Unleavened bread holds a special place in many cultures and culinary traditions around the world.
Unlike traditional bread that relies on yeast or other leavening agents to rise, unleavened bread is made without any rising agents, resulting in a dense, simple, and often quicker-to-make bread.
This style of bread is not only rich in history but also versatile and adaptable to a variety of dietary needs—from gluten-free to paleo and keto diets.
Whether you’re looking for a quick flatbread to accompany your meals or a nutritious alternative to traditional bread, unleavened breads offer an array of flavors and textures to explore.
In this article, you’ll find 21+ recipes featuring different flours, techniques, and flavor profiles to inspire your kitchen adventures and broaden your bread repertoire.
21+ Easy Unleavened Bread Recipes for Every Occasion
Exploring unleavened bread recipes opens the door to a world of simple yet satisfying baking.
From the nutty richness of almond flour flatbreads to the hearty robustness of rye and the naturally gluten-free chickpea or cornmeal variations, there’s an unleavened bread recipe to fit every palate and lifestyle.
These breads require minimal ingredients and preparation time, making them perfect for busy days or for those who want wholesome, homemade bread without the wait.
Experimenting with different flours and spices can help you discover new favorites and bring unique tastes to your table.
So grab your mixing bowl and skillet, and start enjoying the delightful simplicity of unleavened bread.
simple unleavened flatbread
Simple unleavened flatbread is a quick and easy bread that requires just a few basic ingredients.
This bread is unleavened, meaning it does not use yeast or any rising agents, resulting in a thin, soft, and slightly chewy bread perfect for dipping or wrapping.
It’s an excellent choice for those who want homemade bread without the wait or for traditional meals that call for unleavened bread.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Mix the flour and salt in a bowl.
- Add water and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Divide dough into small balls and roll each out thinly.
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and cook each flatbread for 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly browned and cooked through.
This simple unleavened flatbread is versatile and can be served with dips, used for wraps, or alongside soups and stews, making it a staple for many households.
traditional unleavened bread
Traditional unleavened bread, often made for religious or cultural purposes, uses a few simple ingredients and no rising agents.
The bread is crisp and slightly rustic, perfect for serving with hearty meals or using as a base for toppings.
This recipe honors the ancient traditions of unleavened bread while keeping the process straightforward.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup water
Instructions:
- Combine flour and salt in a bowl.
- Gradually add water and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead dough for 8-10 minutes until firm and elastic.
- Divide dough into portions and roll out thin.
- Bake on a preheated baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes until edges are crisp and golden.
This traditional unleavened bread provides a hearty texture and flavor, making it ideal for pairing with robust dishes or using in sandwiches.
unleavened chickpea flatbread
Unleavened chickpea flatbread combines the nutty flavor of chickpea flour with the ease of an unleavened recipe, resulting in a gluten-free, protein-packed bread option.
This flatbread is both flavorful and nutritious, perfect for those looking for a wholesome alternative to traditional wheat bread.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds (optional)
- ⅓ cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Mix chickpea flour, salt, and cumin seeds in a bowl.
- Gradually add water and olive oil, stirring to form a batter-like dough.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Pour a small ladle of batter and spread into a thin circle.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
This unleavened chickpea flatbread offers a tasty and healthy option for gluten-sensitive eaters or anyone wanting a protein-rich bread that’s quick to prepare and delicious.
easy unleavened tortilla
Easy unleavened tortilla is a quick and soft flatbread that requires no yeast or rising time.
This recipe uses simple ingredients and can be made on the stovetop, making it perfect for busy days or when you want fresh homemade bread in minutes.
These tortillas are great for wraps, tacos, or served alongside beans and salads.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Slowly add warm water and oil, mixing to form a dough.
- Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Divide dough into small balls and roll each into thin circles.
- Cook each tortilla on a hot dry skillet for about 1 minute per side until lightly browned and cooked through.
These easy unleavened tortillas are soft, pliable, and perfect for quick meals or snacks, making them a versatile addition to your kitchen repertoire.
unleavened pita bread
Unleavened pita bread offers a thinner, denser alternative to traditional pita, made without yeast or baking powder.
This bread is ideal for those seeking a quick bread recipe without fermentation time but still want a great bread for dipping or sandwich wraps.
Its simple preparation yields a satisfying flatbread with a slight chew.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Mix flour and salt in a bowl.
- Add water and olive oil and stir until combined.
- Knead dough for 7 minutes until smooth.
- Divide dough into equal pieces and roll out into thin rounds.
- Cook on a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked and lightly browned.
This unleavened pita bread works well for dipping into hummus or filling with fresh vegetables and proteins, making it a simple yet tasty option for lunches and dinners.
unleavened herb flatbread
Unleavened herb flatbread is a fragrant and flavorful bread that incorporates fresh herbs into the dough, elevating the simple unleavened bread into a savory delight.
It requires no yeast and cooks quickly, perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or accompaniment to soups and salads.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley)
- ⅓ cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Combine flour, salt, and herbs in a bowl.
- Slowly add water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth.
- Divide dough and roll out thinly.
- Cook on a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
The unleavened herb flatbread offers a delicious twist on basic flatbread with fresh herbal notes, making it perfect for enhancing any meal with added flavor and aroma.
unleavened almond flour bread
Unleavened almond flour bread is a grain-free, gluten-free option that’s perfect for those following paleo or low-carb diets.
This bread uses almond flour and requires no yeast or rising time, resulting in a dense but tender loaf rich in healthy fats and protein.
It’s a nutritious alternative to traditional breads and works well for sandwiches or toast.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk eggs and olive oil together.
- Add almond flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until fully combined.
- Pour batter into a greased loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
This unleavened almond flour bread is a flavorful, nutrient-dense bread that fits many dietary needs, offering a wholesome way to enjoy bread without yeast.
unleavened rice flour flatbread
Unleavened rice flour flatbread is a light, gluten-free bread option made with just a few ingredients.
This bread is soft and flexible, perfect for serving with curries, dips, or using as a wrap.
Its simplicity and fast preparation make it a great everyday bread alternative.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon oil
Instructions:
- Combine rice flour and salt in a bowl.
- Gradually add water and oil, mixing until you form a soft dough.
- Divide dough into balls and roll each out thinly on a floured surface.
- Cook on a hot, dry skillet for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly browned.
This unleavened rice flour flatbread offers a naturally gluten-free bread option that pairs well with a variety of dishes, perfect for those avoiding wheat.
unleavened oat flatbread
Unleavened oat flatbread combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the simplicity of unleavened bread.
This recipe is nutritious, hearty, and easy to make, providing a great source of fiber and a mild, nutty flavor.
It’s ideal as a snack or accompaniment to soups and salads.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups oat flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Mix oat flour and salt in a bowl.
- Add water and olive oil, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead lightly and roll into thin rounds.
- Cook on a preheated skillet for 2 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
The unleavened oat flatbread is a wholesome and satisfying bread choice that offers a nutritious twist to traditional unleavened breads, suitable for a healthy lifestyle.
unleavened chickpea flatbread
Unleavened chickpea flatbread is a protein-packed and gluten-free bread that’s quick to prepare and full of earthy flavor.
Made from chickpea flour, this flatbread is naturally nutritious and perfect as a snack or served alongside Mediterranean dishes.
It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking for a simple, yeast-free bread alternative.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chickpea flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: 1 teaspoon ground cumin or herbs for extra flavor
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together chickpea flour, salt, and optional spices.
- Gradually add water and olive oil, stirring until smooth batter forms.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Pour a small amount of batter into the skillet, spreading into a thin circle.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
This unleavened chickpea flatbread is wonderfully versatile, offering a rich, nutty taste and a satisfying texture that pairs well with dips, salads, or grilled vegetables.
unleavened cornmeal flatbread
Unleavened cornmeal flatbread is a rustic, grainy bread with a hearty texture and slightly sweet corn flavor.
Made without yeast, this bread is quick to prepare and ideal for serving with chili, soups, or stews.
Its crispy edges and soft interior make it a comforting addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Mix cornmeal, flour, and salt in a bowl.
- Add warm water and olive oil, stirring to form a dough.
- Knead briefly on a floured surface.
- Divide dough into portions and roll into thin rounds.
- Cook on a hot skillet for 3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
This unleavened cornmeal flatbread offers a satisfying corn flavor and crunchy texture that enhances many dishes, making it a delicious yeast-free bread choice.
unleavened spiced flatbread
Unleavened spiced flatbread brings warm spices into a quick, yeast-free bread recipe.
Perfect as an appetizer or accompaniment to curries and dips, this flatbread features fragrant spices like cinnamon, cumin, and coriander that add depth and complexity to the bread’s flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅔ cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Combine flour, salt, and spices in a bowl.
- Slowly add water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead briefly, then divide and roll into thin rounds.
- Cook each flatbread on a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and fragrant.
The unleavened spiced flatbread adds a unique twist to traditional unleavened breads with its aromatic spices, creating a flavorful bread that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.
unleavened sourdough flatbread
Unleavened sourdough flatbread is a simple, rustic bread that combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with the ease of no yeast or rising time.
Made from basic ingredients, this bread is perfect for those who love the taste of sourdough but need a quicker option.
It’s soft yet slightly chewy, making it a delightful accompaniment to soups and salads.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough starter (discard or active)
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup water (adjust as needed)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix sourdough starter, flour, salt, and water to form a soft dough.
- Knead gently and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Divide dough into small balls and roll out thinly on a floured surface.
- Cook flatbreads on a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until golden spots appear.
This unleavened sourdough flatbread brings the delicious tang of sourdough to the table with minimal effort, perfect for a quick snack or meal addition.
unleavened millet flatbread
Unleavened millet flatbread is a gluten-free, nutritious bread made with millet flour, which has a mildly sweet and nutty flavor.
This flatbread is thin, tender, and easy to prepare without yeast, making it ideal for wraps, sandwiches, or alongside vegetable dishes.
Its wholesome profile makes it a great choice for healthy eating.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup millet flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Combine millet flour and salt in a bowl.
- Slowly add water and olive oil, mixing to form a dough.
- Roll the dough into thin rounds on a lightly floured surface.
- Cook on a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
The unleavened millet flatbread offers a nutritious, naturally gluten-free bread alternative that pairs well with a variety of meals.
unleavened cassava flatbread
Unleavened cassava flatbread is a traditional bread made from cassava flour, popular in many tropical regions.
This bread is naturally gluten-free and unleavened, with a chewy texture and mild flavor.
It’s quick to prepare and can be enjoyed as a snack, side dish, or base for toppings.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cassava flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup water (adjust as needed)
Instructions:
- Mix cassava flour and salt in a bowl.
- Gradually add water and knead into a smooth dough.
- Divide dough into portions and flatten into thin rounds.
- Cook on a hot griddle or skillet for 3-4 minutes per side until cooked and slightly browned.
Unleavened cassava flatbread offers a simple, naturally gluten-free bread that brings a chewy texture and subtle flavor to your meals, ideal for those seeking easy, yeast-free breads.
unleavened oat flatbread
Unleavened oat flatbread is a wholesome, fiber-rich bread made from oat flour that’s naturally gluten-free when using certified oats.
This flatbread is soft yet sturdy, making it perfect for wraps or dipping.
Without any yeast or rising time, it’s a quick and nutritious option that fits well into a health-conscious lifestyle.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oat flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Combine oat flour and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Add water and olive oil gradually, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead briefly and divide into small balls.
- Roll each ball into a thin circle on a floured surface.
- Cook on a hot non-stick skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
This unleavened oat flatbread offers a pleasantly mild taste and a soft texture, ideal for those wanting a quick, healthy bread option without yeast.
unleavened almond flour flatbread
Unleavened almond flour flatbread is a low-carb, gluten-free bread option rich in healthy fats and protein.
Using almond flour gives this flatbread a slightly nutty flavor and tender crumb. Perfect for paleo or keto diets, it requires no yeast or rising time, making it quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Mix almond flour and salt in a bowl.
- Add the egg and olive oil, stirring to combine into a dough.
- Roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper into a thin round.
- Cook on a preheated skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
This unleavened almond flour flatbread is perfect for those looking for a grain-free, nutrient-dense bread that’s quick to make and versatile for many meals.
unleavened rye flatbread
Unleavened rye flatbread offers a hearty, robust flavor that comes from rye flour’s natural earthiness.
Without yeast, it’s a straightforward bread with a dense texture and slightly tangy taste.
This flatbread is perfect for pairing with savory spreads, cheeses, or smoked fish.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rye flour
- ½ cup whole wheat flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Mix rye flour, whole wheat flour, and salt in a bowl.
- Add water and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead lightly and divide into portions.
- Roll out each portion thinly on a floured surface.
- Cook on a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until firm and browned.
This unleavened rye flatbread delivers rich flavor and a satisfying chew, making it a delicious yeast-free bread for hearty meals.
unleavened chickpea flatbread
Unleavened chickpea flatbread is a protein-packed, gluten-free bread made from chickpea flour, also known as gram flour or besan.
This flatbread has a slightly nutty taste and a firm yet tender texture, making it a fantastic option for wraps, dips, or alongside curries.
With no yeast or rising required, it’s quick to prepare and perfect for a healthy, plant-based diet.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chickpea flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: spices like cumin or turmeric for extra flavor
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix chickpea flour, salt, and optional spices.
- Gradually whisk in water and olive oil to form a smooth batter-like dough.
- Let rest for 10 minutes.
- Heat a non-stick skillet and pour batter to form a thin flatbread.
- Cook 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
This unleavened chickpea flatbread is a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional bread, ideal for those seeking gluten-free, protein-rich options.
unleavened cornmeal flatbread
Unleavened cornmeal flatbread is a simple, rustic bread that highlights the sweet and slightly gritty texture of cornmeal.
This flatbread is naturally gluten-free and unleavened, making it perfect for quick preparation.
It pairs wonderfully with savory toppings, stews, or can be enjoyed plain with butter or honey.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fine cornmeal
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (optional for texture)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Combine cornmeal, flour, and salt in a bowl.
- Stir in water and olive oil, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Roll dough into small balls and flatten into discs.
- Cook on a hot skillet for 3-4 minutes per side until crisp and golden.
This unleavened cornmeal flatbread offers a delightful texture and flavor, perfect for those looking for a quick, naturally gluten-free bread alternative.
unleavened coconut flour flatbread
Unleavened coconut flour flatbread is a low-carb, grain-free bread option with a slightly sweet and nutty flavor from coconut flour.
This bread is ideal for paleo and keto diets and provides a tender, delicate texture without the need for yeast or rising. It’s great for wraps, sandwiches, or as a side to savory dishes.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup coconut flour
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup water (adjust as needed)
Instructions:
- Whisk eggs, olive oil, and water in a bowl.
- Gradually add coconut flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Divide dough into small portions and flatten into rounds.
- Cook on a lightly greased skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
This unleavened coconut flour flatbread is a tasty, nutritious choice for anyone avoiding grains and yeast but wanting a versatile bread alternative.
Conclusion
Unleavened breads are more than just a type of bread—they’re a connection to tradition, culture, and simplicity in baking. Whether you need a quick bread fix or are following specific dietary guidelines, these 21+ unleavened bread recipes offer practical and delicious solutions. They provide great versatility for meals, snacks, and even dips, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen without the complexity of yeast-based baking. As you try these recipes, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to make nourishing bread that complements any dish and satisfies your bread cravings. Unleavened breads prove that sometimes, less truly is more when it comes to flavor and nutrition.