Taste Test: The Best Whole-Grain Breads
Whole-grain loaves of bread are rising like never before, so we tested more than 75 varieties to find the nicest slices to help you pack a healthy lunch!
Bread Winners
These whole-grain breads are the best of the best -- that includes best-tasting, best-for-you and more! Tip: To make sure you're choosing a true whole-grain loaf, the first or second ingredient listed should be a whole grain. Happy eating!
Best Multigrain
Our highest-scoring whole-grain loaf was the Pepperidge Farm Whole Grain 15 Grain Bread ($4.29 for a 24-oz. loaf).
Why?
The winning loaf contains whole wheat, wheat berries, oats, rye and millet. "I love the crunchy seeds with every bite," said one taster.
Best Rye or Pumpernickel
Our staff loved the Rubschlager Danish-Style Pumpernickel ($2.99 for a 1-lb. loaf).
Why?
This firm bread is thinly sliced, giving it a delicate feel, with a slightly tangy taste. Each fat-free slice is just 70 calories, so make yourself a double-decker!
Best Whole Wheat
The crowd-favorite in the whole wheat category was the Arnold Whole Grains 100% Whole Wheat Bread ($3.90 for a 1 1/2-lb. loaf).
Why?
Whole-grain bread newbies can start with this tender oat bran-topped loaf with a slight molasses sweetness. "It's surprisingly moist and fluffy," said one panelist.
Best Gluten-Free
Udi's Gluten Free Soft & Hearty Whole Grain Bread took the win for our gluten-free category ($5.99 for a 12-oz. loaf).
Why?
This loaf looks and tastes like artisanal white bread, with no crumbly or gummy texture. While tapioca and potato starches are the first ingredients (they replace wheat flours in gluten-free breads), brown rice and ancient whole grains (amaranth, sorghum and teff) give a deep flavor.
Best Sprouted
French Meadow Bakery Sprouted Grain Bread beat out the competition in the sprouted group ($4.99 for a 24-oz. loaf).
Why?
Go vegan with a loaf full of healthy sprouted stuff, like wheat berries, lentils, soybeans and spelt. Sprouting makes the vitamins and minerals of those ingredients easier to absorb.
Best Nut Butters
Find the spread for your bread! We tasted 85 different variations of nut butters to find the best tasting pecan, pistachio, almond, cashew and flavored spreads on the market.
