Everyone knows that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But when you’re on a gluten-free diet it can be difficult to think of gluten-free breakfast ideas.
There are many ways you can still eat a balanced and healthy breakfast without gluten. You just need the right recipes to get started.
Don’t worry, as we’ve done most of the work for you. Below are some of the best gluten-free breakfast recipes.
They’re so good that even those in your family who aren’t gluten-free will enjoy them. So read on to discover all of the best gluten-free breakfast ideas.
What is Gluten-Free?
Gluten-free is a specific diet that excludes foods that contain the ingredient gluten. Gluten is a binding agent which is often found in wheat but can be found in many other non-wheat ingredients.
Many individuals on a gluten-free diet are on it because they have a health condition like celiac disease. When this is a case, extra caution must be taken to ensure these people do not consume any gluten as it can make them very sick.
So something that is to be made gluten-free needs to be made without any ingredients that contain gluten.
Common Ingredients in a Gluten-Free Breakfast
There are many breakfast recipes that are naturally gluten-free as well as many recipes that can be made gluten-free by using a proper replacement ingredient.
Below are some of the most common ingredients in gluten-free breakfasts.
- Gluten-free flour
- Scrambled eggs (or eggs of any type)
- Dried fruit
- Fresh berries
- Yogurt
- Hash browns
- Corn tortillas
- Steel-cut oats
- Coconut oil
- Fresh Fruit
- Sweet potato
- Sugar
Now, you won’t need all of these ingredients to make your gluten-free breakfast, but you will definitely need some of them, so keep your pantry stocked with these items to make your daily breakfast routine a breeze.
Tips for Gluten-Free Breakfast
Making gluten-free breakfast isn’t always easy, especially when your life is full of busy mornings. Below are some tips to help you conquer gluten-free breakfast recipes with ease.
1. Cook in Bulk
While some recipes, like eggs, can’t be saved for later, whenever you are making baked goods, like banana bread or muffins, double the recipe so you can have some to save for later in the week. That way, when you are too busy on a Tuesday to bake, you’ve got a gluten-free muffin ready to go.
2. Try Different Flours
Not all gluten-free flour is created equal. While some recipes might taste better with almond flour, you may find that others taste good with coconut flour.
If you try a recipe with one type of flour and don’t like it, don’t be afraid to try it again with a different replacement the next time around.
3. Focus on Fruit for Gluten-Free Breakfast
Fruit is always gluten-free, and it is one of our favorite toppings for gluten-free breakfast. Adding sliced bananas to baked oatmeal can change a simple breakfast into something more decadent.
No matter what gluten-free breakfast you whip up, top it off with a colorful fruit.
How to Make Gluten-Free Breakfast Biscuits from Scratch
Biscuits and gravy are a delicious and filling breakfast. But it can be difficult to make when most stores don’t offer gluten-free biscuits.
Here is a recipe so you can make your own gluten-free biscuits from scratch.
Ingredients for Gluten-Free Breakfast Biscuits:
- Gluten-free flour
- Gluten-free baking powder
- Salt
- Sugar
- Buttermilk (replace with non-dairy milk for dairy-free version)
- Butter (replace with margarine for dairy-free version)
- Egg
Gluten-Free Breakfast Biscuits Instructions:
Step 1: Mix Gluten-Free Breakfast Biscuit Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, mix 2 cups flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons sugar together with a whisk.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.
Step 3: Cut the Butter
Cut 6 tablespoons of butter into small pieces and place in your freezer for 10 minutes. After the 10 minutes are over cut the butter into the flour mixture.
Step 4: Mix in Egg and Buttermilk
Add 1 cup buttermilk and 1 egg to the flour mixture and whisk together. The dough will be sticky.
Step 5: Make the Gluten-Free Breakfast Biscuits
Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and fold it over just 3 times. Then, form the dough into a 7-inch diameter round that is 1 inch thick, and use a glass to press biscuit shapes out of the dough.
Step 6: Bake the Biscuits
Place the biscuits on an oiled baking sheet and put them in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown. Let them cool and then serve. The recipe makes 12 biscuits.
30 Easy Gluten-Free Breakfast Ideas Your Family will Love
1. Cherry Pie Energy Bites
Cherry Pie Energy Bites are a savory breakfast you can easily grab on your way out the door. Or, make a big batch and pack them in individual portions at the beginning of the week, so you don’t have to worry about breakfast all week long.
These bites are naturally gluten-free as they are made with oats, almond butter, chia seeds, cherries, vanilla, flaxseed, and cinnamon. Find the full recipe on Lemons for Lulu.
2. Cheesy Zucchini Omelet
There is nothing quite like an omelet to start your day. The combination of eggs, cheese, and delicious fillings is one that is hard to beat.
Check out this recipe by Nutrition in the Kitch which will have you chopping some zucchini to create this gluten-free savory breakfast.
3. Hashbrown Gluten-Free Breakfast Casserole
Many people think casserole is just for dinner, but news flash, it can be for breakfast too. For this recipe on Life Family Fun, you will need eggs, hashbrowns, mushrooms, cheese, cream, and olive oil.
Just mix the ingredients together, bake, and eat.
4. Gluten-Free Breakfast Crepes
Have a little more time for breakfast and want to make something your family can sit down to?
Try these almond flour crepes from Lemons of Lulu. They are made with almond milk and eggs and can be stuffed with fresh fruit or whip cream.
Top them with some powdered sugar or maple syrup and this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites.
5. Chocolate Chip Muffins
Muffins are a staple at the breakfast table. Whether you are having a quick bite on your way out the door, or are sitting down for a more leisurely meal, these chocolate chip muffins from Nutrition in the Kitch are a must.
Made with almond flour, monk fruit sugar, and chocolate chips, this is a muffin you don’t have to feel guilty devouring.
6. Bacon Garlic Cheddar Grits
Grits are a grain that comes from corn, making them naturally gluten-free. Before you buy them for this recipe on Life Family Fun, be sure to check the box, however, as not all brands are gluten-free.
Once you have made the grits following the instructions on the box, top with cheese, bacon, and some garlic, and enjoy.
7. Spinach Pancakes
Spinach pancakes are a simple recipe that creates a delicious combination of vegetables and pancakes for breakfast. They are made with chickpea flour and soymilk, making them naturally grain-free and also dairy-free at the same time.
You can follow the recipe outlined on Lemons for Lulu, just don’t forget to top them with some juicy blueberries.
8. Foccacia Bread
If you’ve been eating a gluten-free diet for a long time, you may have given up on the idea of getting to enjoy some focaccia bread. Well, don’t give up just yet because this keto focaccia by Nutrition in the Kitch is completely gluten-free.
Serve it as a side to scrambled eggs, or just eat it plain, whatever tickles your fancy.
9. Greek Yogurt Parfait
Greek yogurt is a gluten-free ingredient that can be used for many breakfast ideas. Try this recipe from My TX Kitchen to make delicious fruit and yogurt parfait.
Top it with your own gluten-free granola, or some baked steel cut oats, either option will be tasty.
10. Farmers Gluten-Free Breakfast Casserole
Trying to watch your blood sugar? Then it is probably better to try an easy recipe that doesn’t involve any sugar like this Farmers Breakfast Casserole from Lemons for Lulu.
All you need is some eggs, vegetables, cheese, and sausage, then combine them all in a pan with some spices and this breakfast is ready to serve.
11. Cauliflower Hash Browns
Crispy hash browns are another breakfast staple. But when you are looking to mix things up a bit (while staying gluten-free of course) try these cauliflower hash browns from Nutrition in the Kitch.
Made with coconut flour, cheese, and other spices, your family will ask you to make this recipe every day.
12. Ham and Cheese Egg Muffins
Not a baker? Not a problem. These ham and cheese egg muffins from Tablespoon for One are much easier to make than muffins and healthier too.
You can even swap out the eggs for egg whites if you would like to lower the calories. Make a large batch of these in the fridge and take them for an instant breakfast every day of the week.
13. Mediterranean Breakfast Bake
Mediterranean Breakfast Bake is a unique breakfast chicken dish packed full of healthy ingredients and absolutely no gluten. Although you may think you don’t have time for this in the morning, this recipe only takes 25 minutes from start to finish classifying this recipe as a quick breakfast.
Check out the recipe on Lemons for Lulu to start broadening your breakfast horizons.
14. Pinneaple Weight Loss Smoothie
Those on a diet are very familiar with the smoothie world, but they probably haven’t tried this amazing smoothie from Nutrition in the Kitch. Made with frozen fruit, shredded coconut, matcha powder, and some almond milk, this is one green smoothie you won’t want to miss.
15. Chilaquiles con Huevos
Chilaquiles are a traditional Mexican breakfast comprised of corn tortillas, eggs, salsa, cheese, and a variety of other toppings and are simple to make gluten-free. Follow this recipe on Chisel and Fork, and you can have this unique breakfast on the table in just 20 minutes.
16. Instant Pot Egg Casserole
Your instant pot isn’t just useful when it comes to quick dinners, as it can be used to make an instant breakfast too. Follow this recipe on Lemons for Lulu to make an instant pot egg casserole with bacon, onion, eggs, feta, and some spices.
The best part is that you can customize this recipe by adding additional mix-ins as you see fit.
17. Chocolate Overnight Oats
Sometimes it’s easier to just prepare your breakfast the night before, and this is the idea with overnight oats.
You’ll mix all the ingredients together the night before then simply grab the container in the morning and pop it in the microwave and you have a delicious, hot, gluten-free breakfast ready to go. For detailed directions find this recipe on Nutrition in the Kitch.
18. Gluten-Free Quiche
Quiche is a breakfast pie made with eggs and stuffed with the fillings of your choice. Check out this recipe on Sweet Sensitive Free to make your own gluten-free pie crust.
She recommends filling it with broccoli and tomatoes, but you can add cheese, mushrooms, or almost any vegetable you want.
19. Breakfast Baked Potatoes
When it is your turn to host brunch, you may be looking for a way to switch up the menu while still keeping it gluten-free.
Try these breakfast baked potatoes from Lemons for Lulu which are as easy as baking a potato, then cracking them open to add an egg, then popping them back in the oven. Add a few toppings before you serve them and your taste buds will rejoice.
20. Smoothie Bowl
The only thing better than a smoothie is a smoothie bowl. Because smoothie bowls are made with all the same ingredients as smoothies (plus fruit) they are one of our favorite gluten-free breakfast ideas that are super easy to make.
All you have to do is make a smoothie, then add some fruit and milk to the top. Don’t believe us? Check out the full recipe on Nutrition in the Kitch and see for yourself.
21. Cinnamon Sugar Oatmeal
Unfortunately, most of the flavored oatmeal packets in the store contain gluten. But don’t despair as you can make your own flavored oatmeal using rolled oats and this recipe from Living Beyond Allergies.
It is naturally free of gluten and dairy, but if you would like to add a splash of milk, you can use coconut milk to keep it that way.
22. Sweet Potato Hash with Salmon and Eggs
Sweet potato hash with salmon and eggs from Lemons for Lulu is a gluten-free breakfast option you and your family will simply adore. Not only do the sweet potatoes start your day off with some veggies, but adding salmon and eggs makes a hearty breakfast you won’t be able to resist.
You can use fried eggs or runny eggs, the choice is yours.
23. Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes
Need a gluten-free side for your fried egg? Look no further than these air fryer breakfast potatoes from Nutrition in the Kitch.
Just cut up a few russet potatoes, toss them in oil and spices, then fry them in the air fryer for 14 minutes. Toss them on a plate and eat them with ketchup, or enjoy them plain.
24. Baked Oatmeal Muffins
For those that love oatmeal but think it is a hassle to make it each morning, check out this recipe on Winding Creek Ranch for oatmeal muffins. Made with rolled oats and a combination of gluten-free flours, these are the perfect sweet breakfast to grab on your way out the door or put out on the brunch table Sunday morning.
25. Blueberry Gallete
Blueberry Galette might be a little much for your weekday breakfast, but it is definitely something you can pull out on the weekend. Made with monk fruit this recipe avoids refined sugar so you don’t have to ruin your diet when you eat it.
Check out the full recipe on Lemons for Lulu.
26. Oat Flour Gluten-Free Breakfast Pancakes
Almond flour is a good replacement for regular flour unless you have a nut allergy of course. When that is the case, grab this recipe from Nutrition in the Kitch to make fluffy pancakes out of oat flour.
Top with maple syrup for a traditional pancake breakfast, or toss some frozen blueberries in the batter for blueberry oat pancakes.
27. Gluten-Free Breakfast Poptarts
Poptarts, while not the healthiest of breakfast ideas are often a childhood favorite in homes across the nation. When you want to let your child enjoy a breakfast treat (but want it to be healthy and gluten-free) try this recipe by Botanical Barabara.
28. Chia Pudding
Although chia pudding is generally seen as a dessert, it can also be served as a gluten-free breakfast treat on a special occasion. It is made with pumpkin, chia seeds, cinnamon, and almond milk.
Add a layer of coconut yogurt in the middle and you have yourself a nice alternative to a yogurt parfait. Find this breakfast idea on Lemons for Lulu.
29. Coconut Flour Gluten Waffles
You may not think of waffles as a gluten-free breakfast idea, but thanks to coconut flour and Nutrition in the Kitch they can be. All you have to do is mix the flour with eggs, syrup, almond butter, applesauce, milk, and vanilla and pour them on a waffle iron.
Let them cook, then serve them with your favorite waffle toppings, it’s that easy.
30. Pumpkin Donuts
You’re probably surprised to see donuts on a list of gluten-free breakfast ideas, but it’s true, you can make these delicious treats without gluten. Follow the recipe on Chris Says Nature to make these morsels out of oat flour, millet flour, and date paste.
Frost them with some plant-based frosting for a breakfast treat the whole family can enjoy.
Gluten-Free Breakfast FAQ
What Milk is Gluten-Free?
Almost all types of milk (cow, goat, almond, and oat) are gluten-free. The only time you need to be careful and check the ingredient list is when you are buying milk that is flavored, such as chocolate or vanilla milk.
Is Oatmeal a Gluten-Free Breakfast?
Typically, oatmeal is gluten-free in its natural state. However, many companies add flavorings or additives to their oatmeal that makes it no longer gluten-free.
Always check the labels of oatmeal before you buy.
Do Eggs Have Gluten?
Eggs in the shell are 100% gluten free. If you are buying eggs that are already cracked, or an egg replacement, be sure to check the label to ensure it doesn’t contain gluten before you buy.
What Cereals are Considered a Gluten-Free Breakfast?
Most breakfast cereals contain gluten. The types of cereal that are gluten-free are as follows:
- Nature’s Path Flakes
- Cheerios
- Chex
- Kix
- Fruity Pebbles
- Lucky Charms
- Trix
- Reeses Puffs
Some variations of these cereals, such as Honey Nut Cheerios, may contain gluten so always check the label before you buy.
Gluten-Free Breakfast Conclusion
Just because you can no longer consume gluten doesn’t mean you need to miss out on a healthy and tasty breakfast to start your day. Whether you decide to blend a smoothie or bake some egg and ham muffins, as long as you are enjoying your morning meal you can’t go wrong.
Can’t decide which recipe to choose? Then we highly suggest you try them all and enjoy a gluten-free breakfast recipe every day of the year.
Some of these sound amazing, I just wish I had more time in the week to make more of them!