Soft White Gluten Free Bread Recipe (2024)

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Learn how to make the best soft, white gluten free bread recipe easily from scratch! Homemade sandwich bread is made from simple ingredients, comes together in minutes, and will be your new go-to gluten free, dairy free recipe!

Soft White Gluten Free Bread Recipe (1)

Best recipe for gluten-free bread

It has taken me years to fully stand behind a gluten free sandwich bread recipe. Every homemade recipe I tried was difficult, time consuming, and yielded the most disappointing results.

For the longest time, buying expensive, subpar store-bought gf bread sufficed because at least I was saving time!

So many readers, though, have asked for a great-tasting gluten free bread. Just like in my gluten-free rolls recipe and gluten-free biscuits, there have been a lot of trials, but I finally landed on a recipe that exceeds my essential criteria.

  • Easy to make! It mixes together in one bowl, has one short rise, and bake.
  • Simple ingredients I have stocked and ready at all times
  • Quick and effortless – No one wants to spend all day making a loaf of bread.
  • Most important – Tastes BETTER than any gluten free bread out there. Seriously.

I wouldn’t stand behind this recipe if I didn’t feel it 100% met all these crucial elements. I know what it feels like to waste precious time and expensive ingredients, and I wasn’t about to add another recipe to that vortex!

I truly hope this recipe makes all your gluten free dreams come true, just as much as it has for me! Read the comments below to see how this magical bread recipe has transformed many readers’ lives, then check out many more highly-reviewed gluten-free bread recipes!

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Ingredients Needed

Since sandwich bread is an everyday staple, the ingredients should be simple, affordable, and ready to go whenever. This recipe also works perfectly for gluten-free stuffing or gluten-free bread crumbs.

Many readers love this homemade bread recipe so much, they ask if they can shape it into other types of breads. The GF bread category on the site includes many adaptations, including homemade gluten-free hot dog buns, rolls, and more!

  • Gluten-free flour – Using a good gluten free flour (I highly recommend Cup4Cup GF flour) makes or breaks the quality of the bread. I tested the recipe with different flours to make sure it consistently turns out, but some performed handedly better than others. See below for what to use and avoid.
  • Psyllium Husk Powder – I’ve made the bread multiples with and without the psyllium husk powder. It doesn’t affect the taste, but it does help maintain moisture and prevents the bread from becoming crumbly. Learn more about the benefits of psyllium in gluten-free breads here!
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Instant (Rapid Rise) Yeast – I would suggest buying this is bulk and storing in your refrigerator.
  • Honey – Granulated sugar may be substituted
  • Eggs
  • Oil – Or substitute the same amount of melted butter, but not for gluten-free dairy-free bread.

How to make gluten-free bread

(Below shows step-by-step photos and modified instructions. For the complete recipe, along with ingredient amounts, scroll down to the recipe card.)

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Soft White Gluten Free Bread Recipe (4)
Soft White Gluten Free Bread Recipe (5)
  1. First combine the dry ingredients in a bowl of a stand mixer. Use the paddle attachment to combine on low speed.
  2. Add the liquid ingredients – warm water, eggs, honey, and oil. Mix on low to combine for 1 minute.
  3. Increase speed to medium and beat for 5 minutes. This gives time to hydrate and relax the starches so your bread is soft instead of gritty.
  4. Scrape the dough into a greased bread pan. Spray a large piece of plastic wrap with nonstick spray and lay over the top of the pan. Set the pan in a warm place while the oven preheats to 350ºF, about 30-45 minutes. The bread should rise almost the top of the pan.
  5. Bake bread for 40-45 minutes, tenting a piece of foil loosely over the bread for the last 20 minutes. or until the internal temperature reaches 205ºF.

Best Gluten-Free Flour to use for bread

Once the recipe was perfected, it was tested with three different gluten free flours to make sure the results were consistent.

Using information from the best gluten free flour article, I eliminated using Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 GF Flour because it had such disappointing results across the board.

I tested with Cup4Cup, which rates as the top gluten free flour, King Arthur Measure-for-Measure, and Pillsbury gluten free flour because some readers have been asking about its performance.

From an ease and baking standpoint, they all performed well. Pillsbury had the most solid structure, which turned out to be a not very good thing. Cup 4 Cup was the softest, with King Arthur in between.

As far as taste, Cup 4 Cup was the clear winner. There was nothing “gluten free” tasting about the bread. It was soft, squishy, and slightly sweet.

(By the way, Cup4Cup also handedly won out in the best all purpose flour for gluten free banana bread as well.)

King Arthur still tasted good and had a favorable texture, but had a strong rustic taste to it. It reminded me more of wheat bread than white bread.

Sadly the bread made with GF Pillsbury flour went straight into the trash. It tasted like dry cardboard and was inedible. Pillsbury gluten free flour might work for other recipes, but definitely did not work well with this one!

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best yeast to use

Instant Rapid Rise yeast, either Red Star or Fleishman’s brand is best. Instant yeast has smaller granules so it does not have to be proofed before using.Just be sure your water is warm enough to activate the yeast while mixing.

If you only have active dry yeast on hand, that will work as well. Simply add the yeast to the warm water with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Stir and let it sit for 5 minutes. Once it’s foamy, add to the dry ingredients with the eggs, honey and oil.

how to know when gluten-free bread is done

I highly recommend using an instant read thermometer to check the temperature when baking gluten free. Typically, the bread will “look” done before it’s actually done adequately baking.

If you pull the bread too soon the liquids won’t have time to evaporate and it will be gummy and dense, instead of soft and fluffy.

The internal temperature should reach 205ºF. Checking quickly with an instant read thermometer will help the bread retain valuable heat while the temp is being read. A Thermoworks Thermapen does this efficiently and accurately.

storing and freezing

Gluten-free bread does not have the shelf life like normal bread. Refrigerating will dry it out, and is not recommended. It may be wrapped tightly and left at room temperature, but will lose optimal taste and texture quickly.

For best results, slice and freeze the bread after it has completely cooled (at least 3 hours). Pull slices as needed from the freezer to defrost or toast from frozen.

important note about serving

Generally GF bread requires toasting or a buttered griddle to taste good, but not with the best gluten free bread recipe! Room temperature bread is soft, fluffy, and delicious tasting!

However, please note, if pulling from the freezer and serving at room temp, thoroughly defrost the bread first. If it is chilled slightly it will become more crumbly.

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Dairy-free modification

All the ingredients in this gluten-free bread recipe are dairy-free. However, if you choose to use Cup4Cup brand flour, it does contain milk powder. If this doesn’t work for you, I recommend using King Arthur Measure-for-Measure instead.

How to make in a bread machine

Although I have not personally tried making this recipe in a bread machine, several readers have written in and said they’ve had great results using one!

You will need a bread machine with a gluten-free setting. Add all the wet ingredients to the bottom of the bread baking pan. Then add the dry ingredients over that. Start the bread machine and set it to the “gluten-free” setting.

Do I need a stand mixer?

Yes and no. It definitely makes the sandwich bread recipe easier to throw together. It may be done with a hand held mixer, but since it uses a large amount of flour, it will be a lot more taxing on the mixer and yourself.

If you don’t want to invest in a stand mixer (although don’t get me started on how obsessed I am with mine!), a gluten-free bread machine would be a cheaper option and just as easy!

Do I Have to add psyllium husk?

No. I’ve made the bread multiples with and without the psyllium husk powder. It doesn’t affect the taste, but it does help maintain moisture, prevents the bread from becoming crumbly, and makes it softer.

Psyllium husk powder is very affordable to buy, lasts a long time, and greatly improves GF breads texture because it helps absorb moisture. It also works well for gluten-free pizza dough and gluten-free cinnamon rolls.

I recommend this brand because the lighter color doesn’t affect the bread. Some powders are darker, which will make GF baked goods a grayish, purple color.

Best Baking Pan to Use

Use a 9X5 or 9X4 loaf pan. A small pullman pan makes bread with the most authentic sandwich bread shape for slicing and conducts heat evenly while baking.

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How to Make Ultra Soft White Gluten Free Bread

Learn how to make the best soft, white gluten free bread recipe easily from scratch! Homemade sandwich bread is made from simple ingredients, comes together in minutes, and will be your new go-to gluten free, dairy free recipe!

4.91 from 282 votes

Print Pin Rate

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 55 minutes minutes

Rising: 45 minutes minutes

Servings: 14

Author: Melissa Erdelac

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Ingredients

Instructions

  • Using a stand mixer with paddle attachment, mix together gluten free flour, yeast, optional psyllium husk powder, baking powder, and salt on low speed until combined.

    3 cups (438g) gluten free all purpose flour,1 packet (2 ¼ tsp, 9g) instant rapid rise yeast,1 tablespoon (11g) psyllium husk powder (optional),1 teaspoon baking powder,1 teaspoon salt

  • Add warm water, eggs, honey, and vegetable oil. Mix on low speed to let the dough come together, about 1 minute.

    1 ½ cups (360g) warm water (110°F),2 eggs,¼ cup (85g) honey,¼ cup (55g) vegetable oil

  • Increase speed to medium and beat for 5 minutes, scraping down paddle and bowl halfway through. The batter will be thinner, slightly thicker than cake batter.

  • Grease a 9X5 or 9X4 baking pan. Pour into the pan and smooth top evenly with a spatula. Spray a large piece of plastic wrap with nonstick cooking spray. Lay the plastic, greased side down, over the pan.

  • Set in a warm, draft-free place to rise until the bread reaches two-thirds to the top of the pan (do not let it go over this point because it rises more in the oven). This should take about 30-45 minutes. Meanwhile preheat oven to 350°F.

  • Remove plastic and bake bread on middle rack for 40-45 minutes, tenting a piece of foil loosely over the bread halfway through. The internal temperature of the bread should read 190-200°F.

  • Allow the loaf to cool for 5 minutes in the pan and then remove to a cooling rack. Allow bread to cool completely, at least 2-3 hours, before slicing. For best results, serve the bread at room temperature, toasted, or grilled. Chilled, cold bread has an adverse effect on texture.

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Recipe Notes

Dairy Free Modification

All the ingredients in this gluten-free bread recipe are dairy-free. However, if you choose to use Cup4Cup brand flour, it does contain milk powder. If this doesn’t work for you, I recommend using King Arthur Measure-for-Measure instead.

Psyllium Husk Powder

I’ve made the bread multiples with and without the psyllium husk powder. It doesn’t affect the taste, but it does help maintain moisture, prevents the bread from becoming crumbly, and makes it softer.

Psyllium husk powder is very affordable to buy, lasts a long time, and greatly improves GF breads texture because it helps absorb moisture.

I recommend the psyllium listed in the ingredientsbecause the lighter color doesn’t affect the bread. Some powders are darker, which will make GF baked goods a grayish, purple color.

How to Make in a Bread Machine

Although I have not personally tried making this recipe in a bread machine, several readers have written in and said they’ve had great results using one!

You will need a bread machine with a gluten-free setting. Add all the wet ingredients to the bottom of the bread baking pan. Then add the dry ingredients over that. Start the bread machine and set it to the “gluten-free” setting.

How to Know When Bread Is Done

I highly recommend using an instant read thermometer to check the temperature when baking gluten free. Typically, the bread will “look” done before it’s actually done adequately baking.

If you pull the bread too soon the liquids won’t have time to evaporate and it will be gummy and dense, instead of soft and fluffy.

The internal temperature should reach 190-205ºF. Checking quickly with an instant read thermometer will help the bread retain valuable heat while the temp is being read. A Thermoworks Thermapen does this efficiently and accurately.

Freezing / Storing

Gluten-free bread does not have the shelf life like normal bread. Refrigerating will dry it out, and is not recommended. It may be wrapped tightly and left at room temperature, but will lose optimal taste and texture quickly.

For best results, slice and freeze the bread after it has completely cooled (at least 3 hours). Pull slices as needed from the freezer to defrost or toast from frozen.

Generally GF bread requires toasting or a buttered griddle to taste good, but not with the best gluten free bread recipe! Room temperature bread is soft, fluffy, and delicious tasting!

However, please note, if pulling from the freezer and serving at room temp, thoroughly defrost the bread first. If it is chilled slightly it will become more crumbly.

Nutrition

Calories: 147kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 23mg | Sodium: 177mg | Potassium: 41mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 34IU | Calcium: 34mg | Iron: 1mg

Course: Bread, gluten free bread

Categories: Baking Breads Dairy Free Fall Freezer-Friendly Gluten Free Healthy(ish) Recipes Spring Summer Winter

This post contains affiliate links. My opinions are always my own. If you purchase a product through an affiliate link, I make a small commission – at no cost to you. Read full disclosure policyhere.

Soft White Gluten Free Bread Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What is the secret to making soft bread? ›

Bread Making Tips For Softer Bread
  1. Do Not Over-Knead Your Dough. ...
  2. Ensure Dough is Well Hydrated. ...
  3. Lubricate With Oil. ...
  4. Add Sugar. ...
  5. Add Eggs. ...
  6. Reduce Baking Time. ...
  7. Create Steam in Oven. ...
  8. Add Milk.
Mar 27, 2023

Which yeast is best for gluten-free bread? ›

What type of yeast should be used to bake Gluten Free Bread? Active dry yeast and instant yeast both work well and are often interchangeable. Be on the lookout for any Rapid Rise yeast that is best for one rise. For most of us that's the way gluten free bread is baked, a single rise in the tin.

How do you make gluten-free bread less dense? ›

here are some tips for making gluten-free bread that is soft and fluffy:
  1. Use a gluten-free flour blend that is specifically designed for bread baking. ...
  2. Add psyllium husk powder to the dough. ...
  3. Let the dough rest for a few minutes after mixing. ...
  4. Don't overmix the dough.
Jul 3, 2023

Does gluten-free bread need more yeast? ›

Again, make sure it is gluten free. Many recipes simply call for double the amount of yeast to lighten up the dough. This is a matter of taste, since the baked goods will have a very strong yeast flavour.

How do you make gluten-free bread more elastic? ›

Made from modified tapioca starch, Expandex adds wheat-like texture to gluten-free bread and also improves the crumb, elasticity, texture, taste, and shelf-life. It can be added directly to your dry ingredients or you can use a mix like in gluten-free honey buckwheat English muffins.

How do bakeries make such soft bread? ›

There's something magical about the bread you get at your local bakeries - they're always sooo soft and fluffy. Many of these breads, especially packaged ones, are made with a ton of chemical additives such as calcium propionate, amylase, and chlorine dioxide which help keep them soft, light, and fluffy for days.

What makes bread super soft and fluffy? ›

Well it's simple, bread flour has an increased amount of protein or more gluten which results in a lighter, fluffier dough which produces a less dense finished product. All-purpose flour can be used for bread but bread flour is always better if your goal is a “fluffier” bread.

What do bakeries put in bread to keep it soft? ›

Commercial bakeries use two types of ingredients to slow spoilage — emulsifiers and enzymes. Emulsifiers keep bread from going stale by preventing oil and water from separating. Adding emulsifiers sometimes goes by the names “crumb softening” or “dough conditioning” because it works to preserve texture.

Which gluten-free flour makes the best bread? ›

Best for Bread: Judee's All-Purpose Gluten-Free Bread Flour

The blend of tapioca, potato and corn starch, plus rice and corn flour, has a neutral flavor. The dough also has sugar and salt added, so most recipes require only adding yeast, oil and water.

Is it cheaper to make your own gluten-free bread? ›

Luckily, gluten-free bread is much tastier and cheaper if you make it at home. You can bake gluten-free bread in an oven, but if you regularly bake gluten-free bread, I highly recommend investing in a bread maker.

Why does yeast not work with gluten-free flour? ›

Fresh yeast requires two rises, so it is not ideal for gluten free breads, which require only one rise.

What is the biggest challenge of making gluten-free bread? ›

One of the main challenges in making gluten-free bread is achieving the same texture and rise as traditional wheat bread.

Why do you put vinegar in gluten-free bread? ›

Apple Cider Vinegar – Superpower your Gluten-Free Kitchen! Apple cider vinegar is often used in baking, but why? It is a great leavening agent, but it also has powerful flavour enhancing properties. I find it adds the perfect amount of depth of flavour, and helps activate baking soda creating a lovely airy texture.

Does gluten-free bread need to rise longer? ›

If you can let the gluten free bread dough rise overnight in a cool — not warm — place, the slower rise will provide a stronger cell structure and more of a sourdough flavor when baked the next day. A refrigerated overnight rise is a great way to get a longer proof without weakening the bread's structure.

How do you heat gluten free bread? ›

Gluten Free Bread keeps best in the fridge or freezer.

When you want bread, pull it out and reheat it in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds. It will taste just like it did when it first came out of the oven.

Why is gluten free bread hard to toast? ›

Most gluten free bread is more moist than wheat recipe breads. It is made that way because the grains it is from absorb moisture in a different way and tend to dry out much faster. The higher moisture content of the bread has to be cooked off first before the bread can start to heat up enough to brown.

How do you make bread soft after hardening? ›

If your bread is especially hard, brush the outside with water before wrapping it. Then, heat it on the center rack of your oven for about 30 minutes for a whole loaf; or 15 to 20 minutes for a partial loaf, or if you have a long, skinny loaf like a baguette.

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