Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (2024)

Published: · Modified: by Nicki Sizemore · This post may contain affiliate links

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These gluten free flatbreads are tender and flaky, with a delicious flavor that’s perfect for scooping up curries, dips, stews and salads. The vegan, naan style breads are way easier to make than you might think, and they come together quickly using just 6 ingredients![Step-by-step VIDEO below.]

Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (1)

What are flatbreads?

Flatbreads are simple breads made with flour, liquid and salt. They’re rolled out into a thin oval (or circle) and are cooked in a hot brick oven, clay oven or skillet. This version is completely gluten free, egg-free and yeast-free, and it’s made right in a cast iron pan.

Ingredients:

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  • Gluten free flour: Gluten free flour gives these vegan flatbreads structure. Use a 1-to-1 GF flour that contains xanthan gum. I recommend Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Flour or King Arthur Measure for Measure.
  • Almond flour: Almond flour is the secret ingredient, giving these flatbreads a tender, flaky texture.
  • Baking powder: Baking powder helps the dough rise slightly, giving the breads a lighter texture.
  • Salt: Fine sea salt lends flavor.
  • Full-fat coconut milk: Coconut milk hydrates the dough and lends a subtle but delicious flavor (it also makes these flatbreads vegan!). It’s important to use full-fat milk from a can (stirred well), as the fat contributes to the texture.
  • Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar helps create a flakier texture.

How to make gluten free skillet flatbreads

  • In a large bowl, whisk together gluten free flour, almond flour, baking powder and sea salt.
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  • Combine coconut milk and apple cider vinegar, then pour the mixture over the dry ingredients.
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  • Stir until a soft dough forms.
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  • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured piece of parchment paper and form it into a disk.
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  • Divide the dough into 4 pieces and transfer them to the fridge while you heat up your cast iron skillet (chilling the dough will make it easier to work with).
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  • Once your pan is hot, remove one piece of dough from the fridge and roll it out between two pieces of floured parchment paper. Peel off the top piece of parchment.
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  • Swiftly flip the dough (on the parchment) into the hot oiled skillet. Peel off the parchment and cook until the bottom is golden and browned in spots, about 1-2 minutes.
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  • Using a large spatula (or two spatulas), flip the bread over. Cook until golden brown on the other side, about 1-2 minutes longer.
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  • Transfer the flatbread to a cooling rack and repeat with the rest of the dough.
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How to serve the flatbreads

These gluten free flatbreads are incredibly versatile! We love to eat them like naan breads alongside Indian food, curries and red lentil dal. They’re also fabulous for scooping up salads and dips (try this Spinach Artichoke Dip and this Tuscan White Bean Dip).

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Flatbread pizza

You can even transform the flatbreads into pizzas (like these Lamb Pizzas or these Roasted Mushroom Flatbread Pizzas)! Toast the breads in a 425˚F (220˚C) oven until slightly crisp. Add your sauce, toppings and cheese, then toast again until the cheese is melted.

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FAQs

Can you make skillet flatbreads ahead?

Yes! These gluten free flatbreads can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day, or they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What is the trick to making good gluten free flatbread?

The trick is to use a mix of gluten free all purpose flour and almond flour. The gluten free flour gives the flatbreads structure while the almond flour makes them tender.

How do you make vegan flatbreads?

While flatbreads are often made with milk or yogurt, this recipe uses coconut milk instead, making them vegan. The coconut milk also imparts a fantastic flavor and texture!

What’s the difference between flatbread and naan bread?

Flatbread refers to a general style of bread that's flat in shape and that can be leavened or unleavened. Naan bread is a type of flatbread (it's usually made with yeast).

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Tips for this recipe:

  • The gluten free flatbreads are made with mix of GF all-purpose flour and almond flour. Be sure to use a GF flour that contains xantham gum; I recommend Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Baking Flour or King Arthur Measure for Measure Flour.
  • The almond flour is key in this recipe, giving the flatbreads a tender texture.
  • As always, I recommend using a kitchen scale if you have one for measuring the flours.
  • Refrigerating the dough makes it easier to roll out. Keep the dough in the fridge until you’re ready to roll. Also, be sure to flour the parchment paper, as it’s a sticky dough.
  • A 12-inch cast iron skillet (or griddle) works best for cooking the flatbreads. It holds its heat and provides a natural non-stick surface.However, you can use a non-stick skillet instead.
  • A large spatula makes it easier to flip the breads, or you can use two spatulas (I love my fish spatulas). It takes a bit of practice to flip the breads, but don’t worry if they break—they’ll still taste delicious!
  • For a paleo version, try these Paleo Flatbreads.

Other recipes you might like:

  • Paleo Cassava Flatbreads
  • Vegan Paleo Almond Bread
  • Green Chickpea Flatbreads
  • Gluten Free Scones
  • Best Gluten Free Biscuits

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Gluten Free Flatbreads (Vegan)

These gluten free, vegan flatbreads are tender and flaky, with a delicious flavor that’s perfect for scooping up curries, dips, stews and salads. You can also transform them into flatbread pizzas (see the Notes below)! Full-fat canned coconut milk lends a subtly sweet flavor as well as helps keep the flatbreads moist (be sure to stir the milk well before using, but it’s okay if it’s lumpy). While flipping the breads takes practice, don’t fret if they break. They’ll still taste delicious, no matter what size they are (don't miss my step-by-step video, where I show you how to form and flip the breads). Some of the flour might start to burn in the pan when cooking—if that happens just wipe it out with a damp cloth between batches.

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time15 minutes mins

Total Time30 minutes mins

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: gluten free flatbread, gluten free naan, vegan flatbread

Servings: 4 flatbreads

Author: Nicki Sizemore

Equipment

  • 12-inch cast iron skillet

  • Parchment paper

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (148g) gluten free flour (such as Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Baking Flour or King Arthur Measure for Measure), plus more for dusting
  • 1 cup (110g) almond flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 cup full-fat coconut milk, well stirred
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • Vegetable oil cooking spray, such as canola or avocado oil spray

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten free flour, almond flour, baking powder and sea salt. Use your fingers to break up any clumps of almond flour.

  • Combine the coconut milk and apple cider vinegar, then pour the mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until a soft dough forms.

  • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured piece of parchment paper. Dust the top with more flour. Form the dough into a disk—it should feel smooth but slightly tacky (although it shouldn’t stick to your hands). Divide the disk into 4 balls and refrigerate.

  • Preheat a 12-inch cast iron (or enameled cast iron) skillet over medium heat—let it get nice and hot.

  • Remove one piece of dough from the fridge (keep the rest of the dough refrigerated) and place it on a lightly floured piece of parchment paper. Dust the dough lightly with flour, then place another piece of parchment paper on top. Roll the dough into a ¼- to ⅛-inch thick oval. Peel off the top piece of parchment.

  • Spritz the hot skillet with cooking spray or coat it lightly with oil. Swiftly flip the dough (on the bottom piece of parchment) into the skillet. Peel off the parchment and cook until the bottom is golden and browned in spots, about 1-2 minutes.

  • Using a large spatula (or two spatulas), flip the bread over—the bread is tender and breaks easily, so be careful here (remember, if the bread breaks it’s no big deal—it will still taste delicious!). Cook until golden brown on the other side, about 1-2 minutes longer. Transfer to a cooling rack.

  • Repeat the steps with the remaining dough, being sure to flour the parchment paper and spray the pan between batches (if needed, use a damp towel to wipe out any browned flour in the skillet between batches). Keep your eye on the heat and adjust it as needed.

  • Let the flatbreads cool, then enjoy!

Notes

Do Ahead: The flatbreads can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day, or they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Tips:

  • flour. Be sure to use a GF flour that contains xantham gum; I recommend Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Baking Flour or King Arthur Measure for Measure Flour.
  • The almond flour is key in this recipe, giving the flatbreads a tender texture.
  • As always, I recommend using a kitchen scale if you have one for measuring the flours.
  • Refrigerating the dough makes it easier to roll out. Keep the dough in the fridge until you’re ready to roll. Also, be sure to flour the parchment paper, as it’s a sticky dough.
  • A 12-inch cast iron skillet (or griddle) works best for cooking the flatbreads. It holds its heat and provides a natural non-stick surface.However, you can use a non-stick skillet instead.
  • A large spatula makes it easier to flip the breads, or you can use two spatulas (I love my fish spatulas). It takes a bit of practice to flip the breads, but don’t worry if they break—they’ll still taste delicious!
  • Try these flatbreads with Slow Cooker Dal, Spinach Artichoke Dip, Tuscan White Bean Dip and Curried Red Lentil Soup.
  • To Make Flatbread Pizzas: Toast the breads in a 425˚F (220˚C) oven until slightly crisp, 2-4 minutes. Add your sauce, toppings and cheese, then the return the flatbreads to the oven and cook until the cheese is melted, 5-6 minutes longer. Try these Lamb Flatbread Pizzas or these Roasted Mushroom Flatbread Pizzas!
  • For a paleo version, try these Paleo Flatbreads.

Did you make this recipe? If so, I'd love to hear what you think! Please leave a comment and star review below - it's helpful to me and to others!

More Baked goods/breads

  • Easy Gluten Free Baked Donuts Recipe (No Yeast!)
  • Easy Maple Glaze (for donuts, scones, cakes and more!)
  • Gluten Free Zucchini Bread (Naturally Sweetened, Dairy Free)
  • Cheese and Scallion Scones (Gluten Free Option!)

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Sherlie says

    Do you freeze after or before cooking pls. They delicious and so simple I love them

    Reply

    • Nicki Sizemore says

      I'm so happy to hear you love them! You should freeze them after cooking. I layer them between pieces of wax or parchment paper (and store them in a freezer bag) so that it's easy to remove them one at a time as needed.

      Reply

  2. Rachael says

    Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (21)
    I used to make my own version of sweet potato flat breads but No baking powder or liquid ingredients aside from. Oil. Like 4 ingredients but this naan recipe is superb and less of a hassle while not being too sweet. I actually added parsley and some minced garlic to the dough and it’s incredibly addicting. Thank you!

    Reply

    • Nicki Sizemore says

      I’m so happy to hear you loved them, and that’s a great tip to add garlic and parsley!

      Reply

  3. Yasameen says

    Hi!
    Can I use water instead of coconut milk?

    Thanks,
    Yasameen

    Reply

    • Nicki Sizemore says

      Hi Yasameen, the coconut milk is really important to the texture and flavor of these flatbreads, so I don't suggest swapping it out. I hope you enjoy!

      Reply

  4. Jen says

    Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (22)
    Made these last night to go with a curry dish. Hands down, these are THE BEST gluten free dairy free Naan bread recipes I have made!!! My gluten tolerant husband also agrees! Making a 2nd batch into 8 vs the 4 for convenient wraps. Love, love, Love these! Thank you for this recipe!

    Reply

    • Nicki Sizemore says

      This makes me so happy to hear, Jen! Thanks much for your comment. Happy cooking!

      Reply

  5. Cathy says

    Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (23)
    Really good and my husband liked it too.
    Questions? My dough was too sticky to the touch. Should I add more flour or refrigerate longer? Other?
    Also, I rolled to1 mm or 1/6”. Is that about right for flatbread?
    Thanks for an easy and delicious recipe.
    Cathy

    Reply

    • Nicki Sizemore says

      Hi Cathy, I’m so glad you and your husband enjoyed the flatbreads! If your dough was too sticky you can go ahead and add more flour. I roll the dough to a 1/4-1/8-inch thickness, which is a bit thicker, but it’s up to you!

      Reply

  6. Sandra says

    I like the taste of yeast in my flatbreads too. Would I need to adjust the recipe? How would it change the product? And, will whole cow's milk work?

    Reply

    • Nicki Sizemore says

      Hi Sandra! I don't recommend adding yeast to these flatbreads, which would change the recipe entirely. You can use half and half or heavy cream in place of the coconut milk. I hope you enjoy!

      Reply

  7. Ronne Cosel says

    Can I use something besides coconut milk

    Reply

    • Nicki Sizemore says

      Hi Ronne, are you able to eat dairy? If so, you can use kefir, thinned plain yogurt or even heavy cream! If not, I suggest cashew cream or a thick cashew milk.

      Reply

  8. Raquel says

    Hi Nicki - could I use the cup4cup gluten free flour instead of Bob's Red Mill GF flour for this flatbread recipe? Please advise - thank you!

    Raquel

    Reply

    • Nicki Sizemore says

      Hi Raquel! Yes, you can use Cup 4 Cup in place of the Bob's Red Mill Flour. I hope you enjoy!

      Reply

  9. Jenny says

    This is an awesome recipe!! Thanks!!

    Reply

    • Nicki Sizemore says

      Hi Jenny, I'm so glad you liked the flatbreads!!

      Reply

Leave a Comment

Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (2024)

FAQs

What is the trick to making good gluten-free bread? ›

Tips and Techniques to make better Gluten Free Bread
  1. Use psyllium husk powder.
  2. Let the dough rest (not exactly the same as a bulk proof)
  3. Mix or knead thoroughly.
  4. Use less yeast.
  5. Bake in a tin with tall sides.
  6. Bake for longer, often at a lower temperature.
  7. Create steam in the oven.
  8. Use the tangzhong or scalded flour method.

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

Apple cider vinegar or another acid lightens up the dough. You can add up to 4 Tbsp of acid for 500 g gluten-free flour. Don't worry, you won't be able to taste it afterwards. To lighten up a yeast dough even more, you can add a packet of baking powder or cream of tartar baking powder to 500 g flour.

How many calories are in gluten-free naan? ›

Whole Creations Gluten Free Garlic & Coriander Naan Bread (1 serving) contains 55.6g total carbs, 51g net carbs, 8.9g fat, 3.9g protein, and 311 calories.

What flour is best for gluten-free bread? ›

Rice flour(s): A combination of brown rice flour and white rice flour, with their ideal balance of protein and starch, provide bulk and mildly sweet, neutral flavor. The rice flours are finely ground so they absorb liquid quickly and evenly.

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.

What does cream of tartar do in gluten-free bread? ›

A: Yes, cream of tartar can be used in gluten-free bread recipes to improve dough stability and rise.

What gluten-free flour works best with yeast? ›

If you want to buy just one gluten-free flour, we highly recommend the Pillsbury all-purpose gluten-free flour. Not only is it our favorite gluten-free flour, and easy to use in gluten-free recipes, but it's also one of the few gluten-free flours currently on the market that is recommended for baking with yeast.

Is vinegar bad for celiac? ›

Most vinegars are gluten-free. Most varieties are distilled and made from inherently gluten-free ingredients such as grapes. The only vinegar that needs to be avoided is malt vinegar. Malt vinegar is not distilled, and malt is derived from barley, a grain that is not gluten-free.

What is the best flour to use for flatbread? ›

Flour: You can use bread flour or all-purpose flour. Bread flour leaves a slightly chewier texture, but the difference is barely noticeable since the crust is so thin. Olive Oil: Adds flavor. We'll also brush the dough with olive oil before baking, too.

Is flatbread healthier than Italian bread? ›

Not necessarily. While different doughs vary nutritionally, flatbread is generally just unleavened bread. In other words, bread dough that was not made to rise. Flatbreads may look smaller, but if it's the same dough, the nutritional contents are identical.

Why do you have to rest flatbread dough? ›

While you can make flatbread without letting the dough rest, 30 minutes or more will make the dough more elastic. To have any chance of a pocket on a bread with no leavening, you need to stretch and fold the dough before forming the final balls that you roll out.

Why is naan not vegan? ›

Unfortunately, the majority of naan isn't suitable for vegans as they often contain ghee (clarified butter), yoghurt, milk or even eggs. However, it's not impossible to find vegan-friendly naan in supermarkets, it's just worth double-checking ingredients lists.

Is hummus gluten-free? ›

Hummus is usually gluten-free, but not always. Traditional hummus is naturally gluten-free as are most brands such as Sabra Hummus. There are reports out there of certain brands either including flour in their hummus or just declaring that their hummus may contain wheat and/or is made on shared equipment.

Do falafels contain gluten? ›

Your average store bought and restaurant falafel has both chickpea wheat flour in it, which makes it not gluten-free. The best bet is to make your own gluten-free falafel, and this recipe from Joy Food Sunshine fits the bill nicely. Please read the ingredient and nutrition label carefully.

Why is it so challenging to make good gluten-free bread? ›

Gluten free bread takes much longer than a regular loaf to bake and therefore a sticky crumb is generally the result of under baking. It is easy to see why this can happen, gluten free bread dough needs more moisture and is often difficult to knead with conventional methods.

Is there a trick to baking with gluten free flour? ›

2 teaspoons of baking powder per cup of gluten-free flour is necessary to ensure proper leavening. Baking soda and buttermilk can be used to leaven instead of baking powder, but 1-1/8 teaspoon of cream of tartar should be added for each 1/2 teaspoon baking soda used.

Why is my homemade gluten-free bread so dense? ›

You may need to add extra liquid or combine different flours to achieve the proper hydration level for your dough. Incorrect Flour Ratios: Different gluten-free flours have varying levels of protein and starch, which can affect the texture of your bread. Using the wrong flour ratio can result in a dense and gummy loaf.

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

You cannot just substitute rice flour (or other GF flour) into a bread recipe and have it turn out well. Gluten is what gives bread its 'bounce'. Without it bread is typically dry and crumbly. An extra egg, gelatin, extra leavening, or gums can be used to help create that bounce.

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