Gluten-free bread gives a toaster a harder job than a supermarket white loaf. Slices are often small, so they sink below the rim, and they can be dense or fragile, so they need a gentle shade and a careful lift. Anyone who has fished a hot slice out with a wooden spoon knows the problem.
This guide is for a home with gluten-free bread on the shelf. It looks at the features that matter for those loaves: a gluten-free setting where a maker offers one, a lift that raises short slices, wide slots and a shade dial with room at the light end. Our main toaster guide covers everyday toast for everyone else.
Julia’s earns a commission on purchases made through links on this page, at no cost to you. Recommendations are based on what a restaurant kitchen looks for, product specifications, verified buyer reports and the makers’ own details. We have not used these products ourselves.
Quick verdict: which toaster to buy for gluten-free loaves
For most homes, the best toaster for gluten free bread is the Martha Stewart 2-Slice Toaster, which lists a Gluten-Free preset, ten shade levels and a high-lift lever. The Revolution R180 Connect Plus goes further with a dedicated Gluten-Free mode and a touchscreen. If you want a plain machine that names these slices, the Hamilton Beach Extra-Wide 2-Slice says its Toast Boost lifts gluten-free slices so they are easier to retrieve.
Five toasters for gluten-free slices at a glance
Five picks side by side, one per kind of buyer, using what each listing states. All eight are reviewed below.
| Toaster | Best for | Gluten-free feature (per listing) | Slots | Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Martha Stewart 2-Slice ToasterBest overall
|
Most homes | Gluten-Free preset | 5.4 x 1.4 inches | View on Amazon |
Revolution R180 Connect Plus Smart ToasterBest for fine tuning
|
Tuning by bread type | Dedicated Gluten-Free mode | Extra-wide; size not stated | View on Amazon |
Hamilton Beach Extra-Wide 2-Slice ToasterBest simple pick
|
A plain, simple machine | Toast Boost names gluten-free slices | Extra-wide; size not stated | View on Amazon |
Hamilton Beach Slim Long Slot 2-Slice ToasterBest for long slices
|
Long loaves and narrow counters | Toast Boost names gluten-free slices | One 10-inch long slot | View on Amazon |
Breville Toast Select Luxe 2-Slice ToasterBest for checking
|
Checking without stopping | None named; Lift and Look | Wider; size not stated | View on Amazon |
Product images from Amazon. Features are as stated on each listing. Only the first two toasters name a gluten-free setting.
Our picks for the best toaster for gluten free bread
We start with the two toasters that name a gluten-free setting, then the two that name gluten-free slices in describing their lift. The last four name no gluten-free feature, but they state the lift, slot or shade control these loaves call for, and we say so plainly.
1. Martha Stewart 2-Slice Toaster – A Named Gluten-Free Preset
This is the most direct answer to the question at a reasonable level of fuss. The listing names three presets, Frozen, Bagel and Gluten-Free, and says they vary the heating elements. It does not say how the Gluten-Free preset changes the cycle, so treat it as a starting point and adjust to your loaf.
The other details suit small slices. A high-lift lever raises short pieces higher, automatic centering holds them in place, and there are ten browning levels, which gives more room at the light end than the usual six or seven. Shade memory keeps your setting, which saves relearning the dial if only one person in the house uses it. The slots measure 5.4 by 1.4 inches, and the listing says the 900-watt toaster is sold only through Amazon.
Why we like it
- Gluten-Free preset, per the listing
- Ten browning levels
- High-lift lever for smaller breads
- Remembers your shade setting
Key specifications
| Model | CC010795-001 |
|---|---|
| Slots | 2 slots, 5.4 x 1.4 inches |
| Shade settings | 10 |
| Lift | High-lift lever |
| Presets | Frozen, Bagel, Gluten-Free |
| Crumb tray | Removable |
| Warranty | Not stated |
| Size | Not stated |
Why we recommend it
A sensible first choice for a home that toasts gluten-free bread most days and does not want an app, a screen or a long manual.
Skip it if you need a stated warranty term, since the listing gives none.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Names the job directly
- Fine shade control
- Lift and centering suit short slices
Cons
- Preset is not explained in detail
- Warranty not stated
- Newer model with little outside coverage we could read
2. Revolution R180 Connect Plus Smart Toaster – A Dedicated Mode and a Screen
Revolution says the Plus model unlocks toasting programs for 38 bread types, including a dedicated Gluten-Free mode, and that sensors adjust the cycle as it runs. You choose the bread, the browning level and whether the slice is fresh, frozen or being reheated, in three taps on a touchscreen.
The listing’s heating claim is that its element reaches full heat in two seconds, to crisp the outside and keep the inside soft. That is the maker’s claim and we cannot confirm it. Wi-Fi sets the clock, shows the weather and reminds you to clean the crumb tray, and it doubles as a photo frame. Some buyers will enjoy all that, and others will see it as a lot of toaster for toast. We also reuse this model from another of our pages, where it appears in a bundle with a press. It is here because few toasters state a gluten-free mode, and this listing is the toaster alone.
Why we like it
- Dedicated Gluten-Free mode, per Revolution
- 38 bread programs on the Plus model
- Fresh, frozen and reheat choices
- Sold by the maker at last check
Key specifications
| Model | 1150101 |
|---|---|
| Slots | 2 extra-wide slots, size not stated |
| Shade settings | 7 browning levels |
| Lift | Not stated |
| Presets | 38 bread types |
| Crumb tray | Reminder on screen |
| Warranty | Not stated |
| Size | 11.6 x 6.1 x 8.4 inches |
Why we recommend it
The one to buy if you rotate several gluten-free loaves and want a named setting for more than one bread type.
Skip it if you would rather not have Wi-Fi and a touchscreen on a toaster.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Most specific gluten-free setting here
- Adjusts to fresh or frozen
- Slim 6.1-inch width
Cons
- Heating claims are the maker’s own
- Much more complex than a dial
- Lift feature not stated
3. Hamilton Beach Extra-Wide 2-Slice Toaster – A Boost That Names These Slices
Hamilton Beach does not give this toaster a gluten-free preset, but it does name the problem. The listing says Toast Boost lifts smaller breads like English muffins and gluten-free bread slices, so they are easier to retrieve after toasting. That one sentence is what puts it on this page.
Everything else is plain. There are seven shades, a cancel button and extra-wide slots for thicker slices, and the toaster shuts off at the end of the cycle even if toast gets jammed, according to the maker. Start low on the dial with a new loaf and work up. It weighs about 2.5 pounds on the listing, so hold the body when you press the lever if it feels light on the counter.
Why we like it
- Lift described for gluten-free slices
- Seven shade settings
- Cancel button
- Shuts off if toast jams, per the listing
Key specifications
| Model | 22614V |
|---|---|
| Slots | 2 extra-wide slots, size not stated |
| Shade settings | 7 |
| Lift | Toast Boost |
| Presets | Not stated |
| Crumb tray | Not stated |
| Warranty | Not stated |
| Size | Listed 11.3 inches long, 7 inches high |
Why we recommend it
Buy this for a second, dedicated toaster or a small kitchen, when you want an uncomplicated machine that will lift a short slice.
Skip it if you want a bagel button or a defrost setting, since the listing names neither.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Addresses short slices by name
- Very simple to use
- Automatic shutoff
Cons
- No gluten-free preset
- Few functions
- Crumb tray and warranty not stated
4. Hamilton Beach Slim Long Slot 2-Slice Toaster – One Long Slot, Same Boost
Some gluten-free bakers make long oval loaves that will not fit a standard slot. This toaster’s single 10-inch slot takes two regular slices or one long slice, with self-centering guides, and it uses the same Toast Boost idea, which the listing says lifts English muffins and gluten-free slices.
It is also slim, and Hamilton Beach pitches it for narrow spots on the counter, with cord storage. There are seven shades, a bagel button and a cancel button. A long slot means small slices sit one behind the other, so they can drift toward the ends of the slot. Put short pieces toward the center and check them on the first few runs.
Why we like it
- 10-inch extra-wide slot
- Toast Boost names gluten-free slices
- Slim body with cord storage
- Bagel and cancel buttons
Key specifications
| Model | 22989 |
|---|---|
| Slots | 1 long slot, 10 inches |
| Shade settings | 7 |
| Lift | Toast Boost |
| Presets | Bagel |
| Crumb tray | Not stated |
| Warranty | Not stated |
| Size | Listed 15.9 inches long, 7.5 inches high |
Why we recommend it
A good match for home bakers whose long slices hang out of ordinary toasters, or for anyone short of counter width.
Skip it if you toast four small slices at once, as this has room for only two regular slices.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Fits long slices whole
- Narrow on the counter
- Names the small-slice problem
Cons
- Long body takes depth
- No gluten-free preset
- Warranty not stated
5. Breville Toast Select Luxe 2-Slice Toaster – Check Without Stopping
Breville names no gluten-free setting here. We include it because of two controls that suit a loaf you are still learning. Lift and Look raises the bread to check it without interrupting the cycle, and A Bit More adds a short extra toast. Together they let you creep up on the shade you want rather than guessing.
The six presets, for whole wheat, white, bagels, waffles, pastries and English muffins, adjust the time, and the English muffin setting may be a useful place to begin with small, dense slices. That is our suggestion, not Breville’s. An LED shows progress, the slots are described as wider for dense breads, and the crumb tray pulls out at the front, so you do not have to lift the toaster to clean it. It draws 1000 watts and has a one-year limited warranty.
Why we like it
- Lift and Look does not stop the cycle
- A Bit More extends the cycle
- Front crumb tray
- LED progress indicator
Key specifications
| Model | BTA735BSS1BUS1 |
|---|---|
| Slots | 2 wider slots, size not stated |
| Shade settings | Variable browning control |
| Lift | Manual Lift and Look |
| Presets | 6 bread settings; no gluten-free setting |
| Crumb tray | Front pull-out |
| Warranty | 1 year limited |
| Size | Listed 7.87 inches long, 13.43 inches high |
Why we recommend it
A strong choice if you bake your own loaf or change brands often and want to watch each slice closely.
Skip it if you want a named gluten-free setting, or a warranty longer than one year.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Good control for unfamiliar bread
- Easy to empty crumbs
- Sold by Amazon at last check
Cons
- No gluten-free preset
- One-year warranty
- Lift and Look takes attention
6. KitchenAid 2-Slice Automatic Toaster – A Lift for Big or Small Slices
KitchenAid’s listing says the manual high-lift lever gives access to bread whether it is big or small, which is the point here. The extra-wide slots are described for thick and homemade breads as well as bagels. It does not name gluten-free bread and it does not state the slot size.
Beyond the shade range, it has four extra functions: Bagel, Defrost, Reheat and Little Longer. Defrost matters more than usual, because gluten-free loaves are often kept in the freezer, and Little Longer helps when a thick slice is almost there. The listing gives the size as about 8.3 inches high and 11.4 inches long, at 4.3 pounds.
Why we like it
- High lift for small bread, per the listing
- Defrost setting for frozen slices
- Little Longer button
- Wide range of shades, from light to dark
Key specifications
| Model | KMT2109BM |
|---|---|
| Slots | 2 extra-wide slots, size not stated |
| Shade settings | Wide range; number not stated |
| Lift | Manual high lift |
| Presets | Bagel, Defrost, Reheat, Little Longer |
| Crumb tray | Removable |
| Warranty | Not stated |
| Size | Listed 11.4 inches long, 8.3 inches high |
Why we recommend it
A good fit if your loaf lives in the freezer and you want a well-known maker with simple, useful functions.
Skip it if you need to know the number of shade steps or the warranty before you buy, since this listing gives neither.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Lift aimed at short slices
- Handy frozen-bread setting
- Solid, simple functions
Cons
- No gluten-free setting
- Shade steps not stated
- Warranty not stated here
7. Cuisinart 2-Slice Toaster, 1.5-Inch Slots – Stated Slots and Long Cover
Dense slices can be thick and awkwardly shaped. Cuisinart states 1.5-inch slots, the widest measurement stated on this page, and an extra-lift carriage lever for short pieces. There are six shades, plus reheat, defrost and bagel buttons with indicator lights, and a slide-out crumb tray.
The listing gives a limited three-year warranty, the longest stated term among these picks. It names no gluten-free setting and has fewer shade steps than the Martha Stewart, so begin low and raise it a little at a time. It also has a cord wrap, and the listing describes it as compact and suited to countertop use.
Why we like it
- 1.5-inch slots, as stated
- Extra-lift lever
- Three-year limited warranty
- Defrost and reheat buttons
Key specifications
| Model | CPT-160ES |
|---|---|
| Slots | 2 slots, 1.5 inches wide |
| Shade settings | 6 |
| Lift | Extra-lift lever |
| Presets | Bagel, Defrost, Reheat |
| Crumb tray | Slide-out |
| Warranty | 3 years limited |
| Size | Listed 10.75 inches long, 7.13 inches high |
Why we recommend it
Choose it if you want a well-known name, a stated slot width and warranty cover you can read before you buy.
Skip it if you want fine control at the light end of the dial, since it offers only six settings.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Clear slot measurement
- Long stated warranty
- Brushed stainless body
Cons
- No gluten-free setting
- Fewer shade steps
- Two slices only
8. BLACK+DECKER 2-Slice Extra-Wide Toaster – High Lift at Entry Level
This is the entry-level choice among these eight. BLACK+DECKER says its high-lift lever lets you remove smaller slices or hot toast without burning your fingers, and that self-centering guides hold bread in place. A drop-down crumb tray handles cleaning, and the body is stainless steel.
What you give up compared with the picks above is any named setting for gluten-free slices, along with the extra functions and a stated warranty term. One detail to note: the listing title says seven shades, while its feature list says eight. Either way, the maker suggests starting at the middle setting, but with gluten-free bread we would start lower and work up.
Why we like it
- High-lift lever for smaller slices
- Self-centering guides
- Drop-down crumb tray
- Sold by Amazon at last check
Key specifications
| Model | TR0011SSA |
|---|---|
| Slots | 2 extra-wide slots, size not stated |
| Shade settings | 7 or 8; listing is inconsistent |
| Lift | High-lift lever |
| Presets | None stated |
| Crumb tray | Drop-down |
| Warranty | Not stated |
| Size | Listed 9.17 x 5.78 x 6.65 inches |
Why we recommend it
Fine for a low-stakes second toaster kept for gluten-free bread, or for a dorm or rental kitchen.
Skip it if you want bagel, defrost or reheat buttons, as this listing names none.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Small footprint
- Covers the basics for short slices
- Easy crumb tray
Cons
- No presets stated
- Listing is inconsistent on shades
- Warranty term not stated
How to choose a toaster for gluten-free bread
1. Look for lift first
Short slices are the everyday annoyance. A high-lift lever or a Toast Boost feature brings them up to where you can reach them. Keep metal tools out of the slots, and unplug the toaster before you try to free a stuck slice.
2. Check the low end of the dial
The shade dial is where gluten-free bread is won or lost. Many loaves brown quickly at the edges, so begin low with each new loaf and go up one step at a time. More steps, as on the ten-level Martha Stewart, give finer control.
3. Treat wide slots as useful, not magic
Wide slots help with thick or uneven slices, and they make it easier to get a dense slice out. Self-centering guides matter just as much, because a thin slice that leans can scorch on one side. Only a few makers state the slot size, and we list it where they do.
4. Decide whether a preset matters
A named gluten-free setting is useful if it matches your loaf, but makers say little about how it changes the cycle. A good dial and a Lift and Look style control can get to the same place, with a bit more attention.
5. Make crumbs easy to deal with
Gluten-free bread can shed crumbs, and a pull-out or drop-down tray makes them easy to clear. Empty it often, because crumbs left in any toaster can burn.
Shared toasters and cross-contact: what the source says
Whether a home with celiac disease needs a separate toaster is a question for your care team, not for a kitchen guide. The Celiac Disease Foundation reported in 2019 on a small, preliminary study in which gluten stayed under 20 ppm when gluten-free bread was toasted in the same toaster as regular bread. The Foundation said more research is needed and still recommends following the guidance of your celiac care team. None of the makers here say their toasters prevent cross-contact, and neither do we.
How we picked these eight toasters
We looked for two-slice toasters from named makers, in stock from a new Amazon offer, and not on our main toaster, budget toaster, four-slot or bagel and English muffin guides, with one exception, explained on the Revolution pick. We ranked listings that name gluten-free bread first, then those that state a lift for small slices. We have not used these toasters ourselves.
A search for independent reviews of these models turned up mostly shopping lists and maker pages, and we did not rely on them, so these picks rest on listing and maker details. A CPSC recall search by brand showed older toaster notices from Hamilton Beach in 2011 and KitchenAid in 2005. If you buy secondhand, check the model at cpsc.gov.
Toasters and gluten-free bread, answered
Do I need a toaster with a gluten-free setting?
No. It can be a handy starting point, but a low shade and a good lift will do the job on most machines. Only the Martha Stewart and Revolution here name such a setting.
Why does gluten-free bread burn or stay pale in my toaster?
Loaves differ a lot in density and moisture, so the same dial setting can give different results from one brand to another. Start low, toast again for a short burst if you need to, and keep notes on what works for your usual loaf.
Can I toast frozen gluten-free slices?
Yes, on a toaster with a defrost or frozen setting. The KitchenAid, Cuisinart, Breville and Martha Stewart all list one, and the Revolution lets you choose frozen on the screen.
Should a person with celiac disease share a toaster?
Follow your care team’s guidance. The Celiac Disease Foundation describes a small 2019 study that found low gluten transfer in a shared toaster, and calls it preliminary.
Will toaster bags help?
Some people use them, but check that the toaster’s maker allows them, since a bag can touch the heating elements. None of the listings here mention them.
Our last word on toasters for gluten-free loaves
Start with the Martha Stewart for its named preset and fine shade control, or the plain Hamilton Beach if you just want short slices to come back up. Our main toaster guide covers the wider field, and our guide to reheating Mexican leftovers has more uses for a small appliance. And if you would rather have someone else cook, Julia’s is at 5402 N Highway 6 in Houston: call to order, and ask us about ingredients when you do.