Gluten-Free Breakfast Options: Dunkin' Donuts vs. Starbucks (+Video)

Celiac.com 05/27/2025 - For people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, finding safe breakfast options at popular coffee chains can be tricky. Cross-contamination is a major concern, and menu items frequently change. This guide compares the current (2024) gluten-free breakfast offerings at Dunkin' Donuts and Starbucks, highlighting which options are truly safe and what to watch out for.

Understanding Gluten-Free Needs at Coffee Chains

Before diving into the menus, it's important to note:

• Neither Dunkin' nor Starbucks has a dedicated gluten-free kitchen, meaning cross-contamination is possible.
• Oats can be risky—unless certified gluten-free, they may be contaminated with wheat during processing.
• Always check with staff about preparation methods, as ingredients and recipes can vary by location.

Dunkin' Donuts Gluten-Free Breakfast Options

Celiac.com Sponsor (A12):
Dunkin' has a limited but growing selection of gluten-free breakfast items. Here's what's currently available:

Safe Gluten-Free Choices

1. Hash Browns
   • Made from potatoes, oil, and salt.
   • No gluten ingredients, but fried in shared oil (risk of cross-contamination).
   • Best for those with mild gluten sensitivity (not ideal for celiacs).
2. Egg & Cheese Wake-Up Wraps (Without the Tortilla)
   • The eggs and cheese themselves are gluten-free, but the tortilla contains wheat.
   • You can ask for just the eggs and cheese in a bowl.
   • Confirm with staff to ensure no gluten-containing additives.
3. Yogurt Parfait (Without Granola)
   • The yogurt and fruit are gluten-free, but the granola contains wheat.
   • Ask for it without granola to avoid gluten.

Items to Avoid

• All donuts, muffins, and bagels (contain gluten).
• Breakfast sandwiches & wraps (the bread/tortillas contain wheat).
• Oatmeal (not certified gluten-free, high cross-contamination risk).

Pro Tip for Dunkin'

If you have celiac disease, stick with plain coffee, cold brew, or tea and pair it with hash browns (if you tolerate shared fryers) or a yogurt cup.

Starbucks Gluten-Free Breakfast Options

Starbucks offers a few more gluten-free certified options, but selection varies by location.

Safe Gluten-Free Choices

1. Egg Bites (Bacon & Gruyère or Egg White & Red Pepper)
   • Made with eggs, cheese, and veggies.
   • No gluten ingredients, but prepared in shared equipment (moderate risk).
   • Best for gluten-sensitive individuals (celiacs should assess personal tolerance).
2. Hearty Blueberry Oatmeal (If Certified GF Available)
   • Some locations carry certified gluten-free oats, but most do not.
   • Always ask if the oats are gluten-free before ordering.
3. Marshmallow Dream Bar (GF Certified)
   • A sweet, gluten-free snack made with marshmallow, crispy rice, and chocolate.
   • Officially labeled gluten-free, but check packaging for confirmation.
4. Cheese & Fruit Protein Box
   • Contains cheese, nuts, grapes, and gluten-free crackers.
   • No gluten ingredients, but check for updated packaging.

Items to Avoid

• All bakery items (croissants, muffins, cake pops—all contain gluten).
• Regular oatmeal (unless confirmed gluten-free).
• Sandwiches & paninis (all contain wheat).

Pro Tip for Starbucks

If you have celiac disease, the safest bets are:

• Egg bites (if you tolerate shared equipment)
• Gluten-free certified snacks (like the Marshmallow Dream Bar)
• Plain coffee or tea with a side of fruit

Which Chain Is Better for Gluten-Free Breakfast?

Winner? Starbucks (by a small margin)

• Offers certified gluten-free snacks.
• More protein-rich options (like egg bites).
• Better transparency about allergens.

However, neither chain is 100% celiac-safe due to cross-contamination risks.

Final Tips for Gluten-Free Coffee Shop Breakfasts

1. Ask About Prep Methods – Confirm if items are heated in shared ovens/fryers.
2. Check Packaging – Look for "gluten-free" labels on pre-packaged items.
3. When in Doubt, Go Simple – Black coffee, tea, or a banana are the safest bets.

For people with celiac disease, preparing breakfast at home is still the safest option, but if you're on the go, Starbucks' certified gluten-free snacks or Dunkin's hash browns (for gluten-sensitive folks) can work in a pinch.

Would you like recommendations for other chains? Let us know in the comments!

Watch the video version of this article: