What is the Best Hamburger Bun for Weight Watchers?

October 5, 2025 •

4 min read

According to user discussions, many find bread products challenging to incorporate into their Weight Watchers plan, often seeking low-point alternatives. For those following the program, knowing what is the best hamburger bun for Weight Watchers is crucial for enjoying summer BBQ season and classic meals without derailing progress.

Quick Summary

This guide details the best store-bought and homemade bun choices for Weight Watchers, including low-point brands and creative substitutions. It explores options from dedicated WW products to English muffins and lettuce wraps to help you stay on track.

Key Points

Official WW buns are a safe bet: Weight Watchers 100% Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns are specifically designed to be low in points, providing a convenient and reliable option.
Sara Lee Delightful offers low calories: With only 80 calories per bun, Sara Lee Delightful Wheat Buns are a very low-point option, though they are often smaller than traditional buns.
Schmidt Old Tyme 647 is high in fiber: Known for high fiber and a good taste, Schmidt Old Tyme 647 buns are a favorite among WW members for a filling, low-point burger.
Consider alternatives for zero or low points: For significantly lower points, use creative options like crisp lettuce wraps, toasted English muffins, or grilled portobello mushroom caps.
Check the app for current point values: Due to potential changes in the WW point formula, always use the app to scan product barcodes and confirm the most up-to-date point information for any packaged buns.

Navigating Weight Watchers Point Values for Buns

When choosing a hamburger bun on the Weight Watchers program, the goal is to find an option that provides the best nutritional value, including fiber, for the fewest points. While standard white buns can be high in points and offer little fiber, numerous delicious and satisfying options fit comfortably within a daily budget. Reading nutritional labels is key, as point values are calculated based on calories, saturated fat, protein, and sugar content.

Top Store-Bought Low-Point Buns

For convenience, many brands offer bread products specifically designed to be lower in points. However, it is essential to check the serving size and re-verify points on the current WW app, as values can change.

WW 100% Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns: As an official Weight Watchers product, these buns are explicitly designed to be point-friendly, with around 3 SmartPoints and 110 calories per bun. They offer a low-fat choice with whole grain fiber.
Sara Lee Delightful Wheat Buns: At around 80 calories per bun, these are a low-calorie choice that translates to fewer points. Some users report they are around 2 SmartPoints per bun.
Schmidt Old Tyme 647 Buns: Praised for being low in points and high in fiber, these buns are a top choice among WW members, with some variations being as low as 2 points per bun. The 647 name often refers to 6 grams of fiber, 40 calories, and 7 grams of net carbs per serving.
Dave's Killer Thin-Sliced Bread: While not a bun, this is a popular alternative. The thin slices are lower in points and offer good fiber and flavor.
Light English Muffins: Brands like Thomas' 'Lite' English muffins have been used by WW members for burgers, offering a satisfying base for fewer points. A whole wheat version offers additional fiber.
Trader Joe's Whole Wheat Buns: Some members have found that the whole wheat buns at Trader Joe's are a good lower-point option, but point values should always be confirmed.

How to Verify Points for Packaged Buns

Since Weight Watchers point formulas can be updated, you should always double-check the values. Use the WW app to scan the barcode of any packaged bread product for the most accurate and up-to-date point count. Look for buns that are higher in fiber and lower in sugar to help manage your overall daily points.

Creative Bun Alternatives for Weight Watchers

Sometimes, the best bun is no bun at all. Creative alternatives can save significant points while providing a delicious and satisfying meal.

Lettuce Wraps: Large, crisp lettuce leaves, such as iceberg or butter lettuce, can serve as a zero-point wrap for your burger patty.
Portobello Mushroom Caps: Grilled or roasted portobello mushroom caps make for a savory, low-point bun substitute. They add a deep, umami flavor to your burger.
Sandwich Thins: These are pre-portioned, thin slices of bread that are often lower in calories and points than traditional buns. Some options can be around 3 points.
Pita Pockets: Look for smaller, whole wheat pita pockets. Some versions are low in points and work well for holding a burger patty and toppings.
Hash Brown Buns: For a gluten-free and starchy alternative, homemade hash brown patties can serve as a unique and tasty bun replacement.

Homemade Whole Wheat Buns

For those who enjoy baking, creating your own buns offers maximum control over ingredients. Recipes using 100% whole wheat flour often result in a higher-fiber bun that is dense and flavorful. You can use recipes that incorporate ingredients like honey and olive oil for flavor while managing portions. Baking at home ensures there are no artificial ingredients or preservatives.

Weight Watchers Bun Comparison


Bun Option	Approx. WW Points (per bun/serving)*	Pros	Cons
WW 100% Whole Wheat Buns	3	High in fiber, specifically designed for the program, widely available	Can be pricier than generic options, taste preference varies
Sara Lee Delightful Wheat Buns	2	Very low in calories (80), budget-friendly	Can be smaller and less substantial than a traditional bun
Schmidt Old Tyme 647 Buns	2-3	Excellent source of fiber, great taste, good size	Availability may be regional, check labels for specific point value
Dave's Killer Bread (Thin-Sliced)	2 (per slice)	Filling and flavorful, high in nutrients	Not a bun shape, requires assembling like a sandwich
English Muffin (Lite)	2-3	Sturdy texture, satisfyingly hearty when toasted	Not the traditional burger bun shape or soft texture
Lettuce Wrap	0	Zero points, fresh and crispy, great for low-carb	Can be messy to eat, not a true bread substitute

*Note: WW point values are estimates based on various user reports and product information. Always verify points with the official app and current food product's nutrition label.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the best hamburger bun for your Weight Watchers plan depends on your personal preferences and point budget. If you prioritize convenience and guaranteed point values, the official WW buns are a safe bet. If a lower point value is your top concern and you don't mind a smaller bun, Sara Lee Delightful is a strong contender. For those who prefer a high-fiber option that tastes great, the Schmidt Old Tyme 647 buns are highly recommended. Don't be afraid to think outside the bun either—innovative alternatives like lettuce wraps or English muffins offer tasty ways to enjoy your meal while staying on track. No matter which option you choose, always verify the most up-to-date nutritional information on the package and in your WW app to ensure it aligns with your plan. For more guidance on fitting bread into your plan, visit the official Weight Watchers blog.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best hamburger bun for Weight Watchers is the one that helps you feel satisfied and stay within your point budget. Options range from purpose-made WW buns to popular, low-point store brands and creative, non-bread substitutes. By focusing on whole grains, checking nutrition labels, and considering satisfying alternatives, you can enjoy a delicious burger experience while successfully managing your weight. Remember that portion control is key, and every choice can be a good one with the right information.

Frequently Asked Questions

No traditional bread-based hamburger buns are zero points, but you can use alternatives like large lettuce leaves or grilled portobello mushrooms, which are zero-point foods, as your 'bun'.

The point value of a standard white hamburger bun can vary widely depending on the brand, size, and nutritional information. It's best to check the nutritional information on the package and use the WW app's barcode scanner for an accurate point calculation.

Yes, you can use two slices of low-point bread, such as Dave's Killer Thin-Sliced or Sara Lee Delightful, as a bun alternative. Be sure to check the point value for the serving size on your WW app.

Homemade whole wheat buns can be controlled to be higher in fiber, potentially resulting in fewer points than some store-bought options. However, point values depend entirely on the ingredients and portion size used in your recipe.

Official WW branded buns may be available at your local supermarket in the bread aisle or through various online grocery retailers. Availability can vary by region.

Look for buns labeled 'light,' 'thin,' or 'whole wheat,' as these often have lower calories and higher fiber. Always use the WW app to scan the barcode and confirm the point value before purchasing.

Both can be good, low-point alternatives. Thin buns offer a more traditional burger experience, while English muffins provide a heartier, more substantial feel that can prevent the burger from falling apart.