15 Best Gluten-Free Cereals & Where to Buy (Walmart, Aldi & Co.)

As someone who has been a food blogger for years, I’ve tasted my fair share of cereals – both gluten-free and not. But over the years, I’ve noticed a growing demand for gluten-free options, especially in the cereal section. Certified gluten-free products offer multiple health benefits, especially for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Why Some People Avoid Gluten – Gluten Intolerance

Gluten intolerance, also known as gluten sensitivity, refers to a condition in which an individual experiences adverse reactions after consuming gluten-containing foods. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives.

Symptoms of gluten intolerance can vary widely among individuals but commonly include gastrointestinal issues such as gas, bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation. The primary treatment for gluten intolerance involves consuming gluten-free food, which means eliminating all sources of gluten from the diet, such as wheat flour, gluten containing cereals and malt flavor.

To make things easy for you I’ve sorted out this list of gluten-free cereals – read till the end to know everything on the topic.

What Cereals Are Gluten Free?

Cereal sections at the grocery stores can be intimidating to individuals who are gluten intolerant. The abundance of options makes it challenging to figure out which cereal gluten free in true sense. Fortunately, there has been a notable increase in the availability of gluten-free cereals in recent years, with renowned brands such as Rice Chex, Honey Nut Cheerios, and Fruity Pebbles now offering gluten-free alternatives.

I have included valuable information on how to select cereals appropriate for anyone who wants to avoid gluten. This article provides detailed information on gluten-free cereal options read on til the end so you can enjoy delicious and nutritious cereals without compromising on health.

Top 15 Gluten-Free Cereals

Picking the top gluten-free cereals was not a piece of cake – there are several factors to consider before making a final choice. Additionally, while grains like oats, rice, or corn are naturally gluten-free it doesn’t guarantee that the final product will be completely gluten-free because there are chances of cross-contamination during the production process. My focus was to choose only certified gluten-free brands – to make sure no trouble arises for those avoiding gluten due to health reasons. Moreover, I’ve considered the following additional factors when selecting these gluten-free cereals:

• Taste
• Texture
• Nutritional value
• Availability

The overall flavor of the cereals was my top criterion for ranking them. Furthermore, I checked whether they infused flavor into milk, how crispy they stayed in milk, and how tasty they were as a dry snack. I hope my lovely readers from gluten-free community find this blog post extremely helpful. Let’s look at the top 15 cereals (ranked in order of Best Flavors to Average Taste) that will complement your gluten-free lifestyle.

#1 Honey Nut Cheerios

Honey Nut Cheerios is an all-time favorite cereal for many. Since 1979, Cheerios have been a staple in General Mills’ lineup – a top-trusted U.S. food brand. Certified gluten free oats are paired with a significant amount of honey flavor, the fourth ingredient listed, and it comes through clearly. I like this cereal for snacking – the rings are small, but not so small that they are difficult to eat with your hands. These offer a crisp and crunchy bite while enjoyed without milk as snacks.

Even though Honey Nut Cheerios are great on their own, they’re even better with milk. The taste is sweet enough to make this cereal feel like a treat, but not so much that eating it for breakfast would be inappropriate. However, there was one minor issue that I had with them, which was that they didn’t remain crisp for long. Once you pour the milk, the Cheerios start getting soft quickly. Overall, the flavor is quite impressive and it can be counted as the best gluten-free cereal.

#2 Mom’s Best Crispy Cocoa Rice

Mom’s Best Crispy Cocoa Rice cereal offers a delightful gluten-free option for those seeking a delicious breakfast cereal that doesn’t compromise on taste or quality. With its rich cocoa flavor and satisfying crunch, this cereal is sure to become your favorite. It is made with high-quality ingredients. But it’s not just about what’s not in the cereal – it’s also about what’s in it.

Mom’s Best Crispy Cocoa Rice cereal is made with whole-grain brown rice, providing a good source of fiber and essential nutrients to help fuel your day. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a suitable option for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions. One potential downside is its relatively high sugar content. Despite the absence of high fructose corn syrup, the cereal still tastes too sweet due to the added sugars to enhance its flavor.

#3 Nature’s Path Panda Puffs

Suitable for both kids and adults, Nature’s Path EnviroKidz Panda Puffs is a delicious and satisfying breakfast cereal. These contain wholesome ingredients such as whole grain corn meal and peanut butter. I found this cereal enjoyable both with and without milk. Despite being incredibly light on the inside, the puffs had a powdered sugar shell that prevented them from getting soggy.

What gives Panda Puffs a top spot on this list is the versatility this gluten-free cereal offers. Not only are they perfect with milk, but they also make a delicious addition to yogurt bowls, smoothie bowls, or enjoyed straight out of the box for a convenient on-the-go snack. When the cereal is eaten dry, the peanut butter flavor is mild, but when milk is added, the flavor becomes very strong. Most importantly, they’re gluten-free, making them suitable for those with dietary restrictions or gluten sensitivities.

#4 Apple Cinnamon Chex

Apple Cinnamon Chex stands out as a gluten-free cereal option from the renowned Chex brand, offering a delicious and wholesome breakfast experience. Not just that, the nice blend of apple and cinnamon flavors makes this cereal ideal for snack time or party time. The “Gluten-Free” label is prominently displayed on Chex cereal boxes, making them easy to buy. Moreover, Chex’s gluten-free cereal lineup is special because of the production processes in a dedicated gluten-free facility. 

Beyond its gluten-free benefits, the crispy rice squares provide a warm and comforting taste that reminds you of fresh homemade apple pie. Each spoonful delivers a satisfying crunch and a burst of sweet and spicy flavors that I found enjoyable. If you eat gluten-free and are on the look out for a delicious cereal you should try it!

#5 Seven Sundays Real Cocoa

Marketed as a sunflower cereal and shaped like miniature sunflowers, cassava takes first place as the primary ingredient, followed by sunflower protein. Unlike Lovebird, another cassava-based cereal, Seven Sundays opt for dates and coconut sugar as sweeteners. This combination of sweetness, along with the cocoa flavor in the variant we sampled, effectively masks the bitterness of the cassava.

However, when consumed alone, I still detected a slight bitter aftertaste. Additionally, I noticed a pleasant nuttiness from the sunflower protein. The cocoa powder flavor of this cereal was quite strong, resembling a less-sweet version of Oreos. Seven Sundays retained its crunchiness exceptionally well in milk.

#6 Fruity Pebbles

Fruity Pebbles cereal has long been a favorite among cereal lovers and for good reason. This iconic breakfast treat offers a burst of fruity flavor in every crunchy bite, making it a delightful way to start the day. Finding a tasty gluten-free cereal can sometimes be a challenge for individuals with gluten sensitivities. However, Fruity Pebbles provides this delicious solution without compromising on flavor or texture.

This cereal is gluten-free indulgence made from crispy rice and sweetened to perfection that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Furthermore, it can be beneficial for your health as it contains 11 essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, calcium, and iron. Whether you’re a fan of the classic fruity taste or looking to add a pop of color to your bowl, Fruity Pebbles delivers on both taste and aesthetics.

#7 Cascadian Farm Berry Vanilla Puffs

I have tried a lot of cereals over the years, but I must say that Cascadian Farm has outdone itself with this one. The cereal is made with organic whole-grain cornmeal, making it a healthier alternative to other cereals that may contain refined grains. It was also easier to eat with or without milk, since it had a corn puff base rather than the puffed rice used in Fruity Pebbles. The fruity berry and creamy vanilla flavors are perfectly balanced, providing just the right amount of sweetness.

One of the things that I love about Cascadian Farm Berry Vanilla Puffs is that they hold up well when added to milk. They don’t turn into a soggy mess like many other cereals, making them perfect for those who like to eat their cereal slowly and enjoy each bite. With no artificial flavors or preservatives, you will feel good about eating these puffs as part of a healthy routine.

#8 Lucky Charms

Lucky Charms cereal is gluten-free option for cereal lovers, combining the whimsical charm of marshmallow shapes with the delightful crunch of oat-based cereal. Lucky Charms is renowned for its meticulous sifting process, which ensures that only gluten-free oats and marshmallows make their way into each box. Lucky Charms mitigates the risk of cross-contamination and guarantees a safe gluten-free cereal experience.

The oats provide a satisfying crisp taste, while the marshmallows add a burst of sweetness and fun. You can eat them dry as a convenient snack – but the texture of the dried marshmallows doesn’t appeal. Add milk to rehydrate them, making them tender and crispy. Additionally, the marshmallows turned the milk blue and added a sweet vanilla flavor. If you’re a fan of unique textures and flavors, Lucky Charms might be worth a try!

#9 Corn Chex

Corn Chex is a classic breakfast cereal that offers a satisfying crunch and lightness that’s perfect for snacking. Upon opening the bag, the aroma of toasted corn wafts out, inviting you to dive in. One of the standout features of Corn Chex is its texture, which is particularly enjoyable when enjoyed as a snack without milk. The Chex squares combine crunch with a delicate lightness that makes them irresistible.

While the texture is exceptional, the flavor of Corn Chex may leave some wanting more. Despite being sweetened, it doesn’t come across as overly sugary; instead, it falls into a gray zone between sweet and salty. There are subtle hints of cornbread and polenta that add depth to the flavor profile, elevating the overall experience. When paired with milk, Corn Chex maintains its crispy texture surprisingly well, defying expectations for a cereal so light.

#10 Gluten-Free Maple Buckwheat Flakes

It is a wholesome breakfast option that combines the earthy goodness of buckwheat with the rich sweetness of maple syrup. Crafted with care and attention to quality, these flakes offer a delicious and nutritious way to start your day. Made from naturally gluten-free buckwheat, organic brown rice flour, organic cane sugar and maple syrup, these flakes provide a safe and satisfying option for individuals with gluten intolerance.

In terms of texture, Gluten-Free Maple Buckwheat Flakes deliver a satisfying crunch that holds up well in milk. Whether enjoyed with your favorite dairy or plant-based milk, these flakes maintain their crispiness, adding a delightful contrast to the creamy liquid. Plus, they’re versatile enough to be used in creative recipes, such as gluten free granola bars or yogurt parfaits, for a wholesome and delicious twist.

#11 Nature’s Path Organic Sunrise Crunchy Maple

Sunrise Crunchy Maple offers a diverse cereal experience with its blend of crisp puffed rice, corn puffs, and mixed-grain flakes. However, the small rice pieces can be challenging to eat without milk or a spoon. Adding milk enhances the roasted flavors of the grains while toning down their bitter aftertaste. Although the mix of soft and crispy textures may not appeal to everyone, some may enjoy it.

Prominently labeled gluten-free – this cereal with organic ingredients is a healthy option. When it comes to flavor some might find it extra sweet because of the maple sugar glaze on each flake. The maple syrup flavor blends with the milk, resulting in a delicious taste experience with each sip at the bottom of the bowl. I enjoyed it and think it can be a good pick for occasional cereal switch.

#12 Lovebird Unsweetened Grain-Free Cereal

Not a winner in taste or texture but this was the only cereal that had no sweetener at all. So, maybe healthwise it can be a winner, especially for those seeking low-sugar and sugar-free options. Lovebird’s Grain-Free Cereal delivers a delicate, nutty taste, courtesy of its special mixture of organic cassava and coconut flour. Baked to perfection in organic coconut oil and delicately seasoned with Himalayan salt, this unsweetened cereal offers a wholesome and organic beginning to your morning routine.

It was difficult to consume this cereal without milk due to the lack of sweetness. In comparison to tapioca flour, cassava flour (made from the same plant but with less refinement) has a very strong flavor. There was a bitter edge to the taste, somewhat similar to whole grain. In all honesty, I felt like I was eating cardboard. The only other flavor that stood out was coconut – coconut flour and coconut oil go into the making of Lovebird.

#13 Magic Spoon Grain-Free Cinnamon Roll Cereal

Magic Spoon cereal seems like a dream come true at first glance. Its use of milk protein instead of grain results in a high protein content of 12-14 grams per serving (depending on the flavor), low carbs, and natural gluten-free properties. However, my hopes were dashed upon opening the bag. Instead of a pleasant aroma, there was an overpowering scent of artificial sweeteners, masking even the cinnamon.

The taste mirrored the aroma, delivering a strong taste from the fake sweetener, with a hint of cinnamon candy-like flavor lingering afterward. To make matters worse, the texture was disappointingly soft, even when consumed dry. The cereal failed to redeem itself even when milk was added. If anything, the objectionable flavors were intensified, and the cereal became even mushier. In my opinion, this cereal tasted more like something to avoid rather than enjoy.

#14 OffLimits Fluf N Puf

Another cereal labeled gluten-free that I decided to test for flavor and texture. Its gluten-free formula contains ingredients such as rice flour, pea fiber, and cane sugar. Fluf N Puf claims to offer pancake and maple syrup flavors. When eaten dry, the artificial maple taste is overpowering, as there is no real maple syrup present, and the marshmallows are excessively sweet. The cereal puffs have a toasted quality similar to coffee.

Once milk is added, Fluf N Puf begins to resemble syrup-soaked pancakes more closely. The artificial maple flavor becomes less intense, allowing the cereal’s bready taste to come through. Despite being submerged in milk, everything maintains its crunchiness, including the marshmallows, which is somewhat unusual. While I expected the marshmallows to be soft like those in Lucky Charms, they were more like small pieces of hard candy.

#15 Three Wishes Vanilla Frosted Grain Free Cereal

Three Wishes Cereal is a newcomer to the breakfast cereal scene, offering a unique twist on traditional options. Specializing in grain-free, gluten-free, and plant-based cereals, they prioritize simplicity and wholesome ingredients. Intrigued, I decided to sample their Vanilla Frosted Grain Free Cereal. It’s sweetened with a small amount of real sugar alongside monkfruit sweetener. The cereal maintains its crunchiness both when enjoyed dry and submerged in milk.

However, the taste experience was unexpected. It had a pronounced umami savoriness that overshadowed the vanilla flavor, especially when eaten alone. Even with milk, the vanilla flavor struggled to shine through, with hints of the umami persisting, possibly due to the inclusion of chickpeas in the blend. It raises the question of whether protein-based cereals are a compatible match with traditional cereal flavors.

Where to Buy Gluten-Free Cereals?

If you’re looking for a physical store to shop at, Walmart, Kroger, and Aldi are great options. Walmart has a large selection of gluten-free cereals, including Chex, Nature’s Path, and Bob’s Red Mill. Aldi also carries a variety of gluten-free cereals, such as Millville and LiveGfree. Other stores that carry gluten-free cereals include Publix, Costco, Trader Joe’s, and Sprouts.

If you prefer to shop online, many websites specialize in gluten-free products. Amazon is a great place to start, as they have a long gluten-free cereals list from various brands, including Kellogg’s, General Mills, and KIND. Other online retailers that offer gluten-free cereals include Thrive Market and Vitacost. No matter where you choose to shop, always be sure to read the labels and ingredients carefully to ensure that you purchase gluten-free cereal that is safe for a gluten-free diet.

Tips For Buying Gluten-Free Cereals

• Always Review Ingredients: Even when labeled gluten-free, it is best to check the ingredients before buying because cereals may incorporate additives that should be avoided in case of celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. For instance, some cereals may include barley malt extract or flavoring, both of which are not suitable for a gluten-free diet.
• Read Labels to Check for Wheat Derived Products: Certain cereals may include modified corn starch and maltodextrin, which are both processed carbohydrates. It’s important to check the label to determine if these ingredients are derived from wheat.
• Look for Whole Grains: Opt for cereals made from naturally gluten-free whole grains like rice, corn, quinoa, millet, or buckwheat. For instance, corn flakes gluten-free cereals are rich in fiber, and nutrients, and offer a satisfying crunch. To prepare a delicious quinoa meal in no time read my blog post: Can you Cook Quinoa in the Microwave (How I Do it).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Granola Be Gluten-Free?

Yes, granola can be gluten-free! Traditional granola recipes typically include oats as a base ingredient, and oats are naturally gluten-free. However, there is a risk of cross-contamination during processing if oats are processed in facilities that also handle gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, or rye. To ensure that granola is gluten-free, it’s essential to look for products that are specifically labeled gluten-free granola or certified by reputable organizations.

What Foods are Naturally Gluten-Free?

Several foods are gluten-free naturally, making them suitable for those following a gluten-free diet. These include fruits and vegetables, beef, chicken, turkey, pork, and other meats, dairy products and eggs, beans, lentils, chickpeas, and other legumes. Moreover, several gluten-free grains and flours are available, including rice, almond, coconut, tapioca, and potato flour. These can be used as alternatives to wheat flour in gluten-free baking and cooking.

Do Gluten-Free Cereals Taste Different From Regular Cereals?

A gluten-free version might give a slightly different taste compared to its regular counterpart. This difference in taste primarily stems from the use of alternatives to replace gluten-containing ingredients. Alternative grains used in gluten-free cereals offer their own unique flavors and textures, they may not perfectly replicate the taste of wheat-based cereals. Additionally, gluten-free cereals may have a slightly different mouthfeel due to the absence of gluten, which provides elasticity and chewiness to traditional cereals.

Are Kellogg’s Rice Krispies Gluten-Free?

You might assume that the original Rice Krispies from Kellogg’s are safe for those on a gluten-free diet since rice is naturally gluten-free. However, they contain barley malt flavoring and barley are gluten-containing grains. This means that they are not suitable for individuals avoiding gluten. While Kellogg’s no longer offers a gluten-free version of Rice Krispies, there are alternatives available from brands such as Nature’s Path, and Barbara’s, which offer gluten-free crispy rice cereals.

Conclusion

To sum it up, a gluten-free diet doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite cereal brands. Many cereals are gluten-free because they are made from grains other than wheat, rye or barley. You can find multiple delicious and healthy gluten-free cereal brands in the market and enjoy a bowl of cereal every morning without compromising your health.

I hope that this list of the 15 best gluten-free breakfast cereals has helped you find your new favorite cereal. So, why wait? Head to your nearest Walmart and grab a box of your favorite gluten-free cereal today. Do try new flavors frequently and share your experiences in the comments section – let’s connect the gluten-free community!