There is nothing quite as comforting and joyous as waking up to a batch of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, and with this Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, you can indulge without the gluten! These rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with that iconic blend of cinnamon and brown sugar. Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or simply craving a warm, sweet treat, this recipe brings that irresistible bakery flavor right into your kitchen. Let me take you through the steps to create these tender, melt-in-your-mouth gluten-free delights that are sure to brighten any morning or cozy afternoon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the first step to making these scrumptious rolls. Each element plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma — from the yeasty dough that rises beautifully to the rich cinnamon filling that sweetens every bite.
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum: Provides the structure and tender crumb essential for the dough.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps activate the yeast for rising.
- Active dry yeast: The magic behind our fluffy, risen dough.
- Baking powder: Gives an extra lift and lightness to the rolls.
- Salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- Warm milk: Activates yeast and hydrates the dough for softness.
- Unsalted butter (melted and softened): Adds richness to both dough and filling.
- Large eggs: Bind the dough and enrich its flavor and texture.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warm, sweet notes that complement cinnamon perfectly.
- Brown sugar: The deep molasses flavor makes the filling irresistibly gooey.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that fills every bite with cozy warmth.
- Powdered sugar: For creating the luscious icing to drizzle on top.
How to Make Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Prepare Wet Ingredients
Start by combining the warm milk and active dry yeast in a large bowl. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy—this means the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic. Then, stir in the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is smoothly combined. This rich base is what begins the transformation from simple ingredients into fluffy dough.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together your gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix will provide the essential structure, with the baking powder giving an extra boost to the dough’s rise. It’s important that the blend includes xanthan gum for that perfect elasticity; otherwise, add some separately to keep your rolls from crumbling.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients into Dough
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should feel tender but not sticky—a little tackiness is okay. Cover the bowl with a cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rest in a warm spot for 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll see it puff up slightly, which means it’s ready for rolling.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough and Add Filling
Place your dough between two sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking, then roll it out into a 12×16-inch rectangle. This gives you a perfect canvas for the filling. Spread the softened butter evenly all over the dough, then generously sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon on top. This combination will melt and caramelize during baking, creating that classic gooey center.
Step 5: Shape the Rolls
Starting at the longer edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, like a cinnamon roll scroll. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 12 equal pieces, then place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes to achieve that perfect fluffy texture before baking.
Step 6: Bake and Icing
Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for 22 to 25 minutes until they’re lightly golden on top. While they cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a silky, sweet icing. Drizzle this over the warm rolls just before serving—this final touch adds decadence and extra sweetness that makes these rolls impossible to resist.
How to Serve Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Once your rolls are iced and ready, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a delightful crunch. A light dusting of cinnamon powder over the icing also adds visual appeal and enhances the warm spice flavor. Fresh berries on the side can lend a pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
Pair your gluten-free cinnamon rolls with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea to balance their sweetness. Fresh fruit salads or yogurt parfaits make delightful companions, adding brightness and texture to your breakfast or snack. For a heartier brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon for savory contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting breakfast spread, arrange the rolls on a rustic wooden board or a pretty cake stand. Wrap individual rolls in parchment paper tied with twine for portable treats or lovely gifts. You can also serve the rolls warm in mini cast-iron skillets straight from the oven for a charming, cozy presentation that’ll wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover gluten-free cinnamon rolls are best kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them soft, avoid refrigeration as it can dry them out. If you must refrigerate, wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or foil first.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked rolls after shaping them in the pan or freeze baked rolls once completely cooled. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently before serving.
Reheating
To bring your gluten-free cinnamon rolls back to life, warm them in a microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or bake at 300°F for about 10 minutes. This helps restore that freshly baked softness and enhances the melted, gooey filling. Drizzle more icing after warming for extra indulgence.
FAQs
Can I make these cinnamon rolls dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the milk for a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free butter to keep the rolls just as soft and flavorful. The recipe remains delicious and accessible.
What gluten-free flour blend works best for this recipe?
A blend that contains xanthan gum or guar gum works best as it helps with dough elasticity and rise. If your blend doesn’t include it, be sure to add about 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum separately to the dry ingredients.
Why do gluten-free doughs need extra rising time?
Gluten-free dough tends to be denser and less elastic without gluten. Giving it extra rising time allows the yeast to produce air bubbles that lighten the dough and improve its texture for fluffy, soft rolls.
Is it possible to make these cinnamon rolls vegan?
Yes! Replace eggs with flax eggs or applesauce, use plant-based milk and vegan butter, and the rolls will retain much of their fluffiness and sweetness, perfect for vegan diets.
How can I prevent my rolls from drying out after baking?
Keep them covered with foil or stored in an airtight container at room temperature, and avoid refrigeration if possible. Reheating with a bit of moisture, like a damp paper towel, also restores their softness beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Embracing gluten-free baking doesn’t mean sacrificing the joy of classic favorites like cinnamon rolls. With this Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, you get all the warmth, sweetness, and comfort in every bite, made with love and just the right ingredients. So why not roll up your sleeves and share these irresistible treats with your loved ones? They’re bound to become a cherished recipe in your home.
Print
Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls offer a delicious twist on the classic bakery favorite, crafted with a carefully balanced blend of gluten-free flour and perfect cinnamon-sugar filling. Soft, fluffy, and irresistibly aromatic, they’re ideal for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day. Topped with a smooth vanilla glaze, they cater to gluten-sensitive diets without compromising flavor or texture.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
- Prepare the wet ingredients: Add the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Make the dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring continuously until a soft dough forms without dry patches. The dough should be pliable but not sticky.
- First rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and place it in a warm, draft-free environment. Let the dough rise for 45 to 60 minutes until it becomes slightly puffy and nearly doubled in size.
- Shape the dough: Place the risen dough between two sheets of parchment paper. Using a rolling pin, roll it out into a 12×16-inch rectangle, ensuring an even thickness throughout.
- Add the filling: Evenly spread the softened butter over the dough’s surface. Sprinkle the packed brown sugar and ground cinnamon uniformly on top, ensuring every bite has flavor.
- Roll and cut: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal rolls, maintaining even thickness.
- Second rise: Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover them and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, allowing them to puff up and become airy.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 22 to 25 minutes, or until they turn a light golden brown on top and are cooked through.
- Prepare the icing: While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.
- Serve: Drizzle the icing over the warm cinnamon rolls just before serving for a luscious finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure your gluten-free flour blend contains xanthan gum to provide structure; if not, add 1 teaspoon xanthan gum to the dry ingredients for best results.
- These rolls are best served warm and can be gently reheated before serving to refresh their softness.
- Room temperature ingredients help with optimal dough texture and yeast activation.
- If dough feels too sticky, add additional gluten-free flour 1 tablespoon at a time, but avoid overmixing.
- Use fresh yeast for best rising results.
