If you’re on the hunt for a delicious treat that’s naturally gluten free and incredibly satisfying, this gluten free fry bread recipe is exactly what you need. Whether you want a snack or a base for a meal, this fry bread is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and easy enough to whip up any time.
You’ll love this recipe because it’s simple to make, uses common ingredients, and delivers that perfect fry bread texture without gluten. Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back and bookmarking it for all your future cravings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Gluten free and allergy-friendly, perfect for sensitive diets.
- Quick to prepare with just 10 minutes of hands-on time.
- Versatile – enjoy it sweet or savory, as a snack or meal base.
- Uses pantry staples so you can make it anytime.
- Crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy center every time.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your gluten free fry bread. Each one is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor.
- 2 cups gluten free all-purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum included)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (plus extra for frying)
YOUR NEXT FAVORITE RECIPE STARTS HERE
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 6 pieces
- Calories: Approximately 180 per piece
How to Make Gluten Free Fry Bread – Recipe Worth Bookmarking
- In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten free flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.
- Add the warm water and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the dry ingredients and mix with a spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 1-2 minutes until smooth but still slightly sticky.
- Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and shape each into a ball, then flatten each ball into a 5-inch round disk about 1/4-inch thick.
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F or bubbles form around a small piece of dough dropped in the oil.
- Carefully fry each piece of dough for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they puff up and turn golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fry bread to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings like honey, powdered sugar, or savory beans and salsa.
Tips for the Best Results
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying to get a crispy crust without absorbing too much oil.
- If your dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more gluten free flour while shaping, but don’t overdo it.
- Use a gluten free flour blend with xanthan gum for the best texture and elasticity.
- Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady and avoid soggy fry bread.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the dough.
Storage and Reheating
You can store leftover gluten free fry bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, freeze the fry bread separated by parchment paper in a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
Reheat refrigerated or frozen fry bread by warming in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until heated through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different gluten free flour for this fry bread?
Yes, you can use other gluten free flour blends, but make sure they contain xanthan gum or add a binder for elasticity. This helps the dough hold together and fry up nicely.
Is this fry bread suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This recipe uses no animal products, so it’s vegan-friendly. Just ensure your gluten free flour blend doesn’t contain any hidden dairy.
Can I bake this fry bread instead of frying?
While you can bake it for a healthier option, traditional fry bread gets its signature crispy exterior from frying. Baking will result in a softer, more bread-like texture.
What toppings work best with gluten free fry bread?
Classic toppings include honey, powdered sugar, or cinnamon sugar for sweet options, and beans, cheese, or salsa for savory. The fry bread also pairs well with soups and stews.