Thomas' Gluten-Free English Muffins: Nutrition, Reviews, Where to Buy

An In-Depth Look at Thomas' Gluten-Free English Muffins

Gluten-free living has become much more manageable in recent years thanks to the explosion of tasty gluten-free products on the market. For those who still miss traditional bakery favorites like English muffins, Thomas' offers a gluten-free English muffin that perfectly hits the spot.

What Are Thomas' Gluten-Free English Muffins?

Thomas' Gluten-Free English Muffins are a 1:1 substitute for regular Thomas' muffins, without the gluten. They provide the same nooks and crannies, soft texture, and ability to toast up nicely just like the original.

The main ingredients are corn flour, potato starch, tapioca flour, and rice flour. These gluten-free flours replace the wheat flour typically used in English muffins.

Xanthan gum and psyllium husk fiber help bind the muffins and give them a rise. The formula is free of dairy, soy, nuts, eggs, and artificial anything.

Nutrition Profile

One Thomas' Gluten-Free English Muffin contains:

• 120 calories
• 2g protein
• 24g carbs
• 0g fiber
• 0g sugar
• 2g fat

The main downside is the lack of fiber, providing only 2% of the daily recommended value. However, the overall carb count and calories are on par with a regular English muffin.

Benefits of Thomas' Gluten-Free Muffins

Thomas' gluten-free English muffins offer several benefits:

• Certified gluten-free - produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility
• Very close texture and taste to traditional English muffins
• No sourdough tang like some other gluten-free muffins
• Get crispy when toasted without falling apart
• Freeze well for longer storage
• Vegan and dairy-free
• No artificial preservatives or sweeteners
• Convenient individually wrapped portions
• Readily available in stores and online

Drawbacks

While Thomas' gluten-free muffins beat out many competitors, there are a few drawbacks to consider:

• Lack fiber and protein compared to other gluten-free options
• Not organic or non-GMO verified
• Contains soybean oil, which some avoid
• Higher in carbohydrates than some other gluten-free breads
• Short ingredient list but not whole food-based
• More expensive than regular English muffins

Are They Really Gluten-Free?

Yes, Thomas' certifies their gluten-free English muffins as containing less than 20 parts per million of gluten. This makes them safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

The muffins are produced in a dedicated gluten-free facility in New Jersey. The brand diligently follows gluten-free protocols to avoid cross-contamination with any gluten-containing ingredients.

Look for the certified gluten-free label on Thomas' gluten-free muffin packaging for assurance of purity. You can feel confident eating these English muffins on a gluten-free diet.

Oats in the Ingredient List

Despite being gluten-free, the ingredient list does include oats. This may seem contradictory since oats do naturally contain gluten.

However, Thomas' uses certified gluten-free oats that have been specially processed to remove any traces of gluten. Only oats labeled "gluten-free" are safe for celiacs.

Nutrition Compared to Regular English Muffins

Thomas' gluten-free English muffins are fairly comparable nutritionally to regular Thomas' English muffins. Let's look at how they stack up:

Calories and Carbs

Thomas' Gluten-Free: 120 calories, 24g carbs

Thomas' Original: 130 calories, 23g carbs

The gluten-free muffins are nearly equal in calories and total carbs. This makes them an easy 1:1 substitute without a nutrition trade-off.

Sugar

Thomas' Gluten-Free: 0g sugar

Thomas' Original: 3g sugar

Going gluten-free eliminates the small amount of sugar found in regular English muffins. This makes the gluten-free version slightly better for blood sugar control.

Fiber

Thomas' Gluten-Free: 0g fiber

Thomas' Original: 1g fiber

Fiber takes a significant hit by removing gluten, since traditional English muffins use wheat flour. Getting fiber from other foods is recommended when enjoying gluten-free muffins.

Protein

Thomas' Gluten-Free: 2g protein

Thomas' Original: 3g protein

Gluten-free flours have less protein than wheat-based ones. However, both muffins provide minimal protein overall. Adding peanut butter, eggs, or cheese boosts the protein.

Fat

Thomas' Gluten-Free: 2g fat

Thomas' Original: 1g fat

The small increase in fat for the gluten-free version is negligible. Both types remain very low in fat.

Price and Where to Buy

A 6-pack of Thomas' Gluten-Free English Muffins typically costs around $4.49. This makes them over twice the price of regular Thomas' muffins.

However, they're competitively priced compared to other leading gluten-free bread brands on the market. The recognizable Thomas' brand name also attracts many buyers despite the higher cost.

Thomas' gluten-free English muffins can be found in the freezer section of most major grocery stores such as:

• Walmart
• Target
• Publix
• Kroger
• Safeway
• Stop & Shop
• ShopRite

Natural food chains like Whole Foods and Sprouts, as well as big box stores like Costco and BJ's may also carry them. Buying online is an convenient option too.

How to Store Them

Unopened packages of Thomas' gluten-free muffins can be stored in the freezer until the best by date. The individually wrapped muffins make it easy to pull out just what you need.

Once opened, store in the refrigerator in a sealed container or bag. Eat within 5-7 days for maximum freshness.

The muffins will develop mold quickly if left out at room temperature or kept too long refrigerated. freezing unused portions extends the shelf life.

Thawing

To thaw, simply move frozen muffins from freezer to refrigerator overnight. Microwaving 10-15 seconds can speed up thawing if you're in a hurry.

Leave sitting on the counter for 30 minutes to finish thawing. Avoid refreezing after thawing.

How to Use

Gluten-free English muffins aren't just for breakfast! Thomas' muffins are incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas for using them:

Breakfast

• Eggs, ham, and cheese sandwich
• Peanut butter and banana
• Lox and cream cheese
• Avocado toast
• Breakfast sandwich with sausage, egg, and cheese

Lunch

• Chicken salad sandwich
• Grilled cheese
• BBQ pulled pork sandwiches
• Veggie burger slider
• Tuna melt

Appetizers

• Mini pizzas
• Garlic bread
• Spinach and artichoke dippers
• Cheese and apple slices
• Jalapeno poppers

Desserts

• Shortcake with whipped cream and fruit
• Ice cream sandwich
• Smores made with chocolate and toasted muffin halves
• Mini strawberry cheesecakes

The options are endless! Use your imagination, or let the nooks and crannies inspire you.

How to Prepare Them

Thomas' gluten-free English muffins can be prepared in all the same ways as regular muffins:

Toasting

Toasting brings out the best texture and flavor. Cook in a toaster or toaster oven until golden brown on both sides. Avoid over-toasting or they can become dry.

Microwaving

Microwave on high for 10-15 seconds if you want a quick warmed muffin without toasting. Check frequently to prevent overcooking.

Sandwiches

Use gluten-free muffins just like bread for sandwiches. Split in half and toast if desired. Load up with savory or sweet fillings.

Pizza Crust

Top muffin halves with sauce, cheese, and favorite pizza toppings. Bake at 400F for 10-12 minutes until hot and melty.

Special Diets

Thomas' gluten-free English muffins are suitable for many diets:

• Gluten-free
• Dairy-free
• Vegetarian
• Vegan
• Kosher

The individually wrapped portions make these muffins convenient for packing snacks and lunches to eat on-the-go as well.

Taste and Texture

Straight From Package

Fresh out of the package, the muffins have a dry, dense texture reminiscent of corn bread. The flavor is neutral with a slightly sweet, corn-like taste.

Toasted

Magic happens when these muffins are toasted! The texture becomes soft and porous inside with a deliciously crisp, bakery-like outside. Toasting brings out the nutty, corn flavor.

Baked Goods

Thomas' gluten-free English muffins make great bases for mini pizzas, shortcakes, sandwiches and more. Their ability to crisp up gives baked goods made with them an authentic, appetizing texture.

additions

When topped with butter, jam, cheese, eggs and other fillings, the mild flavor easily takes on the taste of whatever you pair them with.

Comparisons

Vs. Regular English Muffins

Thomas' gluten-free muffins are remarkably similar to regular wheat English muffins in appearance when split open. They develop the traditional nooks and crannies when toasted.

However, the taste and density when untoasted is more reminiscent of corn bread or grainy bread than a traditional English muffin.

Vs. Udi's Gluten-Free English Muffins

Udi's is another leading brand of gluten-free English muffins. Their version contains more fiber and protein than Thomas', but is higher in carbs.

Many find Udi's muffins too dense and gummy. Thomas' has a better toasted texture. Udi's has a slight sour taste, while Thomas' tastes more neutral and sweet.

Vs. Canyon Bakehouse English Muffins

Canyon Bakehouse gluten-free English muffins contain yeast and are higher in protein than Thomas'. They have a more traditional bread-like flavor.

However, some people dislike the strong yeast taste. Thomas' has a milder corn flavor that is less offensive. It comes down to personal preference.

Reviews

Positive

Most reviews for Thomas' gluten-free English muffins are very favorable. Fans praise the great flavor and texture when toasted, with no gluten aftertaste. Many love having a trusted brand make gluten-free muffins so similar to the real thing. Even skeptics say these win them over.

Negative

Some negative reviews say the muffins have an overly dry, crumbly texture which makes them fall apart, even after toasting. A few people expect a more traditional wheat muffin flavor and find the corn taste unappealing. Some criticize the high price and lack of nutrition compared to other options.

Average Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Overall, most gluten-free consumers are thrilled to enjoy English muffins again thanks to Thomas' version. While not identical to wheat muffins, they make a good substitute with just minor taste and texture differences.

Who Should Buy Thomas' Gluten-Free English Muffins

Thomas' gluten-free English muffins are a smart choice for:

• Those who are gluten-free or have celiac disease
• Anyone who follows a gluten-free diet
• People who miss the taste of traditional English muffins
• Fans of the Thomas' brand of baked goods
• Those who enjoy muffins with a slightly sweet, corn-like taste
• Anyone seeking a quick and convenient gluten-free breakfast, lunch, snack or meal base

Recipes

Gluten-Free English Muffin Pizzas

Ingredients:

• 4 Thomas' gluten-free English muffins, split and toasted
• 1 cup pizza or marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, peppers, etc.

Instructions:

1. Toast muffin halves until golden brown.
2. Top each half with 2-3 tablespoons of pizza sauce.
3. Sprinkle cheese evenly over the sauce.
4. Add any desired toppings.
5. Bake at 400F for 8-10 minutes until cheese is melted.

Berry Shortcakes

Ingredients:

• 4 Thomas' gluten-free English muffins, split
• 1 pint fresh strawberries, blackberries or raspberries
• Whipped cream
• Confectioners' sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Toast muffin halves until lightly browned.
2. Wash and slice berries. Divide among the muffin halves.
3. Top each shortcake half with whipped cream.
4. Dust with confectioners' sugar before serving.

The Bottom Line</h2

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.