 1g sugar, 5g fiber, 7g protein
#10 Simple Mills Artisan Bread
Enjoying this Simple Mills Gluten-Free Bread requires a little extra effort (you have to bake it!) but trust us, it’s well worth it. And honestly, what’s better than fresh-out-of-the-oven bread!? Especially when it’s gluten-free, grain-free, and paleo-friendly. This Simple Mills bread mix is made with a handful of simple ingredients, including almond flour, arrowroot, and flax. To bake it, all you need is vinegar, eggs, and a dash of oil! You can even bake it into flatbread or dinner rolls — yum. While the bread mix is plant-based, the batter calls for the addition of eggs. But good news, plant-based bread-lovers — you can swap flax eggs in this recipe to keep it vegan!
Searching for other nutritious gluten-free baked goods? Simple Mills makes yummy Pancake and Waffle Mixes, Almond Flour Baking Mixes, and store-bought Crackers and Cookies.
Per 1 slice serving: 120 calories, 7g fat (0.5g saturated), 12g carbs, 200mg sodium, 1g sugar, 2g fiber, 3g protein
14 Tasty Ways to Enjoy Gluten-Free Bread
- Serve it up with an omelet or egg scramble and a side of avocado
- Make an avocado toast topped with a hard-boiled egg
- Bake it into a healthy french toast
- Use it as the base for a healthy bruschetta
- Turn it into DIY croutons and use it as a salad topper
- Toast it up and serve it with a bowl of soup or chili
- Slather it with a serving of nut butter and sliced banana for a tasty post-workout snack
- Top it with greek yogurt, avocado, and tuna for an open-faced sandwich
- Fill it with hummus and roasted veggies for a loaded veggie lunch
- Use it as a bun alternative for grilled salmon, beef, or portabella mushrooms
- Make a healthy PB&J with unsweetened nut butter and homemade chia jam
- Transform your bread into a DIY pizza by toasting it and topping it with tomato sauce, shredded cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings of choice
- Serve it with whipped coconut or ricotta, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey
- Make homemade breadcrumbs and use it as a topping in pasta dishes or as a coating for grilled protein or veggies
My Top 3 Gluten-Free Bread Picks (& My Favorite Ways to Enjoy Them!)
#1 Classic Avocado Toast On Unbun Bread
Of course, I had to test the best gluten-free bread for avocado toast because… I wouldn’t be a true bread lover if I didn’t. And let me tell you, this didn’t disappoint! Unbun bread is reminiscent of whole-grain toast. It is light and airy out of the bag, and with a quick toast, it yields the perfect crunchy texture. Load it up with avocado and your favorite toppings — like smoked salmon, fresh tomato, and cucumber, or sprinkled with nutritional yeast — and feast away!
#2 Coconut Cinnamon Yogurt Toast Made With Base Culture Paleo Bread
99% of the time, I’m Team Sweet > Savory. So, as you can imagine, Cinnamon Raisin toast is my jam. If I’m not topping my cinnamon-flavored toast with sliced banana and nut butter, I’m loading it up with coconut yogurt and all the toppings. I tried Base Culture’s Gluten-Free Cinnamon Raisin toast and… yum. It has a subtle sweetness thanks to the raisins and the soft, spongy texture of bread. Plus, it toasted up perfectly. What more could you ask for?
This would also taste delicious as the base for french toast, or paired with over-easy eggs for a sweet and savory breakfast!
#3 Loaded Hummus & Veggie Cauliflower Sandwich
I used the Outer Aisle Cauliflower sandwich for this recipe, and — you heard it here first — I’m officially swapping my coconut tortillas and toasted bread for this veggie-based alternative. It’s light yet filling, not to mention, packed with protein (9 grams per serving). Plus it’s incredibly flavorful (as a note, I used the “everything but the bagel” flavor). And unlike most gluten-free alternatives, this cauliflower-based sandwich thin actually passed the loaded sandwich test — yep, it holds all of your toppings without falling apart or crumbling. It’s a winner, for sure!
Bonus Recipe: 2-Ingredient Single-Serve Gluten-Free Flatbread (Simple & Homemade!)
Ingredients:
- ½ cup gluten-free or paleo flour of choice (we used Bob’s Red Mill GF Paleo baking flour)
- ½ cup plain coconut yogurt, unsweetened (such as harmless harvest or cocojune)
- Optional add-ins: Freshly squeezed lemon juice, or your favorite seasonings such as rosemary, sea salt, or black pepper
- Cooking oil, to coat the pan
Directions:
Step #1: In a small bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, plain coconut yogurt, and any additional add-ins of choice, such as a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or sprinkle of seasoning. Mix into a dough, and then form into one large ball.
Step #2: Flat the ball into an oval or circle to form a single-serve flatbread shape.
Step #3: Heat a non-stick frying pan with oil, then add the flatbread to the pan. Cook for several minutes on each side, until golden brown. Serve warm with your favorite dip or spread (such as guac or hummus), or use as a base for sandwiches or as a toast alternative!
The Takeaway
If you’re giving gluten-free eating a go, there’s no need to give up your favorite foods or sacrifice taste for nutrition. You can have the best of both worlds! And the best part? There’s something for everyone. No matter if you follow a plant-based, paleo, or keto diet, there’s a gluten-free bread ready to satisfy all your needs. So go ahead, indulge in these tried-and-true healthy gluten-free breads — you might even enjoy them more than the real deal!
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