Are Rice Krispies Gluten-Free? Try 5 Brands

Rice Krispies are a popular breakfast cereal worldwide. If you are gluten-free and love to have these delicious cereals, you may wonder, are rice krispies gluten-free?Most people assume these breakfast cereals are gluten-free as they are made of rice, which naturally contains no gluten. They are not 100% gluten-free, as some brands are formulated using barley malt extract containing gluten.But are there gluten free rice krispies available? This article will help you find the best healthy brands for your gluten-free lifestyle and more data. Let us explore!

Are Gluten-Free Rice Krispie Cereals Healthy?

Are Rice Krispies gluten-free and healthy? Well, various brand Rice Krispies breakfast cereal is unhealthy as it is not gluten-free. The reason is that malt flavoring is made using barley, a gluten-rich grain. So, if you have gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, you should avoid eating it.

However, Few brands have formulated a gluten-free variety after realizing the high need for these delicious cereals. This type of rice krispies comprises whole-grain brown rice with no malt flavoring. Hence, whenever you are looking for a gluten-free version, always check the ingredients label.

How To Choose Nutritious Gluten-Free Rice Krispies?

If you have any health concerns related to gluten, here are a few factors to take into consideration when choosing the rice krispies:

• Malt Flavoring: Generally, malt flavoring is the only reason why some rice krispies are not considered gluten-free. It is made using barley, which is rich in gluten. Hence, if you have celiac disease, watch for this ingredient.
• Sugar: Many breakfast cereals contain sugar in it. Note this ingredient if you are following a sugar-free diet or are concerned about sugar intake.
• Artificial Flavors or Colors: Many brands of gluten-free rice krispies do not use artificial additives. However, always check the ingredients label if you plan to purchase off-brand or flavored versions.
• Corn and Soy: Many off-brand versions of crisped rice cereals may contain soy or corn. These ingredients can concern you if you have any allergies or sensitivities.
• Preservatives: Traditionally, preservatives are used to extend food item shelf life. These can affect you if you have any health concerns. So, always watch out for them.
• Salt (Sodium): If you are on a strict sodium diet and watching your sodium intake for specific health reasons, look for the salt content.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Rice Krispies also consist of vitamins and minerals. So, if you are taking any supplements or are on specific dietary needs, be sure about the added nutrients.

Also Read: Why is too much salt bad for me?

Are Rice Krispie Treats Gluten-Free?

Unfortunately, packed rice krispies treats are not gluten-free as they are made using rice cereals. This means they also have malt flavoring in it which is not gluten-free.

Though Rice Krispies cereals are not gluten-free, a few brands are excellent for baking treats. You can bake homemade rice krispie treats using gluten-free ingredients like brown rice, marshmallows, and vegan butter. It will work for your dietary needs.

So, here is the recipe for gluten-free rice krispie treats that you can try to satisfy your craving.

Recipe To Make Gluten-Free Rice Krispie Treats

Here is the recipe to follow:

• Line a large pan using parchment paper and grease it with cooking spray. This makes the slicing method of treats more easy.

• Put the pan over a low flame and melt the butter. Then, start whisking it constantly till it turns brown.

• Next, add all or 1 to 2 cups of marshmallows to the pan and stir until it melts completely.

• Add vanilla extract and gluten-free crispy rice cereal to the pan and then quickly stir it until each ingredient is evenly mixed.

• If you want, add the left marshmallows and stir well again until the whole cereal gets coated.

• At last, evenly press the mixture using your buttered hands or buttered spatula. Keep it aside for a few minutes to get it excellent. Then, serve it by cutting it into 2-inch squares.

Ingredients To Use For Gluten-Free Rice Krispies Treats

Butter: You can use regular dairy butter to bake rice krispie treats. However, you can have dairy-free butter if you have lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity.

Marshmallows: Most are gluten-free, but constantly review the brands before buying any.

Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract that is gluten-free. So, always check labels.

Gluten-Free Crispy Rice Cereal: We have mentioned above that Kellogg’s Rice Krispie cereal is not gluten-free as it contains malt extract. But there is no need to worry as you have many options of gluten-free rice cereals available that you can use to bake delicious treats. See the brand names below!

What Are The Brands Of Gluten-Free Rice Krispies?

Here are Rice Krispies gluten-free brand names that you can consider:

1. Nature’s Path Organic Rice Crispy Cereal

Nature’s Path Organic Rice Crispy Cereal is certified as one of the best vegan and gluten-free cereals. This breakfast cereal consists of whole-grain brown rice, so it is a perfect substitute for rice krispies. The individual grains of this variety are slightly delicate, fine, and light in color.

This makes it a nutritious staple for the morning diet or for adding crunchy texture to your baking. Moreover, this brand is certified organic and verified non-GMO.

2. One Degree Brown Rice Crisps

One Degree Brown Rice Crisps are undoubtedly wholesome cereals as they are made up of sprouted brown rice. Sprouted rice is easier to digest and gentle on the body. They are certified organic, gluten-free, and non-GMO.

These gluten-free cereals are also light and crispy in texture with a delicate sweetness. Thus enhancing your taste buds.

3. Barbara Organic Brown Rice Crisp Cereal

Packed with good nutrition, you can enjoy Barbara organic brown rice crisp cereals with a touch of honey, fruit juice, and whole grains. It is vegan, 100% organic, and non-GMO products that are low in fat.

Moreover, it is the most nutritious go-to option for healthy eaters as brown rice has only 1 gram of sugar in it.

4. Erewhon Crispy Brown Rice Cereal

Erewhon Crispy Brown Rice Cereal is an organic cereal that is 100% made up of whole-grain brown rice. Additionally, it contains low fat and sugar content(serving less than 1 gram of sugar).

Moreover, this breakfast cereal tastes delicious with milk. You can serve it as a topping for yogurt or fresh fruits.

5. Organic Quinoa Cocoa Crisps

This cocoa-flavored and crispy rice cereal is a delightful and tasty option because of its cocoa flavor. This gives a chocolate-like feel to your taste buds with no sweetener use.

Puffed quinoa is the main ingredient of this crispy rice cereal, which naturally makes it gluten-free. Just enjoy it with some milk to have a delicious, quick breakfast.

Summing Up

A gluten-free lifestyle is sometimes a choice for some people and a necessity for others. Gluten has been associated with several health conditions, such as digestive, autoimmune, and many others. People with these illnesses should be cautious about the addition of gluten to their diet. Though various gluten-free rice krispie cereals and treats are available, some types can carry gluten. So, going through the ingredient label to check which food is certified gluten-free is always essential.

Alternatively, make homemade rice cereal treats using gluten-free rice cereals and other ingredients, like vanilla, marshmallows, and butter.

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