What Is Gluten Free Bread?
Gluten free bread is a specially crafted alternative to traditional bread made without wheat, barley, or rye. Instead, it uses flours like rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour, and often includes ingredients like psyllium husk powder to mimic the elasticity and structure gluten provides.
These breads are essential for people with celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or anyone choosing a gluten free lifestyle. But the real question is—can gluten free bread actually taste good?
Yes—if you know what to look for.
What Does Good Gluten Free Bread Taste Like?
In the past, gluten free bread had a reputation for being dry, crumbly, and bland. But today’s options offer:
- A chewy texture similar to white bread
- Slightly sweet or savory notes
- Moist, springy crumb
- Crusty exteriors for artisan loaves
- Reliable sandwich structure
Flavor and texture depend heavily on the flour blend, binders, and baking method. Some gluten free breads are so good, they’re nearly indistinguishable from their gluten-filled counterparts.
Key Ingredients in Gluten Free Bread
When shopping or baking, look for these ingredients for optimal results:
- Rice flour or sorghum flour – base flour
- Tapioca or potato starch – adds softness
- Instant yeast – allows for a quick rise
- Psyllium husk powder – provides chewiness and elasticity
- Warm water – activates yeast
- Apple cider vinegar – enhances rise and flavor
- Eggs or egg replacements – binders for structure
- Sweeteners – like honey or molasses for flavor
The right combination makes all the difference in texture, rise, and taste.
Best Store-Bought Gluten Free Bread Brands
1. Canyon Bakehouse
- Widely available in grocery stores
- Offers sandwich bread, buns, bagels, and more
- Loved for its flavor and texture
- Best straight from the bag or toasted
2. Little Northern Bakehouse
- Excellent for sandwiches
- Large slices with a soft, spongy texture
- Gluten free and vegan
3. Carbonaut
- Low-carb and keto-friendly
- Has a texture close to white bread
- Slightly chewy with a subtle sweetness
4. Sam’s Choice (Walmart)
- Affordable option
- Shelf-stable and soft
- Flavor can be hit or miss
5. AWG Bakery
- Grain free and gum free
- Made with almond flour and organic ingredients
- Best when toasted
6. Gifted Breads
- Specializes in pretzel baguettes and charcuterie-friendly loaves
- Great warmed and paired with spreads
These options are easily found at grocery stores or ordered online. Always check for affiliate links or discounts when shopping direct.
Best Gluten Free Bread for Sandwiches
The top contenders for sandwich bread include:
- Outside the Breadbox – soft, springy, doesn’t crumble
- Eban’s Bakehouse – great flavor and chew
- Canyon Bakehouse Heritage Style – larger slices, ideal for French toast and grilled cheese
These breads offer the structure and flavor that make them perfect for daily use.
Baking Your Own Gluten Free Bread
Love baking? Here’s a basic outline for a gluten free bread recipe that’s easy and satisfying.
Basic Gluten Free Sandwich Bread Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2½ cups gluten free flour blend
- 1 tbsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar or honey
- 1 tbsp oil (olive or avocado)
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp psyllium husk powder
- 1½ cups warm water
Instructions:
- Mix dry ingredients: flour blend, salt, yeast, sugar, psyllium.
- Add wet ingredients: warm water, oil, vinegar.
- Stir into a thick batter. Let rise 45–60 minutes in a warm spot.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (oven temperature matters!).
- Bake 35–40 minutes or until golden and firm.
Let cool completely before slicing. Toast to enhance flavor and texture.
Gluten Free Bread for Every Use
Whether you’re prepping toast, sandwiches, or brunch recipes, here’s how to choose:
| Use | Recommended Bread |
|---|---|
| Sandwiches | Canyon Bakehouse, Outside the Breadbox |
| Toast | Little Northern Bakehouse |
| French toast | Carbonaut, Eban’s Bakehouse |
| Croutons / Stuffing | AWG Bakery, Homemade |
For French toast, opt for slightly sweet or neutral-flavored loaves with good absorption.
Where to Buy Gluten Free Bread
You can find top gluten free bread at:
- Grocery stores (Whole Foods, Walmart, Kroger)
- Online via Amazon, brand websites
- Specialty gluten free bakeries
- Farmer’s markets and health food stores
Pro tip: Look for affiliate links on gluten free blogs or newsletters for deals and shipping discounts.
How to Store Gluten Free Bread
- Refrigerate: If you don’t eat it within 3–4 days.
- Freeze: Most GF breads freeze well. Slice first!
- Toast from frozen: Works great and saves time.
- Keep in an airtight bag to prevent drying out.
Tips for Better Texture and Flavor
- Toast lightly before serving
- Add butter or spreads to enhance taste
- Use in recipes like bread pudding or stuffing
- Sprinkle with herbs or seeds before baking
Don’t be afraid to experiment with flour blends, oven temperature, and bake times to find your favorite version.
Final Thoughts
Gluten free bread has come a long way—and today, you don’t have to settle for dry, flavorless slices. Whether you choose to buy it at the store or bake your own, there are countless options that offer a chewy texture, great flavor, and all the comfort of real bread.
Explore brands like Canyon Bakehouse, Little Northern Bakehouse, or Outside the Breadbox, or bake your own with simple ingredients like rice flour, instant yeast, and husk powder. Just remember, the best gluten free bread is the one that makes you feel nourished and happy to eat.