Gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people opting to avoid gluten for medical reasons or simply as a lifestyle choice. For those who love pancakes but need to avoid gluten, finding a tasty gluten-free pancake mix can be a challenge.
One brand that offers a gluten-free pancake mix option is Kodiak Cakes. Kodiak Cakes is known for their protein-packed pancake and waffle mixes made with 100% whole grains. But do they offer a pancake mix that is free from gluten? Let’s take a closer look.
About Gluten and Gluten-Free Diets
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It acts as a glue that holds food together and gives bread its spongy texture. For most people, consuming gluten is not a problem. However, for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, gluten can cause serious health issues.
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes damage to the small intestine when gluten is ingested. Even small amounts of gluten can trigger this immune response. Symptoms of celiac disease may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, fatigue, and nutrient malabsorption. The only treatment for celiac disease is adhering to a strict lifelong gluten-free diet.
Non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) is a condition where people experience gluten-related symptoms like fatigue and gastrointestinal distress without having celiac disease. The mechanism behind NCGS is not fully understood, but avoiding gluten improves symptoms for these individuals.
The gluten-free diet excludes all foods and products containing wheat, barley, and rye. This includes most breads, pastas, baked goods, malted beverages, and beer. Instead, gluten-free alternatives made from rice, corn, quinoa, buckwheat, and other naturally gluten-free grains are used. Even small amounts of gluten cross-contamination can cause issues, so vigilance reading labels is important when following a gluten-free diet.
According to one survey, approximately 3 million Americans follow a gluten-free or gluten-restricted diet. This includes about 1% of the population with celiac disease plus those avoiding gluten for other reasons. The demand for tasty and convenient gluten-free products has significantly expanded in recent years.
Kodiak Cakes Background
Kodiak Cakes is a brand of high-protein, whole grain flapjack and waffle mixes established in 1982. Their tagline is “Flapjack and Waffle Mixes You Can Build a Healthy Life On.” They are best known for their Power Cakes flapjack mix made with 100% whole grains, wheat protein, and no added sugars.
Kodiak Cakes was founded by Joel Clark after he created a flapjack recipe to meet his own nutritional needs for an upcoming marathon. When friends loved the hearty, protein-packed pancakes, the idea for a mix was born. The brand name Kodiak evokes the spirit of the mighty Kodiak bears found in Clark’s home state of Alaska.
In addition to their original Power Cakes mix, Kodiak Cakes now offers a range of pancake, waffle, muffin, and specialty mixes. Their products are made with 100% whole grains like whole wheat, oats, millet, buckwheat, and quinoa. They pack in protein from milk, eggs, whey, and / or wheat protein. Many mixes are also vegan by using plant-based proteins. Most Kodiak products provide a good source of fiber and are made without artificial preservatives or flavors.
While wheat is included in many Kodiak Cakes mixes, the brand has responded to consumer demand by creating options for gluten-free diets as well. Let’s look specifically at whether they offer an all-purpose gluten-free pancake mix.
Does Kodiak Offer Gluten-Free Pancake Mix?
After checking the Kodiak Cakes website and product line, the answer is yes – Kodiak Cakes does offer a gluten-free pancake and waffle mix option. The product is called Kodiak Cakes Gluten Free Buttermilk Pancake & Waffle Mix.
Here are some key facts about Kodiak’s gluten-free mix:
- Certified gluten-free by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO)
- Made with a blend of gluten-free flours like rice, tapioca, millet, and sorghum flours
- Contains buttermilk powder
- Uses non-GMO ingredients with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Vegan-friendly and made in a peanut-free facility
- Provides a good source of fiber and protein
- Just add water – no need for eggs, oil, or milk
The mix makes fluffy pancakes and waffles with Kodiak’s signature whole grain taste, but without any gluten. It’s a gluten-free, protein-packed alternative perfect for those with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or anyone avoiding gluten.
Nutrition Facts
Here is the nutrition information for 1/4 cup (30g) of dry Kodiak Cakes Gluten Free Buttermilk Pancake & Waffle Mix:
| Calories | 120 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 1g |
| Carbs | 24g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 3g |
The mix provides 120 calories per 1/4 dry cup serving. It is low in fat, high in carbohydrates from the gluten-free flours, and offers 3g of protein and 2g of fiber.
Gluten-Free Status Verification
Importantly, Kodiak’s gluten-free buttermilk pancake and waffle mix is certified gluten-free by the GFCO (Gluten-Free Certification Organization). This provides independent third-party verification that the product contains less than 10ppm of gluten.
The GFCO is a leader in gluten-free certification worldwide. Certification means the mix is produced in a GFCO-audited gluten-free facility and routinely tested to ensure it meets strict standards for gluten-free integrity. This gives consumers confidence in the gluten-free status of Kodiak’s pancake and waffle mix.
The packaging also includes the certified gluten-free logo, indicating it has passed all GFCO requirements. This level of certification and testing is critical for people with celiac disease and gluten sensitivities who rely on gluten-free foods.
Reviews of Kodiak’s Gluten-Free Mix
In addition to being certified gluten-free, Kodiak’s pancake and waffle mix also receives positive reviews for its taste and performance.
Here are some excerpts of reviews from verified buyers:
“These pancakes came out light and fluffy! You’d never know they were gluten-free.”
“I was skeptical about a gluten free mix that didn’t need eggs and oil, but the texture turned out great! My kids loved them.”
“I’ve tried so many gluten free mixes that just don’t compare to the real thing. But these pancakes actually taste good! Will definitely buy again.”
The consensus is that Kodiak’s gluten-free pancakes are light and fluffy in texture and have a pleasing, mild flavor. The mix performs well and tastes good according to most reviews. Even kids seem to enjoy the pancakes made from this mix.
Where to Buy Kodiak Gluten-Free Pancake Mix
Kodiak’s gluten-free pancake and waffle mix can be found in many major grocery stores that carry specialty diet foods. It is also available online from retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target, Thrive Market, and Kodiak Cakes’ own website.
The 11oz bag typically costs between $5-$8 depending on the retailer. Kodiak offers subscriptions for regular delivery on their website as well.
Be sure to check the label and certification logo when purchasing to ensure you receive the gluten-free version. Kodiak makes other pancake mixes that contain gluten.
How to Make Kodiak Gluten-Free Pancakes
Making gluten-free pancakes with Kodiak’s mix is simple:
- Combine 1 cup mix with 1 cup water in a medium bowl
- Let batter rest for 2 minutes
- Lightly coat a skillet or griddle with oil and preheat over medium heat
- Pour batter onto skillet using about 1/4 cup per pancake
- Cook until bubbles start to appear, then flip and cook other side
- Repeat with remaining batter. Enjoy pancakes warm with desired toppings!
The mix can also be used to make waffles by following manufacturer instructions on the packaging. No need for eggs, oil, or milk – just water makes these gluten-free pancakes come together.
Gluten-Free Pancake Mix Alternatives
Besides Kodiak Cakes, there are a few other highly-rated gluten-free pancake mix options on the market:
Birch Benders Gluten-Free Pancake Mix
- Made with rice flour, tapioca starch, and sorghum flour
- Includes baking powder and xanthan gum
- Just add water – no dairy needed
- Certified gluten-free and non-GMO
Pamela’s Gluten-Free Pancake & Baking Mix
- Uses rice, potato, sorghum, and corn flours
- Has baking soda and baking powder
- Requires adding egg or yogurt
- Allergy-friendly and kosher
Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free Pancake Mix
- Contains brown rice flour, sweet white rice flour, whole grain sorghum flour
- Has potato starch, tapioca flour, and xanthan gum
- Needs milk, oil, and egg added
- Vegan by using egg replacer
While several quality gluten-free mixes exist, Kodiak offers the advantages of whole grain nutrition, buttermilk flavor, and an easy mix-with-water preparation. Their GFCO certification also provides assurance for sensitive individuals.
Make Your Own Gluten-Free Pancake Mix
For a DIY approach, you can also make your own gluten-free pancake mix at home. Here is one recipe to try:
Gluten-Free Pancake Mix
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1⁄4 cups brown rice flour
- 3⁄4 cup potato starch
- 1⁄4 cup tapioca flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon xanthan gum
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients until well-combined.
- Store the mix in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- To make pancakes: combine 1 cup mix with 1 egg, 1 cup milk or non-dairy milk, and 2 tbsp oil or melted butter.
- Cook on griddle or skillet until golden brown.
This basic recipe can be customized by adding spices, fruit purees, or other gluten-free flours to suit your tastes. Making your own lets you control the ingredients.
Conclusion
In summary, yes – Kodiak Cakes does offer a gluten-free pancake and waffle mix called Gluten Free Buttermilk Pancake & Waffle Mix. This nutrition-packed, certified gluten-free product provides a tasty way for people with celiac disease and gluten intolerance to enjoy diner-style pancakes and waffles.
Made with a blend of gluten-free flours and buttermilk powder, Kodiak’s mix earns rave reviews for its light, fluffy texture reminiscent of traditional pancakes. Thanks to GFCO certification and testing, gluten-free consumers can rest assured it meets strict safety standards.
While several decent gluten-free mixes exist on the market, Kodiak stands out for its signature whole grain nutrition profile, simple preparation, and rigorous gluten-free certification. By following the recipe on the packaging, anyone can whip up restaurant-worthy pancakes without gluten that both kids and adults will love. Overall, Kodiak Cakes Gluten-Free Buttermilk Pancake & Waffle Mix is a great option for those seeking a trusted, high-quality gluten-free pancake mix.
