Gluten-free bread is specifically formulated to exclude gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. However, being gluten-free does not automatically mean the bread is dairy-free.
Dairy-free bread is made without milk or milk-derived products, such as whey, casein, or lactose. Some gluten-free breads might also be dairy-free, while others may contain dairy ingredients. To determine if gluten-free bread is dairy-free, it’s essential to read the ingredient list on the packaging carefully. Look for common dairy ingredients like milk, milk powder, whey, casein, lactose, or butter.
If you have a dairy allergy or intolerance, make sure to choose a bread that is labeled both gluten-free and dairy-free to meet your dietary needs.
Top Brands that make Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Breads
Canyon Bakehouse
Canyon Bakehouse offers a variety of gluten-free and dairy-free bread options, including loaves, buns, and bagels. Their breads have a soft texture and a pleasant taste, making them a popular choice for those with dietary restrictions. They use brown rice flour, tapioca flour, and potato starch in their bread formulations.
Schär
It is a well-known European brand specializing in gluten-free products. They offer a range of gluten-free and dairy-free bread options, such as loaves, rolls, and baguettes. Schär breads are known for their good taste and texture, making them a favorite among those with dietary restrictions. Their breads use cornstarch, rice flour, and psyllium seed husks.
Bread SRSLY
The brand focuses on gluten-free sourdough bread that is also dairy-free. Their bread is handcrafted using traditional fermentation methods and is made with organic ingredients like millet flour, sorghum flour, and arrowroot. Bread SRSLY’s sourdough loaves have a unique taste and texture that many gluten-free and dairy-free consumers appreciate.
Pacha
It is a smaller artisan bakery that produces gluten-free and dairy-free breads. They emphasize using high-quality, organic ingredients in their breads, which include options like seeded multigrain and cinnamon raisin. Pacha’s breads have a homemade taste and texture and receive positive reviews for their flavor and quality.
Ener-G Foods
Ener-G Foods specializes in allergy-friendly products and offers a range of gluten-free and dairy-free bread options, including loaves, rolls, and buns. Their breads are made with rice flour, tapioca, and potato starch. Some consumers find their breads denser and drier than other brands, but they still offer a reliable option for those with strict dietary needs.
Kinnikinnick
Kinnikinnick is a Canadian brand known for its gluten-free and dairy-free breads, which include loaves, buns, and bagels. Their breads are made with rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca starch, and they have a good reputation for taste and texture. Kinnikinnick also offers a range of gluten-free and dairy-free baking mixes.
Little Northern Bakehouse
The bakery offers a variety of gluten-free and dairy-free breads, such as loaves, buns, and bagels. Their breads use ingredients like rice flour, whole grain sorghum, and whole grain teff, providing a nutritious option for those with dietary restrictions. Little Northern Bakehouse breads are known for their soft texture and good taste.
Tips for Buying Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Bread
Check the labels: Always read the ingredient list and allergen information on the packaging. Look for a label that explicitly states the bread is both gluten-free and dairy-free. Watch for dairy-derived ingredients such as milk, milk powder, whey, casein, lactose, or butter.
Look for allergen-free certification: Some gluten-free and dairy-free breads may have certification seals from organizations such as the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) or the Allergen Control Group. These certifications can provide additional assurance that the bread meets strict allergen-free guidelines.
Research the brand: Familiarize yourself with brands known for producing high-quality gluten-free and dairy-free products. These companies are more likely to have breads that cater to your dietary needs.
Examine the ingredients: Look for bread made with nutrient-dense, gluten-free flour like almond flour, coconut flour, or teff flour, as well as other wholesome ingredients such as seeds, nuts, or ancient grains.
Be aware of cross-contamination risks: If you are highly sensitive to gluten or dairy, be cautious of breads produced in facilities that also process wheat, barley, rye, or dairy products. Check the packaging for information on the manufacturing environment and allergen handling protocols.
Test different varieties: There are many different types and textures of gluten- and dairy-free bread, so try out various options to find the one that best suits your taste and preferences. Remember that gluten-free breads may have a different texture than traditional wheat-based breads.
Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (e.g., rice flour blend or a mix of rice, tapioca, and potato flour)
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (flax meal)
- 2 tsp xanthan gum (omit if your gluten-free flour blend contains it)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar or honey
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
- 2 large eggs, room temperature (or use egg replacer for egg-free bread)
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, almond flour, ground flaxseed, xanthan gum (if using), and salt in a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
- Combine the sugar (or honey) in a small bowl with warm water. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Add the active dry yeast to the water mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes or until it becomes frothy.
- Whisk together the vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil), eggs (or egg replacer), and apple cider vinegar in another small bowl.
- Pour the yeast mixture and the egg mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a hand or stand mixer with a paddle attachment, mix on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, or until the batter is smooth and well combined. The dough will be sticky and more like a thick batter than traditional bread dough.
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Transfer the dough to the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Cover the pan loosely with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes or until it has risen to the top of the pan.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Once the dough has risen, remove the cloth or plastic wrap and bake the bread for 45-55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment paper overhang and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Bread Alternates
Corn Tortillas
Made from corn flour (masa harina) and water, corn tortillas are a naturally gluten-free and dairy-free alternative to bread. They can be used for tacos, quesadillas, wraps, or even as a base for mini pizzas.
Rice Cakes
Thin, crispy, and made from puffed rice, rice cakes are another gluten-free and dairy-free option. They can be used as a base for open-faced sandwiches, topped with spreads, or as a snack.
Lettuce Wraps
Large lettuce leaves, such as romaine or butterhead lettuce, can be used as a gluten-free and dairy-free wrap for sandwich fillings or burger patties. This option is also low-carb and adds a fresh, crunchy texture.
Collard Green Wraps
Like lettuce wraps, large collard green leaves can be used to wrap sandwich fillings, creating a nutrient-dense, gluten-free, and dairy-free alternative to bread. To make collard green wraps more pliable, trim the thick part of the stem and blanch the leaves in boiling water for about 30 seconds before using.
Sweet Potato “Toast”
Slice sweet potatoes lengthwise into thin slices and toast them in a toaster or oven until cooked through and slightly crispy. This gluten-free and dairy-free alternative can be topped with your favorite spreads, such as avocado, nut butter, or hummus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is White Bread Dairy-Free?
White bread can be dairy-free, but not all white bread is free of dairy ingredients. Always check the ingredient list to ensure it doesn’t contain milk, milk powder, whey, casein, lactose, or butter.
Is Brown Bread Dairy-Free?
Brown bread may or may not be dairy-free, depending on the recipe. Check the ingredient list for dairy-derived components like milk, whey, casein, lactose, or butter.
Is Yeast Bread Dairy-Free?
Yeast bread can be dairy-free, but it depends on the specific recipe. Some yeast breads might contain dairy ingredients, so reading the labels before purchasing or consuming is crucial.
Is Wheat Bread Dairy-Free?
Wheat bread can be dairy-free, but not all wheat breads are without dairy. The ingredient list includes dairy-derived ingredients such as milk, milk powder, whey, casein, lactose, or butter to ensure it’s dairy-free.
Are Flavored Breads Dairy-Free?
Flavored breads can be dairy-free, depending on the flavoring and recipe. Some may contain dairy ingredients, so always check the ingredient list and allergen information before consuming.
Is Udi’s Gluten-Free Bread also Dairy-Free?
Udi’s Gluten-Free Bread is often dairy-free, but it’s essential to check the product’s ingredient list and allergen information to confirm it is both gluten and dairy-free.
