Is King Arthur Pancake Mix Dairy-Free? Breaking Down the Ingredients

November 9, 2025 •

3 min read

Over 68% of the world's population is lactose intolerant, making the question 'Is King Arthur pancake mix dairy-free?' a common query for many home bakers. The answer depends entirely on the specific product line, as King Arthur offers both dairy-containing and dairy-free options.

Quick Summary

A product's dairy-free status depends on the specific King Arthur variety. Several gluten-free and protein-based mixes are explicitly labeled dairy-free, while the classic buttermilk and diner-style versions contain milk-derived ingredients.

Key Points

Check the Label: Always read the ingredient list, as King Arthur offers both dairy and non-dairy pancake mixes.
Buttermilk Means Dairy: Classic and diner-style mixes are not dairy-free due to the presence of buttermilk or buttermilk powder.
Gluten-Free Mixes are Dairy-Free: King Arthur's Gluten-Free Pancake Mix and Protein Pancake Mix are explicitly labeled as dairy-free.
Ingredient Substitution: For dairy-containing mixes, you can substitute milk with plant-based alternatives and butter with oil to make them dairy-free.
Consider Cross-Contamination: Customers with severe dairy allergies should visit the King Arthur website for allergen information, as manufacturing can sometimes involve shared equipment.

Navigating King Arthur's Product Line for Dairy-Free Options

King Arthur Baking Company offers a variety of pancake and waffle mixes, but their dairy content is not consistent across the board. For those with dietary restrictions or allergies, it's critical to scrutinize the ingredient list of the exact mix you plan to purchase. Not all products with a similar-sounding name will have the same ingredients.

The Classic Buttermilk and Diner-Style Mixes

King Arthur's traditional buttermilk pancake mix is explicitly not dairy-free. The ingredient list clearly includes 'Buttermilk,' which is a milk-derived product. Similarly, the Diner-Style Pancake & Waffle Mix lists 'buttermilk powder' as an ingredient, confirming that it also contains dairy. These mixes are designed for a classic, rich, fluffy texture that relies on the inclusion of milk products.

The Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free Alternatives

For those seeking a dairy-free breakfast, King Arthur offers specific mixes that cater to these needs. The Gluten-Free Pancake Mix is dairy-free and uses ingredients like whole grain brown rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca starch. The Gluten-Free Protein Pancake Mix is also non-dairy and packed with plant-based protein. These mixes are a convenient option for anyone avoiding milk and milk-derived products.

Understanding 'Dairy-Free' Labeling

It's important to understand the definition of 'dairy-free.' A product labeled 'dairy-free' should contain no animal milk or milk-derived ingredients, such as butter, cheese, or buttermilk. Some mixes, particularly those labeled 'gluten-free,' may seem like a safe bet, but it's vital to check the label for any cross-contamination warnings. While King Arthur provides clear allergen information, being a baking company that handles multiple ingredients, customers with severe allergies should always exercise caution and consult the allergen program online.

Comparison of Popular King Arthur Pancake Mixes

To provide a clearer picture, here is a comparison table of several King Arthur pancake mixes and their dairy status:


Mix Name	Dairy-Free?	Key Ingredients	Dietary Notes
Diner-Style Pancake & Waffle Mix	No	Buttermilk powder, wheat flour	Contains milk and wheat
Buttermilk Pancake Mix	No	Buttermilk, wheat flour	Contains milk and wheat
Gluten-Free Pancake Mix	Yes	Whole grain brown rice flour, tapioca starch	Certified gluten-free and non-dairy
Gluten-Free Protein Pancake Mix	Yes	Plant-based protein, brown rice flour	Certified gluten-free and non-dairy, contains added protein
Keto Wheat Pancake Mix	Check Label	Wheat protein	Contains wheat, dairy status should be verified as formulation may change

How to Prepare a Dairy-Free Version

Even if a mix contains dairy, like the classic buttermilk, you can still create a delicious dairy-free pancake at home. The King Arthur website and other online resources offer recipes for making dairy-free versions.

Steps for Dairy-Free Pancakes from a Dairy-Based Mix:

Replace Milk: Substitute milk with a plant-based alternative such as almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk.
Add Fat: Use a dairy-free fat source. Melted coconut oil or a neutral vegetable oil can replace butter.
Use Egg Replacers: If the recipe calls for eggs and you are vegan, consider an egg replacer or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
Consider Flavor: Some dairy-free milks have distinct flavors. Opt for an unsweetened variety to avoid altering the taste.

Conclusion: A Mix for Every Baker

To conclude, whether a King Arthur pancake mix is dairy-free depends on the specific product. The classic and buttermilk varieties contain milk products and are not suitable for a dairy-free diet. However, King Arthur offers a range of specially formulated dairy-free options, such as their Gluten-Free Pancake Mix and Gluten-Free Protein Pancake Mix, for those with allergies or dietary preferences. Always check the ingredient list carefully before purchasing to ensure it meets your specific needs. King Arthur Baking provides detailed ingredient information for each of its products on its website for peace of mind.

To see more dairy-free alternatives and recipes, check out the King Arthur Baking recipes page for options like their Easy Vegan Pancakes Recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the King Arthur Classic Buttermilk Pancake Mix is not dairy-free. It contains buttermilk powder, which is a milk-derived product.

The King Arthur Gluten-Free Pancake Mix and the Gluten-Free Protein Pancake Mix are specifically labeled as dairy-free options.

No, the King Arthur Gluten-Free Pancake Mix is dairy-free. It is made with whole grain brown rice flour and tapioca starch instead of dairy ingredients.

Yes, you can substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk to make the final pancakes dairy-free, but you will still be using a mix that originally contained dairy ingredients.

Mixes like the Gluten-Free varieties are made using a blend of non-dairy flours and starches, such as brown rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca starch, rather than wheat flour and buttermilk.

Yes, King Arthur Baking provides detailed information on allergens and cross-contact prevention on their website, which is important for individuals with severe allergies.

The dairy status of the Keto Wheat Pancake Mix should be verified by checking the current product label, as formulations can change. While it is wheat-based, you should check for any milk-derived ingredients.