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

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

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

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:

Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (2)
  • 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.
Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (3)
  • Combine coconut milk and apple cider vinegar, then pour the mixture over the dry ingredients.
Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (4)
  • Stir until a soft dough forms.
Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (5)
  • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured piece of parchment paper and form it into a disk.
Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (6)
  • 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).
Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (7)
  • 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.
Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (8)
  • 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.
Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (9)
  • Using a large spatula (or two spatulas), flip the bread over. Cook until golden brown on the other side, about 1-2 minutes longer.
Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (10)
  • Transfer the flatbread to a cooling rack and repeat with the rest of the dough.
Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (11)

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).

Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (12)

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.

Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (13)

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).

Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (14)

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

Watch the video!

Stay connected

I'd love to answer any of your questions and see what you're cooking!! Don't forget to rate this recipe and leave a comment below. Follow along on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube & Pinterest, and be sure to tag @fromscratchfast so that I can share your creations!

Get the recipe!

Best Gluten Free Vegan Flatbread Recipe | From Scratch Fast (15)

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

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 flatbread is chewy in texture and has a pocket in it? ›

Pita bread differs from other types of flatbread in that it often contains a leavening agent like yeast. The yeast allows the dough to rise in the oven and form a large air pocket. This air pocket creates a double-layered flatbread that can be stuffed with all kinds of ingredients.

Why are my flatbreads hard? ›

Try to let the dough rest between steps, for example, form the balls then roll the first ball that had a minute to rest. Cook the flatbread on medium heat – too high heat will burn them. And yet, too low heat will cause them to become too hard when cooled.

Why is my flatbread chewy? ›

Over-kneading has a tendency to result in chewy bread. Here's how to tell if you've kneaded enough. Another possibility—you used bread flour when all-purpose flour would do. If a recipe with bread flour turned out chewier than you like, try it with all-purpose and knead only as much as the recipe directs.

Why is my flatbread raw? ›

You might've cooked the first side too long -- I think you want to just barely cook it, then flip. (if you cook the middle through, it won't turn into a 'pocket pita'). You might also try the oven, as you'll get better puff in there. Maybe "super-hot" is a bit too hot?

What is the difference between lavash and flatbread? ›

What's the difference between lavash and flatbread? Flatbread is usually crispy whereas lavash is softer and can easily be folded. Lavash is also thinner than flatbread and is usually shaped into a circle.

Why won't my flatbread puff up? ›

That's because the puff is steam-powered. For it to work, the dough must be neither too thick nor too thin, and be sufficiently hydrated so that the blast of heat from the oven quickly turns the moisture to steam that inflates the bread. One of the best ways to get this right is a kitchen scale.

How do you make bread hard fast? ›

Giving your bread a quick bake in a 350ºF oven will starve it of its moisture—which is exactly what you're looking for. Cut your loaf into evenly sized cubes or slices (depending on what you're making), and toast them, dry, for 15 to 20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.

What is the secret to softer bread? ›

Bread Making Tips For Softer Bread
  1. Do Not Over-Knead Your Dough. ...
  2. Ensure Dough is Well Hydrated. ...
  3. Lubricate With Oil. ...
  4. Add Sugar. ...
  5. Add Eggs. ...
  6. Reduce Baking Time. ...
  7. Create Steam in Oven. ...
  8. Add Milk.
Mar 27, 2023

Should flatbread dough be sticky? ›

Making the Flatbread Dough

Add the salt followed by the yoghurt and combine into a nice soft dough. If the dough is too sticky add a touch more flour. Leave the dough to rest for a few minutes before using. Take the dough out of the bowl and place on a floured work surface.

Does gluten make bread more chewy? ›

The gluten is formed during kneading of the bread dough. Kneading causes the gluten strands to get stronger and longer. However, if too much gluten is formed then the bread dough does not stretch so easily. This will cause the bread to become tough and chewy.

Can you over knead flatbread? ›

Over-kneaded dough can become very hard to work with and produce a more flat and chewy bread. It's vital to stop mixing at the first signs of over-kneading, as a fully over-kneaded dough cannot be fixed.

What ingredient makes bread moist? ›

Some alternative ingredients can help give your bread added moisture. One such ingredient is milk, which has a high-fat content and can add a delightfully creamy flavor when baking. Additionally, adding mashed potatoes or cooked grains can help keep the crumb soft and tender for days after baking.

How do you know when flat bread is done? ›

Sandwich bread and pan loaves: “The color should be a rich golden brown and the top crust should feel firm. Don't be afraid to tilt the loaf out of the pan to be sure the sides and bottom are also nicely golden brown and sturdy.”

How do you know when flatbread is done? ›

Cooking the flatbread in a skillet allows you to add some oil, which makes them a little softer. That said, you can bake these in the oven. We recommend a 400°F oven. Bake them until puffed and starting to brown about 10 minutes.

What kind of bread is used for flatbread? ›

Flat breads are made throughout most of the world. Examples are pita (from the Middle East), chapati and naan (India), tortilla (Mexico) and focaccia (Italy). The bread may be leavened (have a raising agent of yeast or sourdough) or unleavened.

What is a flat bread with pocket that? ›

Pita bread is a pocket-flatbread, and it is very common in many middle-eastern countries and here in Israel. We often eat pita when we BBQ (we put meat in it), with hummus, or as sandwich. And, in the spirit of the bread-and-soup contest, pitas are often eaten along a thick soup or a gravy.

What is a flat bread with a pocket that is perfect? ›

Pita, also Pitta, breads, also called Arabic bread, balady, shamy, Syrian bread, and pocket bread, are circular, leavened double-layered flat breads that originated in the Middle East. It is prepared with flour, water, baker's yeast, and salt.

What is a flatbread with pocket that is perfect? ›

This soft, chewy flatbread is perfect for rolling into a sandwich or using as a pocket and stuffing with your favorite sandwich filling.

What type of bread is chewy? ›

While there are many types of French bread, some of the most popular kinds—like baguettes and boules—have an extremely crusty exterior and a chewy crumb, making them perfect for tearing, dipping or slathering with butter. It's not uncommon for these breads to require a lengthy preparation process.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Greg Kuvalis

Last Updated:

Views: 6000

Rating: 4.4 / 5 (75 voted)

Reviews: 90% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Greg Kuvalis

Birthday: 1996-12-20

Address: 53157 Trantow Inlet, Townemouth, FL 92564-0267

Phone: +68218650356656

Job: IT Representative

Hobby: Knitting, Amateur radio, Skiing, Running, Mountain biking, Slacklining, Electronics

Introduction: My name is Greg Kuvalis, I am a witty, spotless, beautiful, charming, delightful, thankful, beautiful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.