Can Communion be gluten-free?

Yes, in many Protestant churches, fully gluten-free communion bread is welcomed. However, in the Roman Catholic Church, only low-gluten hosts made with a small amount of wheat starch are permitted. Always check with your specific denomination or clergy for guidance.

What is the trick to making good gluten-free bread?

Use a blend of gluten-free flours, add psyllium husk for structure, and don’t skip the resting or cooling steps. For communion bread, simplicity is key—skip yeast and use natural binders to avoid crumbling.

Why the Catholic Church bans gluten-free communion wafers?

The Catholic Church requires that communion hosts contain wheat to maintain the doctrine of transubstantiation. Purely gluten-free wafers, made without wheat, are considered invalid for consecration. Low-gluten hosts, however, are allowed under specific conditions.

What kind of bread can be used for Communion?

That depends on your denomination. Catholics must use unleavened wheat bread. Most Protestant churches allow a wider range, including homemade, gluten-free, or leavened loaves. The key is the intent and reverence with which it’s made and shared.

Gluten Free Communion Bread Recipe – Simple Sacred (2025)

Description

This gluten free communion bread is soft, simple, and perfect for home or church services. Made with wholesome flours and no yeast.

Ingredients

Brown Rice Flour: 1 1/4 cup

Tapioca flour: 1 1/4 cup

Teff Flour: 1/2 cup

Sugar: 1/4 cup

Baking soda: 1/2 tsp

Baking powder: 1 tsp

Salt: 1/2 tsp

Psyllium husks (whole): 6 T.

Oil: 1/4 cup (plus extra for brushing)

Apple cider vinegar: 1/2 tsp

Water: 2 cups

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking tray with parchment.

2. Whisk all dry ingredients together in a large bowl.

3. Mix oil, vinegar, and water separately; pour into dry mix.

4. Stir for 2 minutes until batter becomes thick and sticky.

5. Divide dough into 4 loaves and shape on tray.

6. Score a cross and brush lightly with oil.

7. Bake at 350°F for 12 minutes.

8. Remove, re-oil and re-score; increase oven to 400°F.

9. Bake an additional 12 minutes.

10. Cool loaves completely on wire rack before serving.

Notes

Use whole psyllium husks—not powder—for best texture.

Loaves freeze well if tightly wrapped after cooling.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 24 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Religious