By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D.
Whether you’re having a burger, a slice of toast, or are simply snacking on some dinner rolls as an appetizer, you’ve probably enjoyed bread, rolls, and buns in some form at one point or another. Even though you might be familiar with these three bread varieties, do you know what sets them apart from each other? Continue reading to learn the nutritional differences between bread, buns, and rolls and to discover which is the healthiest option.
Is bread the same as a roll? Is a roll considered bread?
Because not all bread is made in the shape of a roll, rolls and bread are not exactly the same. Bread rolls are a type of bread that are typically small and round and are frequently served as an appetizer or as a side dish to a meal. It is important to note that the ingredients for bread rolls and bread loaves are the same, but the way they are prepared differs. As an example, there are both sourdough bread loaves and sourdough bread rolls. The same is true for brioche bread and brioche rolls. The main difference is that the bread rolls are typically rounder, softer, and smaller.
Is bread the same as a bun? Is a bun considered bread?
Similar to a bread roll, buns are just one type of bread. While a bun usually consists of a single serving, traditional bread made as a loaf contains multiple servings. Buns are versatile; they can be savory or sweet, filled or unfilled. You might be the most familiar with hamburger buns or hot dog buns, but other popular bun varieties include cinnamon buns, hot cross buns, pretzel buns, and sticky buns.
What’s the difference between a bun and a bread roll?
Since buns are a kind of bread roll, there are many similarities between the two, such as their round shape and smaller size compared to a typical loaf of bread. The baking method and the range of possible flavors are the main differences between a bread roll and a bread bun. Buns typically have a crispier crust because of the space between them during proofing. Rolls are typically proofed and baked right next to each other which enables them to have a softer crust and to pull apart effortlessly. Buns can be either savory or sweet, and they can be filled with both savory and sweet ingredients. In terms of flavor, bread rolls are usually savory and unfilled.
How many slices of bread equal one roll? What is the nutrition difference between rolls and a slice of bread?
Approximately one slice of white bread is equal to one white bread roll. Nutritionally, traditional white bread and bread rolls are very similar. A single slice of white bread contains about 65 calories, 2 grams of protein, and 12 grams of carbohydrates. One bread roll such as a dinner roll contains about 75 calories, 3 grams of protein, and 13 grams of carbohydrates.
How many slices of bread equal one bun? What is the nutritional difference between buns and a slice of bread?
While buns come in different varieties, let us compare the widely known hamburger bun to a slice of white bread. One white hamburger bun is equal to approximately two slices of white bread. This means that a single serving of a bread bun is double the number of calories, carbohydrates, and protein as a single slice of white bread. For comparison, one hamburger bun contains 128 calories, 4.5 grams of protein, and 23 grams of carbohydrates.
Is bread healthier than rolls? Is a roll better for you than bread?
There are no fundamental differences between the nutritional content of white sliced bread and white bread rolls. Therefore, neither bread nor rolls is healthier than the other. However, loaves of bread and rolls made of 100% whole grain are both better for you and comparable to one another. If the bread loaf and bread roll are made of the same general ingredients, they are equally healthy.
Is bread healthier than buns? Is a bun better for you than bread?
Bread can be healthier than buns, but it all depends on the kind of bun and bread being compared. For example, one slice of white bread is healthier than a single sweet bun which can have a high amount of carbohydrates and sugar. On the other hand, one whole wheat bun might be healthier than a slice of white bread. This is because whole grains, such as whole wheat, contain fewer calories, more fiber, and more protein than the refined grains that are used to make white loaves of bread.
Which is better for weight loss: bread or rolls or buns?
There is no one best option when it comes to weight loss because there is a lot of variation in the ingredients used to make different kinds of bread, rolls, and buns. Whole grain bread, rolls, and buns are the best options for promoting weight loss. Similarly, sourdough rolls, buns, and bread are healthier options than white bread. Sourdough bread and whole grain bread will both help you feel fuller for longer, which will help you reach your nutritional goals. Remember that tracking your daily caloric intake and the number of calories in a serving will always be the best approach to managing your weight, regardless of the type of bread you choose.
Where can I buy the best fresh bread, buns, and rolls online?
At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh baked goods that are delivered directly to your door. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for breads, pastries, and fresh pastas. Some of our popular breads, rolls, and buns include sourdough whole wheat loaf, sourdough rolls, brioche rolls, and pretzel buns. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods.
About the Author
This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns.
