Gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular, and many people are looking for gluten-free bread options. Sandwich thins are a type of thin, flat bread that can be a good gluten-free option for sandwiches and toast.
What are sandwich thins?
Sandwich thins, also sometimes called sandwich rounds, are flat rounds of bread that are thinner and smaller than regular sandwich bread slices. Some common brands of sandwich thins include Arnold, Sara Lee, Franz, and Oroweat.
Sandwich thins come in white and whole wheat varieties and are often used as a lower-calorie or more portable option for sandwiches. Since they are thinner than regular bread, they can allow for more filling in a sandwich without excess calories or carbs.
Are sandwich thins gluten-free?
Most standard sandwich thins contain wheat and are therefore not gluten-free. However, there are some gluten-free sandwich thin options available:
- Canyon Bakehouse – This brand makes gluten-free sandwich thins in white and whole grain varieties.
- Schar – Schar offers gluten-free multigrain and white sandwich thins.
- Udi’s – Udi’s produces gluten-free sandwich rounds in classic white and whole grain varieties.
- Glutino – Glutino makes gluten-free white and multigrain sandwich breads that are very thin like sandwich rounds.
These gluten-free options use ingredients like rice flour, tapioca starch, and amaranth flour instead of wheat. They provide the thinner, flatter shape of sandwich thins without the gluten.
What to look for in gluten-free sandwich thins
When selecting gluten-free sandwich thins, look for brands that are certified gluten-free, such as those listed above. Be sure to check the ingredients list and nutrition label to confirm the product does not contain any wheat, barley, rye or malt ingredients.
Some qualities to look for in good gluten-free sandwich thins include:
- Light, airy texture – Many gluten-free breads are dense. Look for thins that are lighter and softer.
- Hold together well – The thins shouldn’t fall apart, even with lots of sandwich fillings.
- Pleasant taste – They should have a mild bread taste, not strong gluten-free flours.
- No crumbling – The thins shouldn’t crack or crumble too much when folded for a sandwich.
Using gluten-free sandwich thins
Gluten-free sandwich thins can be used in many of the same ways as traditional sandwich thins. Here are some tips for working with gluten-free thins:
- Use them for sandwiches – Layer on sliced meats, cheeses, veggies, condiments, etc. The thinner bread lets the fillings shine.
- Make mini pizzas – Top them with sauce, cheese and favorite toppings for quick pizzas.
- Have them for breakfast – Spread peanut butter or avocado on them for a fast breakfast.
- Make into croutons – For salads or soups, cut them into cubes and bake with oil or butter.
- Use them for bruschetta – Top with olive oil, tomatoes, basil, and cheese for easy bruschetta.
Gluten-free sandwich thins open up options for those on a gluten-free diet. With some gluten-free brands available, sandwich lovers don’t have to give up their favorite sandwiches. They can continue to enjoy thinner, flatter breads to cut calories or carbs.
Nutrition comparison
Here is a nutrition comparison of regular wheat sandwich thins versus gluten-free sandwich thins:
| Nutrition Facts | Wheat Sandwich Thins (1 thin) | Gluten-Free Sandwich Thins (1 thin) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 100 | 110 |
| Carbs | 19g | 24g |
| Fiber | 3g | 3g |
| Protein | 4g | 3g |
| Fat | 1g or less | 1.5g |
As you can see, gluten-free sandwich thins are quite comparable to regular wheat thins in nutrition. They do tend to be slightly higher in carbs and calories because of the gluten-free flours used. But they can still be a healthier sandwich option overall.
Cost comparison
Gluten-free foods often come with a higher price tag than their wheat counterparts. This is true of gluten-free sandwich thins as well.
On average, gluten-free sandwich thins cost $4-6 per package, while regular wheat thins average $3-4 per package. So you can expect to pay $1-2 more for gluten-free.
Here are some approximate prices for common brands:
- Canyon Bakehouse gluten-free thins: $5.49
- Arnold wheat thins: $3.79
- Schar gluten-free thins: $5.99
- Oroweat wheat thins: $3.49
The higher cost reflects the more expensive gluten-free ingredients. But many gluten-free consumers feel the added cost is worthwhile to be able to enjoy foods like sandwich thins on a gluten-free diet.
Recipe ideas
Here are some recipe ideas using gluten-free sandwich thins:
Breakfast sandwiches
– Bacon, egg and cheese
– Sausage, egg white and spinach
– Peanut butter and banana
Lunch sandwiches
– Turkey, apple and brie
– Tuna salad and cucumber
– Chicken salad sandwich
Pizzas
– Margherita – Tomato sauce, cheese and basil
– BBQ chicken – Chicken, bbq sauce, red onion and cilantro
– Veggie – Tomatoes, mushrooms, peppers, olives and cheese
Bruschetta
– Classic – Tomato, garlic, basil, olive oil
– Apple and brie – Apples, brie, honey, walnuts
– Caprese – Tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, balsamic glaze
Let your imagination run wild with delicious toppings! Gluten-free sandwich thins offer endless possibilities for easy meals and snacks.
Finding them in stores
Gluten-free sandwich thins can be found in the gluten-free sections of most major grocery stores. Good places to check are:
- Walmart
- Target
- Publix
- Kroger
- Safeway
- Stop & Shop
- Wegmans
- Whole Foods
You can usually find them with the other gluten-free breads. Some stores may also keep them in the regular bread aisle alongside wheat thins for convenience.
If your regular grocer doesn’t carry them, check natural food stores or order them online. Most major gluten-free brands distribute their products widely across grocery retailers.
Takeaways
To recap the key points on gluten-free sandwich thins:
- Most standard sandwich thins contain gluten, but some confirmed gluten-free options are available.
- Look for certified gluten-free brands like Canyon Bakehouse, Schar, Udi’s, and Glutino.
- Check the texture, taste, and how well they hold together.
- Gluten-free thins can be used for sandwiches, mini pizzas, breakfast, and bruschetta.
- They are comparable to regular thins in nutrition, but cost $1-2 more per package.
- Find them in the gluten-free section of grocery stores or order online.
With the help of specialty gluten-free brands, sandwich lovers can continue to enjoy thin, flat breads for sandwiches and more even with dietary restrictions. Gluten-free sandwich thins offer flexibility, convenience, and open up a world of delicious options.
