If you’re gluten intolerant, have celiac disease, or simply prefer gluten-free options, finding delicious donuts can be a challenge. This list covers some of the best gluten free donut brands available in the market, highlighting what makes each unique and why they’re worth trying. Whether you want store-bought convenience or artisan quality, this guide will help you discover tasty gluten free donuts that don’t compromise on flavor or texture.
1. Erin McKenna’s Bakery
Erin McKenna’s Bakery is a pioneer in allergen-friendly baked goods, offering a full line of gluten free donuts that are also vegan and free from the top 8 allergens. Their donuts are made from a blend of rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca, creating a moist, tender crumb that rivals traditional donuts. Available frozen online and in select stores, they come in classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and cinnamon sugar, making them a reliable choice for those with multiple dietary restrictions.
2. The Good Crisp Company
Known primarily for their gluten free snacks, The Good Crisp Company recently expanded into gluten free donuts with their baked, not fried, versions. Their donuts are made with non-GMO ingredients and contain no artificial flavors or colors. The texture is lighter and less greasy than typical fried donuts, appealing to those who prefer a healthier twist without sacrificing taste.
3. Kinnikinnick Foods
Kinnikinnick Foods is a Canadian brand specializing in gluten free bakery products, including donuts. Their donuts are free from gluten, dairy, nuts, and soy, making them suitable for many allergy sufferers. They use a proprietary blend of gluten free flours and starches, and their donuts boast a soft, cakey texture. They’re widely available in North America and come in flavors like chocolate glazed and powdered sugar.
4. Voodoo Doughnut (Gluten Free Options)
Voodoo Doughnut, a popular chain known for quirky and creative donuts, offers gluten free options at select locations. Their gluten free donuts are made in a dedicated fryer to avoid cross-contamination and have a dense, rich texture with classic flavors like chocolate and cinnamon sugar. Fans appreciate that Voodoo brings its inventive spirit to gluten free treats, catering to those who want indulgence without gluten.
5. Duck Donuts (Gluten Free Donut Holes)
Duck Donuts offers gluten free donut holes rather than full-sized donuts, providing a bite-sized, freshly made option. Made in a dedicated gluten free fryer, these donut holes are soft and slightly chewy with a light vanilla flavor base. They’re perfect for sharing or sampling multiple toppings without committing to a full donut, and are available at many Duck Donuts locations across the U.S.
6. Glutino
Glutino is a well-known gluten free brand that offers a variety of baked goods, including gluten free mini donuts. Their donuts are made with a blend of rice and tapioca flour, offering a slightly cakey texture that’s sweet but not overly rich. Glutino products are widely distributed in grocery stores, making their donuts an accessible choice for everyday gluten free snacking.
7. Sweet Ritual (Gluten Free Vegan Donuts)
Sweet Ritual is a vegan bakery in Austin, Texas, that offers gluten free donuts made with organic, non-GMO ingredients. Their donuts are both vegan and gluten free, using rice flour and other alternative flours to create a moist, flavorful treat. Known for inventive flavors like chai spice and maple bacon (vegan bacon), Sweet Ritual’s gluten free options are a hit for those seeking gourmet, allergy-conscious donuts.
8. Molly’s Donuts
Molly’s Donuts is a gluten free and vegan donut brand that prides itself on handcrafted, small-batch donuts. Made with a blend of gluten free flours and organic ingredients, their donuts come in classic and seasonal flavors. They emphasize clean ingredients and deliver a tender crumb and rich taste, often available through online pre-orders and local markets in select regions.
9. Donut Lab
Donut Lab in Seattle offers a dedicated gluten free donut menu alongside their regular offerings. Their gluten free donuts are made fresh daily using a blend of rice flour and potato starch, with attention to avoiding cross-contact. Known for their innovative flavors and high-quality ingredients, Donut Lab’s gluten free donuts provide a bakery experience that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.
10. The Donut Experiment (Gluten Free Custom Options)
The Donut Experiment, a chain that lets customers customize their own donuts, offers gluten free bases at many locations. Their gluten free donuts have a cakey texture and are made in separate fryers to reduce contamination risk. The ability to personalize toppings and glazes makes this brand appealing for those who want a gluten free treat tailored to their preferences.
How to Choose
When selecting a gluten free donut brand, several factors matter most. First, verify that the product is certified gluten free or made in a dedicated gluten free facility to avoid cross-contamination, which is critical for celiac sufferers. Next, consider your taste preference: some donuts are cakey and dense, others lighter and airy, depending on the flour blends used. Also, check if the donuts meet other dietary needs you may have, such as vegan, nut-free, or soy-free. Finally, think about convenience—some brands are available frozen for home baking, others fresh at local bakeries or restaurants, and some are sold in grocery stores. Price and flavor variety may also influence your choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are gluten free donuts safe for people with celiac disease?
Yes, as long as the donuts are certified gluten free and produced in facilities that prevent cross-contamination, they are safe for people with celiac disease.
Do gluten free donuts taste different from regular donuts?
Gluten free donuts often have a different texture—usually more cakey or crumbly—because they lack gluten’s elasticity. However, many brands have perfected recipes that closely mimic traditional donuts in flavor and mouthfeel.
Can I find gluten free donuts in regular grocery stores?
Yes, brands like Erin McKenna’s, Glutino, and Kinnikinnick Foods offer gluten free donuts or donut holes in many grocery stores, often in the frozen or freezer aisle.
Are gluten free donuts usually vegan?
Not always. Some gluten free donuts contain eggs or dairy, but several brands like Erin McKenna’s and Sweet Ritual specifically make vegan gluten free donuts.
How should I store gluten free donuts?
Gluten free donuts are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended; thaw at room temperature before eating.
Do gluten free donuts have more calories than regular donuts?
Calorie counts vary by recipe and brand. Some gluten free donuts may have similar or slightly higher calories due to alternative flours and ingredients, but it depends on specific formulations.
Final Thoughts
Gluten free donuts have come a long way, with many brands offering delicious, thoughtfully crafted options that cater to a variety of dietary needs. Whether you want the convenience of frozen donuts at home or the experience of fresh artisan treats, there’s a gluten free donut brand that fits your lifestyle and taste preferences. By focusing on certified gluten free status, ingredient quality, and flavor variety, you can enjoy donuts without compromise. Exploring these brands opens up a sweeter, safer world of gluten free indulgence.
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